Frequently Asked Questions

Top 5 Questions
General Questions
Buying Songbird
Product Questions
Usage and Care
Product Life
Other Questions

General Questions

	How do I know if I have hearing loss?
	The best way to determine if you have hearing loss is to see your doctor. However, you may have a hearing loss if: You frequently complain that people mumble, speech is not clear, or you hear only parts of conversations when people are talking. You often strain to hear or ask people to repeat what they said. Your friends or relatives tell you that you don't seem to hear very well. Others say that you play the TV or radio too loudly. You do not laugh at jokes because you miss too much of the story. You need to ask others about the details of a meeting that you just attended. You cannot hear the doorbell or the telephone. You find that looking at people when they talk makes it somewhat easier to understand.
	Why should I buy a Songbird Disposable Hearing Aid?
	Songbird Disposable Hearing Aids are revolutionary devices, specifically designed for the millions of Americans with mild to moderate hearing loss who have chosen to forgo the commitment and expense of traditional hearing aids. They are high-quality, affordable, and easy to order from your home - either by phone or online. They're like reading glasses for hearing. Clear, comfortable and inconspicuous, each Songbird hearing aid is built with innovative, digital, high-tech custom components that deliver outstanding crystal-clear digital sound, making conversations and dialogue clear and enjoyable. Traditional hearing aids can represent a big commitment - they can cost thousands of dollars and can require substantial time spent with professional fittings or maintenance, or the replacement of batteries. Songbird eliminates this commitment. It's the easiest and best way for you (or your loved ones) to take control and improve hearing - on your terms - without sacrificing quality or comfort. So, Songbird is very easy to get or to give to a loved one. And people who use Songbird don't have to worry about misplacing a device that costs thousands of dollars.
	How does Songbird sound? Is it high quality?
	Each Songbird is built with innovative, digital, high-tech, custom components that result in outstanding digital sound quality. The digital components and audio technology were designed by the Sarnoff Corporation in Princeton, New Jersey, which also invented other breakthrough consumer technologies like High-Definition Television (HDTV) and Digital Satellite Television. It is not unusual for us to hear from our customers that Songbird sounds as good as, if not better than, traditional hearing aids they've tried that cost thousands more.
	Is Songbird more expensive than other hearing aids?
	No. Songbird is available at a fraction of the cost of traditional hearing aids, many of which can cost a couple of thousand dollars. The low cost coupled with its high-quality digital sound makes Songbird a tremendous value. It's easy to try, without big upfront financial commitments - and there are no batteries to buy or replace.
	How can Songbird be so inexpensive?
	The key is in selling directly to our customers. When customers can buy directly from a seller, many additional costs are eliminated. We pass those savings on to our customers. We also have developed proven and efficient production methods in our North Brunswick, New Jersey production facility that combine fine craftsmanship with automation techniques.
	Is Songbird covered by my insurance?
	Most insurance policies do not provide for hearing aids of any kind, which is why traditional hearing aids currently represent such a substantial financial commitment to consumers. This is also why we believe that our Songbird products represent the best value for anyone with mild to moderate hearing loss. For more information on insurance, check with your provider for specific details about your plan.

