An In-Depth Review of the Philips Hearing Aids 9040 Model
Hearing loss can significantly impact your quality of life. But with the right hearing aids, you can regain clarity and improve communication. Philips is one of the top brands for hearing aids, and their 9040 model offers an advanced solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide a detailed overview of the Philips hearing aids 9040. Learn about key features, technologies, styles, cost, pros and cons, and how they compare with other hearing aid options.
Introducing the Philips Hearing Aids 9040 Series
The Philips hearing aids 9040 series consists of three mid-level models – the B9040, P9040, and T9040. All three share the same advanced features and performance capabilities. The key differences are in their styles and wearing options.
Here is an overview of each 9040 model:
- B9040 – Behind-the-ear hearing aid style with an earmold for the ear canal.
- P9040 – Discreet in-ear hearing aid that fits completely in the canal.
- T9040 – Receiver-in-canal style with speaker in the ear and body behind the ear.
Within each style, you can choose from different color options, battery sizes, and wearing configurations to best match your needs and preferences.
Philips Hearing Aid 9040 Key Features and Technologies
Here are some of the standout features and advanced technologies integrated into the Philips 9040 series hearing aids:
- CLEARVoice – Enhances speech understanding in noisy environments using advanced noise reduction and compression.
- Spatial SpeechFocus – Improves comprehension of speech coming from different directions through spatial awareness.
- WindNoiseReduction – Minimizes disruptive wind noise when outdoors for improved listening comfort.
- FeedbackFree – Prevents annoying whistling and feedback with patented feedback cancellation.
- DirectAudioInput (DAI) – Allows streaming of audio and TV directly to hearing aids via DAI shoe.
- IP68-rated – Highly water and dust resistant so you can wear them anywhere.
- Bluetooth connectivity – Pairs with smartphones and Bluetooth-enabled devices for calls and streaming.
In terms of sound quality, the Philips 9040 series hearing aids deliver personalized high-definition sound that is natural and comfortable. The microphones, processors and amplifiers are finely tuned to provide optimal sound quality across different listening environments.
Philips Hearing Aid 9040 Listening Programs
All of the Philips 9040 hearing aid models come with several customizable listening programs that can be set by your hearing professional according to your lifestyle needs. Here are the listening programs:
- All-Around – Balances amplification across all frequencies for everyday use.
- Speech in Noise – Enhances speech signals to improve clarity in noisy settings like restaurants.
- Speech in Loud Noise – Provides additional speech audibility for very noisy environments.
- Comfort in Noise – Focuses on comfort in loud settings while enhancing speech.
- Comfort in Echo – Reduces reverberation in echoey places like auditoriums and theaters.
- DAI Comfort – For streaming audio directly to hearing aids with optimal comfort settings.
- Phone - Optimizes hearing of phone conversations.
- Music – Enhances sound quality when listening to music.
Your hearing care professional will configure these listening programs and your volume settings during your hearing aid fitting. The various programs ensure you get the best hearing experience in any environment.
Philips Hearing Aid 9040 Battery and Bluetooth Options
Philips 9040 hearing aids are available with the following power options:
- 312 battery (P9040 model only) - Small battery ideal for discreet, comfortable fit.
- 13 battery (B9040 and T9040 models) - Midsize battery providing reliable, convenient performance.
- Rechargeable battery – Built-in lithium-ion battery that never needs replacement or handling.
For wireless connectivity, the Philips Hearing Aids 9040 offer Bluetooth pairing with iOS and Android devices for hands-free calling and direct TV and music streaming.
How and Where to Buy Philips Hearing Aids 9040
Philips Hearing Aids 9040 are available for purchase exclusively through licensed hearing care professionals and clinics. Prices vary depending on model, features and location, but average between $1500 - $3000 per hearing aid.
Buying through a hearing professional ensures you receive a comprehensive hearing evaluation, professional fitting and programming, and ongoing support. Be sure to shop with a hearing clinic that allows trial periods so you can test the hearing aids in real-life situations.
Some major retailers that sell Philips 9040 hearing aids include:
- HearingLife Canada
- HearUSA
- EPIC Hearing
- Hearing Healthcare Canada
- Bay Audiology
- Hearing Place
Contact a hearing clinic to schedule an assessment and discuss pricing for Philips Hearing Aids 9040 models as well as financing options.
