ReSound Omnia 9 Hearing Aid: Features, Technology, Price

ReSound Hearing Aid Company Overview

ReSound is a global hearing aid brand with over 150 years of experience. Based in Denmark, ReSound places strong emphasis on innovative technology to produce high-performance hearing aids. Some innovations they have pioneered include:

• First ever behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid in 1943
• First in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid in 1952
• First open ear hearing aid allowing natural sound in 1976
• First hearing aid with nano coating for moisture protection in 2003
• First Made-for-iPhone hearing aid in 2014

ReSound is now part of the GN Group, which includes other hearing aid brands like Beltone and Interton. ReSound hearing aids are sold through a network of audiologists and hearing care providers.

ReSound Omnia 9 Hearing Aid Models

The Omnia 9 platform offers several different models to match a variety of hearing loss types and lifestyles, including:

• RIE (Receiver-in-Ear) styles - Custom fitted for the ear canal with an external receiver.
• BTE (Behind-the-Ear) styles - Worn behind the ear with tubing and an earpiece.
• RITE (Receiver-in-the-Ear) styles - BTE style with receiver inside the ear canal.

All Omnia 9 models utilize the same state-of-the-art technology. But factors like size, comfort, ease of use, and cosmetic appeal can help determine which style works best for each person.

Key Features and Technology of the ReSound Omnia 9

So what sets the Omnia 9 apart from other premium hearing aid models? Let's look at some of the top-tier features and advanced technology built into the Omnia 9 platform.

Sound Quality

Excellent sound quality tops most hearing aid users' wish lists. The Omnia 9 delivers with features like:

• Wide dynamic range compression - Provides finely tuned compression across input levels for natural, comfortable sound.
• Environmental optimizer II - Automatically adapts to changing sounds and noise levels across environments.
• WINDscreen - Reduces distracting wind noise when outdoors without removing natural speech cues.

Wireless Connectivity

The ability to wirelessly stream audio directly into your hearing aids opens many possibilities. The Omnia 9 offers:

• Bluetooth connectivity to stream phone calls, music, TV, and other audio from any Bluetooth-enabled device.
• Made for iPhone functionality allows direct streaming and control with your Apple devices.
• ReSound Smart 3D app lets you control your hearing aids right from your smartphone or tablet.

Rechargeability

Rechargeable battery models eliminate the need to change batteries. Just place your Omnia 9 hearing aids in the easy-to-use charging case each night. This provides up to 30 hours of use per full charge.

Tinnitus Relief

For those who experience ringing, buzzing, or roaring in the ears, the Omnia 9 offers customizable tinnitus sound therapy to provide relief from tinnitus symptoms.

Direct Audio Streaming

Thanks to 2.4GHz Bluetooth Low Energy, the Omnia 9 allows audio streaming directly to your hearing aids from another person's smartphone without any intermediary device needed.

Binaural Directionality

This intelligent system allows your two hearing aids to work together to better identify where sounds are coming from and automatically adjust directional microphones for the clearest signal.

ReSound Omnia 9 Reviews

Reviews from hearing aid users provide valuable, real-world perspectives on performance and benefits:

Sound Quality

"The sound quality is amazing. Voices are crisp and clear and music sounds brilliant."

Streaming and Controls

"I love how easy it is to control the hearing aids and stream audio with the smartphone app. The Made for iPhone feature works great."

Comfort

"Really comfortable in my ears throughout the day. I barely notice them once they are in."

Hearing Aid Practitioner

"My audiologist helped program them perfectly for my hearing levels. He provides excellent ongoing support as needed."

Noise Reduction

"The Omnia 9 does an awesome job reducing background noise in restaurants or crowds. Makes it easier to focus on conversations."

The overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the Omnia 9's strengths in sound quality, comfort, connectivity, and customizable fit.

ReSound Omnia 9 Prices and Cost Considerations

When researching hearing aids, one of the top questions is often: how much does the ReSound Omnia 9 cost? As a premium model with advanced technology, the Omnia 9 sits at the higher end of the price spectrum. Let's break down what impacts the overall pricing.

Model and Style

The specific Omnia 9 model and style you choose affects cost to some degree. Smaller RIE and IIC styles that fit inside the ear canal tend to be most expensive. Larger behind-the-ear styles range a bit lower in price.

Features

Factors like rechargeable battery, telecoil, and Made for iPhone functionality add to the price if included. Choosing only the features you need can help optimize cost.