Buying Songbird

	How can I buy this without seeing a hearing health professional?
	Songbird is designed to be one-size-fits-all. Just like reading glasses, you can get a Songbird if and when you need it. Its acoustic properties, developed at Sarnoff Corporation in Princeton, New Jersey, are designed to provide smooth amplification for the most people with mild to moderate hearing loss. And the all-new Songbird flexfit is adjustable to provide a personal fit. This allows customers to try the product and decide if it works for them without big commitments of time and money. However, we do recommend that a person with hearing loss have a medical evaluation by a licensed physician before purchasing or using a hearing aid of any kind. And please read the important warnings and other product labeling each time you get a new Songbird to make sure that you do not have one of the warning signs that should prompt you to see your doctor. Songbird also recommends you have your hearing evaluated every year.
	Should I see my doctor first?
	Yes. Hearing loss can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition or the result of an excessive wax build-up. A physician can treat these conditions. If you have not already done so, you should consult a licensed physician (preferably one who specializes in diseases of the ear) to rule out any of these medical concerns. Physicians who specialize in diseases of the ear are often referred to as ENTs, otolaryngologists, otologists, or otorhinolaryngologists. Consult your doctor before use if you have or think you have: History of excessive wax build-up Pain or discomfort in the ear Fluid or drainage from the ear within the past 90 days Ear canal blockage, a lasting ear infection or a plugged up fullness feeling Visible deformity of the ear Sudden, rapidly progressing, or fluctuating hearing loss within the past 90 days Ringing in only one ear Hearing loss only in one ear that worsened in the past 90 days Spells of acute or chronic dizziness Songbird also recommends you have your hearing evaluated every year.
	Is it better to get a Songbird for each ear?
	Yes, it is. Ears are designed to work in a pair to help distinguish and place sounds in the background, and if one ear is not hearing as well as the other, you, in turn, will not hear as well. Having hearing aids in both ears makes it easier for you to start adjusting to the new sounds you are hearing, as well as make it easier to distinguish sounds, speech, and the location of where the sounds are coming from. We recognize this at Songbird, and we've made a 10% discount available to our customers that can be applied to any additional units purchased.
	How do I get Free Shipping for Life™?
	We offer Free Shipping for Life to anyone who chooses our Auto-Delivery feature. If you choose this feature, you'll never have to do without the comfort and clarity of hearing with Songbird, because we'll automatically ship replacement devices at intervals of your own choosing. That means better hearing can also be worry-free. As our gift to you for joining the Songbird family and choosing this feature, we'll pay the shipping charge for as long as you remain a regular Songbird customer - a savings that can really add up. There is no minimum, you can adjust the intervals to suit your needs, and you can cancel at any time. Click here for terms and conditions. To select this feature and receive Free Shipping for Life, look for it when ordering, log on to your account online, or call Customer Service at 1-800-789-1830.
	How do I buy another Songbird?
	We also offer Free Shipping for Life if you choose the convenience of our Auto-Delivery feature. If you choose this feature, you'll never have to do without the comfort and clarity of hearing with Songbird, because we'll automatically ship replacement devices at intervals of your own choosing. That means better hearing can also be worry-free. There is no minimum, you can adjust the intervals to suit your needs, and you can cancel at any time. And the shipping is on us! Click here for terms and conditions.
	How can I give Songbird as a gift, a hearing aid seems so personal?
	Often the loved one of someone experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss may be the first to notice the problem. What makes Songbird products unique is that, since there are no in-office fittings required, and ordering takes place online or over the phone, these loved ones can be involved in the process of improving one's hearing and even order the hearing aids themselves. If you are buying Songbird for someone else, please remind the recipient to first read all of the packaging materials including the medical information, warnings and detailed instructions prior to using the product. Click here to order
	How can I tell my friends and family about Songbird?
	We have an easy way for you to tell your friends and family about Songbird, and earn money towards your next Songbird in the process. Just go to our Share Songbird, where you can send your friends and family emails, ecards, or even a post card telling them about Songbird. For every one of your friends and family that purchase a Songbird, you will receive $20 off your next purchase, while your friend receives 15% off of their purchase! Refer 4 of your friends to Songbird, and your next Songbird could be free! Tell your friend to mention your name when they order, and to use the code "Cardinal" so they can receive their discount. Take me to Share Songbird Click here for terms and conditions.
	Can I order Songbird over the Internet?
	Yes. Songbird is available to easily purchase on-line at www.SongbirdHearing.com. If you would like to be able to receive your Songbird at regular intervals, of your choosing, you can also sign up for our auto-ship program, and receive Free Shipping for Life. Click here to order
	How does Songbird ensure that the information I provide online is secure?
	Songbird works to protect the security of your information during transmission by using software that encrypts information you input. We also promise to not provide any of your personal information to advertisers or third-party websites. For more details, please visit our Terms of Service, and Privacy Policy. If you are still uncomfortable ordering online, you can also order by phone by calling 1-800-SONGBIRD (1-800-766-4247).
	What if I don't like it?
	If for any reason during the first 30 days after purchase you are dissatisfied with the product, you may return it to the original location of purchase and you will be provided a full refund of the original purchase price, less shipping and handling. Songbird products are warranted at the time of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship and to perform within published specifications. You may return the product to the original location of purchase and they will replace your Songbird or will refund your original purchase price, less shipping and handling.

