Autiphon U0 Series Hero

Autiphon U0 Series Expert Review

Budget Amplifier
Released 
2023

Summary

The Autiphon U0 Series is a budget-priced amplification product available for $99, earning a C grade in HearAdvisor's lab testing. As a visible-in-ear device with rechargeable batteries, it offers basic amplification at an entry-level price point.

In our lab testing, the Autiphon U0 Series showed mixed results. Its standout strength is feedback handling, scoring a perfect 5.00/5—well above the category average. This means users are unlikely to experience the annoying whistling that can plague some amplification products. However, speech intelligibility performance was below average, with speech in quiet and speech in noise scores both measuring 1.90/5 and 1.10/5 respectively.

Notably, this device lacks adjustability—the initial and tuned fit conditions produced identical results, as there are no professional fitting options or customization parameters available. This is typical for budget amplifiers but means the device cannot be optimized for individual hearing needs. Music streaming and own-voice measurements were not applicable for this product category.

The Autiphon U0 Series competes directly with other budget options like the HSKLock Hearing Aid (scored 2.84/5) and Otofonix Elite (scored 1.46/5). While it falls slightly behind the HSKLock in overall performance, it significantly outperforms the Otofonix Elite. This device may suit consumers seeking an affordable entry point into amplification with reliable feedback control, though those prioritizing speech clarity should consider higher-performing alternatives.

In the initial fit condition using closed domes, the Autiphon U0 Series delivered below-average speech performance in both quiet and noisy environments. The speech in quiet score of 1.90/5 and speech in noise score of 1.10/5 indicate limited benefit for conversational clarity in our lab testing. However, feedback handling was excellent at 5.00/5, suggesting stable performance without whistling during typical use. The overall fit score of 1.56/5 reflects the device's limitations as a non-adjustable amplifier that cannot be customized to individual hearing profiles.

The tuned fit condition produced identical results to the initial fit, as the Autiphon U0 Series offers no professional fitting adjustments or customization options. Using the same closed dome configuration, speech in quiet remained at 1.90/5 and speech in noise at 1.10/5. The excellent feedback handling score of 5.00/5 persisted. This lack of tunability is expected for budget amplifiers in this price range but represents a significant limitation compared to prescription hearing aids that can be optimized by hearing care professionals.

Lab Review Scores

C
SoundGrade
Initial Score
2.7
Tuned Score
2.7
Speech in quiet
best
1.9
5.0
Own voice
best
5.0
Speech in noise
best
1.1
5.0
Feedback handling
best
5.0
5.0
Music streaming
best
0.0
5.0

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Lab recordings

Adjust volume to make "No hearing aids" as loud as it would be in the real world, without hearing aids. Remove hearing aids while auditioning. High-quality headphones will improve results!
Autiphon U0 Series Lab

Lab notes

Initial Fitting
Tuned Fitting
Ear Coupling
Initial Fitting
Closed Dome
Tuned Fitting
Closed Dome

Specs

Visible in Ear
Visible in Ear
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable Batteries