The T-mic on one of my Naida processors was cutting out and while waiting for a new one to be delivered I used one of my programs that has either only processor mic or only headpiece mic. I have used the T-mic since it first came out and have had rare occasions when I needed to use one of the other microphones. I was surprised to discover again what a difference the location of the microphone makes.

With the proper fit, the T-mic sits right in front of the ear canal using the natural shape of the ear to capture sound. The processor mic is on the top of the Naida processor placing it at the top of the ear, close to the head. The headpiece mic is in the headpiece so the microphone will be wherever the headpiece location is on each individual. In my case it is above my ears about one inch.

I am bilateral, so I only had to adjust programs on one side to use a different microphone and therefore was also listening to find the best balance with T-mic working on one side and processor or headpiece mic on the other. Spending a couple of days without one T-mic and traveling I really discovered how each microphone affects the delivery of sound.

First I tried my program with the processor mic. Immediately I noticed that the sound lacked the definition I am used to. It seemed muffled and it felt like I was not getting as much sound. I then switched to my headpiece mic and was much more satisfied. I quickly adjusted to having the headpiece mic on one side and keeping the working T-mic on the other.

Being able to experience these changes in the real world versus the audiologists office where the environmental noise is limited gave me the opportunity to assess and really discover what a difference the location of the microphone makes. It is comforting to know that the headpiece mic will serve me well if and when a T-mic goes out and needs replacing.  Hearing the differences, I was also reminded that there is an optimal position for a microphone and that is in front of the ear canal.

Within two days my new T-mic was delivered. I quickly installed it and was relieved to have the sound back that I am used to. These couple of days served as a reminder to me how lucky I am to have this wonderful technology to give me optimal sound plus backup options when needed.