Phonak designed Roger devices to enhance speech understanding in noise and over distance, making them a valuable tool for individuals with hearing loss. While they are often associated with Phonak hearing aids, Roger technology is actually compatible with a wide range of hearing aids and cochlear implants from multiple brands. This is made possible through various Roger receivers that facilitate connectivity. In this blog, we’ll break down the compatibility of Roger On and explore the different Roger receivers available.
If you want to learn more about the different Roger accessories available, check out our blog, where we detail the many Roger options. This blog will focus solely on the Phonak Roger compatibility options with different hearing aids and cochlear implant devices.
Which Hearing Devices are Compatible with Roger Accessories?
Roger accessories work with virtually all hearing aids and cochlear implant sound processors when you use the appropriate Roger receiver. Below are the available Roger receivers that allow Phonak Roger compatibility for accessories to connect with different devices:
Available Roger Receivers:
- RogerDirect™
- Roger NeckLoop / Roger MyLink (for devices with a T-Coil)
- Roger X (for devices or streamers with a Direct Audio Input (DAI) port)
- A miniature universal receiver that can be connected to hearing aids, cochlear implants, or streamers that support DAI.
- Compatible with hearing aids that have a DAI shoe attachment, which includes most battery-powered hearing aids.
- Requires setup by an audiologist, which can be complex and typically involves additional professional fees.
- Another option is to use a Roger X plugged into a compatible microphone, such as the ReSound Multi Mic or Oticon EduMic, which still have receiver ports (most new microphones do not).
- After pairing the hearing aid and microphone, insert the Roger X receiver into the microphone and pair it with a Roger device like the Touchscreen Mic.
- Roger Design-Integrated Receivers
- Custom receivers designed for selected Phonak hearing aids and specific cochlear implants from manufacturers such as Cochlear, MED-EL, and Advanced Bionics.
- Available in different colors to match hearing aids.
How Many Hearing Devices Can Be Paired with Roger On?
One of the biggest advantages of Roger technology is that users can pair an unlimited number of hearing aids or cochlear implants with a Roger On microphone, as long as each device has a compatible Roger receiver. This makes it an excellent solution for group conversations in noisy environments.
Roger Unlimited: A Direct Connection for Phonak Hearing Aids
With the introduction of Roger Unlimited, Phonak has made Roger technology even easier to use with other Phonak devices. Now, all Roger microphones come with built-in unlimited receivers that work seamlessly with RogerDirect-compatible hearing aids. This means:
- No need to install separate Roger receivers.
- No need to uninstall receivers when switching hearing aids.
- No need for an iN microphone, as Roger microphones now have built-in receivers ready for direct connection.
This new software makes it easier for Phonak hearing aids to connect to Phonak Roger devices more seamlessly than before. You can now complete the setup without a hearing care professional, though having someone experienced can always be helpful!
Considerations for Cost and Usage
While Roger technology is highly effective, it does come with significant costs. The Roger receiver, professional setup fees, and the Roger accessory device itself can add up quickly. Since schools primarily use Roger devices, you should consult with your child’s school and hearing professional before making any purchasing decisions. Schools may already have Roger equipment available, reducing the need for additional purchases.
Alternative Remote Microphone Options
Most hearing aid brands offer their own proprietary remote microphone options, which are usually much more cost-efficient than a Roger setup. However, these remote microphones typically create a 1:1 connection between a pair of hearing aids and the microphone. Meaning that only one set of hearing aids can stream audio at a time. In contrast, Roger technology allows multiple hearing devices to connect simultaneously, making it ideal for group listening situations.
The best approach is to reach out to your hearing provider to discuss your specific needs. They can help determine the best—and hopefully most cost-efficient—option that suits your hearing requirements.
Final Thoughts
While Phonak Roger devices offer advanced technology and are among the only assistive listening devices widely used in school systems, they may not be the right choice for everyone. With the potential difficulty of Phonak Roger compatibility, it is important to consider that there are other hearing aid accessories that can significantly improve hearing in noisy environments beyond what hearing aids alone can offer. Roger benefits large groups where multiple users need to connect to a single device for shared audio streaming, but this is a relatively specialized use case.
As Auracast technology develops, it will dramatically improve accessibility for hearing aids and Bluetooth LE-enabled headphones. This emerging technology promises broader compatibility and easier access to audio streaming across different devices. The future of hearing accessibility is moving towards continuous growth and greater inclusivity, making it essential to stay informed about new and evolving options.
Ultimately, the best solution depends on your individual needs, so consulting with a hearing professional is always recommended to find the most effective and cost-conscious option.