I hear that in almost every post, but don't understand exactly what that means. While I assume it means that sound is SO different with implants, that recognizing words or sounds without clues is not possible. I have the impression that it a little like learning a new language. If I didn't know what hombre was but was shown a picture when I heard the word, I would eventually associate hombre with man and with time never have to "translate" it.

So exactly what was the change you experienced immediately after implantation? Did speech change to something more electronic? Jerky? off pitch?

The other ear would not have had this, so I also assume reconciling the differences in sound quality is also a challenge.

Help me understand this change better.

Jumping in. I have bilateral CIs, first implant 15 years ago and second 1year ago. I had to go thru the auditory training with both,. My experience with it was/is that it’s not at all difficult. It is tedious. Lots of exercises in which you identify phrases with almost no context. Someone from the forum at HearingTracker.com suggested doing ESL classes online. Found some that are free, it’s a great help. The phrases are at similar levels, but they’re embedded in a story line. Cochlear has a full library of training exercises on an app they call Cochlear CoPilot. Bottom line- it’s not at all hard to do, but I had to poke myself a bit to keep after it because it’s boring.
Also a, a thought about TCoils. I just asked my audio to turn mine on so I could make use of Ponak’s super device, the Roger. To use the Roger mic with my implants, I wear an ordinary neck loop with a receiver on it. It’s great, really versatile ALD. I use the Cochlear mini-mic too, mostly for streaming from my computer or family conversations.
Best wishes on your exploration