Pimp My Hearing Aid

Fri Aug 24, 2007 11:39PM EDT

See Comments (3)

The iPod generation has been warned numerous times about volume control, and those not heeding the warnings will eventually turn to hearing aids before they know it. Personally, I hope that day never comes, but I think people overseas are bracing themselves for the inevitable by pimping out hearing aids. As horrible as that sounds, it's true.

Earlier this month, Inventor Spot highlighted Audeo's Personal Communication Aids. These PCAs are so small, and stylish they barely look like hearing aids. Designed by Switzerland-based Phonak Group, PCAs have less audio feedback due to the microphone being separated from the speaker, and offer exceptional clarity by amplifying high-pitched sounds. They're pricey, ranging between $1,500-$3,500, but they offer people many color options, styles, and sizes. Curiously enough, all the models on the website are young and sexy. Could this be a sign of times to come?

If you prefer something a little more gaudy, check out the Widex hearing aid. Gizmodo says the gold covered device has been encrusted with 220 diamonds, and actually sells for $49,590. Definitely, not your grandma's hearing aid.

Related:
Prevent Tech-Related Hearing Loss

Comments on Pimp My Hearing Aid

Post a Comment

Join in the discussion. Here you'll see the comments in the order they were posted.

  • 1 Posted by kimberly90962 on Sun Aug 26, 2007 3:59PM EDT Report Abuse

    Many hearing aid users choose hearing aids and earmolds in different colors or color combinations. Just as people choose the color and style in eyeglass frames to express their individuality, many hearing aid users make color and style choices for the same reason. What troubles me is that people with normal hearing are risking permanent hearing loss for entertainment. I hope companies will consider developing safer listening devices for public safety. I would also like to see public services announcements promoting hearing safety and hearing protection.

  • 2 Posted by alpyne2 on Tue Aug 28, 2007 6:07PM EDT Report Abuse

    What troubles me is that people with normal hearing are risking permanent hearing loss for entertainment

  • 3 Posted by alpyne2 on Tue Aug 28, 2007 6:19PM EDT Report Abuse

    Young people have been risking hearing loss at least since amplifiers were invented before WW-I. We're wired that way - watch young children at a free rock concert in a park - they'll walk right up to a speaker and move to the music. That is one reason why responsible adults (not corporations!) are involved in parenting...

More Posts: First Prev 1 Next Last

Post a Comment

 

Sign In to see your profile information, saved products and more...

Register Sign In

My Favorite Gadgets

 

Recent Activity

 

Recently Viewed

on | off on | off
 

Recent Searches

on | off on | off
 
 
 

Also on Yahoo! Tech

Computers Home Office Wi-Fi & Networking Phones & PDAs Cameras & Camcorders TV & Home Theater Portable Audio
 

Question and Answer content at Yahoo! Tech is written by Yahoo! users at Yahoo! Answers. Yahoo! does not evaluate or guarantee the accuracy of any Yahoo! Answers content. For more information, read the Full Disclaimer.

Opinions expressed by the Advisors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Yahoo! Inc. Yahoo! receives no compensation from any manufacturer or distributor nor does it compensate any Advisor for the coverage of any product or service in any Advisor's content.