Comparing Signia IX Silk Charge&Go and Pure Charge&Go Models

December 10, 2024

The Signia IX hearing aid family introduces new capabilities for handling conversations in challenging listening environments. The two main models - the Pure Charge&Go IX and Silk Charge&Go IX - each offer unique benefits for different hearing needs and preferences. Each model provides advanced technological capabilities for speech understanding, particularly during group conversations and noisy situations. Understanding the differences between these two options can help guide your choice when selecting a hearing aid solution.

The Pure Charge&Go IX is a receiver-in-canal (RIC) model that fits discreetly behind the ear. Using Signia's Integrated Xperience technology, it tracks and clarifies voices during group conversations, with research showing improved performance for 95% of users. The device connects directly to smartphones for audio streaming and hands-free calls, and includes a portable charging case for all-day power.

The Silk Charge&Go IX is an in-the-ear model designed to sit within the ear canal. Its built-in Binaural OneMic Directionality supports clear speech perception in background noise, making it particularly strong for group conversations. Like the Pure Charge&Go, it features wireless connectivity for streaming and phone calls, along with a charging system compatible with both USB 3.0 and wireless Qi charging for added convenience.

Pure Charge&Go IX: Power and Versatility

The Pure Charge&Go IX uses a receiver-in-canal (RIC) design, with its main processing unit resting behind the ear and a small speaker positioned in the ear canal. This configuration allows for a discrete profile while maintaining strong sound performance.

Design and Daily Use

The Pure Charge&Go IX can be customized with different receiver strengths based on your specific hearing needs. You can select from various earpiece options, from standard domes to custom-fitted molds, ensuring both comfort and optimal sound quality. The hearing aid includes straightforward controls for adjusting volume and programs throughout your day.

Performance and Connectivity

RealTime Conversation Enhancement in the Pure Charge&Go IX supports speech clarity across different listening situations. The hearing aid's directional microphone system helps reduce background noise while preserving speech sounds. Built-in wireless capabilities enable audio streaming from phones and other devices, with the added benefit of being compatible with the upcoming Bluetooth LE Audio standard. The rechargeable battery provides power for full-day use, with a charging case for convenient power management.

Silk Charge&Go IX: Discreet and Ready-to-Wear

The Silk Charge&Go IX takes an in-the-ear approach to hearing aid design, fitting within the ear canal for a natural appearance. This placement makes the device virtually unnoticeable during daily activities.

Design and Fit

The Silk Charge&Go IX sits within your ear canal, offering a quick fitting process and natural sound experience. Available in multiple sizes, it accommodates different ear canal shapes and dimensions. Its placement within the ear supports your natural ability to locate sound sources and understand speech from various directions.

Power and Connectivity

The Silk Charge&Go IX comes with a rechargeable battery system that includes a portable charging case. You can power the device using either USB 3.0 or Qi wireless charging methods. The Binaural OneMic Directionality technology helps separate speech from background noise, supporting clearer conversations in busy environments. Like other modern hearing aids, it includes wireless streaming capabilities for connecting to your favorite devices.

Shared Features of Both Models

The Pure Charge&Go IX and Silk Charge&Go IX both use Signia's Integrated Xperience technology as their foundation. This system supports speech understanding during group conversations by tracking multiple speakers at once. Both models have shown strong results in speech clarity, with data indicating improved performance for 95% of wearers when using these features.

Personalization and Control

Each model pairs with the Signia smartphone app, giving you control over your hearing preferences. You can adjust settings based on your environment and save your preferred configurations for different locations. The hearing aids will work with the new Bluetooth LE Audio standard through an update from your audiologist.

Comparing the Models

The main difference between these models lies in their design. The Pure Charge&Go IX uses a behind-the-ear style with a thin wire leading to the ear canal, while the Silk Charge&Go IX fits completely within the canal. The Pure Charge&Go IX offers easier handling and longer battery life due to its larger size, along with multiple microphones for directional hearing. The Silk Charge&Go IX provides a more discrete appearance but requires more precise handling for insertion and removal.

Real-World Performance

The Pure Charge&Go IX demonstrates particular strengths in dynamic listening situations. For example, during family gatherings where conversations happen across a room, the directional microphone system adapts automatically to focus on speech while reducing background sounds like kitchen noise or television. The larger battery capacity supports these advanced features throughout long social events without requiring a recharge.

The Silk Charge&Go IX shines in professional settings where discretion matters. Its in-canal placement makes it nearly invisible during face-to-face meetings, while its Binaural OneMic Directionality helps you focus on speakers in conference rooms or restaurants. The natural placement within the ear canal also reduces wind noise when outdoors, making it effective for active users.

Battery Life and Charging Flexibility

The Pure Charge&Go IX typically provides 24 hours of use on a single charge with regular streaming activities. Its charging case offers multiple recharges, making it practical for weekend trips without access to power. The larger size of the device allows for more battery capacity, giving you confidence in all-day performance even with heavy streaming use.

The Silk Charge&Go IX, despite its smaller size, still delivers full-day performance for most users. While the battery life may be slightly shorter than its larger counterpart, the Qi wireless charging capability adds convenience - you can place the charging case on any compatible charging pad. The USB 3.0 option provides fast charging when needed, reaching 80% capacity in about two hours.

Custom Fitting Process

Each model follows a different fitting approach. The Pure Charge&Go IX uses varying receiver strengths and dome sizes, with the option for custom molds if needed. This flexibility allows for precise sound delivery across different levels of hearing loss. Your audiologist can adjust the physical fit and programming during your home visit, ensuring optimal comfort and performance.

The Silk Charge&Go IX uses a unique click-sleeve system that simplifies the fitting process. Available in different sizes, these flexible silicone sleeves adapt to most ear canal shapes while providing a secure fit. This design allows for same-day fittings in many cases, though your audiologist will still customize the programming to match your specific hearing profile.

Choosing Your Model

Your choice between these models depends on your specific needs. The Pure Charge&Go IX works well if you want straightforward handling, need more power for severe hearing loss, or prefer longer battery life. The Silk Charge&Go IX may suit you better if you want a hidden hearing solution or prefer the sound quality of an in-ear device.

Experience Both Options at Home

At Anywhere Audiology, we bring these advanced hearing solutions directly to you. Our mobile audiology service allows you to try both the Pure Charge&Go IX and Silk Charge&Go IX in your own environment, where you'll actually be using them. Our audiologists can demonstrate the differences between these models and help you make an informed choice based on your specific needs and lifestyle.

Contact us to schedule a home visit where we can evaluate your hearing needs and help you experience the benefits of these hearing aids in familiar surroundings. With our 45-day trial period, you can be confident in finding the right solution for your hearing needs. Anywhere Audiology provides mobile Audiology services to the residents of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida and Pennsylvania. Contact us today to schedule!

Written by
Reviewed by
Dr. Emma Durazzo
Owner & Doctor of Audiology
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With years of experience and continued professional training, Emma Durazzo (formerly Emma McCue) has developed her expertise in a variety of subspecialties within the scope of audiology.