Product Questions

	How can a one-size-fits-all device possibly fit me? How can it be comfortable and discreet? Aren't most hearing aids custom molded?
	At Songbird, we realize everyone's ears are different. That's why we created the all-new flexfit™. It is adjustable to provide a personal fit. And because most of the components of the flexfit™ fit discreetly behind the ear, this allows the tip that is inserted into the ear to be very small and comfortable. It also makes the flexfit™ very discreet, since most of the components hide behind the ear. This is why the flexfit™ is the best choice for people who have not tried a hearing aid before.
	How small is Songbird?
	Songbird Disposable Hearing Aids are designed to be very small and discreet. For instance, the Songbird flexfit™ is a behind-the-ear disposable hearing aid, and the body of the hearing aid is about the size of a small pen cap, which hides behind the ear. The tip is very small and is enclosed in a soft, protective covering. Given its small size and behind-the-ear design, a normal fit for both models means that people won't see it when they are looking straight at you, and it will be only slightly noticeable if they are standing by your side.
	How comfortable is Songbird?
	Songbird is designed with a universal size to fit most adult ears comfortably and discreetly. If you have never tried a hearing aid before, we recommend that you first try the Songbird flexfit™, our behind-the-ear hearing aid. It is adjustable to provide a personal fit. And because most of the components of the flexfit™ fit discreetly behind the ear, this allows the tip that is inserted into the ear to be very small and comfortable. It also makes the flexfit™ very discreet, since most of the components hide behind the ear. Like with any high-quality hearing aid, it sometimes takes time for people to become fully comfortable with wearing a new hearing aid - comfortable with both the feel and the new sounds people may be hearing. In those cases, we recommend wearing the hearing aid for short periods of time initially, then gradually increasing so that it feels more natural.
	Does it have digital technology?
	Yes, the Songbird is a digital hearing aid. The digital components and audio technology was designed by the Sarnoff Corporation in Princeton, New Jersey, which also invented other breakthrough consumer technologies like High-Definition Television (HDTV) and Digital Satellite Television.
	Can I control the volume?
	Yes, you can. Songbird comes with a volume control switch. The volume control wheel on the Songbird flexfit™ is located on the body of the hearing aid. This volume control serves as the "On/Off" switch and also makes the sound louder or softer, by dialing the wheel from level 1 (softest) up to level 3 (loudest).
	Does it take regular hearing aid batteries?
	The Songbird is a disposable hearing aid, outfitted with a custom battery that is integrated into the hearing aid. It cannot be replaced. This custom battery, matched with the Songbird digital components which require low power draw, is what makes the Songbird last for up to 400 hours of active use, while still delivering crystal-clear digital sound. Click here to order
	Can I reprogram the hearing aid?
	Songbird hearing aids are preprogrammed in the factory and cannot be adjusted or reprogrammed. This is one of the reasons our hearing aids are so affordable. Our research shows that this type of amplification works well for most people with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Usage and Care

