Most Customization Options for a Hearing Amplifier

The Groove from Otofonix is a highly customizable hearing amplifier that might satisfy people frustrated by the limitations of other over-the-counter hearing products. It was developed by a board-certified ear, nose and throat doctor to give users an affordable device that delivers high-quality sound while canceling as much background noise as possible.

The Groove has a rechargeable battery that can provide up to 10 hours of continuous use, yet remains lightweight. Its four pre-configured programs and 10 volume levels managed through an app allow for greater customization than is common with hearing amplifiers. When tucked discreetly behind the ear, the Groove isn’t as easy to spot as many rival products. 

Pros:

  • Customization app controls all aspects of the amplifier
  • App features hearing test to help with fine-tuning
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Includes a cleaning kit
  • High BBB rating
  • Physical buttons for those who prefer them

Cons:

  • 15 to 18-hour battery likely requires daily charging
  • More expensive than some other options.

Overview of the Otofonix Groove Hearing Amplifier

Consumers looking for a device they can tailor to the moment may find the Groove is what they need. There are 16 domes of assorted sizes to choose from, and, via the free app, 10 volume levels, active noise cancellation and the facility to individually adjust the operating level of each device. It also has a hearing test feature.

 

Groove

Cost

$795.00 (pair)

Company Rating

Trustpilot rating of 3.7, Google rating of 4.7

Battery Style

Rechargeable, lasts up to 18 hours

Listening Environment  Setting Options

4 environment settings

Smartphone Enabled?

Yes – App offers noise cancellation, 10 volume levels, hearing test, and many specific adjustments

Physical Controls

Yes, has a rocker switch for volume control and program adjustment

Return Policy

45-day return policy, 1-year warranty

How Much Does the Otofonix Groove Hearing Amplifier Cost?

The Groove by Otofonix costs $795 per pair when purchased directly from the company’s website. The amplifier comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee, giving purchasers plenty of time to test the product in different environments to see if it meets their requirements. There are no other costs for purchasers other than taxes, as Otofonix provides free shipping on any of its products over $75. However, purchasers may want to consider a protection plan, which costs $159 for one year or $238 if choosing the two-year plan. 

Full Review of the Otofonix Groove Hearing Amplifier’s Features

Not only does The Groove deliver high-quality sound, it also provides ample digital and physical options that allow users to tailor it to their needs. The amplifier makes full use of recent advances in sound technology, enabling users to hone in on the frequencies they want to hear, while the free app expands their customization options greatly.

Digital Customization

The Groove’s major selling point is its impressive level of digital customization, which alternative products currently struggle to match. Users manage the product from the free Otofonix app via Bluetooth. This allows them to fine-tune the volume and activate the effective noise cancellation feature that can reduce background noises intruding on the frequency the user has tuned to. Also, four pre-configured programs immediately adjust the settings to suit different environments: outdoors, restaurants, traffic and conversations.

Physical Customization

The Groove’s physical customization benefits come from the wealth of domes Otofonix provides, which greatly reduce the likelihood of the purchaser not finding the ideal size for their ear canals. All in all, 16 domes come with the devices. Six are open and six are closed, with another two medium and two large so-called magic domes, which are hybrids combining the features of closed and open domes.

Beneficial Extras

An unusual but welcome highlight of the Groove is the hearing test function, which allows users to regularly monitor changes in their hearing and alter the device’s adaptable functions to suit — including adjusting each device independently. The app also displays the current level within each battery as a percentage.

Charging the Groove is simply a matter of positioning both devices into the dock for 2.5 to 3 hours until both units are fully charged, which you’ll know when the dock’s blue light turns green. This will provide up to 15 hours of use. The convenient and free two-day delivery target is likely to impress purchasers in a hurry. Additionally, the generous 45-day return policy allows ample time for users to road-test the Groove in multiple environments before having to make a decision. 

Specifications

The Groove’s specs are:

  • Two hearing aids with #2 sound tubes
  • Two #1 sound tubes
  • Free app to control each device’s functions
  • Four pre-configured programs for common environments
  • Hearing test function
  • Alter each device’s functions individually
  • Noise cancellation feature
  • 10 volume levels
  • 2.5 to 3-hour battery charging time
  • Up to 15 hours of battery life
  • Charging dock
  • Cleaning brush
  • Cleaning wire
  • 45-day return policy
  • Six open and six closed domes of varying sizes
  • Two large and two medium magic domes
  • An Earhook kit for 10-decibel enhanced amplification
  • Lifetime free phone support

Who Should Consider the Otofonix Groove Hearing Amplifier?

Tech-savvy Consumers Who Want More Control

The Groove by Otofonix is a hearing amplifier likely to interest consumers who demand as much control over their device as possible. Its wealth of customization features, such as the ability to individually alter each unit and the 10 volume controls, will appeal to users frustrated by the limitations of amplifiers from other manufacturers. Consumers comfortable using modern technologies may also appreciate the free app’s ability to refine the user experience, particularly in relation to environments they’re likely to encounter daily, such as in traffic, having a conversation and general outdoor noises.

People Who Want High-Quality Sound and Minimum Background Noise

The Groove’s high-quality sound and noise cancellation features are likely to draw the attention of audiophiles who ask about the sound before wanting to know the price. They’ll consider paying $795 if the Groove lives up to expectations and makes listening more pleasurable, without off-putting intrusions from background noise and unexpected interference from the device’s inner workings. 

What Are People Saying About the Otofonix Groove Hearing Amplifier?

Customer reviews often praise the Groove’s sound quality and noise cancellation feature. The ability to refine sound is also admired, as is the 15-hour battery life. Some users have mentioned the device’s width, with many putting this down to settling in, as, otherwise, they find wearing both units generally comfortable. Occasionally, a review mentions feedback from one or both devices, but calls to the Otofonix customer service department often right this issue by refining The Groove’s multiple customization options.

Purchasers almost universally admire the American-based customer service provided by Otofonix, frequently praising the minimum use of automated call lines and the way the company quickly resolves issues to their satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions


What Does a Hearing Amplifier Do?



Hearing amplifiers enhance every sound picked up by their microphones without isolating one frequency, as hearing aids do. Click here for our full answer to this question.


Can Hearing Amplifiers Damage Your Hearing?



Studies have shown they can damage hearing if misused, such as by turning up the volume too high and using for extended periods. Click here for our full answer to this question. 


How Much Do Hearing Amplifiers Cost?



Entry-level versions can be had for around $50, while high-end ones can retail for $1,000 or more. Click here for our full answer to this question.