Test report: ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW

The ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW in review

This test report is about the Vivia 4 61-DRW. It was developed by ReSound and addresses mild to severe hearing losses. This variant is worn behind the ear. Vivia 4 61-DRW is a discreet, slim-shaped hearing aid from the upper mid-range class. The clean sound transmission is achieved through the speaker that sits directly in the ear canal.

Typically, only the premium devices benefit from new hearing aid families like the ReSound Vivia at first. However, ReSound has also implemented some technical advancements in this budget-friendly category: the AutoScope controls the directional microphones in noisy environments and provides slightly better focusing.

Hearing comfort

One of our favorite chapters is hearing comfort, as it deals with one of the most important topics in conversation with our customers: background noise. Ideally, everyone would just like to hear speech and block out all other sounds. However, it’s not that simple. Without noise, our lives would sound very thin and empty. That’s why hearing aids are designed to keep noise in check, but not to make it disappear.

In the Vivia 4 61-DRW, solid comfort programming by the audiologist is possible. The mandatory noise suppression should react to anything that hums evenly, like the heating or the extractor hood. In the current device, there is a reasonably functioning noise reduction.

Wind noise can sometimes become a problem outdoors. Therefore, moderate wind noise management is integrated here. After all, the Vivia 4 61-DRW includes a so-called impulse filter. But does that always suffice? An adaptive directional microphone helps in separating speech from noise, but we miss a true 3D experience. A few more frequency channels would be desirable, but the existing 12 channels are still quite workable.

ReSound does not yet work with artificial intelligence in this version.

The automatic directionality intelligently adjusts the microphones of both hearing aids to capture speech and environmental sounds as effectively as possible. It is based on the brain's natural sound processing and optimizes the microphone settings for an authentic listening experience. Through data exchange between the hearing aids, the clearest speech signal is amplified without restricting the perception of the surroundings – for relaxed and natural hearing in any situation.

Rating Hearing comfort: 2,8

Operation & connectivity

The majority of functions are activated automatically by this ReSound model. However, it can be very useful to be able to extend the functionality a bit. In our tests, we found out what options we have here. Usually, there is a button on the hearing aid, and we found one on the Vivia 4 as well. It can be configured as a volume control or program selection button and can also be deactivated if desired. A remote control is available for the Vivia 4 61-DRW. It's quite handy, fits in your pocket, and offers a volume up-down option as well as various hearing programs.

Voice commands are a relatively new way of operating hearing aids. However, we do not have this option with this model yet. That's not a big issue - as long as you can hear well. There is no control of the hearing aids with a simple tap in this ReSound model, as certain sensors would have been needed in the casing for that.

Better than a remote control, in our opinion, is an app, since nearly everyone has a smartphone in their pocket. The app for the Vivia 4 61-DRW is really good; it has a lot of clever features that make hearing in difficult situations significantly easier. It is quite complex, but you can quickly get the hang of it. You can practice in demo mode. There are also a few surprising additional tools - have fun discovering! Problems making phone calls with a smartphone are a thing of the past with this device. Calls, music, and other sounds are transmitted completely wirelessly to the hearing aids. Headphones become unnecessary. We tested the wireless transmission during longer phone calls and for listening to music while exercising. Everything worked simply and smoothly. Only a suitable smartphone with 2.4 GHz wireless technology is needed.

With the new Auracast Assistant in the ReSound Smart 3D app, your smartphone becomes a universal receiver for Auracast signals – regardless of the built-in technology. The usage is incredibly simple: An icon on the home screen opens the overview of all available audio sources with which you can connect immediately.

Rating Operation & connectivity: 1,3

ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW: The small remote control allows for discreet and convenient control of the hearing aids. Users can adjust the volume and switch programs without having to touch the hearing aid. Especially practical for on-the-go or social situations – simple, quick, and unobtrusive.

Simplicity & security

In order to continue taking the perspective of hearing aid users, we obviously also need a test for everyday suitability. Here's what came out of it: The Vivia 4 61-DRW features a solid everyday automatic that is probably sufficient for a quieter life. However, for more complex hearing environments, we recommend the additional manual programs. We give a big plus point for the automatic acclimatization assistant. It gradually raises the starting volume in very small steps until my hearing goal is reached. This significantly eases the adjustment to the new sound.

