Unfavourable review of Zeal, by D (Product tester)

29 June 2026

Physical Feel

On the plus side, I very much liked the form factor for lack of clutter behind my ears (which is a major annoyance for me). To be able to put on and remove glasses and hats without fear of dropping my hearing aids was great. Also, I found the in-ear fitting style perfectly comfortable, with no noticeable occlusion. I also found that I got virtually no extraneous microphone noise in windy conditions, unlike with my Phonak BTE/RICs.

The tap feature for volume control was also good, with no accidental changes.

I remain unconvinced however by the AI feature in the General program. I could hear more than with my Phonaks (Paradise), but in restaurants, for example, background clatter and conversations from other tables (and the kitchen) were also boosted. The Directional program you set up for me was better for that scenario.

Playing an Instrument

As I mentioned previously, I am not keen on the Oticon My Music program. I found that it sounded a little harsh when listening to ensemble/group music, which might have been tweakable with equalisation. However, the real problem for me was with solo performances, particularly of guitar, where over a range of notes I could hear a tremolo effect that I would find hard to ignore. As I play the guitar on my own quite a bit, that would not be acceptable.

I also unfortunately found it impossible to add a Custom Music program (with feedback management disabled) without excessive feedback, even using the additional alternative fitting program you set up for me at Pudsey.

I considered whether an Oticon Connect Clip remote mic could be used to put some distance between the mic and the receivers to avoid feedback… but this would be a complicated setup using the Connect Clip for an unintended purpose, at additional expense, and adding another item to carry around and keep charged. So, I dismissed that idea.

Summary

Those were the main points I wanted to mention. Being unable to create a Custom music program without Feedback Management is the major factor deterring me from getting some Zeals, though I’m also not keen on the bulky case and the reliance on the ‘phone app for Program changes. The Zeals are also very expensive, so would have to fulfil all my requirements to consider them. I wouldn’t be happy for instance to carry my Phonaks around as well, in case I need them for music.

You may have guessed that I am not an “Early Adopter” type of person. I like to let other people find all the problems, so that is another factor deterring me from taking the plunge.

At the moment I would prefer to continue with my Phonak Aids and Custom music program, and see whether other products, more suitable for me, emerge in response to the Zeals.

Thanks for letting me try the Zeals…..

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