As audiologists dedicated to providing our patients with the best hearing solutions, we're excited to share information about one of the most innovative hearing aid options available today: the Unitron Vivante. This technology represents a significant advancement in hearing aid design and functionality, combining aesthetic appeal with powerful performance features.

What Makes Unitron Vivante Special?

The Unitron Vivante was launched in April 2023 to enhance the listening experience through personalized hearing control while improving sound performance, particularly in loud environments. The Vivante family includes four receiver-in-canal (RIC) models and one Behind-the-Ear (BTE) model, all featuring Bluetooth connectivity for compatible Apple and Android devices.

Vivante builds upon Unitron's established reputation by utilizing the Sonova PRISM™ (Processing Real-time Intelligent Sound Management) chipset and Integra OS signal processing. These hearing aids are suitable for any level of hearing loss from mild to profound, making them versatile options for many of our patients.

Key Features of Unitron Vivante

Enhanced Listening in Noisy Environments

One of the most significant advancements in the Vivante is its ability to handle conversations in loud settings. The highest technology tier product (level 9) includes an eighth listening environment specifically for conversation in loud noise. The HyperFocus feature improves the signal-to-noise ratio for face-to-face conversations in loud environments and automatically adapts to changing listening conditions.

Vivante also employs a new 360-degree conversation in-car program that automatically focuses on speech regardless of where passengers are seated. These listening features can be accessed through Unitron's Remote Plus app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Bluetooth Connectivity

All Vivante models offer excellent Bluetooth connectivity including:

• Active connections for 2 devices simultaneously
• Pairing for up to 8 devices
• Hands-free phone calls
• Remote adjustments from your provider via the app

For many of our patients, this connectivity creates a seamless integration between their hearing aids and daily technology use.

Durability and Protection

All Vivante models are IP68 rated, representing the highest level of ingress protection from moisture and debris. This is particularly important for active individuals and those who want their hearing aids to withstand various environmental conditions.

Unitron Vivante Models

The Vivante family includes several models to suit different preferences and needs:

1. Moxi V-R — The smallest rechargeable RIC on the platform, includes multi-function button, no telecoil
   
2. Moxi V-RT — A small rechargeable RIC, includes a multi-function button and built-in telecoil
   
3. Moxi V-RS — A stylish slim design in a rechargeable RIC with a multi-function button, no telecoil
   
4. Moxi V-312 — A RIC essentially identical in design to the Moxi V-R, except it uses a size 312 disposable battery
   
5. Stride V-PR — A small rechargeable BTE that looks and functions similarly to the Moxi V-R
   
6. Stride V-UP – A slightly larger ultra-power BTE that uses a 675 battery and has a built-in telecoil
   

Technology Levels and Personalization

Unitron offers various technology levels to match different lifestyle needs and budgets. The highest tier, Vivante 9, is considered premium technology and incorporates all available features. With the popular Moxi RIC styles, you can select from technology levels 9 (premium), 7 (advanced), 5 (standard), and 3 (essential).

What sets Unitron apart is their FLEX system, which allows you to try different levels of technology before making a purchase decision. This "try-before-you-buy" experience helps you make an informed decision about whether more advanced features are worth the investment for your specific listening needs.

Advanced Features Worth Considering

Soft Speech Lift

Found across the 9, 7, and 5 technology tiers, Soft Speech Enhancement provides increased volume for soft speech in low-noise settings. This feature can help patients better perceive consonants and high-frequency sounds that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Automatic Environmental Adjustments

Vivante hearing aids intelligently classify your listening environment and select the optimal program settings. This means you don't have to manually adjust your hearing aids as you move from a quiet setting to a noisy restaurant or other challenging environment.

The most advanced Vivante (level 9) can classify up to 8 distinct listening environments, ensuring you receive the right amount of amplification in every situation.

Personalized Sound Control

Through the Remote Plus app, you can adjust not only volume and frequencies but also enhance Comfort or Clarity based on your preference. This allows you to fine-tune your hearing experience according to your specific needs.

Log It All and Remote Support

The Log It All feature functions as a lifestyle analyzer that helps us better understand your listening needs by tracking what types of situations you encounter and how you interact with your hearing aids. This information allows us to make more precise adjustments during follow-up appointments.

Additionally, your provider can make adjustments remotely and send them to your hearing aids, allowing you to receive ongoing support without necessarily coming into the office.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Vivante rechargeable models include one charger for the Moxi V-R/V-RT and Stride V-PR models, and one charger for the Slim model V-RS. A full charge takes approximately 3 hours, while a 1-hour charge provides about 50% battery capacity.

When the hearing aid battery level gets down to about 1 hour of use time, the devices issue two warning beeps so you know it's time to recharge them.

Controls and Accessibility

Vivante hearing aids can be controlled in multiple ways:

• Through the Unitron Remote Plus app
• Using tap controls on the hearing aid itself
• Via the onboard multifunction button

This flexibility allows you to adjust your hearing aids discreetly and conveniently in various situations.

Real Ear Measurements: Our Commitment to Optimal Fitting

At Sioux Falls Audiology Associates, we follow evidence-based best practices for hearing aid fittings, including Real Ear Measurements (REM). This test ensures that your Unitron Vivante hearing aids are programmed to deliver the precise amount of amplification your unique hearing loss requires.

REM involves placing a thin probe microphone in your ear canal alongside your hearing aid to measure the actual sound levels reaching your eardrum. This allows us to verify that your hearing aids are providing the right amount of sound across all frequencies, rather than simply relying on the manufacturer's software predictions.

This verification step is crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes with any hearing technology, including the sophisticated features offered by Unitron Vivante.

Benefits for Different Patient Types

For New Hearing Aid Users

The Vivante family is particularly well-suited for first-time hearing aid wearers thanks to:

• Comfortable and discreet designs
• User-friendly controls
• The FLEX:TRIAL program allowing you to test different technology levels
• Gradual adaptation features that help your brain adjust to hearing sounds again

For Experienced Users

If you've worn hearing aids before, you'll appreciate Vivante's:

• Advanced sound processing capabilities
• Enhanced connectivity options
• Improved performance in challenging listening environments
• Customization options through the Remote Plus app

For Active Lifestyles

The IP68 rating makes Vivante hearing aids ideal for active individuals who:

• Participate in sports or outdoor activities
• Work in environments with dust or moisture
• Travel frequently and encounter various environments

Experience Unitron Vivante at Sioux Falls Audiology Associates

At Sioux Falls Audiology Associates, we understand that choosing hearing aids is a significant decision. Our Audiologist, Dr. Mandy Rounseville-Norgaard, has over 15 years of experience in practicing audiology and a lifetime of experience wearing hearing aids herself. This unique perspective allows her to truly understand the challenges of hearing loss and the impact that the right technology can have on your quality of life.

When you visit our practice, we'll conduct a comprehensive hearing evaluation and discuss your specific hearing needs and lifestyle. If Unitron Vivante is a good match for your requirements, we can arrange a trial period through Unitron's FLEX:TRIAL program, allowing you to experience these advanced hearing aids in your everyday environments before making a purchase decision.

Schedule Your Hearing Technology Consultation

If you're interested in learning whether Unitron Vivante hearing aids might be right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Sioux Falls office. During your appointment, we'll discuss your hearing needs, demonstrate the technology, and help you make an informed decision about your hearing health.

Contact us today at 605-306-3050 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward better hearing with technology that's designed to enhance your listening experience in every environment.