If you’re tired of missing out on conversations or struggling to hear your favorite shows, the Horizon IX hearing aid is your ticket to crystal-clear sound.
I’ve been using it for months, and it’s transformed my daily life with its sleek design, cutting-edge tech, and effortless clarity.
Whether you’re in a noisy restaurant or a quiet living room, this device delivers. Ready to hear the world like never before? Let’s explore my experience and why the Horizon IX might be your next must-have.
My Experience With The Horizon IX Hearing Aid
I’ll be upfront: my hearing and I haven’t always been on great terms. Years of loud concerts and a family history of hearing loss left me struggling to keep up in group conversations or enjoy TV without blasting the volume.
I’d tried a couple of over-the-counter hearing aids before, but they either amplified everything to a tinny mess or felt like bulky earplugs. When I came across the Horizon IX from hear.com, I was curious but cautious. Could a hearing aid really make a difference without feeling like a clunky gadget? Spoiler: it absolutely did.
The first time I slipped on the Horizon IX, I was stunned. The completely-in-canal (CIC) model was so tiny—smaller than a coffee bean—that I barely felt it in my ear. It’s designed to be nearly invisible, and trust me, it is. I’ve had friends and family do double-takes, asking if I’m even wearing anything.
Setup was a breeze with the hear.com app, which let me tweak settings right from my phone. Within minutes, I was hearing details I’d forgotten existed: the chirping of birds outside, the soft hum of my fridge, even my partner’s whispers from across the room.
What really blew me away was the speech clarity. I tested it at a busy coffee shop, expecting to struggle like I always did. But the Horizon IX’s dual-processor tech worked like magic, filtering out background noise and zeroing in on the person talking to me.
I could hear every word without straining, which felt like a small miracle. Streaming music or calls via Bluetooth was seamless, too, though the CIC model doesn’t support this feature (the behind-the-ear Go IX does). After a month of daily use, I’m hooked—this little device has given me back the sounds I didn’t realize I was missing.
Pros Of The Horizon IX Hearing Aid
Unmatched Speech Clarity
The Horizon IX’s standout feature is its speech focus, powered by dual-processor technology. It’s like having a personal audio engineer in your ear, isolating voices from background noise. Whether I’m at a family dinner or a crowded bar, I can follow conversations without asking, “What?” every five seconds. The RealTime Conversation Enhancement tracks multiple speakers, even if they’re moving, making group chats feel natural. For anyone who’s ever felt left out in noisy settings, this is a game-changer.
Discreet and Comfortable Design
If you’re self-conscious about wearing hearing aids, the Horizon IX has you covered. The CIC model is practically invisible, sitting deep in your ear canal. I’ve worn it for hours without discomfort, thanks to its soft silicone tips. The behind-the-ear (BTE) Horizon Go IX is just as sleek, blending with my hairline. Both options feel so light, I sometimes forget I’m wearing them. It’s a far cry from the bulky devices I’d tried before.
Rechargeable and Convenient
No more fumbling with tiny batteries! The Horizon IX’s lithium-ion battery lasts up to 28 hours on a single charge. I pop mine into the portable charging case at night, and it’s ready to go by morning. The Go IX even comes with a charger that uses UVC cleaning to keep the device spotless. For someone like me who’s always on the move, this hassle-free setup is a lifesaver.
Bluetooth and App Control
The Horizon Go IX (the BTE model) offers Bluetooth streaming for calls, music, and TV, which is a dream for tech lovers. I’ve streamed podcasts directly to my ears while walking, and the sound quality is crisp. The hear.com app lets you adjust volume, switch modes (like restaurant or outdoor), and even access telehealth support. It’s like having a hearing specialist in your pocket, making tweaks as easy as a few taps.
Personalized Care
Hear.com pairs the Horizon IX with their Hearing Success Program, which includes ongoing support from audiologists. My initial fitting was done via telehealth, and I’ve had follow-ups to fine-tune settings. They even helped me adjust for a noisy office environment. This level of care makes you feel supported, not just sold a product. It’s a big reason why I trust this brand.
