Leipzig, Germany, October 15, 2008 - With the new Power "Completely-in-the- Canal" CIC) hearing system, Phonak introduces an incredibly small in-the-ear solution designed specifically for people with severe hearing loss. The new hearing system which is available for the Exélia, Versáta, and Certéna product families provides amplification of up to 65 dB (real-ear gain) and a fitting range that is 15-20 dB higher than that of a standard CIC. Particularly in the frequency range between 100 Hz and 1 kHz, the Power CIC hearing system provides a performance spectrum that is up to 25 dB higher than that of comparable products.
Approximately 12 percent of people with hearing impairment suffer from severe to profound hearing loss.1 Due to their small size, CIC hearing systems were previously only suitable for cases of mild to moderate hearing loss. The development of hearing systems specifically for people with severe hearing loss presents particular challenges. Study results in this context have shown that hearing solutions should not focus on the amplification of higher frequency ranges most commonly affected by severe and profound hearing losses but predominantly on the amplification of lower frequency ranges. This results in improved sound quality and speech comprehension. The new Power CIC hearing systems from Phonak are based on this audiologic principle. Thanks to their efficiency and special acoustic design, the mini hearing solutions now also offer a real alternative to behind-the-ear products for people with severe hearing loss. As the smallest in-the-ear solutions, they almost completely disappear in the ear canal and are thus virtually invisible.
The Power CIC hearing systems from Phonak are based on the new CORE platform and have numerous high-tech functions designed for improved speech comprehension. The unique SoundFlow technology, a novel multi-program automatic system, automatically adapts the hearing system settings to the sound environment. WhistleBlock Technology precisely and reliably identifies and eliminates feedback (whistling) without affecting natural signals, and provides additional stable dynamic gain. NoiseBlock identifies and effectively suppresses interference signals.
The iPFG fitting software from Phonak allows hearing healthcare professionals to tailor the Power CIC hearing solutions to individual client needs. In this way, for example an additional BassBoost can be set when amplification of the lower frequency ranges is required. The patented AOV technology (Acoustically Optimized Venting) also allows for a precise, customized ventilation hole based on the client's hearing loss profile and size of the ear canal. This ensures a high degree of comfort and acceptance.
The new Power CIC hearing system is available in 32 different color combinations. A remote control for simple change of volume and hearing program is optionally available.
Power CIC hearing systems are available starting in October 2008.
About Phonak
Headquartered near Zurich, Switzerland, Phonak has developed, produced and globally distributed state-of-the-art hearing systems and wireless devices for over 50 years. The combination of expertise in hearing technology, mastery in acoustics and strong cooperation with hearing care professionals allows Phonak to significantly improve people's hearing ability and speech understanding and therefore their quality of life.
Phonak offers a complete range of digital hearing instruments, along with complementary wireless communication systems. With 2'500 employees worldwide, Phonak drives innovation and sets new industry benchmarks regarding miniaturization and performance.
For more information about Phonak, please visit https://www.phonak.com/ or the Phonak Web Channel on Audiology Online.
1Berger KW. Hearing aid prescription with severe hearing loss. Audecibel. 1988;37:6-7.
Ries PW. The demography of hearing loss. In: Orlans H, ed. Adjustment to Adult Hearing Loss. San Diego: Singular, 1991. Browning, G.G. Characterization of severely and profoundly hearing impaired adults attending an audiology clinic, The Journal of Laryngology & Otology (1991), 105:534-538 Cambridge University Press.
