Choosing the right hearing aid style for each wearer can be a complex decision-especially for individuals with unique or variable hearing profiles. For those with borderline or steeply sloping hearing loss, the audiogram may suggest a high-power device for the worst thresholds, while low to mid-frequency thresholds point to a lower- power solution. Similarly, clients with conductive or fluctuating hearing loss face changing amplification needs over time. 

Receiver-In-The-Ear styles provide a high level of fitting flexibility and are often the go-to product for this cohort. But this style is not sui table for all wearers. Middle ear problems, wax or moisture issues in the past may preclude this style for certain clients. 

These scenarios highlight the limitations of traditional fitting approaches and underscore the need for a more adaptive solution-one that can flexibly meet the fluctuating demands of these clients. 

Introducing Oticon Intent™ miniBTE R: A New Level of Fitting Flexibility 

The new Oticon Intent miniBTE R stands out as a truly innovative solution. It is the first style of its kind to offer two fitting power levels-BS and 105-within a single device. 

This dual-power capability allows clinicians to select the appropriate fitting level during programming in Oticon Genie 2, either at initial fitting or later as needed. 

The gain and output of the speaker is limited by strict output controls that will not allow it to go beyond its prescribed fit ting level. The hearing aid hardware must meet strict regulatory requirements and has been tested to ensure that the gain remains stable.

Why use a 105 Speaker for an 85 Fitting Level?

The speaker unit used in the miniBTE R has a low noise floor so it can be used at an 85 fitting level. At the 85 fitting level, the speaker is operating well within its parameters and is not pushed to the limit. The internal noise is the same regard less of fitting level: 17 dB SPL Equivalent input noise level for both the 85 and 105 fitting levels with a damped hook (measured in the Ear Simulator).

This flexibility means that if a client's hearing loss changes or deteriorates over time, the device's output can be adjusted accordingly-without the need to replace the hearing aid. It's a future-ready solution that supports long-term fitting success and client satisfaction. 

How Does it Work? 

The speaker itself is a 105 speaker that can be lowered to an 85 fitting level in Oticon Genie 2. You simply select the fitting level you would like the hearing aid to be programmed to in the fitting software. The action is similar to how the miniRITE can be programmed to different speaker unit power levels. 

Choosing the Correct Fitting Level. 

When choosing the fitting level for your client, there are several things to consider especially for clients with milder hearing losses. Reasons to select the 85 fitting level over the 105 level include: 

• Reduced risk of overamplification 
• Improved access to high-frequency sounds 
• Lower potential for distortion 

Let's explore each of these in more detail. 

1. Overamplification Risk 

The 105 fitting level can provide a much higher output than the 85 fitting level. For instance, in an ear simulator using a damped hook, a 90 dB SPL input signal yields a peak output of 133 dB 5PL with the 85 fitting level, compared to 138 dB SPL with the 105. Additionally, Oticon Genie 2 calculates a higher Maximum Power Output (MPO) for the 105 fitting level-even when using the same audiogram. This increased output can increase the risk for overamplification, especially in clients with mild hearing loss, and is particularly relevant when volume control is available to the user. 

2. Better Access to High Frequencies 

The 85 fitting level with a damped hook offers a broader frequency response, especially in the high-frequency range. In ear simulator measurements with a damped hook, the 85 fitting level spans from <100 Hz to 9400 Hz, while the 105 fitting level reaches up to 7000 Hz. The 85 fitting level also provides a smoother frequency response, which supports sound quality and may enhance speech clarity and detail for users whose hearing loss fits within its range. 

3. Lower Potential for Distortion 

Total harmonic distortion at 500 Hz is lower with the 85 fitting level (<2%) compared to the 105 (<4%), based on ear simulator measurements. This can contribute to a cleaner, more natural sound quality.  

Programming and Fitting Power Selection Made Simple 

Programming this new hearing aid model is straightforward. Once connected to the fitting software, the appropriate fitting power can be selected either during the initial connection process or via the "Prepare" screen. Beyond this step, programming follows the same process as with other BTE styles. 

In summary, the Oticon Intent miniBTE R brings unmatched flexibility to hearing care by combining two power levels-85 and 105-into one device. This future-ready solution is ideal for managing changing hearing needs, borderline audiograms, or simply planning ahead. And with the same advanced features as the miniRITE style-4D user intent sensors^, second-generation always-on Deep Neural Network, and next-generation Bluetooth® LE Audio technology-the Oticon Intent miniBTE R ensures adaptability without compromise.  

^ 4D Sensor technology available for Oticon Intent 1 & 2  

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