Pros and Cons of Philips Hearing Aids 9040
Here is a rundown of the main advantages and potential drawbacks of the Philips Hearing Aids 9040 series according to customer reviews and product performance:
Pros:
- Excellent amplification and sound quality across multiple environments.
- Very effective noise reduction features.
- Minimal whistling or annoying feedback.
- Rechargeable battery options eliminates battery changes.
- Streaming capabilities for phone, TV and music.
- Compatible with Philips HearLink app for discretion and control.
- Waterproof and sweat-resistant design.
- Customizable listening programs and settings.
Cons:
- Can be expensive depending on model and features chosen.
- Earmolds on B9040 model take getting used to for some.
- Battery replacement required every 3-5 days for 312 and 13 battery models.
- Bluetooth connection can sometimes cut in and out.
Overall, the positives seem to outweigh the negatives for most wearers of the Philips Hearing Aids 9040. The sound performance, noise reduction, and streaming capabilities stand out as key benefits.
Philips Hearing Aids 9040 vs. Costco Kirkland Signature 9.0
How do Philips 9040 hearing aids compare with Costco’s exclusive Kirkland Signature 9.0 models? Here’s a run down of the key differences:
- Cost: Kirkland aids cost $1499 per pair, significantly less than Philips 9040s.
- Feedback cancellation: Philips 9040 have slightly better feedback management.
- Directionality: Philips 9040 provides better directional hearing.
- Streaming: Kirkland 9.0 have built-in connectivity, while Philips require optional wireless device.
- Mobile app: Kirkland Signature offers a remote control app, but Philips HearLink app offers more features.
- Power options: Both have 312, 13 and rechargeable batteries available.
- Noise reduction: Reviews show Philips 9040 edges out Kirkland 9.0 but both perform well.
- Brand recognition: Philips is an established premium brand, Costco aids are lesser known.
For budget-conscious consumers, Costco’s Kirkland Signature 9.0 offer similar capabilities to Philips 9040 at a lower price point. However, Philips 9040 deliver slightly better overall performance in key areas like directionality, noise reduction and feedback cancellation.
Other Comparable Hearing Aid Models
In addition to the Kirkland Signature 9.0, here are some other hearing aid models that offer comparable features and performance to the Philips Hearing Aids 9040 series:
- Oticon More 1 miniRITE R
- Signia Active Pro SP
- ReSound Quattro 5 61-DRWC
- Starkey Livio Edge AI 1600
- Phonak Audéo P90
- Widex Evoke F2 440
These models all provide advanced digital sound processing, multiple listening modes, wireless streaming and smartphone connectivity. Prices range from around $1500-$3000 per hearing aid, similar to the Philips 9040.
Choosing among these top brands comes down to individual fit, comfort, lifestyle needs, hearing loss severity, and budget. Consultation with a hearing professional can help identify the best model for your needs.
Getting the Most from Your Philips Hearing Aids 9040
To ensure you achieve optimal results with your new Philips Hearing Aids 9040, here are some useful tips and best practices to follow:
Have them professionally fitted
For maximum benefit, always have your Philips 9040 aids programmed and optimized by a hearing care professional based on your audiogram results and needs.
Learn proper insertion and use
Ask your hearing professional to demonstrate proper handling, care, insertion and use of your 9040 hearing aids. Proper insertion in particular is key to performance.
Start by using them in shorter periods
When first adapting to hearing aids, wear them for short periods like 1-2 hours and gradually increase your wearing time. This allows your brain to adjust to amplified sounds.
Keep them clean and dry
Carefully clean your 9040 hearing aids daily as directed and always store them in a safe, clean and dry place like a dehumidifier box.
Download the HearLink app
Connecting your Philips hearing aids to the HearLink app provides extra control, discretion and personalization for the optimal experience.
Optimize your phone settings
To ensure the best performance when streaming phone calls and media, adjust audio and accessibility settings on your paired smartphone accordingly.
Carry spare batteries when traveling
Having extra batteries on hand is wise when traveling or on-the-go in case your hearing aid batteries die at an inconvenient time.
Use the retention options
To prevent losing your hearing aids, always use the retention cords, clips or headbands included. Retention accessories keep your 9040 hearing aids secure.
With proper care and optimization, your Philips Hearing Aids 9040 can deliver exceptional sound quality, clarity, comfort and connectivity for many years.