	How do I insert and remove the Songbird flexfit™?
	The Songbird flexfit™ has been designed for simplicity of use. When ready to use, gently tear open the foil pouch to remove the hearing aid case. Slide open the case and remove your Songbird. Do Not open the foil pouch until you are ready to start using your Songbird. Turn the hearing aid ON to the desired volume by rotating the volume control up from the red line (OFF) to 1, 2, or 3. Place the body behind your ear, with the cord hanging in front of your ear. Grasp the tip handle and slowly push and wiggle the tip into your ear as far as it will go. For the most secure fit, pull up and back on your ear while pushing the tip into place. If the cord is too short to insert the tip or too long and not snug over the ear, take the hearing aid off and pull the cord through the hearing aid body to adjust. To remove the Songbird, while the tip is in your ear, grasp the body and gently take it off your ear. Then, grasp the cord as close to the tip as possible and gently wiggle the tip out of our ear. DO NOT use the body to pull the tip directly out of the ear. This may strain the cord and could result in shorter-than-expected product life. Rotate the volume control down so that the red line is completely visible. As you do this, you may feel a slight "click." If the red line is not completely visible (numbers will not be visible), then the hearing aid is not turned off and you may not get your expected battery life. After you have removed the Songbird, remove any visible wax after each use, and place the hearing aid in the supplied carrying case. Close the case and store at room temperature to help maximize product life. For visual instructions refer to the Instructional Booklet that came with your Songbird. flexfit™ user guide
	How do I take care of my Songbird?
	Here is a list of helpful Dos and Don'ts Dos Wax is the #1 enemy of hearing aids. Accumulation of wax on the tip can cause the hearing aid to fail. Because of this: Do periodically wipe the tip with a dry or slightly moist (not wet) cloth. Do clean the tip by using the wax removal brush to gently sweep away any visible wax and debris. Do keep your hearing aid in the provided case when it is not in your ear, as this will keep the hearing aid dry and protected. Do turn your hearing aid off when not in use; this will extend the life of your battery. Don't Don't allow any liquid to enter the hearing aid. Don't drop, throw, or handle roughly. Don't apply hair spray while wearing your hearing aid. Don't leave your hearing aid where small children or pets can get it. Don't expose your hearing aid to excessive temperatures such as heat lamps, hair dryers, stoves, windowsills, or your car's glove compartment. Don't try to open your hearing aid or attempt to make repairs, as this will cause serious damage.
	How do I store my Songbird?
	When it is not in use, make sure that you have turned your hearing aid OFF. Then, store the Songbird in the case provided at room temperature.
	Why do I need to clean my Songbird?
	Wax is the #1 enemy of hearing aids. The accumulation of ear wax on the hearing aid tip is the main factor in the reduced sound quality and premature end to the Songbird. To ensure maximum use of your Songbird, you will need to remove the wax from the tip of the Songbird, as well as clean your ears regularly with commercially available ear wash systems or visit your doctor for treatment. Never use instruments like cotton swabs, toothpicks, hairpins, or the wax removal brush to remove wax from the ear canal.
	How do I clean my Songbird?
	Periodically wipe the entire tip of the hearing aid with a dry tissue or slightly moist (not wet) cloth. In addition, each time you remove your Songbird, use the enclosed wax removal brush to gently sweep away anything you might see on the tip. It is important to keep your ears clean to maximize the life of your Songbird. For best results, it may be beneficial to clean your ears with commercially available ear wash systems or visit your doctor for treatment. Never use instruments like cotton swabs, toothpicks, hairpins, or the wax removal brush to remove wax from the ear canal.
	Does it work in noisy environments?
	The Songbird is particularly helpful with speech discrimination, which means that it should help you understand people speaking to you in many listening situations. However, it cannot make background noise go away, nor can most hearing aids. Wearing two hearing aids can help improve speech understanding in noisy situations.
	I sometimes hear a whistling sound when I wear the Songbird. What is that?
	That whistling sound you hear is called feedback, and is common with all hearing aids. Feedback occurs when some of the sound produced by the speaker finds its way back to the microphone, and is amplified once again.
	How do I get rid of the whistling noise?
	To help reduce and eliminate the whistling noise (feedback), some people find that they can either turn down the volume, or wiggle or adjust the hearing aid inside the ear. If the whistling persists, you can use the optional foam ring we supply with your Songbird flexfit™. We have found that the optional foam ring helps for reducing feedback, as well as keeping the tip in place if people find it is slipping out. In addition, make sure you remove any wax clogging your ear canal or blocking the tip of the hearing aid.
	My ear feels plugged up, why is that?
	It is not uncommon to feel plugged up initially, or notice that your voice sounds funny, like talking in a barrel, and louder. It feels like this because of the presence of the hearing aid in your ear. You're also now hearing your own voice amplified through the hearing aid, which makes it sound different. These are all common sensations when first wearing a hearing aid. Give yourself some time to adjust-over a period of days and weeks you will get used to these differences and the plugged up sensations will dissipate.
	My hearing aid keeps slipping out of my ear. What can I do to prevent that?
	There are a few options for you. For both Songbird models, make sure that the hearing aid is pushed in as far as it can go in your ear canal, until it fits snugly. For the most secure fit, pull up and back on your ear while pushing the tip into place. If the aid continues to slip, we've included an optional foam ring with each Songbird flexfit™. Using the optional foam ring can help keep the hearing aid tip in place.
	Can I use it on the phone? What about my cell phone?
	Yes, you can use your Songbird while on the phone and on your cell phone, with good results. Your Songbird is specially shielded so that it won't cause interference with most cell phones. If your hearing aid whistles (feedback) while on the phone, tilt the telephone away from your ear until the whistling stops. You may have to try various positions with the telephone until you discover the arrangement that works best for you.
	Can I go swimming while wearing Songbird?
	No. You should take care to never get your Songbird wet. Do not wear it while swimming, bathing, during physical activity, or in any other situation where the Songbird could sustain water damage.
	What do I do if Songbird does not fit my needs for size and comfort?
	For many individuals, Songbird proves to be a great hearing solution. However, in some cases, the Songbird you purchased may not meet your individual needs for size and comfort; we recommend seeing your doctor to discuss other options that may be available to you.

