Key Takeaway: AudioNova Review
Yes, for personalized care. AudioNova is not a hearing aid manufacturer, but a massive network of clinics. They are excellent if you need complex testing and face-to-face adjustments.
The Downside? Price. Because it is in-clinic care, expect to pay $3,000 to $6,000+ per pair. If you have mild-to-moderate hearing loss, OTC options can save you thousands.
Our Rating: 4.2/5
AudioNova is a well-established hearing care provider offering in-person evaluations, prescription hearing aids, and long-term follow-up support. Unlike online retailers, AudioNova operates physical clinics, making it a go-to for adults searching for “AudioNova near me” or those who need a hands-on medical approach. If you have been reading AudioNova reviews to decide whether clinic-based care is worth the cost, this analysis covers everything you need to know.
This review explains how AudioNova works, the specific brands they sell (like Phonak and Unitron), and critically answers the top question: how do AudioNova hearing aids compare in price and quality to modern online alternatives?
Compare AudioNova with other top-rated hearing aid providers to see how it stacks up.
How AudioNova Works
AudioNova functions as a clinical hearing care network, not a product manufacturer. The process is traditional and medical-focused:
- In-Person Assessment: Users schedule an appointment with a licensed provider for a full diagnostic test (audiogram).
- Prescription and Selection: Based on the results, the clinician recommends a device from their partner brands.
- Real-Ear Measurement and Fitting: You receive a custom fitting to ensure the physical comfort of the device.
- Aftercare: The high price tag typically includes follow-up visits, cleaning, and adjustments.
Who AudioNova Is Best For
AudioNova is best suited for adults with moderate to severe hearing loss who need a full audiological evaluation rather than a self-fit solution. It is a strong fit for patients who prefer in-person clinical support, those with insurance coverage that includes hearing benefits, and individuals who have already tried OTC devices without satisfactory results.
If you have mild hearing loss and are primarily cost-conscious, OTC alternatives from brands like Jabra Enhance may deliver comparable outcomes at a significantly lower price point.
AudioNova Brands and Technology
AudioNova is owned by the Sonova Group, the Swiss conglomerate behind some of the world’s most recognized hearing aid brands. This means their clinics focus exclusively on Sonova’s own portfolio rather than carrying devices from competing manufacturers.
You will typically find these top-tier brands at AudioNova:
- Phonak: Famous for the Virto and Lumity lines (excellent background noise handling).
- Unitron: Known for speech clarity.
These devices offer premium features like rechargeable batteries, advanced Bluetooth streaming, and tinnitus masking.
AudioNova Standout Features
Clinical Evaluations
Provides full diagnostic hearing tests in person, which is necessary for complex hearing issues.
Premium Brand Variety
Offers access to world-class technology from Phonak and Unitron, two of the most respected names in prescription hearing care.
Long-Term Support
The high cost includes maintenance, cleaning, and follow-up visits, which is helpful for seniors who struggle with device maintenance.
400+ Clinic Network
With locations across the U.S. under multiple brand names, AudioNova provides broad geographic access to in-person hearing care.
AudioNova Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| In-person expert care: Licensed audiologists provide full diagnostic testing and custom fitting. | High cost: Prescription devices range from $3,000 to $7,740 per pair. |
| Premium brands: Access to Phonak and Unitron, two of the world’s leading prescription hearing aid brands. | Sonova-only portfolio: Clinics do not carry devices from competing manufacturers like Oticon or Starkey. |
| Bundled aftercare: Price includes follow-up visits, cleaning, and device adjustments. | BBB status: The main AudioNova entity has suspended BBB accreditation (Connect Hearing holds A+). |
| Wide network: 400+ clinic locations across the U.S. under multiple regional brand names. | Not ideal for mild loss: OTC alternatives may be more cost-effective for mild to moderate hearing loss. |
Price and Quality: AudioNova vs. OTC Hearing Aids
This is the most common question we receive: how do AudioNova hearing aids compare in price and quality?
