EarCentric EX2 vs Signia Pure C&G BCT IX

The EarCentric EX2 is a budget-priced prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid released in 2021, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5 in HearAdvisor's lab testing. At $218, it ranks #33 of 36 prescription hearing aids tested, placing it in the bottom 11% of its category. In our testing, the EX2 showed a significant split in performance. Feedback handling was excellent at 4.7/5, essentially matching the category average and demonstrating stable operation during movement. However, speech performance was notably limited, with both speech in quiet and speech in noise scoring 1.0/5—well below the category averages of 3.32 and 1.96 respectively. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, falling 2.64 points below the prescription category average of 2.64/5. Own-voice comfort scored 2.3/5, a mixed result that sits 0.45 points below the category average. The device uses a rechargeable battery, which adds convenience for daily use. Notably, tuning did not improve performance in our testing—the Initial and Tuned fit scores were identical at 2.7/5. Budget-conscious shoppers in this price range may want to compare alternatives. The RxEars Rxi scored 4.09/5 at a similar price point, while OTC options like the Audien Hearing Atom offer comparable or better sound performance at lower prices. The EX2 may suit users who prioritize feedback stability and rechargeable convenience over speech clarity, but its limited speech performance is a significant tradeoff.

The Signia Pure C&G BCT IX is a premium prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid released in 2025, priced at $3,398. In our lab testing, it earned an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.4/5, placing it in the top 39% of the 36 prescription hearing aids we've tested. This device shows notable strengths in speech clarity and own-voice comfort. Speech in quiet scored 3.8/5, which is 0.47 points above the category average—a solid result for everyday conversations. Speech in noise measured 2.5/5, above the category average by 0.58 points, though only mixed in absolute terms, meaning challenging listening environments may still present difficulty. Own-voice comfort is a standout at 3.8/5, a full 1.05 points above average, suggesting reduced occlusion effects that many wearers find bothersome. Feedback handling scored 4.2/5—strong in absolute terms, though 0.51 points below the category average of 4.71/5. Music streaming at 2.7/5 is essentially on par with category average. The device features rechargeable batteries, iPhone and Android streaming, and hands-free functionality. Consumers shopping in this premium price tier should note that several alternatives offer higher overall scores, including the Phonak Sphere Infinio (5.0/5) and Oticon Intent (4.85/5). For those prioritizing own-voice comfort and solid speech performance in quieter settings, the Pure C&G BCT IX delivers, but buyers seeking top-tier noise performance may want to compare options.