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ReSound Nexia - August 2024

ReSound Fitting Tip: Adjusting the Directional Mix

Robin C. Donham, AuD, FAAA, CCC-A

September 30, 2012

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Question

For directional programs in Aventa, clinicians have the option of adjusting the Directional Mix (or crossover frequency) between omnidirectional and directional processing. Why and when would they want to do this?

Answer

The Directional Mix in Aventa software sets the point at which frequencies will be processed as either omni-directional or directional through split-band directionality. Split-band directionality is incorporated into all of ReSound’s directional technology, and separates or splits frequencies for directionality according to what the normal, unaided outer ear does.  Low frequencies are processed in an omni-drectional mode, with directionality in the higher frequencies.  Directional Mix settings are calculated automatically based on the individual patient’s hearing thresholds and the model of hearing instrument. In typical clinical practice, it is seldom necessary to make changes to this setting.

Increasing the “Directional Mix” setting results in shifting the crossover frequency to allow more low frequencies to be processed in the directional beam.  This typically results in an increase to overall loudness or loudness perception for the directional beam. Some people find it easier to think of this increase to the Directional Mix as a “Bass boost” for directionality, however it is important to note that ReSound instruments do not roll off low frequencies in the directional mode.  Rather, low frequencies are intact but processed in an omni-directional mode similar to the normal ear.

By increasing the directional mix setting, more low and mid frequencies are pulled into the directional beam. If a patient complains of persistent difficulty understanding conversation in noisy surroundings or hearing the person speaking from the front, the Directional Mix setting can be increased as a possible solution.  If the patient complains that the hearing instrument is too noisy in quiet situations, the Directional Mix setting can be decreased.

For more information on ReSound Verso, visit www.gnresound.com or the ReSound expo page on Audiology Online.


robin c donham

Robin C. Donham, AuD, FAAA, CCC-A

Product Training Manager for the Government Services Division

Robin Donham is the Product Training Manager for GN ReSound. She obtained her AuD from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX. She has worked with Interton and ReSound Government Services in various roles for the last five years. Her primary involvement is related to training duties, including developing and/or overseeing all presentation content and materials, seminar logistics, room set-up/supplies, etc. Robin has served in many capacities for the GN family, including managing the Central region and serving as a Technical Support Advisor. Previously, Robin was employed the West Texas Rehab Center in Abilene, TX assisting in the establishment of both the balance and pediatric programs at that facility. She has also been a national presenter for HealthNet.com, HLAA, the Lion’s Club, Texas Health Fairs, Universities, and Industrial settings.  She was also a presenter and charter member of the Abilene Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). She has research publications and/or poster presentations on many topics such as BPPV / balance disorders, electroacoustic testing, Natural Directionality, tinnitus, Leadership in Audiology and building the right Audiology team.


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