Because AudioNova provides “bundled care” (device and doctor visits), the cost is significantly higher than Over-the-Counter (OTC) models like Jabra Enhance or Audien, even if the technology inside is similar.
| Feature | AudioNova (Clinic) | Premium OTC (e.g., Jabra) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price | $4,500+ / pair | $1,000 to $2,000 / pair |
| Fitting Method | In-Person Audiologist | Remote / Telehealth |
| Tech Quality | Excellent (Prescription) | Excellent (Medical Grade) |
| Best For | Severe / Profound Loss | Mild to Moderate Loss |
AudioNova vs. SoundBright: Side-by-Side Comparison
When you evaluate AudioNova against direct-to-consumer alternatives, cost and fitting method are the two biggest differentiators. SoundBright is one of the most-compared online options for consumers who want hearing aids without the clinic markup.
| Feature | AudioNova | SoundBright |
|---|---|---|
| Type | In-clinic network | Direct-to-consumer / OTC |
| Average Price | $3,000 to $7,740 / pair | More affordable |
| Fitting | In-person audiologist | App-based / remote |
| Best For | Moderate to severe hearing loss | Mild to moderate hearing loss |
| Aftercare | Included in bundled pricing | Remote support |
Looking for an Affordable Alternative to AudioNova?
SoundBright offers hearing solutions at a fraction of the cost of in-clinic care. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, it may be the smarter choice for your budget.
How to Pair AudioNova Hearing Aids
Since AudioNova sells Phonak and Unitron devices, the pairing process depends on the specific model you receive. The general steps for Bluetooth models are:
- Download the App: Install the specific app for your device (e.g., MyPhonak or Unitron Remote Plus). Do not look for an “AudioNova App” for device control.
- Activate Bluetooth: Go to settings on your iPhone or Android.
- Reboot: Open and close the battery door (or place in/out of charger) to put the aids in “Pairing Mode.”
- Connect: Select the device on your phone and confirm the connection.
Looking to save $3,000?
If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, you might not need a $5,000 clinic visit. Check out top-rated medical-grade OTC options that ship to your door.
AudioNova Hearing Aid Types: Rechargeable, Bluetooth, BTE and More
AudioNova does not manufacture its own devices. Its clinics carry hearing aids from Sonova Group brands, primarily Phonak and Unitron. The type of hearing aid you receive depends on which brand and model your audiologist recommends after a full hearing evaluation. The clinic can fit most standard hearing aid styles.
AudioNova Rechargeable Hearing Aids
AudioNova clinics carry rechargeable models from Phonak and Unitron, including the Phonak Infinio Sphere and Audeo lines. Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate disposable batteries and typically offer a full day of use on a single charge. During your fitting appointment, your audiologist will confirm which rechargeable model fits your degree of hearing loss.
AudioNova Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-the-ear hearing aids, including receiver-in-canal (RIC) styles, are among the most common types dispensed at AudioNova locations. They suit a wide range of hearing loss levels and offer more features than smaller styles. The Phonak Infinio and Unitron Vivante lines, both available at AudioNova, include BTE and RIC options.
AudioNova Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Most premium models carried at AudioNova support Bluetooth connectivity for streaming audio directly from smartphones, tablets, and televisions. Phonak’s direct Bluetooth technology enables streaming without an intermediate device, available across multiple Phonak lines dispensed at AudioNova clinics.
AudioNova In-Ear and Digital Hearing Aids
AudioNova also fits in-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-canal (CIC) styles for patients who prefer a less visible option. All devices dispensed through AudioNova are digital, processing sound through microchips that can be programmed and adjusted remotely or in-clinic.
AudioNova Locations: Finding a Clinic Near You
AudioNova operates more than 400 clinics across the United States. Locations vary by state and are searchable by ZIP code or city at audionova.com/clinics. For those searching for AudioNova near me, the clinic finder returns the closest centers with contact information and hours.
AudioNova operates under several brand names depending on region:
Connect Hearing by AudioNova is the most widely recognized name, with clinics in most major metro areas. The Connect Hearing entity holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Elite Hearing Centers of America by AudioNova is a regional brand operating under the same network, primarily in select states.
Hear Michigan Centers by AudioNova serves patients in Michigan under the AudioNova network, providing the same clinical standards and Sonova brand portfolio available at all AudioNova locations.
Empire Hearing & Audiology by AudioNova operates in New York and surrounding areas, offering the same prescription hearing care under AudioNova’s clinical framework.
All locations operate under the same clinical standards and carry the same brand portfolio.
