Hearing is a highly individual experience because no two ear canals are shaped the same. Broadmead Hearing Clinic uses real ear measurement (REM) to move past standard factory settings and account for physical differences.
Our clinicians capture the unique acoustic fingerprint of your ear to confirm your hearing aids perform exactly as intended. We focus on the details of your ear so your devices sound natural and make conversations easier to follow.
What is Real Ear Measurement?
REM involves using a small, flexible probe microphone to see what is happening at the level of the eardrum. Standard hearing aid software estimates how sound should reach you, but it cannot account for the unique length, width and curves of your ear canal.
Everyone’s ears are a little different, so the same settings can sound clear for one person and off for someone else. Real ear measurements show exactly how sound is reaching your ear, so we can adjust things more precisely.
Why Verification Matters
Choosing the right hearing aid is only the first step; the way that device is programmed determines your long-term success. We utilize REM to verify that your devices meet the specific degree required for your hearing loss.
Without a verification step, a gap often exists between what the computer screen shows and what you hear. This verification process is a standard part of our patient-focused care, making sure your hearing aids are matched to your actual physical requirements.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your visit begins with a brief visual check to ensure your ear canal is clear. Once confirmed, we gently place a thin silicone tube – which acts as a precision sensor – near your eardrum. As you wear your hearing aids, you will listen to recorded speech and specific tones.
This live data allows our clinicians to see exactly how your technology processes sound in real time. We then fine-tune your settings on the spot, confirming your devices are perfectly calibrated to your life.