Read More: My Thoughts On Vivtone Lucid 508
Cons Of The Horizon IX Hearing Aid
High Price Point
Let’s not sugarcoat it—the Horizon IX isn’t cheap. Depending on the model and tech level, you’re looking at $1,500 to $3,000 per ear, which can feel like a gut punch. Financing options (starting at $139/month) help, but it’s still a big investment. For me, the clarity and comfort justify the cost, but if you’re on a tight budget, you might need to explore cheaper options like the Sony CRE-C20.
No Bluetooth in CIC Model
The Mini IX (CIC model) doesn’t support Bluetooth streaming, which was a bummer for me since I love streaming music. The Go IX has this feature, but if you’re set on the invisible in-canal design, you’ll miss out on phone calls or audio streaming. It’s a trade-off for the discreet look, but I wish the Mini IX had it all.
Limited for Severe Hearing Loss
If you have severe or profound hearing loss, the Horizon IX might not cut it. It’s designed for mild to moderate loss, so those with more significant needs may need a high-powered BTE model from another brand, like Starkey or ReSound. My mild loss was perfectly addressed, but it’s worth checking with an audiologist first.
Small Size, Big Dexterity Challenge
The CIC model’s tiny size is a pro for aesthetics but a con for handling. If you have shaky hands or poor dexterity (like my 70-year-old dad), inserting or removing it can be tricky. The soft silicone tips help, but it took me a few tries to get the hang of it. The BTE Go IX is easier to manage in this regard.
Mixed Feedback on Durability
My Horizon IX has been rock-solid, but I’ve read some reviews mentioning issues with battery life or connectivity after a year or two. The 45-day trial and warranty (typically 1-3 years, depending on the provider) ease the worry, but repairs can be a hassle. I haven’t faced this yet, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Maintenance Tips For Your Horizon IX Hearing Aid
Clean Regularly for Optimal Performance
To keep your Horizon IX sounding crisp, clean it daily. I use the provided brush to gently remove earwax from the dome or receiver. Once a week, I wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth to clear any debris. For the CIC model, I also use a wax pick to clean the sound outlet. Avoid water or cleaning solutions, as they can damage the electronics. A clean device not only performs better but also lasts longer.
Store Properly to Avoid Damage
When I’m not wearing my Horizon IX, I store it in its charging case, which protects it from dust and accidental drops. If you’re using the non-rechargeable BTE model, pop the battery out to prevent corrosion. I keep mine in a dry, cool spot away from humidity—bathrooms are a no-go. This simple habit has kept my device in top shape for months.
Charge Smartly
The rechargeable Horizon IX is a dream, but you need to treat the battery right. I charge mine overnight in the provided case, which also sanitizes with UVC light for the Go IX. Don’t overcharge—once it’s full, unplug it to preserve battery life. If you’re traveling, carry the portable charger, which holds three full charges. I also check the charging contacts monthly to ensure they’re clean and free of debris.
Handle with Care
These devices are tiny and delicate, so I’m careful not to drop them. I always insert or remove them over a soft surface, like a towel, just in case. If you’re prone to mishaps, consider attaching a clip (available from hear.com) to the BTE model to secure it. I also avoid wearing them during intense workouts to prevent sweat damage, even though they’re IP68-rated for water resistance.
Schedule Regular Check-Ups
Hear.com’s telehealth support is a lifesaver, but I still schedule a virtual check-up every few months to ensure my settings are optimized. They can tweak the programming remotely if you notice changes in your hearing. Keep your purchase receipt handy for warranty claims, and don’t hesitate to reach out if something feels off—early fixes can prevent bigger issues.
Comparing The Horizon IX To Other Brands
Let’s see how the Horizon IX stacks up against some big names in the hearing aid world: Signia, Phonak, Starkey, and Apple’s AirPods Pro 2. I’ve tested a couple of these and dug into user reviews to give you a clear, no-nonsense comparison.
