As we discussed a couple of weeks ago, Phonak will be introducing the new Bolero Marvel hearing aid range quite soon. But what is it, and what's available? Bolero is the name that Phonak use for their Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing aids. So the new Bolero Marvel is made up of two BTE hearing aid styles available over four technology levels. Let's take a look.
Four Technology Levels
As I said, the two hearing aid model types will be available in all levels of technology from the M 30 to the M 90.
Two Models
The two models will be designated the Bolero Marvel M and the Bolero Marvel PR. Both devices are really only suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss. Neither has enough power to deliver for people with severe or severe to profound or profound hearing loss. This seems a little strange, as Phonak normally has a Bolero hearing aid that is suitable for severe hearing loss. I think the reason for this may become clearer when they introduce the Naida Marvel.
For some time there has been some crossover between high power Bolero hearing aids and the Naida. Perhaps Phonak has decided just to focus on the Naida, which makes some sense. Although, if that is the case, I would say we are going to see the Naida sooner rather than later.
Bolero Marvel M
The Bolero Marvel M is a pretty discrete mini BTE with a multi-functional button, not unlike the button used on the Audeo. The M can be fitted with a slim tube (which you can see above) or an ear hook for traditional tubing and ear mould. The M will cover hearing losses down to 75 dB in the low to 95 dB in the high frequencies. That, of course, depends on configuration, with the slim tube fitted, that reduces to 80 to 85 dB in the high frequencies. The M has all of the features of the Marvel platform with a direct connection to any Bluetooth mobile phones and Roger devices. However, the M does not have a telecoil onboard so a connection to a Loop System is out.
Bolero Marvel PR
The Bolero Marvel PR is slightly larger than the M, but it is still relatively discrete. It uses the same multi-functional button as the smaller M. The PR is a lithium-ion powered rechargeable hearing aid can be fitted with a slim tube (which you can see above) or an ear hook for traditional tubing and ear mould. The PR will cover hearing losses down to 80 dB in the low to 100 dB in the high frequencies. That, of course, depends on configuration, with the slim tube fitted, that reduces to 70 in the low and 90 dB in the high frequencies.
The PR has all of the features of the Marvel platform with a direct connection to any Bluetooth mobile phones and Roger devices. It also has a telecoil onboard so it can be used to connect to a Loop System. Phonak say that you will get a full day of use out of one charge and use time is similar to the Audeo.
I think that many consumers and professionals alike will be happy to see the Bolero introduced. There are many people out there who would be better served by behind the ear hearing aids rather than receiver in canal devices. The Marvel has been an outstanding success for Phonak, in fact, far more successful than even they dared to hope. The introduction of the Bolero will cement that success, all we need now is the Naida Marvel and Virto Marvel, maybe next year.
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