When it comes to exceptional sound, cutting-edge tech and sleek design, the ReSound LiNX Quattro Rechargeable RIE 61 is a truly impressive device. It includes direct streaming to Android and iOS devices, and offers the ‘world’s most advanced rechargeable solution’, all of which earns it a place in our guide to the best hearing aids.
According to guidance from the American-Speech-Language Association (ASLH), a basic hearing aid should have a microphone, a volume adjuster, a receiver (sends the louder sounds to your ear), an on/off switch, and a removable or rechargeable battery. Additional features (which often cost more) include a directional microphone to focus on sound coming from a specific direction.
Founded in 1943, ReSound has an excellent reputation when it comes to sound. The company invests a lot of time researching and developing its products to deliver high quality and innovation, and with the ReSound LiNX Quattro this really shows. This hearing aid covers all levels of hearing loss and is ideal if you want to hear life note for note in precise detail.
The ReSound LiNX Quattro is available as a behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-ear (RIE) fit, as well as an extremely discreet custom in-ear fit. Here we focus on the rechargeable RIE version, which also comes with three power levels depending on your hearing requirements.
ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61: Spec
- FDA classification: Class 1 medical device
- Design: three types available (behind-the-ear , receiver-in-ear, custom in-ear)
- Fit: Universal (left or right)
- Noise reduction: Yes
- Volume adjuster: Yes
- Battery life: 30 hours per three-hour charge
ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61: Price
When it comes to high-tech hearing devices, the ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61 sits at the more expensive end of the scale. If you want to buy the aid online, HearStore sells the Quattro at $2,499.99 (for a single device) in five different colors. At the time of writing, HearSource’s prices start at $1,997, with 14 colors to pick from.
The prices of these premium hearing aids won’t be within reach for everyone, but if you have the budget, the ReSound LiNX Quattro Rechargeable RIE 61 promises top-level tech and sharp hearing. The LiNX Quattro is particularly suited to professional musicians who will appreciate the detail and nuance it offers.
ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61: Design
The ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61 looks smart and contemporary, and while the unit isn’t the slimmest we’ve seen, it’s discreet enough to blend in (depending on the color you pick, of course). The LiNX Quattro comes in a great choice of colors, with 14 shades to pick from, ranging from Light Blonde and Dark Brown to Monza Red and Ocean Blue.
The ASLH’s top tips include checking the batteries regularly, and keeping a spare battery on hand. Cleaning the hearing aid according to your audiologist’s instructions or those given to you by the manufacturer if you’re buying direct. Finally, keep your hearing aid dry, and have regular hearing aid listening checks.
The ReSound LiNX Quattro Rechargeable RIE 61 is simple to use, with a push-button that can be set to manually control volume, to power on/off, switch to flight mode, or to change programs. Either side of this button are the microphones, and just above it is the LED light indicator, which shows your battery and charging status.
Recharging the LiNX Quattro RIE 61 is straightforward – simply place the aid in its portable case and charge for three hours. In return you’ll get 30 hours’ worth of power.
The case itself holds three full charges to keep delivering power even when it isn’t plugged in. LED lights on the case indicate how much charge your hearing device has. Alternatively, you can check via the ReSound Smart 3D app.
In terms of fit, you can choose from domes or earmold, depending on the power of your receiver. Do you lead an active lifestyle? Then there is also a sports lock available to keep your hearing aid in place while you exercise.
ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61: Features
The LiNX Quattro RIE 61 has been created to provide exceptional clarity of sound from all directions, all while focusing on what you need to help you stay aware of your surroundings. An environmental optimizer analyzes the sound in your location, then automatically adjusts gain and noise reduction so that you can comfortably enjoy where you are. ReSound has also focused on ear-to-ear performance to help with spatial awareness.
Unwanted sounds can be reduced with the ReSound LiNX Quattro Rechargeable RIE 61’s noise tracker, while an impulse noise reduction feature strives to keep unexpected loud sounds – such as clashing crockery – more comfortable. There is also a music mode for distortion-free listening.
The LiNX Quattro RIE 61 has a high input dynamic range of 116dB SPL, which means loud sounds should be clearer, while softer sounds can be more easily perceived with less background noise. Other details include an extended frequency bandwidth of 9.5 kHZ to take in more subtle detail across more frequencies.
These hearing aids also feature advanced chip technology, which ReSound claims ‘delivers twice the memory, 100% more speed, 30% more computing power, and the new radio has 20% reduced power consumption’, when compared to its previous chip.
The Quattro has direct streaming to both iOS and Android devices. And, using the ReSound Smart 3D app, you can personalize your hearing experience quickly with just a few taps, and save settings too. If you suffer from tinnitus, delve into the LiNX Quattro Rechargeable RIE 61’s app, which includes sounds that can be customized and adjusted.
There is also a tracker for misplaced hearing aids and you can monitor the battery status, receiving notification of when it’s time to recharge. Another feature in the app is ReSound Assist for remote fine-tuning. This enables you to ask your hearing care professional for help if you need to adjust your settings. If you’d rather a hearing device that you can buy online without getting a listening test first, read our in-depth guides to the Hearing Assist HA-1800 CIC, and the affordable MDHearingAid AIR.
The Quattro can also pair with your television if you buy the ReSound TV Streamer. This hardware is available separately and can be used with your computer and stereo as well. Control the streamer with the ReSound remote control app, or use the physical ReSound remote control device, also sold separately.
ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61: User reviews
ReSound’s glossy video testimonials present plenty of clear and compelling feedback on the LiNX hearing aids. One video features a user whose hearing was impacted after years of working with farm machinery at high-decibel levels. He says of his LiNX hearing aids: “When I first tested the ReSound LiNX my reaction was ‘Oh my goodness, this is what I’ve been waiting for. All the controls are quick, easy and intuitive.”
Another testimonial comes from a musician who has experienced impaired hearing since 2009. He says, “The hearing aids gave me the possibility that I might be able to function adequately in a musical situation with other musicians. I do feel like the new technology has given me the confidence to contemplate performing live in public again.”
Another musician says his first impression of using the LiNX Quattro was clear sound and improvement in comparison to his previous hearing aids, and he now hears and enjoys all the nuances in the music he plays.
ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61: What other websites say
The ReSound LiNX Quattro Rechargeable RIE 61 user reviews on ZipHearing are generally favorable. Comments such as, “So far I know I have been missing music a lot. I am adjusting to speech more slowly, but my eavesdropping skills have expanded…” are a testament to the tech on offer.
That said, we also spotted a few comments such as, “sound quality is okay, but will require more adjustments” and “if you are not hearing what you expected to hear, stay at it” that suggest tweaks may be in order to get the most from the LiNX Quattro RIE 61.
Other comments prove the ReSound LiNX Quattro hearing aid is a significant purchase when it comes to delivering great battery life. One reviewer commented on the Hearing Tracker website: “I'm a heavy streaming user (online meetings for work) and my batteries rarely go below 50% after a day of heavy usage. I'm pleased to be finally free of battery anxiety.”
Should you buy the ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61?
If you want the best hearing support money can buy, especially if you are a musician or love listening to music, the ReSound LiNX Quattro RIE 61 could be a great choice for you. This hearing aid is designed to deliver exceptional sound and hearing support, and the level of adjustments and features available via the companion app is beyond impressive.
However, not everyone will need this level of tech, and there are alternatives that offer similar levels of adjustment but cost a little less. If that sounds good to you, also take a look at your in-depth guide to the Oticon Xceed SP Hearing Aid.
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