The Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 in review
Mit dem Starkey Edge AI hat Starkey nach nur einem Jahr bereits eine neue, verbesserte Technik auf den Markt gebracht. Da diese Geräte nun nicht mehr aktuell sind, nehmen wir eine Abwertung der Gesamtnote vor.
Could this hearing aid from the Starkey company be the right choice for you? In our review of the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312, we have highlighted the key aspects. Here we have a nice, inconspicuous hearing aid from the business class that is worn behind the ear. The deep placement of the speaker in the ear canal lays the foundation for good hearing success, as the sound has only a very short path to the eardrum. This ensures that all tones reach us exactly where we want them.
The Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 provides sufficient amplification for mild, moderate, and even strong hearing needs.
Hearing comfort
Our first test category is hearing comfort. Actually, we could also say sound comfort, since that's what it's mainly about. Does the hearing aid sound very technical or beautifully natural? Are too many background noises amplified, or do they stay relatively in the background? In this device from Starkey, a solid comfort programming by the audiologist is possible. The noise suppression is a very traditional feature; it filters out all chaotic, uniform sounds from the environment and reduces their loudness. In the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312, the noise suppression is solid. There are hearing aids with significantly more effective reduction, but this one should be sufficient for normal needs.
We rate the wind management here as average, but it works. An impulse sound suppressor for short, sharp noises is reasonably integrated and is entirely adequate for everyday use. For a precise, realistic listening experience, the number of adjustable frequency bands is of great importance. With 20, this Starkey device is a true top model and allows for differentiated fine-tuning over several years. Spatial hearing requires a little practice with the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312. However, the adaptive microphone system provides quite good support in social situations.
Interestingly, artificial intelligence also plays a role here in signal processing. The sound is not only analyzed based on typical frequency patterns. Especially intense, noisy situations are perceived as more realistic and pleasant.
Rating Hearing comfort: 2,5
Operation & connectivity
Digital hearing aids have long evolved beyond the normal amplification function. Apps and other control options significantly expand the range of features, which is why we also take a look at this important topic with the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 from Starkey. Usually, there is a button on the hearing aid, and we found one on the Genesis AI 20 as well. It can be configured as a volume control or program selection button and can also be deactivated if desired. Those who prefer not to touch their ear to adjust the volume will appreciate the optional remote control. This allows for convenient and discreet adjustments to the hearing aid.
We really enjoyed the voice control during the test of the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312. Most of us are already used to talking to our watch or car. So, this feature fits into a high-tech product worn on the ear. With its sensor technology, Starkey is taking an innovative approach and opening up entirely new opportunities. For example, there is a tap control for the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312. Simply tap lightly but noticeably with your palm or a few fingers on your ear. The hearing aid can then perform a specific function, such as switching to a special setting. Your audiologist can configure this according to your wishes.
In our opinion, an app is better than a remote control because everyone probably has a smartphone in their pocket. The app for the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 is really good; it has many smart features that make listening in challenging situations significantly easier. It is quite complex, but you quickly find your way around. You can even practice in demo mode. There are also a few surprising additional tools - have fun discovering! You don't need headphones anymore, as it has a wireless option and can transmit sounds from the smartphone directly to your ears – as long as the smartphone is equipped with 2.4 GHz LE technology.
Rating Operation & connectivity: 1,0
Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312:
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Simplicity & security
Now let's take a look at how usage is shaped in everyday life. Is the handling easy? Do I get a safe device? Everyday listening is made easier by the good program automation in the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312. It is rarely necessary to use the manual hearing programs because the automation already covers many situations. We are very pleased with the integrated acclimatization manager. It gradually increases the volume of the hearing aid in tiny steps until our target amplification is eventually reached. We can gradually and comfortably get used to the new hearing impressions.
Unfortunately, the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 is not equipped with a battery, so regular size 312 batteries are needed for operation.
With an IP 68 certification, the hearing aid can withstand various adverse influences. Dust cannot penetrate, it can withstand longer submersion in water, and it is also protected against contact.
Rating Simplicity & security: 2,0
Extras
We are almost at the end, but perhaps this device still has a few gifts in the form of extra features? Let's take a look: We noticed the tinnitus option. Those who wish can set up a special tinnitus program. This plays a gentle white noise in the ears, to distract a bit from the annoying tinnitus. The sounds can be tailored to personal hearing preferences.
A clever tool is the integrated remote maintenance service. Almost everyone has a smartphone, and time is a precious commodity. Therefore, such a remote maintenance service is absolutely appropriate. Anyone who needs a new programming for their hearing aids can simply contact the audiologist through the app and describe their hearing wishes. Through a cloud service, the professional can then send a customized setting as a data package to the app. From there, it will be loaded onto the hearing aid and can be tried out immediately. This definitely deserves extra points in our test.
For health-conscious individuals, there is a small special feature in the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312: health tracking. For example, steps can be counted throughout the day and feedback on one's activity level can be received. Sensors in the hearing aid track the individual data, which can then be accessed in the app. Get even more out of the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 by utilizing the smart lifestyle features. They expand the operational range of the hearing aids with various assistance programs and significantly enhance their functionality.
Rating Extras: 1,0
Conclusion: Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312
In conclusion, it can be said that this device is a true all-rounder that impresses us with its comfort features and achieves a good overall result with a grade of 2.12. Those who want to forgo top-notch technology but still desire a comfortable listening experience are in the right place here.
With the innovative chip technology, the hearing aids are extremely energy-efficient. The batteries now last noticeably longer – a full 2 days longer than the previous model. However, please keep in mind that the exact usage time depends on your individual hearing loss and wearing habits.
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Our Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 review was created on November 27, 2023 and lastly updated on December 3, 2024. The overall rating of 2,12 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 5 | Learn more about our evaluation criteria and testing standards in How We Test..
FAQ
What size is the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 by Starkey?
Big or small relates to the outward effect. Therefore, we assess how large hearing aids seem to outsiders. The Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 is in the size class S. This means it appears medium-sized.
How well do I hear with the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 by Starkey?
This hearing aid receives an overall rating of 2.5 (satisfactory) in the "hearing comfort" category. The score consists of various components. Important criteria: Noise suppression scores 3 out of 5 stars. The number of adjustable frequency bands in the Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 is 20 (the best in class currently have 24 bands). For wind noise suppression, we give the device the rating 'good' (3 out of 5 stars).
Is the Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 suitable for me?
The suitability range of hearing aids is referred to by audiologists as the "fitting range." Starkey has established the following fitting range for the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312: mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss. Have a professional hearing test conducted at an audiology practice near you, and then you will know if this hearing aid is suitable for you.
How much does the Starkey Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 cost?
Is the Genesis AI 20 RIC 312 by Starkey expensive or inexpensive? It is currently traded in Germany at a rough price range of between €2,500.00 and €3,000.00. If a health insurance company participates, the amount will be significantly lower. Important: You should assess the price in relation to the overall score in the test report (2.1 (good)) and especially concerning the evaluation in the noise suppression category (3 out of 5 stars).
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