- What are The Audien Atom and EarCentric?
- Comparsion Table
- Sound Quality and Technology
- Design and Controls Comparison
- Customization and Adjustments
- Battery Life and Charging
- Brand Reputation
- Price
In the realm of hearing assistance devices, where prescription hearing aids often come with steep price tags, hearing amplifiers have emerged as a more affordable and technologically advanced alternative. Modern hearing amplifiers now offer impressive features like advanced noise reduction and feedback cancellation, all while remaining budget-friendly, costing only a fraction of traditional hearing aids. In this comparison, we will evaluate two notable over-the-ear (OTH) hearing aids, Audien Atom and EarCentric, to help you make an informed decision.
Audien Atom and EarCentric both stand out in the world of hearing amplifiers for their exceptional value and performance. Let’s delve into the key attributes and advantages of each to assist you in selecting the right solution for your needs.
Audien vs. EarCentric EasyCharge Hearing Amplifiers Comparison Table
| Product | Editor’s choice Audien Atom Pro | Audien Atom | EarCentric EasyCharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where to buy | Official website | Official website | Official website |
| Price of pair | $149.99 (Click on the “Order Now” button under Audien Atom. Then, you will be offered a choice between Atom and Atom Pro!) | $99.99 | $198.98 |
| Paymant Methods | FSA and HSA cards accepted | FSA and HSA cards accepted | FSA and HSA cards accepted |
| Size | Small | Small | Large |
| Sound Technology | Atom™ sound technology + Enhanced Feedback cancellation | Atom™ sound technology | Voice detection, noise reduction, feedback blocking, wind blocking |
| Physical controls present | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smartphone or App Adjustment | No | No | No |
| Battery Life | 24 hours of battery life, extendable to 4 days with the charging case | 20 hours | 12 hours per charge, you are able to recharge 3 times with a fully charged case |
| Charging Method | Wireless charging (4-6 hours) | Wireless charging (4-6 hours) | Wireless charging |
| Customization | Volume adjustment + 6 pairs of silicone earbuds | Volume adjustment + 6 pairs of silicone earbuds | Volume adjustment + 3 pairs of silicone earbuds |
| “Antenna” | Facilitates easy removal from ear (can be removed form the earbud) | Facilitates easy removal from ear (can be removed form the earbud) | Facilitates easy removal from ear (can be removed form the earbud) |
| In-the-box | 2X Atom™ Pro Hearing Aids 1X Portable Wireless Charging Case 1X Charging Cable (USBC) & Wall Plug4X Wax Guards 1X Ear Tips Set (3 Different Sizes, S / M / L) User Manual & Getting Started Guide | 2X Atom™ Hearing Aids1X Charging Dock Charging Cable (USBC) & Wall Plug 1X Carrying Case 4X Wax Guards1X Ear Tips Set (3 Different Sizes, S / M / L) User Manual & Getting Started Guide | Hearing aids Charging base Ear tube (regular and long) Sound booster kits USB cable and charging adapter Ear domes in 3 sizes |
| Requires a Smartphone or App to Operate | No | No | No |
| Guarantee | Risk-Free 45-Day Trial | Risk-Free 45-Day Trial | 30 day return policy |
| Learn more | Audien Review | Audien Review |
What are The Audien Atom and EarCentric?
Audien Atom and EarCentric are both notable options in the realm of affordable OTC (over-the-counter) hearing amplifiers, offering users various valuable features and proprietary technology. It’s important to note that these devices do not employ the same technology found in prescription hearing aids, so it’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations. However, this difference in technology also accounts for their affordability and widespread popularity.
One of the most apparent distinctions between Audien Atom and EarCentric can be observed in their physical design. Audien Atom is designed as an ITC (in-the-canal) hearing aid, discreetly fitting inside the ear canal. In contrast, EarCentric adopts a BTE (behind-the-ear) configuration, resembling classic hearing aids. We will delve deeper into their designs in the following sections to provide you with a more comprehensive comparison.
Sound Quality and Technology
When it comes to hearing aids, sound quality is paramount, as it is their primary purpose. Let’s explore the sound quality and technology features of both Audien Atom and EarCentric, which are central to their performance.
Beginning with Audien, their latest models, Atom and Atom Pro, excel in delivering consistent and superior audio clarity. These models employ Audien’s proprietary Superior Atom Chip Technology, also known as Atom Sound Technology. Notably, the Atom Pro takes it a step further as a premium model by offering enhanced feedback cancellation.
As is often the case with specialized products like hearing aids, customer reviews and ratings vary, which is entirely normal and expected. Each individual’s hearing needs and preferences differ. Users of Audien Atom and Atom Pro generally express satisfaction with the audio quality and overall performance. For instance, one satisfied customer shared a positive review, saying, “I’ve been wearing my Atom Pro hearing aids for over two weeks now and hearing noises I had forgotten…” However, it’s crucial to heed a general rule: refrain from wearing hearing aids or amplifiers in environments with loud noises such as sirens or at gun ranges.
This safety precaution applies universally, regardless of whether you’re using hearing aids or amplifiers. Turning our attention to the EarCentric EasyCharge, these devices are digital personal sound amplification devices equipped with noise cancellation capabilities. They boast a USA-made digital core, meticulously optimized for enhancing human voice and smartly reducing background noise. EarCentric EasyCharge is designed to excel in diverse environments, from bustling restaurants to tranquil evenings at home. In terms of features, this model is closely comparable to Audien’s Atom Pro.
Customer feedback regarding audio quality varies for EarCentric EasyCharge as well. Overall, reviews tend to be positive, reflecting reasonable satisfaction with the sound quality, particularly when compared to high-end hearing aids that come with significantly higher price tags. However, based on my research, Audien’s models seem to have garnered a slightly higher number of positive reviews. In summary, both brands, Audien and EarCentric, offer excellent choices for first-time users seeking effective hearing solutions.
