Your ears are one of a kind.
So why settle for hearing aids programmed for "average" ears? Real ear measurement ensures your devices are tuned to your unique anatomy.
Here's the problem...
Most hearing aid fittings rely on manufacturer guesswork about average ears. But your ears aren't average—they're uniquely shaped, and that shape affects how sound reaches your eardrum.
Without real ear measurement, hearing aids can be off by 10-15 decibels at certain frequencies. That's enough to make speech sound muddy or cause discomfort with loud sounds.
How Real Ear Measurement Works
Four simple steps to perfectly tuned hearing aids
Setup
We review your hearing test and set personalized targets for your hearing aids.
Measure
A tiny, comfortable probe captures exactly what your ear is receiving.
Analyze
We see real-time data showing how sound behaves in your unique ear canal.
Perfect
Fine-tune your hearing aids until every frequency is exactly right.
The Sounds of Life Difference
We do things the right way, every time
What We Do
- Real ear measurement with every fitting
- Doctorate-level audiologists (Au.D.)
- Objective verification of output
- Adjustments based on measured data
- Follow-up verification included
- No extra charge for REM
What Others Often Do
- Skip real ear measurement entirely
- May use hearing instrument specialists
- Rely on manufacturer first-fit
- Adjust based on guesswork
- Charge extra for verification
- Rush through appointments
"I've been told by many that I'm a difficult-to-fit case, but Dr. Donovan pretty much had my hearing aids dialed in on the first attempt. For the first time in 15 years, I can now hear out of my left ear appreciably. Sounds of Life is one of the few practices that routinely uses Real Ear Measurement. You owe it to yourself to visit for your care."
Common Questions
Everything you want to know about real ear measurement
Real ear measurement uses a tiny microphone placed in your ear canal to measure exactly how your hearing aids are delivering sound. This lets us see what your ear actually receives, not just what the manufacturer assumes. It's the difference between a custom-tailored suit and one off the rack.
Not at all! The probe tube is thinner than a piece of spaghetti and very flexible. Most people barely notice it's there. The entire process is completely painless.
About 15-20 minutes. It's a small investment of time that makes a big difference in how well your hearing aids work for you.
Real ear measurement requires specialized equipment and extra time. Some providers skip it to save time or cut costs. At Sounds of Life, we include it with every fitting because we believe you deserve hearing aids that are programmed correctly.
Absolutely! We can verify whether your current hearing aids are programmed correctly for your ears. Many patients discover their devices weren't set up properly. A verification appointment can make a real difference.
No. Real ear measurement is included with every hearing aid fitting at Sounds of Life. We believe it should be standard practice, not an add-on.
Ready to Hear the Difference?
Whether you're getting hearing aids for the first time or want to verify your current devices, we're here to help.
8003 Auburn Rd Suite 4, Painesville, OH 44077
Serving Lake County, Geauga County & Northeast Ohio