Miracle-Ear is a massive player in the hearing aid industry due to its sheer size and longevity. It has more than 1,500 Miracle-Ear locations - no other brand comes close to this. As a subsidiary of the Amplifon Group, the largest hearing aid retailer in the world, Miracle-Ear hearing aids come in different styles and models, costing from $1,500 to $7,000. These hearing aid devices are designed and made by leading global manufacturers.
Just like Costco Hearing Aids Center, HearingLife, Beltone, and others, state-licensed hearing aid professionals and audiologists are tasked with dispensing the hearing aids at Miracle-Ear hearing aid centers.
But what makes Miracle-Ear different from the likes of Costco hearing aids is that it is not owned by a hearing aid manufacturer.
Today we will do Miracle-Ear reviews, discussing everything you need to know about the company's hearing aids and user testimonials.
What to love about Miracle-Ear
There are a ton of things to love about Miracle-Ear. Here are some expert opinions about this hearing aids brand:
According to RetirementLiving, “Miracle-Ear has patented some of the most technologically advanced hearing aids on the market."
Healthline on the other hand explains that "the strong customer service practices seemed to extend beyond the purchase of the device, with some reviewers pointing out that Miracle-Ear actively responds to customer complaints."
The guys at Hearing Tracker had some positive things to say about the company’s professional care, stating that, "long-established best clinical practices recommend that your hearing aids be verified via real-ear measurements... Miracle-Ear assured us that 'Best Practices' are shared across stores."
On our part, we love that Miracle-Ear:
· Has a 75+ year track record in the industry.
· Over 1,500 Miracle-Ear locations.
· Offers a wide collection of top-notch prescription hearing aids manufactured by leading manufacturers.
· Each purchase comes with lifetime aftercare such as adjustments and cleanings.
· Free hearing test as well as a 1-month trial period.
· A number of their hearing aids come with tinnitus features.
· Products have a 3-year warranty and damage and loss protection.
· Runs the Miracle-Ear Foundation® Gift of Sound™, which is very recommendable for the value it provides in the community.
What not to love about Miracle-Ear
One area that Miracle-Ear needs to work on is the customer experience, experts at Healthline argue that "Miracle-Ear has received mixed reviews, with many customers reporting issues with fitting and adjustments taking several months to get right."
Consumer Affairs also suggests that Miracle-Ear should have better customer service training for its staff, saying: "Some reviewers have expressed frustration over the lack of responsiveness from staff when issues arise, leading to dissatisfaction with the overall service."
For us, we found a few limitations about Miracle-Ear, including:
Ä Their hearing aids are locked, which means that they can only be reprogrammed and services at a Miracle-Ear location.
Ä Currently don’t have OTC hearing aids.
Ä Dispensing specialists don’t have enough skills in the field of hearing health.
Ä Miracle-Ear prices are comparatively higher than other retailers such as Costco.
Ä Miracle-Ear locations are independently owned and run, causing price, services, and customer outcomes disparities.
Who manufactures Miracle-Ear hearing aids?
Miracle-Ear nor Amplifon make the hearing aids they sell. Instead, the company collaborates with some of the largest and well-known manufacturers that distribute quality and reliable hearing aids.
More often, Miracle-Ear has worked with Siemens Hearing Instruments, or as it is now known as Signia, for hearing aids. But recently, the company has tried to widen its supply network to include other manufacturers from across the globe.
However, the company never discloses these hearing aid manufacturers, and all dispensed devices are privately labeled to Miracle-Ear.
We asked Patrick Sullivan, a lead engineer at Chosgo, to dig deeper and see if he can uncover one or two of these manufacturer working with Miracle-Ear. Here is what he found: “It is very possible to speculate some of the manufacturers. To illustrate, the terminology used in describing the Miracle-EarBLISS is virtually identical to a number of Starkey hearing aids. For example, both make “over 80 million adjustments per hour” with the help of “deep Neural Networks.” So it is safe to speculate that Starkey is one of these manufacturers.”
