Analogue vs. digital – that’s an important question in the world of hearing aids. Conventional wisdom today says that digital technology has revolutionized hearing aids, leaving the older analogue systems far behind. But few of us seem to know what the actual differences are when it comes to the analogue vs. digital technologies.

Analogue hearing aids amplify sound by simply increasing the size of the sound wave. Through the use of transistors, sounds are amplified and modified to suit the wearer. Once again, in addressing the analogue vs. digital debate, it’s important to take into account that analogue aids come in two categories: conventional and programmable. The main difference between the two is that the programmable version allows the wearer to adjust the analogue hearing aid’s amplifier to best match the wearer’s hearing loss. A compelling argument for analogue hearing aids in the analogue vs. digital debate is the fact that analogue hearing aids are usually quite a bit cheaper than their digital cousins.

Digital hearing aids, when presented within the parameter of the analogue vs. digital question, are a different animal altogether. Digital hearing aids are basically tiny computers, fully programmable to suit their wearers extent of hearing loss, and generally smaller in size. In the area of sound quality, this is where digital hearing aids tend to outclass the analogue ones in the analogue vs. digital question. Due to digital technology, the sound quality is generally far higher – it’s like comparing CD’s with audiotapes. They’re better at suppressing background noise, especially in noisy areas, while enhancing speech. Not only that but digital hearing aids are more effective in reducing feedback (high-pitched interference noise), easier to program and easier to use with telephones. Their major drawback in the analogue vs. digital question is their price: digital aids are more expensive.

The question of analogue vs. digital in the arena of hearing aids is obviously one that must be viewed, at the end of the day, upon the patient’s needs and affordability. When considering which technology to choose, be sure to consult your doctor or hearing specialist for a detailed explanation between the two technologies before making your decision.

Sources: Hearing Haven, Sears Hearing Centre, Private Healthcare UK