The fully digital hearing aid has 20 frequency channels and digital surround-zoom that can manage multiple noise sources. A Savia set includes a wristwatch that works as a discreet remote control device.

Rene Burgin, the company’s chief audiologist who was in Manila for the launch, stressed the importance of a good hearing aid, saying it was an instrument to provide hearing-impaired people constant care.

Burgin, who is responsible for product education, development and design of Phonak hearing systems, said, "(Savia is) actually the world’s most sophisticated hearing aid today." He said the device worked like a "bionic" ear allowing users to search out background noise and eliminate unnecessary sounds.

Savia relies on the world’s smallest and best performing microchip with unique processing capabilities.

It incorporates intelligent automation with AutoPilot feature. It allows automatic adjustments of sound through four programs: quiet, noisy, speech and noise, and music. "It can adjust to different environments," said Burgin. "All changes are automatic, smooth and gradual, you will hardly notice them."

The device enables wearers to understand and identify speech even in an echo-filled environment. "It accurately identifies the scene and automatically switches the program to a more appropriate setting," Burgin explained.

The device
Savia has a sensitive microphone setting that can change from the loudest noise source to music.

It can react as naturally as possible to the environment and cancel out noise.

Excellent sound quality and ultimate listening pleasure are ensured through Sound Cleaning elements that identify and remove disturbing components such as echo.

The AutoFocus feature uses breakthrough digital technology called Real Ear Sound to restore natural orientation abilities.

Another important feature is the DataLogging that records and restores the wearer’s personal uses and listening preferences. The information can be downloaded to a computer to help hearing care professionals address individual needs.

Savia has an FM receiver using advance wireless technology to transfer sound directly to the hearing instrument. The receiver is teamed with the sophisticated SmartLink transmitter, an intelligent, multi-purpose FM transmitter that overcomes distance by functioning as a remote microphone. It has a hands-free interface for operating Bluetooth mobile phone and also operates as a remote control for hearing instruments.

Designs
Phonak’s new designs result from extensive research and field studies, as well as detailed analysis and evaluation of wearer’s preferences.

"The materials we use are tough,” said Burgin. “What’s nice about these [products], we don’t replace parts anymore except for batteries."

Savia is available in the following models: In the Ear, small enough to fit completely inside the ear; Completely in the Canal (CIC), which is the most discreet and convenient; and Behind the Ear, with single or two-color housing.

Burgin said Savia was more client-friendly, with a unit lasting a minimum of six years with an average of one to two repairs a year, depending on maintenance. "It doesn’t need special care but the user should treat it well," he said.

According to Burgin, many hearing loss cases among Asians were due to accidents. Aging, he said, was another significant factor in hearing loss.

Phonak has a complete range of digital hearing instruments, high-tech specialty products and wireless communication systems.

Savia hearing aids are now available and are exclusively distributed by Manila Hearing Aid Center Inc.

By Belle Bondoc