The good thing about Miracle-Ear not being tied down to one manufacturer is that the brand has greater liberty to choose from the numerous available technologies and designs. This in return allows Miracle-Ear hearing aid prices to drop lower than some of its competitors.
Who fits Miracle-Ear hearing aids?
You will be dealing with state-licensed clinicians at every Miracle-Ear hearing aid center you go to. However, you should know that Miracle-Ear locations are independently owned, and thus these specialists and independent owners of the franchise. In addition, there are several dispensing experts who work at Miracle-Ear hearing aid centers.
However, since these locations are owned independently, some Miracle-Ear offices have been found to cut corners with their customers. For this reason, we recommend reading as many Miracle-Ear reviews as possible to ensure you have enough information about a particular branch. Just type Miracle-Ear near me on the browser and go through online reviews.
Steps to getting a Miracle-Ear hearing Aid
There are various steps in acquiring a Miracle-Ear hearing aid so that correct evaluation and fitting can be guaranteed.
1. Free Online Hearing Test: Get your complimentary online hearing screening that requires only about five minutes in the comfort of your own home on the Miracle-Ear website. Get more comprehensive testing done from any one of over 1,500 locations. This thorough hearing test evaluates your hearing based on all frequencies and the quality of speech understood to present an accurate view of one's hearing ability.
2. Choosing the Hearing Aids: When the specialist decides you should get hearing aids, he will allow you to pick from several models and technological levels, often between $2,000 and $7,000 per pair. Cost may differ from franchise to franchise. Understand your insurance coverage and options for financing a pair of hearing aids.
3. Trial Period: Miracle-Ear offers a 30-day risk-free trial with their hearing aids. You can use this time to evaluate their performance in real situations. If you return them, note that there may be some fees, depending on your insurance.
4. Best Practices: Fitting should be done, taking into consideration best practices that include real-ear measurements to ensure the aids are programmed for your individual needs.
5. Aftercare and Warranty: Upon buying the aids, lifetime service that covers regular care and annual checks are covered under Miracle-Ear. Most models include a three-year cover for any damage; replacement may not cost an individual anything except in case the person would want extra service.
Top-rated Miracle-Ear hearing aids
What we find interesting about Miracle-Ear is that they have the ability to procure bulk hearing aids at lower prices and pass this down to customers. The wide collection of products also means that anyone – regardless of their listening needs, can find what they are looking for.
Since Miracle-Ear has a huge catalog of products, we are only going to discuss the few, latest hearing aids.
1. Miracle-Ear BLISS™ MEENERGY RIC
Description: This rechargeable receiver-in-canal (RIC) model is part of the flagship BLISS line, designed for comfort and superior sound quality.
Features: Offers advanced SmartSense™ technology for real-time adjustments and direct audio streaming from smartphones.
Miracle-Ear Prices: Typically range from $2,000 to $7,000 for a pair, depending on technology level.
Pros: Excellent battery life, customizable listening experience through the Miracle-Ear app.
2. Miracle-Ear MECONNECT RIC 312
Description: A Bluetooth-enabled RIC hearing aid that allows users to connect directly to their devices.
Features: Equipped with Genius 5.0 technology for enhanced sound processing and clarity in various environments.
Miracle-Ear Cost: Prices vary by franchise, generally falling within the mid to high range due to its advanced features.
Pros: Wireless connectivity enhances user convenience, making it ideal for those who frequently stream audio.
3. Miracle-Ear MEENERGY ITC R
Description: This in-the-canal (ITC) model is rechargeable and designed for discreet use while providing powerful sound amplification.
Features: Offers a comfortable fit with a focus on speech clarity in noisy settings.
Miracle-Ear Prices: Similar to other models in the BLISS line, expect costs between $2,000 and $7,000 depending on specific features chosen.
Pros: Customizable fit and rechargeable convenience make this a popular choice among users.
4. Miracle-Ear GENIUS™ X MEENERGY RIC R X
Description: A high-end model featuring GENIUS X technology, this hearing aid is designed for users with varying degrees of hearing loss.
