Frequently Asked Questions

Top Questions
General Questions
flexfit™ Product Detail Questions
Ultra Product Detail Questions

Top Questions

	What kind of hearing aids does Songbird make?
	All of the Songbird products are digital behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids that are ready to use right out of the box. Most of the components fit discreetly behind the ear, which allows the tip that is inserted into the ear to be very small and comfortable. All Songbird hearing aids have digital signal processing, like more expensive hearing aids, at a fraction of the cost. Songbird hearing aids are for adults who are experiencing mild-to-moderate hearing loss and are available for purchase online or by phone. Songbird offers two models. The Songbird flexfit® is a disposable hearing aid that lasts for 400 hours of active use. It can last up to 6 months and then is replaced by a clean new one. The flexfit is perfect for first-time hearing aid users and people who only want to wear a hearing aid in certain situations. The Songbird Ultra is a hearing aid with replaceable batteries. It also has advanced features like feedback cancellation, noise reduction, and a Sound Boost feature for those that need a little more volume. We frequently hear from our customers how much the Songbird has improved their lives. Click here to read more testimonials, or click here to order now.
	What is the difference between the flexfit® and Ultra?
	The Songbird flexfit® is a digital, disposable hearing aid that lasts for up to 400 hours. The Songbird Ultra is a digital hearing aid in which the batteries can be replaced. The Ultra also has some additional advanced features such as feedback cancellation, noise reduction, and a Sound Boost feature for those that need a little more volume.
	What type of hearing loss does Songbird help?
	Songbird 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. Songbird is very easy to get or to give to a loved one. 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.
	Does it have digital technology?
	Yes, Songbird has digital technology. 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. 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. Read our customer testimonials here.
	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 and distribution methods in our New Jersey facility that combines outstanding design with fine craftsmanship and automation techniques. 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. People who use Songbird don't have to worry about misplacing a device that costs thousands of dollars. The low cost coupled with its high-quality digital sound makes Songbird a tremendous value. Songbird products are easy to try, without any big upfront financial commitments.
	Can I control the volume?
	Yes, you can. Songbird products come with a volume control that lets you control what is right for your hearing needs.
	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.
	Can I get Songbird for someone else? Can I give Songbird as a gift?
	Yes. Many of our sales are to people who have a loved one experiencing hearing loss. Often these people may be the first to notice the problem. Songbird hearing aids are very comfortable and discreet, with volume controls to find the right volume level to match the degree of hearing loss, so your loved one can start using it right out of the box. Songbird's digital sound processing has proven to be effective for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Our products are also backed by our 100% Guarantee, so you can see if Songbird is right for your loved one, without committing the time and expense involved in getting them a traditional hearing aid. Click here to read more testimonials, or click here to order now.
	How can I buy this without seeing a hearing health professional?
	Songbird products are designed to be one-size-fits-all. Just like reading glasses, you can get a Songbird if and when you need it. Its digital 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.
	How can I order the Songbird? Can I order online?
	Songbird is available to easily purchase online at www.SongbirdHearing.com or by calling 1-800- SONGBIRD (1-800-766-4247). 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 do I do if Songbird does not fit my needs for size and comfort?
	For most, Songbird has proven to be a great hearing solution. However, in some cases, Songbird may not meet an individual's needs; in those cases, we encourage our customers to call Songbird Customer Service. Our agents can troubleshoot and offer assistance. If they are unable to satisfy the needs of the customer, they are covered by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If for any reason during the first 30 days after purchase you are dissatisfied with the product, you can return it and you'll be provided a full refund of the original purchase price, less shipping and handling. So you can purchase with confidence. This 100% satisfaction guarantee, along with the low purchase price, makes it easy to try Songbird. Click here to order
	How do I get Free Shipping for Life™?
	We offer Free Shipping for Life™ to anyone who chooses our Auto-Delivery feature when purchasing the Songbird flexfit®. 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, email or call Customer Service at 1-800-789-1830.
	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 print a brochure to tell 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

