@rick47 I got an Advanced Bionics CI last Sept. I went with AB because they are owned by same company that owns Phonak, and I've had Phonak aids for 20 years and have been very happy with their technology especially the mics. When I did my research prior to getting the CI I found that all 3 manufacturers now had MMI compatible CI's, but you're correct Rick that you should ask. My left ear was down to 25% comprehension (less than 50% on right) and trying to live an active life with that low level was becoming impossible as well as depressing. Couldn't socialize at all except for 1-on-1 with my Roger mic. I talked to over 30 people with CI's before getting one and everyone's experience is different. I know one woman who was ay 90% comprehension with CI in 3 months. She is 30 and had sudden loss so she was hearing 100% right up to her loss. Because her brain hadn't been deprived of sound for long, i was told that was why she was able to get to 90% so quickly. I've had my Severe/Profound loss for over 20 years. So it is taking me longer. I plug away at training my CI for 2 hours a day so I'm hopeful that I am close to that 90% number by year end. But even at my current % it is an improvement from where I was. Of the people I've talked to with CI's, no one has regretted getting it. Just remember that everyone is different and it won't work unless you train it. Good luck

I know hundreds of cochlear implant recipients who have had success with the implant brand they chose. All three manufacturers have had excellent success. Each keeps getting better.

Each manufacturer has led in different areas at different time. The comment about MRI compatibility was a reality at one time. However, all three brands now have achieved that success. Even in the early years of development, when MRIs were an issue due to the magnets being implanted with the cochlear implant, it was a matter of temporarily removing those magnets to do MRIs. Obviously, a separate minor type of surgery.

I chose Cochlear Americas because of their inclusion and focus on hearing assistive technology that worked with their implants. I have never regretted my choice, and have had excellent service when needed. However, now the other brands are inclusive in those areas as well.

I honestly don't think one can go wrong with any of the three brands. If you poll people who have had CI surgery with success, most will tell you what they have is 'the best'.

There are a few CI surgical centers that only implant one brand, but most will do whichever a patient chooses.

On that note, it's definitely a difficult decision. Most people trust their providers/surgeons and many would like it if those professionals had a preferred brand. Few do. They provide information and ask their patients to decide for themselves.

Good luck with the choice you make.