Design and Controls Comparison
Right from the outset, it’s evident that Audien Atom and EarCentric EasyCharge differ not only in appearance but also in how they are used and worn. These distinctions encompass their design and control mechanisms.
Audien models fall into the ITC (In-The-Canal) hearing amplifier category, while EarCentric EasyCharge belongs to the BTE (Behind-The-Ear) hearing amplifier category. In comparison to the Audien models, which are self-contained units that operate as a single piece, EarCentric has multiple components. Although EarCentric’s design may appear bulkier, it offers more accessible control options. EarCentric’s controls include volume adjustment buttons, a multifunction button for program switching, power on/off functionality, and a charging indicator.
Turning to Audien’s design, the Atom model features a microphone, a small dial for volume adjustment, a discreet on/off switch, charging contacts, and a tiny “antenna” for easy removal from the ear. The Atom Pro model shares these components but excludes the on/off switch. In terms of size, Audien emerges as the winner, boasting a compact and discreet design. When worn, Audien hearing amplifiers are inconspicuous, thanks to their beige color. On the other hand, EarCentric’s design conceals the base of the amplifier behind the ear, making it visible only from the rear. For individuals who wear glasses, EarCentric is a suitable choice, as it comfortably accommodates glasses for extended wear.
Both brands include charging bases that hold both hearing pieces. Audien includes a charging base with the Atom model, whereas the Atom Pro model comes with a carrying and charging case that also holds an additional four days’ worth of charge. This added convenience ensures that users can keep their hearing amplifiers powered and ready for use without hassle.
Customization and Adjustments
Achieving the best hearing experience and comfort often requires personal adjustments, and both Audien and EarCentric offer users the flexibility to tailor their devices to their preferences.
Beginning with Audien, although their hearing amplifiers come as compact, one-piece units designed to be worn discreetly inside the ear canal, they still provide customization options. Users have the choice to replace the silicon earbuds to ensure a secure and comfortable fit within the ear. Additionally, the built-in dial allows for precise tuning of the volume to achieve the perfect audio level.
When considering EarCentric, customization options abound. Users can select between regular and long ear tubes or opt for sound booster kits to suit their individual needs. Ear comfort and fit are further enhanced with the inclusion of three pairs of ear domes of varying sizes. In terms of audio adjustments, users have the freedom to increase or decrease the volume as desired, and they can also switch between modes optimized for quiet and noisy environments. These customization features empower users to fine-tune their hearing amplifiers to align with their specific preferences and requirements.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor that often goes unnoticed but can significantly impact the usability of hearing amplifiers. We are pleased to report that both Audien and EarCentric offer users a full day of charge, providing a commendable 20 hours of reliable hearing time per charge. Notably, the Atom Pro from Audien surpasses this standard, delivering an impressive 24 hours of battery life. What’s more, it comes with a convenient carry case that stores an additional 4 days’ worth of charge, ensuring that your hearing aids remain powered whenever you need them.
Both brands, EarCentric and Audien, provide charging solutions for their hearing aids. EarCentric’s EasyCharge and Audien’s Atom models come with dedicated charging bases. The Atom Pro, on the other hand, includes a carry case that serves a dual purpose by charging the hearing aids when they are placed inside.
Charging these devices is straightforward; simply place them in their respective charging bases, and they will recharge through magnetic contact points on the back of Audien models and contact pins on the bottom of each EarCentric piece. This user-friendly charging process ensures that your hearing amplifiers are always charged and ready for use.
Brand Reputation
Evaluating the reputation of both Audien and EarCentric brands is essential to ensure the authenticity and trustworthiness of these companies. Our assessment, which includes references such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot, reveals notable differences between the two.
Audien enjoys a relatively higher reputation in terms of ratings. On BBB, Audien receives a commendable rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars and holds a respectable ‘B’ rating. On Trustpilot, Audien maintains an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars, which is a good rating, particularly considering the specialized nature and purpose of their product.
In contrast, EarCentric’s overall ratings are less evident. We could not find any information on BBB related to EarCentric, and the same holds true for Trustpilot, where there are no reviews or ratings available for the brand.
It is important to note that the absence of ratings does not necessarily imply a negative quality or poor product. However, having ratings and reviews can instill additional trust and confidence in the product and brand. Ultimately, the decision rests with you, the consumer, and your level of comfort and trust in the respective brands.
Price
When it comes to pricing, Audien and EarCentric offer competitive options, particularly for the Atom Pro and EasyCharge models. Let’s break down the pricing details for each brand:
Audien’s official website lists the Audien Atom at $99.99 and the Atom Pro at $149.99 per pair. Audien also provides special deals for customers looking to purchase multiple pairs. For example, when you buy one pair, you can get another pair at a 50% discount, and if you purchase two pairs, you receive one pair for free.
These deals come with the added benefits of free USA shipping and a 45-day money-back guarantee. It’s worth noting that if you’re interested in the Audien Atom Pro, you can select it as an upgrade option when ordering the Audien Atom.
On the other hand, EarCentric’s EasyCharge is priced at $199 per pair on their official website. This purchase includes free shipping and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
We strongly recommend purchasing these products exclusively from their official websites. Doing so ensures a secure buying experience, guarantees the authenticity of the product, and offers access to the best deals. With the rising trend of hearing amplifiers, counterfeit products are becoming more prevalent on various purchasing platforms and in physical stores. Safeguard your purchase by choosing the official sources for these devices.
Abdo is a Zoopy writer who loves spending his free time outdoors, camping, and enjoying the peace that nature brings. He also enjoys fixing things - he's particularly good with electronics. His favorite movie is I Am Legend, and he's fascinated by survival gear and safety.