Bilateral vs. Unilateral

Being fitted with two hearing aids (bilateral) rather than just one (unilateral) doubles the price. But bilateral fitting is worth the investment for most, providing improved hearing, sound localization, and balance.

Audiology Services

The audiologist's consultation, evaluations, fittings, programming, and follow-up care represent a significant portion of the total investment. This professional expertise is essential for best results.

Discounts and Rebates

Discuss any potential discounts, rebates, or financing options with your hearing care provider and insurance company. These can reduce the out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Estimated Price Range

Taking all these factors into account, the average estimated price range for the ReSound Omnia 9 is $2500 - $4500 for a set, with many users falling in the $3000 to $4000 range.

Is the ReSound Omnia 9 Worth the Investment?

At first glance, the Omnia 9 price may seem high compared to some basic hearing aid models. However, considering the extensive benefits and technology built into the Omnia 9, many users find it well worth the investment. Key advantages include:

• Clear, comfortable sound quality
• Wireless streaming and smartphone control
• Rechargeable battery options
• customizable tinnitus relief
• Mobile direct audio streaming
• Sleek, modern styling
• Discreet size options

For active users who want high-end features and performance, the price brings significant improvements in hearing, communication, and lifestyle. Considering the importance of hearing to overall health and wellbeing, the Omnia 9 delivers substantial value for many users.

What Are Alternative Hearing Aid Options and Costs?

While the Omnia 9 makes sense for some, it is not the only option. Here are a few examples of alternative hearing aids at varying price points:

• ReSound LiNX Quattro - Mid-range model with great reviews at $1500-$3000 per pair.
• ReSound ENZO Q - Advanced predecessor to Omnia 9 for $2000-$4000 per pair.
• Starkey Livio Edge AI - Competitor with similar features for $3000-$5000 per pair.
• Phonak Audo P-R - Popular advanced model for $1400-$3200 per pair.
• MDHearingAid AIR - Budget hearing aid for $399-$799 per pair.

Speaking with an audiologist helps determine which model best fits your budget while still meeting your hearing, lifestyle and aesthetics needs.

Does Insurance Cover the ReSound Omnia 9?

Many patients wonder: will insurance cover the cost of the Omnia 9? Unfortunately, coverage for hearing aids is still limited among private insurers and Medicare:

• Original Medicare - Does not cover hearing aids or exams.
• Medicare Advantage - Some plans offer very limited hearing aid benefits.
• Private insurance - Only 20% of plans offer hearing aid coverage.

However, some supplemental insurers like AARP, AFLAC, and Mutual of Omaha provide hearing aid discounts or reimbursements. Veterans are eligible for hearing aids and batteries at no cost through the VA.

Check with both your health plan and supplemental insurers to understand your coverage and work to maximize any available benefits. Many providers also offer financing plans to make the Omnia 9 more affordable.

ReSound Omnia 9 Accessories

ReSound offers several optional accessories to enhance your Omnia 9 experience:

• Charging case - For rechargeable models, stores enough power for a full day's use.
• Remote control - Adjusts volume and programs without touching hearing aids.
• Wireless microphone - Improves speech understanding in noisy environments by having speaker wear mic.
• Phone clip - Streams phone calls and audio directly to hearing aids via Bluetooth.
• TV streamer - Streams TV audio wirelessly to your hearing aids.

Discuss your lifestyle needs with your audiologist to choose appropriate accessories to enhance your Omnia 9 performance.

Finding a ReSound Omnia 9 Provider

To experience ReSound Omnia 9 hearing aids for yourself, schedule an appointment with a local ReSound provider. Consultations typically involve:

• Thorough hearing evaluation
• Discussion of needs, goals, and lifestyle
• Review of different models and options
• Hearing aid trial period
• Careful programming and adjustments
• Fitting and follow-up adjustments
• Instruction on use, care, and accessories

The ReSound website has a search tool to find approved providers in your area. Look for an experienced audiologist you feel comfortable with.

ReSound Omnia 9: Convenient Hearing Care

With outstanding comfort, connectivity, customization, and sound quality, the ReSound Omnia 9 offers users an optimal hearing experience. While representing a significant investment, the Omnia 9 provides substantial help hearing your best and an improved quality of life for many years to come. Contact a ReSound provider today to learn more and schedule your Omnia 9 hearing aid consultation.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.