We regret that the Vivia 4 61-DRW does not have a rechargeable battery but is powered by hearing aid batteries size 312. This is not overly problematic, but one should remember to carry spare batteries. On the other hand, this hearing aid does not need to be charged daily, it runs longer on a battery.

The Vivia 4 is almost dust and waterproof, and with its IP 68 classification, it is certainly well protected against external influences.

Rating Simplicity & security: 2,3

Extras

As there is increasing storage space in apps or in the hearing aids themselves, it’s worth taking a look at possible extra features. Here’s how it looks: A special tinnitus program can be programmed on request in the Vivia 4 61-DRW. This allows stimulating, pleasant sounds to be generated that distract from tinnitus when it is particularly strong. We find this very useful and gladly award extra points.

A clever tool is the integrated remote maintenance service. Almost everyone has a smartphone, and time is a scarce resource. Therefore, such a remote maintenance service is absolutely appropriate. If someone needs a new programming for their hearing aids, they can easily contact the acoustician via the app and describe their hearing preferences. Through a cloud service, the professional can then send a personalized setting as a data package to the app. From there, it is uploaded to the hearing aid and can be tried out immediately. This definitely deserves extra points in our test.

Some hearing aids can track certain health data. However, this requires special sensors in the hearing aid, which we unfortunately do not have in the Vivia 4 61-DRW. The device from ReSound focuses on essential hearing functions and does not offer extras like voice assistants or translation functions. While that would have been fun, it is not necessary for a good listening experience.

With the new interchangeable microphone filters from ReSound, your listening experience remains clear and uninterrupted. The filters protect your hearing aids from dust, dirt, and moisture, contributing to a longer lifespan. You can change them quickly and easily by yourself – without a professional visit. This saves you time, reduces maintenance costs, and enables you to enjoy the best possible sound quality at all times.

Rating Extras: 2,4

Conclusion: ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW

In conclusion, it can be said that this device is a true all-rounder, impressing us with its comfort features and achieving a good overall score of 2.21. Those who want to forgo top technology but still desire a comfortable hearing experience are in the right place here.

Are you still unsure which energy supply is suitable for your daily life? We have summarized all the important decision criteria for you: Rechargeable or Battery

 

Our ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW review was created on February 26, 2025 and lastly updated on April 15, 2025. The overall rating of 2,21 is composed of: »Hearing Comfort (40% weighting): Rating 3.5 | »Operation & Connectivity (28% weighting): Rating 5 | »Simplicity & Security (17% weighting): Rating 4 | »Extras (15% weighting): Rating 4 | Learn more about our evaluation criteria and testing standards in How We Test..

 

 

 

FAQ

What size is the Vivia 4 61-DRW from ReSound?

Large or small relates to the external impression. Therefore, we assess how large hearing aids appear to outsiders. The ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW falls into the size category XS. This means it appears quite small.

How well do I hear with the Vivia 4 61-DRW from ReSound?

This hearing aid scores a total of 2.8 (satisfactory) in the area of "hearing comfort." The score is composed of various components. Important criteria: Noise suppression achieves 3 out of 5 stars. The number of adjustable frequency bands in the ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW is 12 (the best in class currently have 24 bands). For wind noise suppression, we rate the device as 'usable' (2 out of 5 stars).

Is the ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW suitable for me?

The suitability range of hearing aids is referred to by hearing acousticians as the "fitting range." ReSound has established the following fitting range for the Vivia 4 61-DRW: mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss. Have a professional hearing test conducted at a hearing acoustics business near you, and then you will know if this hearing aid is suitable for you.

How much does the ReSound Vivia 4 61-DRW cost?

Is the Vivia 4 61-DRW from ReSound expensive or affordable? It is currently priced in Germany at approximately between €2,000.00 and €2,500.00. If a health insurance covers part of the cost, the amount will be significantly lower. Important: You should evaluate the price in relation to the overall score in the test report (2.2 (good)) and especially in relation to the assessment in the area of noise suppression (3 out of 5 stars).

 

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