Comparison of two bone anchored hearing instruments: BP100 and Ponto Pro

Objective: This study aimed at investigating if there were differences in auditory performance, operation, or user preference between the Ponto Pro or the BP100, two bone anchored hearing instruments (BAHI) with modern sound processing technology. Design: Subjects wore the devices in daily life in a crossover study for periods ranging from 25 to 63 days. A speech-in-noise test was carried out as well as measures of noise reduction and feedback suppression algorithms. User satisfaction was reported using the NSH and the GHABP questionnaires. At the end of the test, subjects selected one of the devices for permanent use. Study sample: Twelve first-time users of BAHIs. Results: Eight subjects selected the Ponto Pro; four selected the BP100. The Ponto Pro was rated as easier to operate than the BP100, the visual appearance of the Ponto Pro was rated as nicer than that of the BP100, and speech understanding was rated higher with the Ponto Pro than with the BP100. Speech-in-noise tests showed improvements using directional microphones with the Ponto Pro. Conclusions: 67% of the subjects opted for permanent use of the Ponto Pro, which, compared to the BP100, was rated to have a nicer look, to be easier to operate, and to yield better speech intelligibility.