EarCentric EX2 vs Starkey Edge AI RIC

The EarCentric EX2 is a behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid priced at $218, positioning it as a budget-friendly option in the prescription category. In HearAdvisor's lab testing, it earned a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.7/5, ranking #35 of 39 prescription hearing aids tested. This 2021 release demonstrates mixed performance across key metrics. Its standout strength is feedback handling, scoring an excellent 4.7/5—essentially matching the category average and indicating reliable stability during movement. However, speech performance is a significant weakness: speech in quiet scores just 1.0/5 (2.40 points below the category average of 3.40), and speech in noise scores 1.0/5 (1.11 points below average). These low absolute scores suggest limited audibility enhancement in our standardized test conditions. Own-voice comfort scores 2.3/5, which is mixed in absolute terms and 0.40 points below the category average. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, indicating this device is not suited for audio entertainment purposes. The EarCentric EX2 may appeal to budget-conscious consumers who prioritize cost over performance, but alternatives exist at similar or lower price points with stronger test results. The RxEars Rxi, available in the same price range, scored 4.07/5 in our testing. Consumers seeking entry-level amplification should weigh the significant speech clarity limitations against the low purchase price.

The Starkey Edge AI RIC is a premium prescription hearing aid released in 2024, priced at $5,000 and earning an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.3/5 in our lab testing. This behind-the-ear device ranks #20 of 39 prescription hearing aids tested, placing it in the top 49% of its category. In our testing, the Edge AI RIC demonstrates notable strengths in speech clarity and music streaming. Speech in quiet scores a strong 4.1/5, measuring +0.68 points above the category average. Music streaming stands out at 3.8/5, a solid score that sits +1.04 points above what we typically see in prescription devices—making it a compelling choice for users who value phone audio quality. Speech in noise scores 2.6/5, which is above the category average by +0.54 points but remains mixed in absolute terms. Feedback handling is excellent at 4.7/5, though this sits just below the category average of 4.72/5. Own-voice comfort scores 2.8/5, slightly above average but mixed overall—something to consider if own-voice naturalness is a priority. The device showed meaningful improvement from tuning: the normalized Initial Score of 4.2/5 rose to 4.7/5 after professional fitting, a +0.5 point gain. As a 2024 Expert's Choice Award winner, the Edge AI RIC offers strong everyday speech performance and standout streaming capabilities. However, buyers in this premium price tier should note that several competitors—including the Phonak Sphere Infinio and Oticon Intent—achieve higher overall scores. The Edge AI RIC is best suited for users who prioritize music streaming quality and strong speech clarity in quieter environments.