ReSound Vivia vs. Phonak Infinio

Choosing the right hearing aid can be a life-changing decision. With advanced technology constantly evolving, today's hearing aids offer features that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago. Two standout options in the current market are the ReSound Vivia and Phonak Infinio. Both represent cutting-edge AI-powered solutions, but they have distinct approaches to improving hearing. Let's compare these two leading options to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding AI-Powered Hearing Technology

Both the ReSound Vivia and Phonak Infinio leverage artificial intelligence to process sound in ways that more closely mimic natural hearing. This technology allows these devices to distinguish between different sound types, prioritize speech, and reduce background noise in complex listening environments.

ReSound Vivia: Technology and Features

AI Sound Processing

The ReSound Vivia uses a Deep Neural Network (DNN) trained on 13.5 million spoken sentences across multiple languages. This extensive training allows the device to deliver superior speech clarity, especially in noisy environments like restaurants or family gatherings.

The dual-chip AI technology processes sound similarly to natural hearing. One of its standout features, Intelligent Focus, tracks the direction you're looking and prioritizes relevant sounds accordingly. This makes conversations easier to follow in challenging listening situations.

The DNN chip is remarkably efficient, enabling 17 times more effective sound processing compared to previous technologies. It can perform an impressive 4.9 trillion operations daily to highlight speech while reducing distracting background noise. Research has shown that 64% of users experience improved speech comprehension in noise with the Vivia compared to other AI-assisted hearing aids.

Battery Performance

The Vivia offers exceptional battery life:

  • Up to 30 hours of regular use on a single charge
  • 20 hours when using Intelligent Focus and streaming features
  • 10 hours of continuous DNN-powered Intelligent Focus
  • Quick charge option: 2.7 hours of use from just a 10-minute charge

Design Options

The Vivia comes in three models:

  • MicroRIE (rechargeable)
  • RIE 61 (312 battery)
  • RIE 62 (13 battery with telecoil)

All models include app control and programmable push buttons. The microRIE model adds convenient tap controls, and a CROS version is available for single-sided deafness. The Vivia comes in 10 color options, including distinctive Navy Blue and Red.

Connectivity

The Vivia features Bluetooth LE Audio 5.2 and Auracast compatibility, allowing:

  • Direct audio streaming from Apple iOS and Android devices
  • Hands-free calls from compatible Apple iOS devices
  • Access to Auracast broadcasts in public spaces
  • Connection to the ReSound Smart 3D app with Auracast Assistant

Durability

With an IP68 rating—the highest protection level against debris and moisture—the Vivia is built to last. New replaceable microphone filter covers reduce repair needs and extend the device's lifespan.

Phonak Infinio: Technology and Features

AI-Powered Sound Processing

The Phonak Infinio platform features groundbreaking AI technology that sets a new benchmark for hearing in noise and overall sound quality. Its Spheric Speech Clarity provides a revolutionary AI-based solution for enhanced speech understanding in noisy environments.

The Audéo Sphere Infinio offers up to 10 dB SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) benefit, providing unparalleled clarity in challenging listening situations. Its AutoSense OS 6.0 with SmartSpeech technology improves speech understanding by 16% and reduces listening effort by 45%.

The APD 3.0 audiological fitting model with Harman Curves delivers exceptional sound quality from the first fit, reducing the need for multiple adjustment appointments.

Battery Performance

The Infinio features a long-lasting lithium-ion battery that provides 16 hours of use on a single charge, with quick charging capability for added convenience.

Design Options

Phonak Infinio comes in multiple models to suit different preferences and hearing needs:

  1. Audéo Infinio R
    • Rechargeable receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid
    • Versatile and suitable for various hearing losses
    • Powered by the advanced ERA chip
  2. Audéo Infinio Sphere
    • Premium RIC hearing aid with revolutionary dual-chip technology
    • Features ERA chip for core functions and DEEPSONIC chip for real-time AI processing
    • Offers the most advanced AI denoising technology for superior speech understanding
    • Ideal for those seeking the best performance in challenging listening environments
  3. Audéo Infinio CROS
    • Designed for individuals with unilateral hearing loss
    • 30% improvement in battery life compared to previous CROS systems
    • Enhanced connectivity and sound quality
  4. Virto Infinio R
    • Rechargeable in-the-ear (ITE) devices
    • Custom-built using over 1,600 data points from ear scans
    • Biometrically calibrated for optimal comfort and acoustic performance
    • New charger with magnetic snapping for easy and secure charging
  5. Non-wireless CIC and Titanium IIC
    • Discreet completely-in-canal (CIC) and invisible-in-canal (IIC) options
    • Battery-powered for those preferring traditional power sources

Connectivity

The Infinio features Bluetooth LE Audio and is Auracast-ready for easy connection to all Bluetooth devices. It offers 6 times the transmission power of competitors, providing up to 2 times the streaming distance. Users can enjoy hands-free calling and instant connectivity with low latency.

