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Phonak Exelia - Canal Hot

 
Editor rating
 
4.6 User rating
 
0.0 (0)

Info

Manufacturer Phonak
Styles In the Canal (Custom)Power CIC
Hearing Loss MildModerateSevere
Features & Options Multiple ProgramsWind Noise SuppressionNoise ReductionSpeech EnhancementMusic ProgramEcho Suppression

The Phonak Exelia canal hearing instrument packs their most sophisticated hearing technology yet into a tiny space, small enough to fit discreetly inside an ear canal. The solid combination of cutting-edge features, superb feedback control and sound custom build quality make this a hearing device of choice for those who like their hearing enhancement in small packages.

The Phonak Exelia is one of the most sophisticated hearing instruments on the market today. At the heart of the Canal models are three core technologies: "SOUND FLOW", "WHISTLEBLOCK", and "NOISEBLOCK". 

SoundFlow continuously monitors the situation the wearer is in and instantly optimizes the Exélia settings to the changing environment in real-time, for a seamless hearing experience. WhistleBlock accurately identifies and eliminates feedback (whistling or squealing) without affecting other tonal sounds. NoiseBlock recognises disturbing non-speech noises and reduces them to comfortable levels without affecting important speech information.

Other technologies included on the Canal model are EchoBlock, WindBlock, and SoundRelax. 

EchoBlock removes the blurring and distortion caused by the reverberation that occurs in echoey settings like meeting halls, places of worship or sporting venues.

Fast acting SoundRelax identifies sharp, abrupt sounds like banging dishes or slamming doors and suppresses them before they cause any discomfort.

And of course, WindBlock keeps the sound more comfortable and less disturbing in windy condition.

(The Canal family currently does not have wireless facilities or the remote control capability found on other Exelia products due to size restrictions.)

Editor review

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful

User Review

Reviewer's experience with product We have used the Phonak Exelia with a wide variety of hearing loss, from mild hearing loss up to severe. Reaction from users has been overwhelmingly positive, except in one case where the user experienced occlusion (she was much better suited to an 'open fit' but wanted to try a CIC).
Sound Quality The sound quality is extremely good, helped by the ability to perform a short hearing test through the aid itself which then informs the settings. The 20 channels and fast-acting microchip provide unparalleled ability to tailor the sound without introducing unwanted artifacts, and reaction of users is better than we have had for previous Phonak top of the range instruments.
Cosmetics Being a CIC (or Completely in the Canal) the design is obviously one of the most cosmetic available. Phonak now use a very small microchip, allowing them to fit the aid into smaller and smaller spaces. The Power CIC uses a larger receiver, so there may be some compromise in cosmetics for smaller ear canals, but it is still likely to be more cosmetic than other types of models. After all, the Power CIC successfully allows the Exelia CIC to enter territory that in the past was best left to Behind the Ear Models. If someone has a severe hearing loss, they should certainly take a look at the Power CIC to see whether it's suitable.
How easy is it to handle? Completely In Canals have there advantages and disadvantages in terms of handling. Insertion is generally easier... line it up correctly with the ear canal and pop it in! Nothing to fiddle with behind the ear; no trying to get all the bits into the right parts of the bowl of the ear. The flip side is that batteries are smaller, which may present handling issues for some people with dexterity or visual difficulties.
What's it like to wear? Our users have been reporting that it's very comfortable to wear, and so far we have not had to have it remade.
How comfortable is the sound in background noise? This is where the Exelia toolbox comes into its own. There are so many tools in the fitting software for the hearing care professional to use, that it is rare that something can't be done to improve the sound in background noise. The Noise Reduction, EchoBlock and WindBlock can all be adjusted to suit. Furthermore, they can be adjusted separately for different environments.
How does it handle speech in noise? Users report following conversation in noise with little trouble.
How does it interact with the wearer? The Exelia CIC lets you know when you've changed program, and when the battery needs replacing, via audible tones.
What do you think would most improve this hearing instrument? The only thing that I feel would improve this already great aid is the ability to use a remote control (for volume adjustments, for example). This seems to be possible on some of Phonak's more basic models, so it seems strange it's not available on this model... yet. But watch this space.
What's the thing you like best about this hearing instrument? I like the reaction of users, both to the size, comfort and solidity of the custom device itself, but also to the advanced processing of the Exelia chip. It is incredibly versatile, both in terms of the range of hearing loss it will fit, and in the fine tuning. And to think it all fits within the ear canal. Amazing.
Overall rating:
 
4.6
Sound Quality:
 
5.0
Wearability:
 
5.0
Handling:
 
4.0
Cosmetics:
 
5.0
General Performance:
 
5.0
Performance in Noise:
 
4.0
Features:
 
4.0
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Avatar Reviewed by Ceejay
February 28, 2009
#1 Reviewer
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Last updated: March 03, 2009
 

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