Resound Vivia 9 60S microRIE vs Starkey Omega AI

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.

The Starkey Omega AI is a premium behind-the-ear prescription hearing aid released in 2025, currently available at $3,998. In our lab testing, it earned an A grade with a SoundScore of 4.3/5, placing it at #2 among 36 prescription hearing aids tested—in the top 3% of its category. Speech performance is a clear strength. Speech in quiet scores a strong 4.0/5, sitting 0.57 points above the category average. Speech in noise performs 1.35 points above category average, though at 2.9/5 it remains mixed in absolute terms—better than most competitors but still challenging in demanding listening environments. Music streaming earns a solid 3.2/5, outpacing the category average by 0.56 points. Own-voice comfort scores 2.7/5, essentially matching the category average with a negligible 0.05-point difference below. Feedback handling is excellent at 4.6/5 in absolute terms, though this sits 0.11 points below the category average—reflecting how well prescription aids generally manage feedback rather than any significant weakness. The Omega AI competes in a crowded premium tier alongside devices like the Oticon Intent and Phonak Sphere Infinio, which score higher overall. However, Starkey's latest offering delivers strong speech clarity and above-average streaming quality. It's well-suited for users who prioritize speech understanding and want reliable Bluetooth connectivity with both iPhone and Android devices, along with hands-free calling capability.