Digital programmable hearing aids use digitized sound processing, or DSP. DSP changes sound waves into digital signals. There is a computer chip in the aid. This chip decides if a sound is noise or speech. It then makes changes to the aid to give you a clear, loud signal.

Digital hearing aids adjust themselves. These types of aids can change sounds to meet your needs.

This type of hearing aid is expensive. But, it can help you in many ways, including easier programming; better fit; keeping sounds from getting too loud; less feedback and less noise.
Some aids can store different programs. This lets you change the settings on your own. There may be a setting for when you are on the phone. Another setting may be for when you are in a noisy place. You can push a button on the aid or use a remote control to change the setting. Your audiologist can program this type of aid again if your hearing changes. They also last longer than other types of aids.