Question
What are the primary differences between the ReSound Tinnitus Sound Generator, ReSound Tinnitus Manager, and the ReSound Tinnitus Relief app?
Answer
The primary differences lie in who controls the feature and the level of customization available. The initial setup of the ReSound Tinnitus Sound Generator (TSG) is performed within the ReSound Smart Fit software, where it is classified as an "advanced feature." Here, the audiologist can activate the TSG, preferably in a separate "all-around program," and choose between two main sound options. The default setting is "Nature Sounds," which consists of six pre-set water-based sounds like "breaking waves" and "shoreline." For more specific needs, the clinician can turn the nature sounds off and use the "Sound Presets," such as white, pink, or speech noise, which allows for more manual programming to "fine-tune the tentative sound generator for your patient's needs." This is also where the clinician can set how the microphone volume behaves relative to the TSG.
Once the clinician activates the TSG, the patient gains real-time control through the ReSound Tinnitus Manager within the ReSound Smart 3D app. Accessed via the "Sound Enhancer," this tool gives patients the "capability to self-manage that Tinnitus." Within the manager, they can select from the same nature sounds or choose from "white noise variations," adjusting the filter to make the sound bigger or smaller. Most importantly, they can change the volume of the masker, either together or independently for the left and right ears, and save their preferred settings as a favorite. This allows them to adapt to fluctuating tinnitus without needing an appointment.
The ReSound Tinnitus Relief app is a separate, "universal app" that can be used by anyone, even those without hearing aids. Its main feature is the ability to create complex "soundscapes" by layering up to five different sounds from environmental, music, and therapeutic categories. This allows a user to "do like a mix and match of what sounds together, help them with their tinnitus." The patient can then use an equalizer to adjust the volume of each individual sound within their custom soundscape. In addition to sound therapy, the app also provides non-sound-based tools, including guided meditations from Dartmouth, deep breathing exercises, and educational content about tinnitus.
To learn more, see ReSound’s CEU course Grand Rounds by ReSound: Tinnitus Sound Generator
To learn more about ReSound’s Tinnitus treatments, Click Here