AudioNova BBB Rating: What You Should Know
The AudioNova entity itself currently has a suspended BBB accreditation and no active rating listed. This is worth noting for consumers who use BBB status as a screening tool. However, Connect Hearing by AudioNova, the company’s primary operating brand, holds an A+ BBB rating, the highest available designation.
BBB accreditation requires companies to respond to customer complaints and meet transparency standards. The A+ rating for Connect Hearing suggests the network does resolve disputes when escalated. For patients considering an AudioNova clinic, searching for their specific location under the Connect Hearing name on BBB.org will return the most relevant complaint history.
A suspended main entity rating does not mean AudioNova clinics are untrustworthy. It reflects a corporate registration issue, not widespread service failures. Patients are advised to review individual clinic ratings on Google and Yelp before booking. The professional staff at AudioNova locations consistently receive positive marks for service quality in independent reviews.
Final Verdict: AudioNova Review
AudioNova is a strong clinical choice for adults who want face-to-face hearing care and have the budget for premium service. With access to Phonak and Unitron, two of Sonova Group’s flagship brands, and a structured approach to diagnostic testing, the company supports long-term hearing improvement. AudioNova hearing aid reviews from existing patients frequently highlight the professional quality of their staff and the value of bundled aftercare.
However, if you have mild to moderate hearing loss and want to save thousands of dollars, legitimate OTC options offer comparable sound quality without the markup of in-person clinic visits.
See our full Buyers Guide for the best hearing aid companies before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About AudioNova
Is AudioNova a legitimate company?
Yes. AudioNova is a legitimate national network of hearing clinics operating more than 400 locations across the United States. It is part of the Sonova Group, one of the largest hearing care companies in the world and the maker of Phonak and Unitron.
How much do AudioNova hearing aids cost?
AudioNova hearing aids range from around $998 per pair for over-the-counter options to $3,000 to $7,740 per pair for prescription in-clinic devices. Most in-clinic packages include ongoing adjustments and follow-up care.
Does AudioNova have locations near me?
AudioNova operates over 400 clinics in the U.S. under names including Connect Hearing, Elite Hearing Centers of America, Hear Michigan Centers, and Empire Hearing & Audiology by AudioNova. Use the clinic finder at audionova.com/clinics.
What hearing aid brands does AudioNova carry?
AudioNova clinics carry devices from Phonak and Unitron, both Sonova Group brands, as well as OTC options from Sennheiser. The network does not carry devices from competing manufacturers.
What is Connect Hearing by AudioNova?
Connect Hearing by AudioNova is the primary brand name used by most AudioNova clinics. It holds an A+ BBB rating and operates under the same clinical standards as the broader AudioNova network.
What is Elite Hearing Centers of America by AudioNova?
Elite Hearing Centers of America by AudioNova is a regional brand name used in select states within the AudioNova network. Clinics operate under the same standards and carry the same hearing aid portfolio.
What is Hear Michigan Centers by AudioNova?
Hear Michigan Centers by AudioNova serves patients in Michigan under the broader AudioNova network, offering the same clinical standards and Sonova brand portfolio available at all locations.
What is Empire Hearing & Audiology by AudioNova?
Empire Hearing & Audiology by AudioNova operates in New York and surrounding areas, providing prescription hearing care under AudioNova’s clinical framework with the same Sonova brand portfolio.
Does AudioNova offer rechargeable hearing aids?
Yes. AudioNova clinics carry rechargeable models from Phonak and Unitron. Your audiologist will recommend a rechargeable option based on your hearing loss level and lifestyle needs.
Does AudioNova offer Bluetooth hearing aids?
Yes. Most premium Phonak models available at AudioNova support Bluetooth streaming from smartphones and televisions.
Does AudioNova accept insurance?
Many AudioNova locations accept hearing benefits through major insurance plans and third-party financing. Coverage varies by plan. Confirm with your specific location before booking.
How does AudioNova compare to OTC hearing aids?
AudioNova offers prescription hearing aids fitted by licensed audiologists, which are more appropriate for moderate to severe hearing loss. OTC alternatives are better suited for mild hearing loss and cost significantly less.
Are AudioNova hearing aids well-reviewed?
AudioNova clinics generally receive positive AudioNova reviews for professional staff and service. Some reviews cite the high cost compared to Costco or online alternatives as the main drawback.