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.
	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. However, many people do get benefit out of wearing just one hearing aid, so go ahead and give it a try!
	How can a one-size-fits-all device possibly work for me?
	Songbird hearing aids are programmed to meet the needs of most age-induced or noise-induced hearing loss. It focuses its amplification in the frequency ranges where speech is found. This way, Songbird does not just amplify all sound - only in the frequencies that need it most. It's not about making everything louder - it's about making everything clearer. Songbird hearing aids are also behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, which means that the portion that is inserted into the ear is very small and comfortable. The flexfit® also has an innovative adjustable wire to enable a personal adjustment of the length of the clear wire that goes over the ear.
	How small and comfortable is Songbird?
	Songbird Hearing Aids are designed to be very small and discreet. Since Songbird makes behind-the-ear aids, the tip is very small and the body of the hearing aid is about the size of a small pen cap, which hides behind the ear. Given its small size and behind-the-ear design, a normal fit 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. 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 Songbird for short periods of time initially, then gradually increasing so that it feels more natural, just like breaking in a new pair or shoes.
	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.
	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 provided cleaning tool to remove any visible wax. 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?
	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 digital 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. 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 cleaning tool to remove any visible wax you see on the tip or cord. 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?
	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. Try reinserting the Songbird, or lowering the volume to reduce the feedback. The Songbird Ultra also has a feedback cancellation feature. You will hear feedback when putting the Ultra on and adjusting it in place, but once you have it in the most comfortable position, the feedback cancellation feature will kick in and the feedback will go away.
	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.
	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 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: 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?
	Songbird flexfit® Your hearing aid will function normally throughout its entire battery life. When the battery runs out, the product will stop working. When this occurs, you can simply throw away your Songbird flexft®, or check with your state to locate your nearest electronics recycling/recovery facility. To find your state's electronics recycling/recovery facility, click here. Songbird Ultra You will hear a series of beeps when the Ultra is nearing the end of battery life. When the battery runs out, simply replace the battery with a standard 312 hearing aid battery. Throw out the old battery or check with your state to locate your nearest electronics recycling/recovery facility. To find your state's electronics recycling/recovery facility, click here.
	What should I do if the Songbird or its battery becomes ingested?
	In the event a hearing aid or battery is swallowed, call The National Button Battery Ingestion Hotline at (202) 625-3333 for counsel or treatment.
	Can you define some of the terms that are used on this site?
	Please see our Dictionary of Terms for a complete list of definitions.

flexfit™ Product Detail Questions

	How long does Songbird last? Is it disposable?
	The Songbird flexfit® is disposable. Under typical conditions, the flexfit® is designed to last up to 400 hours of active use, which means when you are wearing it and when it's On. So, you use those 400 hours only when you need it. Because Songbird's patented design matches a long-lasting integrated battery with custom components, Songbird is able to extend the life of its products to 400 hours of active use. Your Songbird flexfit® hearing aid and battery are designed to last up to 400 hours of active use. 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
	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?
	No, the Songbird flexfit™ does not take regular hearing batteries, since it 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
	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 (pdf)
	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 hearing aid keeps slipping out of my ear. What can I do to prevent that?
	There are a few options for you. 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.

Ultra Product Detail Questions

	Does it take regular hearing aid batteries?
	Yes, the Songbird Ultra takes 312 hearing aid batteries, which are available at most grocery and drug stores. Click here to order
	Can I control the volume?
	Yes, you can. Songbird comes with a volume control switch, as well as a sound boost button. The volume control dial is located on the body of the hearing aid, and make sounds louder or softer. If you find you need an extra boost, we have 3 additional settings for higher gain.
	How do I insert and remove the Songbird Ultra?
	The Songbird Ultra has been designed for simplicity of use. When ready to use, gently remove the body of the hearing aid from the sealed bag. Determine what ear you would like to wear the Songbird and connect either the right or left tip & tube to the body. The right tip is marked in RED and the left tip is marked in BLUE. Open the battery door, and insert the provided battery. Put the body behind your ear, and then insert the tip. Place the body behind your ear. Grasp the tip and slowly push the tip into your ear. Adjust the retention cord to rest inside the outer part of your ear to secure the tip in your ear. Take note of the volume level and try speaking with another person. If you find that you need it louder or softer, use the volume control wheel or sound boost button to find the ideal level. To remove the Songbird, while the tip is in your ear, grasp the body and gently take it off your ear. Then, grasp the tube or the retention cord and gently remove the tip from your ear. Do not use the body to pull the tip directly out of the ear. This may damage the tube, or remove the tip and tube from the device. To conserve battery power and turn off the Songbird, open the batter door completely (partially open may still drain the battery) and remove the battery if you would like. 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. Ultra user guide (pdf)
	How do I get rid of the whistling noise?
	The Songbird Ultra has a feedback cancellation feature that automatically reduces the feedback. However, if the feedback persists, some people find that they can either turn down the volume, or wiggle or adjust the hearing aid inside the ear.
	My hearing aid keeps slipping out of my ear. What can I do to prevent that?
	There are a few options for you. 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, make sure the retention cord is placed within the bowl of the ear, as that helps to keep the tip in place.
	Is there a warranty?
	The Songbird Ultra is also warranted for 90 days after the time of purchase against defects in materials and workmanship and to perform within published specifications. If, through no fault of your own, the Songbird Ultra stops working within this 90-day period (parts, materials, or workmanship), Songbird will repair or replace the product at its sole discretion. This warranty is void if: (a.) defects in materials or workmanship or damages result from repairs or alterations which have been made or attempted by others or the unauthorized use of nonconforming parts, (b.) the damage is due to abuse, improper maintenance, neglect or accident, or (c.) the damage is due to use of the product with improper accessories. Click here for terms and conditions.
	Can the Ultra be repaired?
	Following the 90-day warranty period, your hearing aid can be sent in for repair. Contact Songbird Customer Service at 1-800-789-1830 or email them here. Click here for terms and conditions.

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Important Medical Information
Hearing loss can be a symptom of a more serious medical condition or the result of excessive wax build-up. A physician can treat these conditions. If you have not already done so, the makers of Songbird Digital Hearing Aids suggest you should consult your doctor to rule out any of these medical concerns.