In the world of hearing aids, advancements in AI, connectivity, and sound processing are reshaping the listening experience. ReSound has been at the forefront of this revolution, and with the launch of the Vivia platform, it takes another leap forward. As part of the ReSound Vivia series, the Vivia 9 is packed with cutting-edge technology that sets it apart from its predecessors.
This review will explore the unique features of the Vivia 9, delve into how it compares to other hearing aids in ReSound’s lineup, and provide a comprehensive understanding of what makes this device a compelling choice for individuals with hearing loss.
From AI-powered noise reduction to improved connectivity, we’ll break down what makes the Vivia 9 unique
- Overview of the ReSound Vivia Series
- What’s New in the Vivia 9? Key Features and Technology
- Vivia 9 vs. Nexia: Key Differences
- Battery Life
- Microphone covers and new colors
- Connectivity improvements
- Conclusion
Overview of the ReSound Vivia Series
Despite adding a second chip for the DNN, the Vivia 9 retains the small form factor as the previous Nexia model and utilizes the same charger
Before we dive into the specifics of the Vivia 9, let’s briefly discuss the broader ReSound Vivia lineup, launched in February of this year. The Vivia series includes four technology levels: Vivia 9, Vivia 7, Vivia 5, and Vivia 4. The flagship Vivia 9 is the most advanced of the range, with it’s rechargeable model featuring a dual-chip design that combines the 360 Chip for sound processing and a new Deep Neural Network (DNN) chip specifically for Intelligent Noise Tracker, which reduces background noise and enhances speech clarity.
The Vivia 9 offers the same compact design as ReSound Nexia, making it among the smallest Receiver-In-Ear (RIE) hearing aids on the market, despite its inclusion of a second chip for improved functionality. With the Vivia 9, ReSound aims to provide an immersive hearing experience with minimal compromise on size, battery life, or sound quality.
What’s New in the Vivia 9? Key Features and Technology
The hallmark of the Vivia 9 is its dual-chip design, which combines 360-degree sound processing and AI-powered noise reduction designed for a richer, more natural listening experience.
- 360 Chip: This chip is responsible for processing sound from all directions, ensuring a natural listening experience no matter where you are. Whether you’re in a quiet room or a bustling café, the 360 Chip is designed to adjust the sound output to match your environment seamlessly.
- Deep Neural Network Chip: The addition of the Intelligent Noise Tracker in the Vivia 9 helps reduce background noise more effectively than traditional methods. Using AI-driven technology, the device adapts to various environments, allowing users to focus on the most relevant sounds. As Laurel Christensen, ReSound’s Chief Audiology Officer, noted: “We’ve trained a deep neural network chip with very common known noises… and when it gets into that environment, it will take the noise down.” This makes the Vivia 9 more effective in noisy environments, such as restaurants or busy streets.
The combination of these two chips allows the Vivia 9 to “maintain clarity and richness” in sound while providing a powerful hearing aid that still fits within the sleek, small design.
Improved Battery Life and Durability
Despite the addition of a second chip, the ReSound Vivia 9 does not compromise on battery life in the rechargeable model, which offers up to 30 hours of use. This allows users to rely on the device throughout the day without frequent charging, which is particularly beneficial for those who wear hearing aids all day.
However, it’s important to note that the AI chip is only available in the rechargeable model, and like other hearing aids with AI features, battery life may decrease if the AI program is used continuously.
New Mic Filters
ReSound has introduced patient-replaceable mic filters in all Vivia models, including the Vivia 9, to improve reliability. This allows users to easily replace the filters without needing to change the housing, making maintenance simpler and more affordable in the long term.
Left: The ReSound Vivia 9 (red model) shown next to the Nexia, highlighting the new replaceable mic filters. Center: The ReSound Vivia mic filter package. Right: A close-up of the mic filter, providing a convenient and cost-effective solution for upkeep.
New Color Options and Personalization
For those who care about style as much as performance, the Vivia 9 offers a fresh set of colors, including blue and red. This feature allows users to customize their hearing aids according to their personal preferences.
ReSound Vivia vs. ReSound Savi
While the Vivia 9 represents the premium tier of ReSound’s offerings, the Savi series is designed for budget-conscious consumers looking for essential features without sacrificing quality.
- Savi Models: The Savi 3 and Savi 2 are equipped with the 360 Chip, but they lack the Deep Neural Network chip found in the Vivia 9.
- Battery Life and Connectivity: Both the Vivia 9 and Savi models offer all-day battery life, with the Savi and Vivia series also both featuring Bluetooth Low Energy Audio and Auracast. However, the Vivia 9 particularly stands out with its advanced AI-powered noise reduction, providing an enhanced listening experience in complex environments.
Connectivity and Smart Features: Enhanced Integration with the ReSound Smart 3D App
The ReSound Vivia 9 benefits from several updates to the ReSound Smart 3D app, improving connectivity and user control over the hearing aids.
Auracast Assistant
One of the updates in the app is the addition of the Auracast Assistant, which allows users to connect to Auracast Broadcasts. This feature enables users to stream audio from public systems in places like theaters, airports, and lecture halls directly to their hearing aids. The app makes it easier to locate and connect to these broadcasts, offering a more accessible listening experience in such environments.
AutoStreaming
The Smart 3D app also includes AutoStreaming, which works with the TV-Streamer+ and Multi-Mic+ wireless accessories. With this feature, audio is automatically streamed to the hearing aids as soon as the accessory is turned on, reducing the need for manual adjustments. This function is designed to provide a more streamlined and convenient experience when using these accessories.
Vivia 9 vs. Nexia 9: The Key Differences
The Vivia 9 builds upon the Nexia series, incorporating significant updates to improve noise reduction and speech clarity in challenging environments. The most notable difference is the addition of the Deep Neural Network (DNN) chip, which enables more advanced, AI-driven noise management. While the Nexia hearing aids relied on traditional noise reduction techniques, the Vivia 9 utilizes AI to dynamically distinguish between speech and background noise, providing a more adaptable listening experience.
As GN’s Andrew Dittberner explained:
“What we do very uniquely with our DNN for environments like this is that when you’re really struggling to hear in noise, you want to give everything you have in your toolbox to this circumstance. We make sure when we implement it, we have our best beamformer on and the DNN is constrained in that beam to only do the work in the direction you look at”
While both models offer all-day battery life, the Vivia 9’s dual-chip design brings additional processing power for the AI features, while still maintaining efficiency.
The image shows the Vivia (red) and Nexia (gold) hearing aids side by side. Outwardly, the only noticeable difference outside of the mic covers is the color options—Vivia is available in red and blue, which were not offered with the Nexia. The internal differences, however, are where the real advancements lie.
Conclusion
The ReSound Vivia 9 offers a range of improvements over its predecessors, particularly with the introduction of the Deep Neural Network (DNN) chip for enhanced noise reduction and speech clarity in noisy environments. The addition of AI-driven features and the dual-chip design provides a more adaptable listening experience, especially in challenging acoustic situations.
While the previous Nexia 9 remains a solid option with its reliable performance, the Vivia 9 could be a great choice for those who seek more advanced noise management and greater customization in their hearing experience. Its all-day battery life, improved connectivity, and seamless integration with accessories make it a practical solution for many users, especially those who spend significant time in noisy environments. Ultimately, the Vivia 9 is a capable device that may suit individuals looking for more sophisticated features to address their hearing needs.
- For more information on the Vivia series, visit the company website here.
