The most affordable and simple hearing device we've seen, but it's purely a sound amplifier.
Audien ION Pro Review: Basic Amplification on a Budget
The Audien ION Pro is positioned as an accessible entry point for those curious about hearing devices. Its key strengths are its low cost, small size, and simplicity. It is, in essence, a basic sound amplifier. It makes sounds louder, which can be helpful in quiet, one-on-one settings. However, it lacks the fundamental features of a modern hearing aid, such as digital noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and directional microphones. In our tests, it amplified all sounds equally, meaning background noise was just as loud as the speech users were trying to hear. This made it difficult to use in any environment with ambient sound. While its price is tempting, it does not provide the sophisticated support needed for navigating real-world hearing challenges.
Table of Contents
Clinical Summary
Clinical Performance Metrics
Quantitative assessment based on clinical testing protocols
Sound Quality
Purely amplification. Lacks richness, clarity, and processing. Can sound harsh at higher volumes.
Ease of Use
Extremely simple. A single button controls power and volume. No app or complex settings.
Wearing Comfort
The small size is comfortable for most, though the included domes are of basic quality.
Battery Life
Good battery life for its size, offering a full day's use.
Quick Take
Key findings from our clinical evaluation
+
Strengths
- Extremely low price
- Very small and discreet
- Incredibly simple to operate
- Rechargeable with a convenient carrying case
- Low-risk entry point to hearing enhancement
−
Limitations
- No noise reduction of any kind
- Does not distinguish between speech and noise
- Prone to feedback (whistling) at higher volumes
Real-World Usage
Practical considerations for daily operation
Daily Routine Impact
Useful for watching TV in a quiet room or a quiet conversation. Can be frustrating and even detrimental in any other environment.
Learning Curve
Use right out of the box
Maintenance
Requires regular cleaning to prevent earwax buildup on the microphone and receiver.
Portability
Excellent due to its tiny charging case.
Manual Use
The entire experience is manual and extremely basic. A single button cycles through a few volume levels.
Cost & Coverage Analysis
Financial considerations and HSA / FSA eligibility
Pricing Breakdown
HSA/FSA Guidance
This device will not be covered by insurance.
Cost Comparison
It is significantly cheaper than any true hearing aid. However, even budget hearing aids like the Elehear or advanced models like the Oxiline provide critical features (like noise reduction) that are absent here.
Patient Suitability
Clinical indications and contraindications
Indicated For
- • Users who need simple volume boost for watching TV alone
- • People wanting the absolute cheapest entry into sound amplification
- • As a backup pair or for very limited, quiet situations
Contraindications
- • Anyone who needs to hear better in social situations, restaurants, or outdoors
- • Individuals with tinnitus or sensitivity to loud sounds
Age Considerations
Its simplicity is a benefit for users who are not comfortable with technology.
Clinical Recommendation
Final assessment and prescribing guidance
The Audien ION Pro is a product of compromises. It achieves an incredibly low price and simple operation by stripping away all the advanced technology that makes modern hearing aids effective. It can make sound louder, but it does little to make it clearer.
Recommend If
You need the simplest, cheapest device possible for amplifying sound in a quiet room.
Avoid If
You have hearing loss and need help understanding conversations in the real world.
Clinical Summary
Composite Score
Recommendation
Price Point
Where to Buy
Verified purchase options and current availability
Audien Hearing Official Website
FSA/HSA eligible. Often sold as a pair.
Important Information
- • Prices and availability subject to change
- • Some devices may require a prescription
- • HSA / FSA eligibility: Usually Eligible
- • Purchase from authorized retailers for warranty protection
Alternative Devices
It is the most basic device of the group. The Elehear offers a step up with Bluetooth and some processing, while the Oxiline is in a completely different league of medical-grade performance.
