When hearing aids are in use, their microphones pick up surrounding sounds and amplify them through the speaker, often including noises that the wearer may not want to hear. To address this, modern hearing aids come with various noise cancellation technologies. Let’s explore the main types and how they function.

Different Types Of Noise Cancellation

Single Microphone Noise Cancellation

In single microphone hearing aids, noise reduction is often achieved using Wide Dynamic Range Compression (WDRC). This technology processes sound based on its loudness and frequency. For instance, if a sound input is 50dB at 200Hz, the device might apply a 20dB gain, resulting in a 70dB output—keeping the sound relatively soft. However, if a 50dB input at 1000Hz is detected, a higher gain, such as 40dB, would be applied, resulting in a 90dB output, making it more noticeable.

Among LINNER hearing aids, the LINNER Venus and LINNER Saturn models use this type of noise reduction.

Frequency-based Noise Cancellation

This method uses low-cut or high-cut filters to process sound based on its frequency. For example, with a 500Hz low-cut filter, all sounds below 500Hz are suppressed, effectively reducing noise, as most unwanted sounds occur below this threshold. While this approach is energy-efficient, it may inadvertently suppress desirable sounds or cause distortion.

LINNER Mercury is equipped with this type of noise cancellation.

Dual Microphone Noise Cancellation

Hearing aids with two microphones offer more advanced noise cancellation. One microphone focuses on picking up the human voice, while the other detects surrounding sounds. The processor then differentiates between noise and speech, reducing environmental noise while maintaining clear speech.

LINNER Nova features two microphones and efficiently handles noise.

Beamforming Technology

Beamforming is an advanced noise reduction method for hearing aids with a dual microphone setup. By comparing the sound pressure levels (SPL) at both microphones, this technology determines the distance and direction of the sound source. As a result, it enhances sound from the desired direction.

LINNER Mars uses beamforming technology and includes a focus mode.

Conclusion

Noise reduction is a key factor to consider when choosing hearing aids. Understanding the different types of noise cancellation will help ensure you select the right device for your needs.