Phonak Sphere Infinio vs Resound Vivia 9 60S microRIE

The Phonak Sphere Infinio is a premium behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid released in 2024, earning an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.6/5 in HearAdvisor's lab testing. Priced at $4,898, it ranks #2 among 36 tested prescription hearing aids, placing it in the top 3% of its category. In our testing, the Sphere Infinio demonstrated exceptional speech performance. Speech in noise scored 4.6/5, a full 3.05 points above the category average of 1.55/5—a standout result that sets this device apart from most competitors. Speech in quiet also excelled at 4.8/5, landing 1.37 points above average. These results suggest the Sphere Infinio may be particularly well-suited for users who prioritize understanding conversation in challenging listening environments like restaurants or group gatherings. Music streaming performance is strong at 4.0/5, sitting 1.36 points above the category average. The device supports both iPhone and Android streaming and features rechargeable batteries. However, own-voice comfort scored 2.3/5, which is mixed in absolute terms and 0.45 points below average. Feedback handling scored a solid 3.6/5 in absolute terms, though this falls 1.11 points below the category average of 4.71/5. The Sphere Infinio competes directly with other premium options like the Oticon Intent (4.75/5) and Signia Active Pro IX (4.61/5). Its exceptional speech-in-noise performance makes it a compelling choice for users who frequently encounter noisy environments, though those sensitive to own-voice quality or feedback stability may want to discuss these tradeoffs with their hearing care provider.

The Resound Vivia 9 60S microRIE is a premium prescription behind-the-ear hearing aid released in 2025, currently available at $3,798. In HearAdvisor lab testing, it earned a B grade with a SoundScore of 3.9/5, ranking #20 among 36 prescription hearing aids tested. This device demonstrates notable strengths in speech clarity during quiet listening situations, scoring 4.0/5—a strong result that sits 0.57 points above the category average. Own-voice comfort is another highlight, measuring 0.65 points above average at 3.4/5, which may appeal to users sensitive to how their own speech sounds while wearing hearing aids. However, the Vivia 9 shows limitations in challenging acoustic environments. Speech-in-noise performance scores just 1.3/5, falling 0.25 points below the category average—a consideration for those frequently in noisy restaurants or social gatherings. Feedback handling, while strong in absolute terms at 4.2/5, measures 0.51 points below what other prescription devices achieve on average. Music streaming performance is mixed at 2.6/5, essentially matching the category norm. The Vivia 9 includes modern conveniences: rechargeable batteries, direct streaming to both iPhone and Android devices, and hands-free calling capability. Buyers seeking top-tier performance in this price range may want to compare alternatives like the Oticon Intent or Phonak Sphere Infinio, which scored notably higher in our testing. The Vivia 9 is best suited for users who prioritize clear speech in quieter settings and natural own-voice perception over challenging noise performance.