Durability

Like the Vivia, the Infinio is IP68 rated for superior protection against water and dust. It has been rigorously tested with over 135 individual "torture tests" to ensure reliability and longevity.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Sound Processing Technology

Both hearing aids use advanced AI technology to process sound and improve speech understanding, but they take slightly different approaches:

  • ReSound Vivia: Uses a Deep Neural Network trained on 13.5 million spoken sentences, with Intelligent Focus that tracks the direction you're looking.
  • Phonak Infinio: Features Spheric Speech Clarity with AutoSense OS 6.0, improving speech understanding by 16% and reducing listening effort by 45%.

The Vivia excels at directional awareness and focusing on the sounds you want to hear, while the Infinio appears to put more emphasis on reducing overall listening effort.

Battery Life

  • ReSound Vivia: Up to 30 hours of regular use, 20 hours with streaming, 10 hours with continuous DNN processing.
  • Phonak Infinio: 16 hours of use on a single charge.

The Vivia has a clear advantage in battery life, offering nearly twice the usage time of the Infinio under normal conditions.

Design Options

Both brands offer various models to suit different preferences:

  • ReSound Vivia: Three models (MicroRIE, RIE 61, RIE 62) with 10 color options.
  • Phonak Infinio: Five models (Audéo R, Audéo Sphere, Audéo CROS, Virto R, and CIC/IIC options).

Phonak offers more variety in design and wearing styles, including custom-built in-the-ear options that use biometric calibration for a perfect fit.

Connectivity

Both hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity and Auracast compatibility:

  • ReSound Vivia: Bluetooth LE Audio 5.2, direct streaming from iOS and Android, hands-free calls, Auracast access.
  • Phonak Infinio: Bluetooth LE Audio, 6x transmission power, 2x streaming distance, hands-free calling, Auracast compatibility.

The Infinio appears to have an edge in connectivity range and power, potentially offering more reliable connections in challenging environments.

Personalization

  • ReSound Vivia: App control, programmable push buttons, tap controls on the microRIE model.
  • Phonak Infinio: MyPhonak app with slider control for DNN strength, AI Dome Proposer for optimal acoustic performance, biometric calibration using 1,600+ data points for custom-fit devices.

Phonak seems to offer more advanced personalization options, especially for custom-fit models.

Performance Claims

Phonak Infinio:

  • 93% of users prefer the first-fit of Infinio over two leading competitors
  • 45% reduction in listening effort in quiet situations for adults with moderate to severe hearing loss
  • 21% less fatigue when the Speech Enhancer is on versus off
  • With Phonak's Roger ON remote mic, improves speech understanding by 61%

ReSound Vivia:

  • 64% of users experience improved speech comprehension in noise compared to other AI-assisted hearing aids
  • 17 times more efficient sound processing compared to previous technologies

Making Your Choice

When deciding between the ReSound Vivia and Phonak Infinio, consider these factors:

  1. Battery Life: If you need maximum usage time between charges, the Vivia's 30-hour battery life is hard to beat.
  2. Sound Processing: Both offer excellent AI-powered sound processing, but the Vivia may have an edge in directional awareness, while the Infinio focuses on reducing listening effort.
  3. Design Options: If you prefer in-the-ear custom options, Phonak offers more variety with biometric calibration.
  4. Connectivity Range: For those who stream audio frequently from devices at a distance, the Infinio's extended range might be beneficial.
  5. Personalization: Both offer app control, but Phonak provides more advanced personalization options, especially for custom-fit models.

Working with an Audiologist

Regardless of which hearing aid you choose, working with a qualified audiologist who follows best practices is crucial for optimal results. Dr. Meg Kalady at Kalady Audiology in Beaufort, SC is a Dr. Cliff Approved Provider who follows best practices in audiology.

Best practices include comprehensive hearing testing and the use of real ear measurements during the fitting process. Real ear measurements ensure your hearing aids are programmed precisely to your unique hearing loss, resulting in better outcomes and eliminating guesswork.

Final Thoughts

Both the ReSound Vivia and Phonak Infinio represent the cutting edge of hearing aid technology, offering AI-powered sound processing, connectivity options, and rechargeable convenience. Your choice will depend on your specific hearing needs, lifestyle, and preferences.

Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Kalady at Kalady Audiology will allow you to experience these advanced hearing aids firsthand and receive personalized recommendations based on your unique hearing profile. With expert guidance and state-of-the-art technology, you can look forward to clearer conversations and a richer hearing experience.

Meg Kalady, Au.D.

Audiologist | Dr. Cliff Approved Provider

Dr. Meg Kalady is from the Philadelphia suburbs and has been practicing audiology for the last 30 years. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, and she received her doctorate in audiology in 2012 from AT Still University.

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