When we asked Cochlear™ Baha® 5 Sound processor recipients to tell us what features they’d like to see in the future, we listened! And, based on your requests, our engineers began designing an improved Baha. The result was the Baha 6 Max Sound Processor. Here are just some of the ways we have improved Baha sound processor technology based on your suggestions.
You asked for: improved hearing in noise
We delivered…
To hear well in background noise, you need a powerful sound processor. The technology used in the Baha 6 Max offers more power which helps to play louder sounds, while maintaining the sound quality, size and battery life compared to the Baha 5 Sound Processor.1 It has 7 dB higher average maximum output force level compared to our previous Baha 5 Sound Processor and similar output compared to Baha 5 Power.2-4 Research suggests this extra power gives you access to a broad and dynamic range of sounds, which can improve your ability to understand speech in noise.5
Research suggests that a device with higher frequency range can improve recognition of high-frequency sounds such as birds chirping, a whistle or flute, and the consonants F, S, or K.6 The technology within the Baha 6 Max also delivers improved sound to hear a higher frequency range compared to Baha 5 sound processors.2-4
You asked for: a smaller device, without sacrificing power
We delivered…
While the Baha 6 Max maintains a similar size and battery life to the Baha 5 Sound Processor, it offers more power and helps to play louder sounds with maintained sound quality.6
You asked for: Android™ streaming
We delivered…
Baha 6 Max offers direct streaming for compatible Android devices, so now you can stream your favourite music or audio directly from a compatible* Apple or Android device and connect to the things you love.
You asked for: more self-adjustable sound
We delivered…
There are now more ways to personalise your hearing experience with the Baha 6 Max directly from a compatible device, such as an Apple Watch® or smartphone using the Baha Smart App.* Use it to adjust volume, bass and treble, change your program and locate a misplaced sound processor.
You asked for: lower profile
We delivered…
As a result of your feedback, Cochlear designed the LowPro™ snap coupling‡ which brings the sound processor 2mm closer to the head compared to the Baha 5.7 Those two millimetres may sound small but they make a large difference to how it feels when wearing the new sound processors.
You asked for: improved water resistance
We delivered…
The Baha 6 Max features our highest rating of dust and water protection – an IP68-rating. The IP rating signifies the durability of your device – how it’s rated for dust and water – helping you enjoy life’s everyday adventures without worrying about sweat or rain damaging your sound processor (this excludes the battery compartment itself).§
Did we miss anything?
Now that we’ve delivered, what would you like to see next? We love hearing from you, so visit Cochlear on Facebook or Instagram and tell us more!
Disclaimers
* The Baha 6 Max Sound Processor is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. The Cochlear Baha Smart App is available on the App Store and Google Play. For compatibility information, visit www.cochlear.com/compatibility.
‡ Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome.
§ The Cochlear Baha 6 Max Sound Processor, with battery compartment excluded, is dust and water resistant to level IP68 of the International Standard IEC60529. Refer to the relevant user guide for more information.
References:
- Bergs T. Technical Report: Performance comparison A1 vs A2 actuators. Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB, Sweden. 2020; D1770991.
- Leung B. Baha 6 Max Connect Datasheet. Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB, Sweden. 2021; D1760797.
- Land J. Baha 5 Sound Processor Connect System Datasheet. Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB, Sweden. 2019; 630908.
- Land J. Baha 5 Power Connect Datasheet. Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB, Sweden. 2019; D801286.
- Gawliczek T, Wimmer W, Caversaccio M, Kompis M. Influence of maximum power output on speech understanding with bone anchored hearing systems. Acta Otolaryngol. 2020;140(3):225-229.
- Van Eeckhoutte M, Folkeard P, Glista D, Scollie S. Speech recognition, loudness, and preference with extended bandwidth hearing aids for adult hearing aid users. Int J Audiol. 2020;20:1–12.
- Land J. Comparison tech data Baha 6 Max, legacy and competition. Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB, Sweden. 2020; D1762475.
