In June 2019, Costco released the latest version of the company’s Kirkland Signaturebranded hearing aids in stores across the United States. The new Kirkland Signature 9.0 (KS 9) is, for the first time, being produced by Sonova, the parent company of the popular Phonak hearing aid brand.
The new Kirkland aids are a unique product made specifically for Costco that are “powered by Sonova technology”. The new KS 9 devices are said to be built on the Made for All (MFA) chipset platform, allowing for universal direct connectivity to Bluetooth devices.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature label has always been the value brand for many products found at Costco, both inside and outside the hearing aid department. Over the past several years, however, the prominence of the Kirkland brand in its hearing centers has grown significantly–making it the most dispensed brand at the hearing centers today. This is particularly significant, considering Costco is estimated to hold more than 11% market share of all hearing aids sold in the US, with continued growth rates of its hearing aid centers frequently exceeding 20% year-over-year.
In keeping with previous trends, the new KS 9’s have dropped price even further by $100/pair:
- KS 4.0: $1,999/pair (manufactured by Rexton)
- KS 5.0: $1,899/pair (manufactured by GN ReSound)
- KS 6.0: $1,799/pair (manufactured by GN ReSound)
- KS 7.0: $1,699/pair (manufactured by Rexton)
- KS 8.0: $1,599/pair (manufactured by Rexton)
- KS 9.0: $1,499/pair (manufactured by Sonova)
What’s Different About the Kirkland Signature 9 Hearing Aids?
Because they are produced by well known hearing aid brands, there is always a lot of consumer confusion when it comes to the private labeled Costco Kirkland Signature hearing aids. Such questions include:
- Does it have similar features to the manufacturer’s name brand counterpart (like the popular Phonak Marvel)?
- What types of features are left out of the Signature brand?
- Are the new hearing aid rechargeable or does it require batteries?
For an in depth look at what makes the of the Costco Kirkland Signature 9.0 hearing aid from Sonova different, check out the latest review video provided to HHTM by Dr. Cliff Olson (see text summary and video below)
Kirkland Signature 9.0 Hearing Aids – Taking a Closer Look
Notable features of the Kirkland 9.0 devices, as well as some areas where they may lack compared to other high-end hearing aids.
Form Factor and Receiver Style: The Kirkland Signature 9.0 hearing aids maintain the familiar receiver-in-the-canal form factor, available in four different receiver power levels. This style is widely popular and can accommodate a broad range of hearing loss. These devices utilize a 312 disposable battery, ensuring convenience for users.
Operating System and AutoSense Technology: The Signature 90 hearing aids feature an operating system similar to Phonak and Unitron devices, incorporating AutoSense technology. This intelligent system automatically detects and adapts to various listening environments, optimizing program settings for the best sound experience. It also classifies audio streams, distinguishing between music and speech when streaming from compatible smart devices.
Programmability and Phonak-Inspired Software: Hearing care professionals can fine-tune the Signature 9.0 devices using Phonak-inspired programming software. With up to 20 frequency bands and various digital features at their disposal, professionals can customize the hearing aids to meet individual needs. This high level of programmability offers a tailored listening experience.
Bluetooth Connectivity: One of the standout features of the Kirkland Signature 9.0 hearing aids is their Bluetooth capability. These devices are not limited to specific phone brands and can stream audio directly from iPhones, Android phones, or even flip phones. Users can enjoy seamless streaming of music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more, while phone conversations are transmitted directly to the hearing aids.
Limitations and Missing Features: Despite their affordability and solid performance, the Kirkland Signature 9.0 hearing aids do have some limitations compared to higher-end models. Notably, they are not rechargeable and rely on disposable size 312 batteries. Additionally, these devices lack a telecoil, which can impact hearing in public venues and on the telephone. They also do not offer tinnitus features, remote programming capabilities, or integrated Roger receivers for improved hearing in noisy environments.
Conclusion: While the Kirkland Signature 9.0 hearing aids may not possess all the advanced features found in premium models, they still provide excellent value for the price. Their form factor, automatic adjustments, programmability, and Bluetooth connectivity offer significant benefits to users.
It’s important to remember that optimal performance depends on the expertise of hearing care professionals who can personalize these devices according to individual needs and follow best practices.
Clifford Olsonis a Doctor of Audiology and Founder ofApplied Hearing Solutionsin Anthem, Arizona. He served as a Marine Corps Scout Sniper during his time in the military which introduced him to the profession of Audiology. He also posts informational videos on his YouTube Channel –DrCliffAuD– to educate consumers on hearing healthcare.