Hero Image (optional)

Cearvol Diamond X1 Expert Review

Budget OTCReleased 2024

Our independent lab tested the Cearvol Diamond X1 using standardized measurements on an acoustic manikin. This review presents objective performance data across speech clarity, streaming quality, and feedback control to help you evaluate this budget OTC hearing aid.

Dr. Steve TaddeiDr. Steve Taddei, Au.D.Lab Director & Reviewer
Dr. Abram BaileyDr. Abram Bailey, Au.D.Fact Checker / Editor
How We Test

The Cearvol Diamond X1 is a budget-priced OTC hearing aid released in 2024, earning a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.5/5 in our lab testing. At $199, it ranks #28 of 63 devices in the OTC Hearing Aid category, placing it in the top 43%.

The standout feature of the Diamond X1 is its music streaming performance, scoring a strong 4.1/5—a full 2.17 points above the category average. This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize streaming audio from their iPhone or Android device. Feedback handling is also excellent at 4.5/5, ensuring stable performance without whistling during everyday use.

Speech performance presents a more mixed picture. Speech in quiet scores 2.7/5, which is above the category average but only mixed in absolute terms. Speech in noise scores 1.3/5—while slightly above average for the category, this remains low in absolute terms and may limit effectiveness in challenging listening environments. Own-voice comfort is a notable weakness at 1.7/5, falling 0.79 points below the category average.

The Diamond X1 is best suited for budget-conscious consumers who value music streaming quality and stable feedback control, but who primarily listen in quieter environments. Those who frequently encounter noisy settings or are sensitive to how their own voice sounds may want to consider alternatives in this price range, such as the higher-scoring Elehear Beyond.

Reliable & Repeatable Lab Results

Quality data starts with quality recordings. HearAdvisor worked with GRAS to build a no-compromise front end so every test is repeatable and reliable.

Learn more
Steve in HearAdvisor Lab

Bottom Line

What Our Lab Testing Reveals About the Diamond X1

The verdict below synthesizes measurements across five performance categories into an overall assessment. See how the Cearvol Diamond X1 performed in our standardized testing and where it stands among OTC hearing aids we have evaluated.

HearAdvisor Verdict
BTop 88% of OTC Hearing Aid
Bottom Line

The Cearvol Diamond X1 is a budget-friendly OTC aid with standout music streaming, best for listeners prioritizing audio entertainment over speech clarity.

Strengths
  • Excellent music streaming4.1/5, +2.17 vs category
  • Strong feedback handling4.5/5
  • Budget-friendly at $199 with streaming support
Drawbacks
  • Below-average own voice quality1.7/5
  • Low speech-in-noise performance1.3/5

Fit Conditions

Diamond X1 Performance Across Initial and Tuned Settings

Our lab measured the Cearvol Diamond X1 in both its Initial factory configuration and after Tuned adjustments. Toggle between conditions below to compare how each setting performed in our acoustic manikin tests.

Lab Test Summary

In its initial fit configuration with closed domes, the Cearvol Diamond X1 achieves a normalized Initial Score of 3.4/5. Speech in quiet starts at 2.3/5 and speech in noise at 1.1/5, indicating limited speech benefit out of the box. Music streaming performs strongly at 4.1/5, while feedback handling is excellent at 4.5/5. Own-voice comfort is low at 1.7/5. The initial setup delivers solid streaming and stability but modest speech clarity.

What is HearAdvisor's Initial Fit?

The Initial Fit approximates the most likely settings and eartips for a typical moderate hearing loss. Results are measured across the same 72 acoustic scenes in our custom-built lab, then scored on a 5-star scale using an auditory model.

Performance Metrics

Diamond X1 Scores Across Five Lab Measurements

The score breakdown below reports how the Cearvol Diamond X1 performed on speech in quiet, speech in noise, own voice, music streaming, and feedback control. Each metric reflects standardized acoustic measurements from our independent testing.

Lab Review Scores
B
SoundGrade
Initial Score
3.4
Tuned Score
3.6
Speech in quiet
best
2.3
5.0
Own voice
best
1.7
5.0
Speech in noise
best
1.1
5.0
Feedback handling
best
4.5
5.0
Music streaming
best
4.1
5.0

Loading listening test...

Amplification Analysis

How the Diamond X1 Matches Prescriptive Gain Targets

The insertion gain graph below shows the amplification the Cearvol Diamond X1 provides across frequencies compared to evidence-based prescriptive targets. Closer alignment with the target curve generally indicates more appropriate amplification for the programmed hearing loss.

Graph

Audio Samples

Hear What the Diamond X1 Sounds Like in Our Lab

These recordings capture audio through the Cearvol Diamond X1 as worn by our acoustic manikin. Compare the processed output against the unaided reference to hear how the device affects speech and environmental sounds.

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!
Cearvol Diamond X1 Lab

Test Configuration

How We Tested the Cearvol Diamond X1

The documentation below details the specific settings, app configurations, and measurement conditions used during our evaluation. This transparency allows you to understand exactly how we arrived at the Diamond X1 performance data presented above.

Lab Notes
Initial Fitting
Tuned Fitting
Ear Coupling
Closed Dome
Closed Dome
Specs
Visible in Ear
Visible in Ear
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable Batteries
iPhone Streaming
iPhone Streaming
Android Streaming
Android Streaming
Stay Updated

Subscribe to our newsletter

HearAdvisor will send out a newsletter once a month to share the latest test results and audio files.

By clicking Sign Up you’re confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.