HSKLock Hearing Aid Hero

HSKLock Hearing Aid Expert Review

Budget AmplifierReleased 2022

Our lab tested the HSKLock Hearing Aid using standardized measurements on an acoustic manikin to evaluate amplification accuracy, speech clarity, and feedback control. This independent review presents objective performance data for this budget behind-the-ear amplifier.

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

The HSKLock Hearing Aid is a budget amplification product priced at $69, earning a C grade with a SoundScore of 2.8/5 in our lab testing. This behind-the-ear device uses disposable batteries and represents an entry-level option in the amplifier category.

In our standardized testing, the HSKLock showed a mixed performance profile. Its standout strength is excellent feedback handling, scoring 5.0/5—well above the category average by +0.72 points. This means users are unlikely to experience whistling or squealing during normal use. Own-voice comfort scored 2.8/5, slightly above the category average by +0.16 points, though still mixed in absolute terms.

However, the device shows notable limitations in other areas. Speech in quiet scored 2.0/5, slightly below the category average. Speech in noise performance is low at 0.1/5, falling -0.70 points below the category average—a significant limitation for conversations in challenging environments. Music streaming capability is absent, scoring 0.0/5, which is -1.16 points below the category average.

The HSKLock ranks #7 of 8 tested amplification products. At this price point, it may suit users seeking basic amplification for quiet settings who prioritize feedback-free operation over speech clarity in noise or streaming features. Those needing better performance in noisy environments should consider alternatives in this category.

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

HSKLock Hearing Aid Independent Lab Verdict

Our overall assessment weighs the HSKLock's measured performance across five laboratory metrics, comparing results against category benchmarks. The verdict below summarizes where this budget amplifier excels and where it falls short.

HearAdvisor Verdict
CTop 100% of Amplification Product
Bottom Line

The HSKLock Hearing Aid is a budget amplifier with excellent feedback handling, best for users prioritizing low cost over sound clarity.

Strengths
  • Excellent feedback handling5.0/5
  • Very low price point at $69
  • Own voice slightly above category average
Drawbacks
  • Low speech in noise performance0.1/5
  • No music streaming capability0.0/5
  • Mixed speech in quiet2.0/5

Test Conditions

HSKLock Fit Configuration Results

We evaluated the HSKLock in both Initial and Tuned fit conditions to measure how the device performs out of the box and after adjustment. Select each fit below to see the corresponding measurement summary.

Lab Test Summary

In initial fit testing with closed dome coupling, the HSKLock achieved a normalized score of 2.8/5. Speech in quiet measured 2.0/5, a mixed result near the category average. Speech in noise was low at 0.1/5, below the category average by -0.70 points. The device excelled in feedback handling at 5.0/5, significantly above average. Own-voice comfort scored 2.8/5, slightly above the category average. Music streaming scored 0.0/5, indicating no streaming capability was detected in our protocol.

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.

Metric Breakdown

HSKLock Performance Across Five Lab Metrics

Our testing protocol measures speech in quiet, speech in noise, own-voice comfort, feedback control, and music streaming capability. The score card below displays the HSKLock's results for each metric on a standardized five-point scale.

Lab Review Scores
C
SoundGrade
Initial Score
2.8
Tuned Score
2.8
Speech in quiet
best
2.0
5.0
Own voice
best
2.8
5.0
Speech in noise
best
0.1
5.0
Feedback handling
best
5.0
5.0
Music streaming
best
0.0
5.0

Amplification Curve

HSKLock Insertion Gain Measurements

Insertion gain shows how much amplification the HSKLock provides at each frequency compared to prescribed targets. The graph below plots measured output against the fitting formula to reveal how closely this amplifier matches recommended amplification levels.

Graph

Audio Samples

HSKLock Manikin-Recorded Sound Demonstrations

We captured audio through the HSKLock using a standardized acoustic manikin in controlled conditions. Listen to the recordings below and compare them against the unaided reference to hear how this amplifier processes 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!
HSKLock Hearing Aid Lab

Test Documentation

HSKLock Laboratory Configuration Details

Our technicians documented the specific settings, equipment, and procedures used during HSKLock testing. The notes below provide transparency into how we configured this behind-the-ear device for measurement.

Lab Notes
Initial Fitting
Tuned Fitting
Ear Coupling
Closed Dome
Closed Dome
Specs
Behind Ear
Behind Ear
Disposable Batteries
Disposable Batteries
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