Features: Direct Bluetooth streaming capabilities and hands-free calling for Apple devices enhance usability.
Miracle-Ear Cost: Positioned at the higher end of the pricing spectrum due to its advanced features and technology.
Pros: Exceptional sound quality and versatility for both casual listening and phone calls.
Miracle-Ear accessories
After covering some of the brand’s hearing aids, it is a good idea to also look at some of the Miracle-ear accessories that are designed to complement your listening experience. Here they are:
1. Miracle-Ear App
Description: The Miracle-Ear App is designed to give users control over their hearing aids right from their smartphones.
Features: Users can adjust the volume, change programs, and customize settings such as tone-bass/treble. It also includes a locator feature for misplaced hearing aids and a "Virtual Companion" with tips and advice.
Benefits: This application improves the user experience by personalizing settings on the go to adapt more easily to different listening situations.
2. TV Streamer
Description: Miracle-Ear's TV Streamer streams audio directly from a television into one's hearing aids.
Features: It connects wirelessly, transmitting clear sound without the use of additional devices or speakers.
Benefits: This accessory is helpful for those who cannot hear what is being said on the TV as it enables them to listen to their favorite shows without disturbing others in the room.
3. Remote Microphone
Description: The Miracle-Ear Remote Microphone is used to help one hear a conversation in noise.
Features: It picks up the speaker's voice and sends the signal directly into the hearing aids, increasing clarity in difficult listening situations.
Benefits: It is ideal for social gatherings or meetings since it improves speech understanding by reducing background noise.
4. Charging Case
Description: This is necessary for rechargeable models such as the Miracle-Ear MEENERGY series.
Features: The case will not only charge the hearing aids but also protect them when they are stored.
Benefits: This accessory will keep the hearing aids ready for action while protecting them during periods of no operation.
Comparison of Miracle-Ear and Chosgo Hearing Aids
When considering hearing aids, Miracle-Ear and Chosgo present two distinct options for consumers. While Miracle-Ear is a well-established brand that relies on third-party manufacturers for its products, Chosgo manufactures its hearing aids, offering several advantages that make it an ideal alternative.
1. Cost-Effectiveness
One of the most significant benefits of choosing Chosgo over Miracle-Ear is the cost. Miracle-Ear prices typically range from $2,000 to $7,000 for a pair of hearing aids, depending on the technology level and features. In contrast, Chosgo's direct manufacturing allows them to offer competitive pricing, often significantly lower than Miracle-Ear costs. This affordability makes Chosgo a more accessible option for individuals seeking effective hearing solutions without breaking the bank.
2. Quality Control
Chosgo’s in-house manufacturing ensures higher quality control standards compared to Miracle-Ear, which depends on external suppliers. This means that Chosgo can oversee every aspect of production, leading to more consistent product quality and reliability. Users can expect fewer issues with their devices, resulting in enhanced satisfaction and performance.
3. Customization Options
Chosgo offers a range of customizable features tailored to individual hearing needs. While Miracle-Ear provides various models and styles, Chosgo's ability to manufacture its products allows for more flexibility in customization. Customers can choose specific features that align with their lifestyle and hearing requirements, ensuring a more personalized experience.
4. Direct Customer Support
Chosgo emphasizes direct customer support throughout the purchasing process and beyond. Unlike Miracle-Ear, which operates through franchise locations that may vary in service quality, Chosgo provides consistent support directly from the manufacturer. This approach ensures that customers receive timely assistance and guidance tailored to their specific needs.
Final Words
While Miracle-Ear has established itself as a reputable name in the hearing aid industry, Chosgo emerges as a compelling alternative. With lower prices due to direct manufacturing, enhanced quality control, customizable options, and direct customer support, Chosgo offers a strong case for those seeking effective and affordable hearing solutions. For consumers looking to balance quality with cost, Chosgo stands out as an ideal choice over Miracle-Ear.