@barbb, ABSOLUTELY! The audiologist should disclose the differences between the different models. We all want the best chance at hearing like we used to. The biggest difference between low end and high end aids is the amount of background noise cancellation. Since this happens in real time, the processor has to be fast. The more expensive aids claim to give the best possible background noise cancellation. We will be able to hear better in background noise but it is not like what the audiologist may lead us to believe. I don't know anyone with a hearing aid that doesn't complain about hearing with background noise. I do not remember what it was like to have moderate hearing loss. I am in the severe to profound range. I've ALWAYS struggled with understanding in noise. I only hope there were other features that @tarheel desired that warranted a high end aid right off the bat. Wouldn't it be nice if an audiologist would give us 3 pair of aids to take home, all programmed the same, but at each level of technology (low, medium, and high cost)? I would bet that most, if not all, would not be able to tell the difference and walk out paying for the lower cost models.
Tony in Michigan