Personal sound amplifiers come in different styles, with different features and price points. Choosing the right one depends on where and how you'll use it. Here's how to match a device to your needs.
Step 1: Identify Your Primary Use Cases
Start by thinking about where you struggle most with hearing. Different situations benefit from different features.
Mostly TV Watching
If your main issue is hearing the TV, prioritize:
- Good voice clarity/dialogue enhancement
- Comfortable for extended wear (2-4+ hours)
- Long battery life
- Simple controls you can adjust without looking
You might also consider TV-specific devices with transmitters, though these are less versatile for other situations.
Group Conversations (Family Dinners, Gatherings)
If you struggle in group settings, look for:
- Directional microphones that focus on speakers in front of you
- Noise reduction to cut background chatter
- Quick, easy volume adjustment
- Discreet design if appearance matters to you
Noisy Environments (Restaurants, Events)
The most challenging situations need the most technology:
- Strong directional microphones
- Advanced noise reduction
- Multiple program settings for different environments
- Premium processing for best speech clarity
Active Lifestyle (Walking, Outdoor Activities)
If you want to hear better while being active:
- Secure fit that won't fall off
- Sweat/moisture resistance
- Wind noise reduction
- Possibly open-fit design that lets in natural sound
All of the Above
If you need help in multiple situations, prioritize overall quality and versatility over specialized features.
Step 2: Consider Comfort and Appearance
You won't wear a device that's uncomfortable or that you feel self-conscious about.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Style
Pros: More room for technology, longer battery life, easy to handle Cons: More visible, may interfere with glasses or masks Best for: Those who prioritize function over discretion
In-the-Ear (ITE) Style
Pros: More discreet, nothing behind the ear Cons: Can feel plugged up, less room for technology, may need custom fit Best for: Those who want minimal visibility
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Style
Pros: Good balance of discretion and performance, natural sound Cons: Thin wire can be visible Best for: Most people - often the best compromise
Step 3: Match Features to Budget
Higher prices generally mean better technology, but you don't always need the best.
Entry Level ($100-150)
Good enough if you:
- Have mild hearing challenges
- Mainly want help with TV
- Are trying amplification for the first time
- Want to see if a PSAP helps before investing more
May struggle with:
- Very noisy environments
- Extended comfort
- Background noise reduction
Mid-Range ($150-300)
Good balance if you:
- Have moderate hearing challenges
- Need help in multiple situations
- Want decent noise reduction
- Expect to wear it for extended periods
Offers most features most people need without premium pricing.
Premium ($300-500)
Worth it if you:
- Have significant hearing challenges (though consider hearing aids too)
- Spend time in very challenging acoustic environments
- Want the best possible speech clarity
- Value premium comfort and build quality
Approaching hearing aid territory - make sure a PSAP is the right category for your needs.
Step 4: Check the Support and Return Policy
The best device is one you can try risk-free in your real situations.
Look for:
- At least 30-day return policy
- Canadian customer support (if you're in Canada)
- Clear warranty terms
- Responsive customer service
Avoid:
- No return policy
- Ships from overseas with long wait times
- No way to reach customer support
- Only perfect reviews (often fake)
Step 5: Try It in Your World
Specifications and features only tell you so much. The real test is using the device in your actual life:
- At home watching TV
- At family dinner
- At the restaurant where you struggle most
- In whatever situation made you look for help in the first place
That's why return policies matter. Order, test thoroughly, and keep it only if it makes a real difference.
Our Recommendations
For TV-focused use: HearHelp's entry model provides excellent dialogue clarity and comfortable extended wear at an accessible price point.
For multiple situations: Our mid-range model adds directional microphones and better noise reduction for restaurants and gatherings.
For challenging environments: Our premium model offers the most advanced processing for the most difficult listening situations.
All come with a 30-day trial and Canadian support. Not sure where to start? Contact us and we'll help you match a model to your needs.