Beltone Goes the Extra Distance with New Reach

New Product Features the Worlds First-Ever Automatic Smart Beam Steering Technology

Chicago, June, 2008 Beltone Electronics announces the introduction of Beltone Reach’, the worlds first digital hearing instrument with automatic Smart Beam Steering’. The new Smart Beam Steering automatically adjusts the width of the directional beam based on the location of the noise source. Reach also offers new monitored directionality, which helps patients hear sounds that they want to focus on and monitor sounds from other directions.

In addition, the new automatic Smart Beam Steering’ works with the Speech Spotter’, which automatically initiates the directionality when speech signals are challenged by noise sources competing for attention. In this way, the instrument automatically zooms in to focus on speech and switches back to omni-directional mode when directionality is no longer needed. The result for the user is a truly hands-free experience.

Beltone Reachs automatic features make it one of the most advanced and user-friendly hearing instruments on the market today, says John Cariola, Beltone Director of Product Management.

All Different Shapes and Sizes

Beltone Reach is the most versatile series of small, high performing hearing instruments on the market. It is available in both standard and high-power configurations with various choices to make fitting options extremely flexible. Users can choose from Receiver-in-Ear (RIE), Behind-the-Ear (BTE) or In-the-Ear (ITE). Color choices enable further personalization, allowing users to match hair color or shape.

One size does not fit all, and Beltone Reach provides users the freedom to adjust amplification settings to match their distinct needs. Additionally, the Smart Gain feature adjusts gain by using an environmental classifier system which monitors 7 different sound environments. Furthermore, real-time data gathered with the Satisfaction Journal can help users optimize their settings at a fine-tuning session.

About Beltone Electronics

Founded in 1940, Chicago-based Beltone Electronics is part of the GN Hearing Care Group, utilizing advanced technology to produce hearing instruments sold in the United States, Canada and over 40 countries worldwide. In addition to providing outstanding service and support for its U.S. hearing care network operating in over 1,400 offices in North America, Beltone remains the most trusted brand for quality products and care among its patients and adults aged 50 and older.

For more information, visit www.beltone.com.