Product Life

	How long will my Songbird last?
	Your Songbird hearing aid and battery are designed to last up to 400 hours of active use, estimated at 3 hours of use (or more) per day. If you use your Songbird less frequently than 3 hours per day, the battery will likely expire before 400 hours of active use due to exposure to air, but generally not before 90-120 days from the time you opened the pouch.
	What can I do to extend the life of my Songbird?
	Here are some important tips to help get maximum Songbird battery life, no matter how often you use it: Do not open your foil pouch until you are ready to start using the hearing aid. Once exposed to air, the battery will begin to very gradually lose power. Make sure to turn the hearing aid OFF when not in use. Keep your Songbird (and your ears) clean. Wax is the #1 enemy of hearing aids. The accumulation of ear wax on the hearing aid tip is the main factor in the reduced sound quality and premature end to the Songbird. To ensure maximum use of your Songbird, you will need to remove the wax from the tip of the Songbird, as well as clean your ears with commercially available wash systems or visit your doctor for treatment. Never use instruments like cotton swabs, toothpicks, hairpins, or the wax removal brush to remove wax from the ear canal. Always keep your hearing aid in its supplied case when not in use, and store at room temperature. Avoid long term exposure to very dry environments (humidity levels below 25%) or very humid environments (humidity levels above 70%) Avoid long term exposure to excessive heat or high altitudes.
	What do I do with Songbird once the battery expires?
	Your hearing aid will function normally throughout its entire battery life. When the battery runs out, the product will simply stop working. When this occurs, throw it out in a regular trash receptacle and begin using a fresh new Songbird. To purchase another Songbird, you can enter your account online and order straight from there. Or you can call Customer Service at 1-800-789-1830. We also offer Free Shipping for Life if you choose the convenience of our auto-ship replacement feature. If you choose this feature, you'll never have to do without the comfort and clarity of hearing with Songbird, because we'll automatically ship replacement devices at intervals of your own choosing. That means better hearing can also be worry-free. There is no minimum, you can adjust the intervals to suit your needs, and you can cancel at any time. And the shipping is on us!
	What should I do if the Songbird or it's battery becomes ingested?
	In the event a hearing aid is swallowed, call The National Button Battery Ingestion Hotline at (202) 625-3333 for counsel or treatment.