Hearing aids are small electronic devices that increase the volume of sounds so that people with hearing loss can continue to listen, communicate, and function better in daily life. Finding the best hearing aids depends on your level of hearing, your situation, and many other factors.
The history of hearing aids
Hearing aids consist of three essential components: the speaker, the microphone, and the amplifier. To function, the microphone picks up sound waves, converts them into electrical signals, and sends them to the amplifier. The amplifier increases the power of the signal and transmits the sound to the speaker, and then into the ear.
Early hearing technologies
In the 17th century, ear trumpets were used. These tubular devices channeled sound waves toward the ear. They were made from animal horns, snail shells, wood, and sometimes sheet metal or silver. A specialist would create a custom conical instrument for each client.
In 1898, the invention of the Akouphone gave rise to the first portable hearing aid. It used a carbon transmitter and an electric current to transform a weak signal into a more powerful one. This first hearing aid featured a separate amplifier, earpieces, a battery, and a microphone. Very few people had access to the Akouphone, as it was bulky, difficult to use, and sold at a high price. These devices bear no resemblance to the best hearing aids of today.
Vacuum tube hearing aids
In 1920, a U.S. Navy engineer named Earl Hanson patented a vacuum tube hearing aid called the Vactuphone. The Vactuphone used a telephone transmitter to convert speech into electrical signals. These electrical signals were then amplified by the receiver.
Competition led to the development of smaller hearing aids throughout the 1930s. These reduced models began to gain popularity after 1936, when the technology became portable.
Transistor hearing aids
In 1948, transistor hearing aids replaced vacuum tubes. They were preferred because they consumed less power and produced less distortion. They also generated less heat. Unfortunately, body heat could put the device out of commission: the devices would stop working after a few weeks due to moisture and heat. Designers therefore created a coating to protect the silicon transistor.
Microprocessor hearing aids
In 1970, manufacturers created the microprocessor hearing aid, a multi-channel amplitude compression device that split audio signals into frequency bands. The microprocessor could amplify certain sounds more and others less.
Digital hearing aids
In 1987, digital hearing aids hit the market without achieving great commercial success. Their appearance nevertheless launched a race to create viable, commercially successful digital hearing aids. Technological advancements then accelerated. These digital hearing aids included hybrid instruments, filters, amplifiers, and limiters that users could control digitally.
High-tech hearing aids
Modern hearing aids have evolved significantly since the bulky devices of the past. Current models incorporate advanced features: digital sound processing, directional microphones, background noise reduction, feedback suppression, and even Bluetooth connectivity. Some devices automatically adapt to different listening environments, helping users hear better whether they are at home, in a meeting, or at a restaurant.
From prescription hearing aids to over-the-counter (OTC) options, the goal remains the same: to facilitate daily communication, reduce listening fatigue, and promote overall well-being. The appropriate technology depends on the severity of the hearing loss, lifestyle, and individual preferences. For many people with mild to moderate hearing loss, OTC hearing aids provide a real improvement, especially when chosen with care and worn regularly.
Consult a doctor before equipping yourself with hearing aids
Before choosing hearing aids, it is always recommended to have your hearing evaluated by a licensed professional, such as an audiologist. A complete hearing screening helps determine the type and degree of hearing loss and identify any underlying conditions requiring treatment beyond simple amplification.
According to FDA recommendations, medical advice is no longer mandatory for adults purchasing over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. However, it remains important to consult a professional first if you experience any of the following signs: sudden or rapidly worsening hearing loss, pain or discomfort in the ear, discharge (blood, pus, or fluid), dizziness or balance issues, tinnitus in one ear, or a history of ear infections or surgery.
We know that not everyone has access to an in-person consultation due to insurance coverage, mobility, or cost. If you cannot see a professional promptly, at-home hearing tests and OTC hearing aids offer a concrete way to begin your hearing journey. However, professional hearing screenings should remain part of your long-term follow-up as soon as possible—ideally once a year—to monitor changes and ensure appropriate solutions.
That said, for many people, once their needs are identified, OTC hearing aids are a simple and effective solution: they offer the clarity, comfort, and power necessary for daily communication and safety, without the need for frequent appointments with an audiologist. It is a practical and empowering option for mild to moderate hearing loss.
6 qualities of the best hearing aids
The ideal hearing aid for your situation depends on your preferences and the features offered by different models. However, certain characteristics remain essential.
Background noise limitation
One of the greatest challenges in hearing technology is distinguishing speech from background noise. Most modern digital hearing aids are equipped with background noise reduction and feedback suppression features. These systems use advanced microprocessors to identify and attenuate low-frequency sounds—traffic, air conditioning, ambient chatter—while boosting the mid-range and high frequencies, which are the most important for understanding speech.
This allows for clearer and more comfortable listening, especially in noisy environments such as restaurants or meetings with multiple people.
Programmability
A key advantage of digital hearing aids—especially compared to simple amplifiers—is their customizability. While personal sound amplifiers boost all sounds the same way, hearing aids are designed to prioritize speech clarity and adjust amplification based on your hearing loss and environment.
Many current over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, including CLARIA's Ion Pro, offer features that allow you to adjust your experience without professional programming. For example, you can choose from preset hearing profiles corresponding to common loss profiles and switch between listening modes depending on the situation (quiet conversation vs. a busy public space).
This level of programmability makes it easier to stay engaged in conversations and navigate a wide variety of sound environments with complete autonomy.
Sound targeting
Some hearing aids offer directional capabilities. They contain two or more microphones, each placed at a precise distance from the others in the device. The time difference it takes for sound to reach each microphone determines how the device reacts. This allows hearing aids to target specific sound sources.
Telecoils
Telecoils are copper coils that manufacturers integrate into the hearing aid. They allow you to talk on the phone without fear of feedback. The devices then connect to a magnetic loop system. For example, if you go to a movie theater equipped with a magnetic loop, the sound will come directly into your hearing aid.
Different styles
There are many styles and sizes to suit everyone's preferences. If you prefer a discreet hearing aid, CLARIA's Atom Pro might be for you. Some hearing aids are worn behind the ear, while others are inserted into the ear canal. When choosing a style, look for the right balance between ease of use, features, aesthetics, and price.
Wireless connectivity
Some hearing aids are compatible with your connected devices. For example, you can wirelessly connect your hearing aid to your smartphone. The sound then comes directly into your ear when you listen to music or take a call. You can also use your phone as a remote control for your hearing aid.
Finding the best hearing aids for your situation
The best hearing aids depend on your level of hearing loss and your preferences. To find hearing aids adapted to your lifestyle, visit CLARIA. We offer high-quality hearing solutions, including the Atom Pro.
Sources:
https://hearinghealthfoundation.org/blogs/hearing-aid-history-ear-trumpets-european-royalty-earbuds
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing-aids
https://heartlandhearingiowa.com/blog/6-things-to-look-for-when-buying-hearing-aids
