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Having spent a career working in the field and teaching electronic technology, I can't get over the recent prices of a simple minaturized microphone, I-C amplifier (digital or analog), battery, case, and speaker labeled as a "hearing aid" (roughly the same as a tiny PA system). So, unless you discover a new source for these things (under some other name), be prepared to make a substantial donation to the seller's retirement fund and the manufacturer's bottom line. The service I've had, locally, is good - free cleaning and sometimes free batteries (cheap at Radio Shack) for expensive units. I keep hoping for more competition and a break in prices since so many of us age-70 and above are now in the population (I need another one already). But, the latest buzz is "Digital" which is hyped to be worth a lot more $$$, but I'm not prepared to judge whether or not it's that much better. In all fairness to the dispensers, they do have to test hearing and set up the aid to compensate (as best they can) for your range of hearing loss (they're not magicians), They also make a simple mold so the device will fit your ear. After that, regular cleaning is required or the aid will get like a 60-year old tractor - full of grunge, and then probably quit working. Mine did, but a $270 repair took care of that (the aid, not the tractor). Don't buy any aid which does not have some kind of automatic volume limiting, and have it set up correctly, or else some sharp sounds (which didn't ever bother you before) will simply drive you up the walls. Background talk & noise will likely be a problem, but the aid will help overall. It's no cure for age or years of hearing loud sounds! Depending on your state's law, they may also run you through a Doctor's office for some kind of medical certification before they will sell you an aid. Those who lobby legislators apparently did their work well. Good luck... My 2-cents.
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