In a Nutshell
pros
- Competitively priced
- No prescription or audiologist appointment required
- 90-day money-back guarantee
cons
- The mobile app is very basic
- No Bluetooth audio streaming options
Bose Hearing Aid Models
Bose offers a single in-ear hearing aid model, the Bose SoundControl hearing aid. It costs just $849.95 per pair, which is significantly cheaper than many alternatives on the market. In addition, it’s fully FDA approved for over-the-counter sales, and it doesn’t require a hearing appointment or audiologist consultation before use.
The Bose SoundControl device is designed for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. It boasts a number of innovative features, including the ability to control a variety of sound settings via the Bose Hear mobile app.
For example, the World Volume feature can be used to help you hear better in certain situations. Meanwhile, the Focus setting can help you listen to a specific person or group of people by focusing your hearing aid in a certain direction.
The SoundControl hearing aid itself is lightweight and discreet. It weighs just 3 grams and uses a small zinc-air battery. The device is lightly water resistant, although it can’t be worn in the shower or while swimming.
There are 3 size options, and you can switch between them by changing the small silicon tips. These come in open and closed dome form, for a more natural-sounding voice and more focused hearing, respectively.
Bose Additional Services & Products
Various Bose SoundControl accessories are available. Replacement cables can be purchased for $49.95 each, replacement carry cases cost $19.95, and a wax guard kit comes in at $9.95. A hearing aid eartip kit ($9.95) provides different sized domes for a better fit, and a pack of 8 batteries comes in at just $7.95. There is a free 1-year warranty with all purchases that covers defects in materials and manufacturing.
How do I Purchase Bose devices?
Bose SoundControl hearing aids can be purchased online without a prescription. They are available in all US states, including Hawaii and Alaska. There’s no need to visit an audiologist before purchase.
Simply navigate to the Bose website, add hearing aids to your cart, and work through the checkout process. Both standard (2-8 business days) and express (1-2 business days) delivery options are available.
Bose Payment Options
The Bose checkout is simple and easy to work through. Payment options include credit/debit cards, PayPal, and PayPal credit. Payment plans are available through Bose Pay. You can choose from 4 interest-free payments over 6 weeks or monthly repayments for a 12-month period. Not all credit applications will be approved, and you can expect to pay an APR of 0% to 19.99% on a 12-month payment plan.
Bose Features and Tools
Complimentary Setup Session
Everyone who purchases a Bose SoundControl device will be able to access a complimentary setup session. Basically, this means that you will be connected with a Bose hearing expert, who will help you familiarize yourself with your device. They will also help you configure your sound settings if required.
Free hearing test
A free online hearing assessment is available via the Bose website. Although it’s not a medical test, it can provide insights into your hearing health and whether or not you need hearing aids.
Simple sound adjustment
Bose hearing aids can be fully adjusted with the Bose Hear mobile app. This enables you to quickly switch between sound profiles as you move between different social settings. Sound adjustment takes no more than a few moments, and profiles can be saved for later use.
What about the Bose app?
The free Bose Hear app is available for all Android and iOS mobile devices. With it, you can access the World Volume, Focus, and Treble + Bass sound adjustment settings. Different audio profiles can be created and saved for later use, and you can adjust these in seconds as required. The app connects to your hearing aids via Bluetooth for streamlined management.
Service and Support
Business-hours live chat, phone, and SMS support options are available from 9am to 9pm (EST), Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 7pm (EST) Saturday. The customer service team is responsive and helpful, although email support is notably absent.
Numerous self-help resources are available, including a selection of useful product videos, well-written how-to articles, and a downloadable user guide. There’s even a neat troubleshooting section outlining common problems and their solutions.
How to get a refund from Bose
All Bose SoundControl hearing aid purchases are protected by a 90-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied for any reason, you can return your device for a full refund. The return process is a little long-winded, though.
To begin, head to the Bose Returns page and enter your order number and zip code. You will be provided with an RMA number, which must be written on the outside of your return box. Free return shipping is available with all purchases. Refund requests for purchases made from brick-and-mortar Bose stores can be made over the phone or in person.
The Bottom Line
Bose’s SoundControl hearing aids are a newcomer to the market, but there is plenty to recommend them. They come in at a fraction of the price of traditionally prescribed hearing aids and can be purchased without an audiologist appointment or professional advice.
What’s more, reports suggest that SoundControl hearing aids work just as well as their more expensive counterparts. The Bose team will help you work through the purchase and setup process, and we’d recommend getting in contact if you’re looking for an affordable yet highly functional hearing solution.
FAQs
Are Bose SoundControl hearing aids available for FSA/HSA reimbursement?
Yes, you can make a claim on the purchase of your Bose hearing aids. Speak with your provider to find out more about how to do this.
Do I have to use the Bose Hear app?
The Bose Hear app is required to get started with Bose SoundControl hearing aids. With it, you can set up and fine-tune your device’s audio settings. World Volume can be controlled with a convenient built-in button, so the app isn’t required for everyday use.
Can I use a single Bose SoundControl hearing aid?
Yes, you can use a single SoundControl hearing aid if you only suffer hearing loss in one ear or if you simply find it more comfortable.
Can I stream audio to my Bose SoundControl hearing aids?
No, you can’t stream audio from a TV, smartphone, or other device to your Bose SoundControl hearing aids.
How long will the batteries last in my Bose SoundControl hearing aids?
The typical battery life is 56 hours. If you use your hearing aids all day, the batteries will need replacing approximately every four days. Of course, this will vary by use.