Horizon IX vs. Signia Pure Charge&Go IX
The Horizon IX and Signia Pure Charge&Go IX are practically twins, as hear.com’s devices are manufactured by Signia. Both use the Integrated Xperience (IX) platform for stellar speech clarity in noisy settings. The Signia model offers similar Bluetooth streaming and a 36-hour battery life, but it’s only available in a receiver-in-canal (RIC) style, not the invisible CIC option like the Horizon Mini IX. Signia’s app is nearly identical, but hear.com’s telehealth support feels more personalized. If you want the invisible look, go with Horizon IX; if RIC is fine, either works.
Horizon IX vs. Phonak Lyric
The Phonak Lyric is a fully in-canal hearing aid that’s left in your ear for months, placed by a professional. It’s incredibly discreet and uses your ear’s natural shape for sound, but it lacks Bluetooth and requires regular professional removal. The Horizon IX, especially the Mini IX, is just as discreet but easier to manage at home, plus it offers app control and rechargeability. If you hate maintenance, Lyric might appeal, but Horizon IX is more versatile for active lifestyles.
Horizon IX vs. Starkey Genesis AI
Starkey’s Genesis AI is a powerhouse for severe hearing loss, with advanced AI-driven sound processing and health monitoring features like step tracking. It’s bulkier than the Horizon IX and less discreet, but it’s better for profound loss. The Horizon IX shines for mild to moderate loss with its sleek design and speech focus. If you need heavy-duty amplification, go Starkey; for everyday clarity and aesthetics, Horizon IX wins.
Horizon IX vs. AirPods Pro 2
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 recently got FDA approval as OTC hearing aids, making them a trendy pick. They’re great for mild hearing loss with excellent noise cancellation and transparency modes, but they’re not true prescription aids like the Horizon IX. AirPods lack the dual-processor tech and personalized fitting, so they fall short in noisy environments. At $249, they’re cheaper, but for serious hearing needs, Horizon IX’s clarity and support make it the better choice.
The Horizon IX stands out for its balance of discretion, tech, and personalized care. It’s not the cheapest or most powerful, but for mild to moderate loss, it’s hard to beat its clarity and ease of use.
Read More: My Thoughts On Widex Vs. Phonak Vs. Oticon Hearing Aids
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The “number one” hearing aid depends on your needs, but the Horizon IX consistently ranks high for its speech clarity and discreet design. Consumer Reports’ 2023 survey rated Signia (Horizon IX’s manufacturer) among the top for reliability and comfort. For versatility and user satisfaction, the Horizon IX is a strong contender, though Phonak Lyric and Starkey Genesis AI also get high marks for specific needs.
Horizon IX prices vary by model and tech level, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per ear. Financing starts at $139/month for 12-60 months. For exact pricing, contact hear.com for a personalized quote based on your hearing test and model choice.
Medicare Parts A and B don’t cover hearing aids, including the Horizon IX, as they’re considered elective devices. Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer partial coverage or discounts, but it varies by plan. Check with your provider or hear.com for insurance options, as they can help navigate reimbursement.
Miracle-Ear offers reliable hearing aids with features like Bluetooth and noise reduction, suitable for mild to severe loss. They’re praised for comfort and local support but can be pricier than OTC options, with some users reporting high costs ($2,000-$4,000 per ear). Compared to Horizon IX, Miracle-Ear is less discreet but offers similar tech. It’s a solid choice if you prefer in-person care over telehealth.
Conclusion: Your Ears Deserve The Horizon IX
After months with the Horizon IX, I’m convinced it’s more than just a hearing aid—it’s a life-changer. From its near-invisible design to its jaw-dropping speech clarity, it’s made conversations, music, and even quiet moments richer. Sure, the price isn’t pocket change, and the CIC model skips Bluetooth, but the results are worth it. Whether you’re catching up with friends or streaming a podcast, this device delivers without making you feel like you’re wearing a gadget. If you’re ready to reconnect with the sounds you love, the Horizon IX is calling your name.