I have been wearing hearing aids for about 15 years now. For the past 7 years, I have been going to Costco for those needs. I have "severe" loss in one ear, and "profound" loss in the other. In my experience (YMMV), Costco provided the best and most complete hearing exam I have ever had.
My current aids are the Costco-branded Kirkland Signature KS10 model. These aids are manufactured by Sonova, and are, in reality, a white label version of Sonova's Phonak Paradise model...their flagship brand at the time I got them. They are certainly not "old technology." In fact, Costco uses Phonak branded software to set up and adjust the instruments. These are digital, Bluetooth devices that connect directly to a television and my phone. The best part is that the Kirkland branded aids were 1/3 the price of their Phonak brother, and the hearing test at Costco is free.
The Kirkland KS10 is no available any longer. The speculation is Costco is preparing to come out with a KS11 model, which fits their historical timeline. They typically come out with a new model every couple of years, and last fall Phonak introduced a new model, the Phonak Lumity. Less than a month later, Costco discontinued the sale of the KS10. The theory is that a new KS11 will come out this year as a white label Phonak Lumity model. If true, expect to get a high end, current technology hearing aid at a very reasonable price.
Some folks have said that Costco discontinued the KS10 model due to rechargeability issues, but I have not experienced that problem. They continue to offer an unbeatable warranty, lifetime cleanings and adjustments, free hearing tests, and the lowest retail pricing. I think I'll stick with them.
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