The Benefits of Purchasing Hearing Aids from a Professional
While less expensive direct-to-consumer hearing aids are now available, purchasing through a qualified hearing care professional offers some important benefits:
Personalized treatment and programming
Hearing professionals carefully tailor the settings and programming of hearing aids to your hearing loss, lifestyle and preferences.
Expert fitting and care
They ensure hearing aids are professionally fitted and positioned in the ear canal for optimal comfort and performance.
Latest technology and features
Professionals provide access to and training on the latest hearing aid models with advanced features.
Hearing assessment and follow-up
Complete hearing tests are performed and hearing professionals provide ongoing follow-up and support.
Support and maintenance
Any maintenance, cleaning and repairs needed can be performed by your hearing healthcare provider.
Warranties and trial periods
Purchasing through professionals allows access to extended warranties and trial periods.
Financing plans
They offer financing options to pay for hearing aids over time instead of a large upfront cost.
While pricier, purchasing Philips hearing aids like the 9040 series through a licensed hearing professional ensures a higher level of customization, service and support.
Weighing Hearing Aid Costs vs. Benefits
Hearing aids represent a significant investment. However, the benefits of better hearing and quality of life outweigh the costs for most people with hearing impairment. Here are some factors to consider when weighing the decision to invest in hearing aids like the Philips 9040 models:
Improved hearing ability
Hearing aids amplify sounds to improve hearing clarity and reduce strain. Conversation is easier with less miscommunications.
Less social isolation
When you can hear better, it’s easier to connect with others in groups or noisy areas without feeling isolated.
Boosted work performance
Hearing what colleagues and customers say improves communication, productivity and confidence at work.
Increased safety
Hearing important sounds like doorbells, alarms and warning signals increases safety at home and when out.
Enhanced brain health
Improved hearing stimulation keeps the brain sharper and reduces dementia risks later in life.
Prevention of further hearing loss
Amplifying sound prevents straining that can worsen hearing loss over time.
Improved quality of life
Ability to connect with loved ones, enjoy activities and live life more fully is a powerful advantage.
For many hearing aid users, the benefits more than justify the investment. Trying them for yourself is the best way to determine if they provide real value that improves your hearing health and daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philips Hearing Aids 9040
Here are answers to some common questions about the Philips Hearing Aids 9040 range:
Can Philips hearing aids connect to smartphones?
Yes, Philips hearing aids have built-in Bluetooth technology allowing them to wirelessly stream audio from iOS and Android smartphones and take hands-free calls.
How is feedback or whistling reduced?
Philips 9040 hearing aids use patented feedback cancellation technology to detect and eliminate feedback before it occurs.
Are Philips rechargeable hearing aid batteries any good?
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries eliminate the need to regularly replace batteries. They last over 24 hours per charge with no performance loss over time.
What smartphone apps work with Philips hearing aids?
Philips offers the HearLink app allowing you to discretely control your hearing aids through your smartphone. Other accessibility apps like Live Transcribe also work well.
Do Philips hearing aids have directional microphones?
Yes, Philips 9040 have adaptive directional microphone technology to better zero in on speech coming from the front rather than surrounding noise.
Can you wear Philips hearing aids swimming or showering?
The 9040 models have an IP68 rating making them waterproof and able to withstand dust, sweat and being fully submerged in water.
Deciding if Philips Hearing Aids 9040 Are Right for You
FAQs
What is the Philips 9040 series of hearing aids?
The Philips 9040 series consists of the B9040, P9040, and T9040 mid-level hearing aid models. They share advanced features like noise reduction but come in different styles like behind-the-ear and in-canal.
What features do Philips 9040 hearing aids have?
Key features include CLEARVoice for speech clarity, WindNoiseReduction, feedback cancellation, directional microphones, multiple listening modes, Bluetooth for streaming, and a rechargeable battery option.
How much do Philips 9040 hearing aids cost?
The 9040 models range from around $1500 - $3000 per hearing aid depending on the exact model, features, and location purchased from a hearing healthcare provider.
How do you clean Philips 9040 hearing aids?
Use a soft dry cloth or brush daily to gently wipe down and clean the 9040 hearing aids. Avoid getting moisture inside the tubing or earbuds. Replace wax guards regularly.
Can you swim with the Philips hearing aids 9040?
Yes, the 9040 models have an IP68 waterproof rating so they can be submerged in water. This allows you to swim, shower and wear them in wet conditions.
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