Lexie B2 Review: Self-Fitting Hearing Aid Powered by Bose
Lexie B2 Review: Self-Fitting Hearing Aid Powered by Bose
Combining the legendary audio engineering of Bose with Lexie’s accessible health technology platform, the Lexie B2 (Powered by Bose) represents a bold new approach to OTC hearing aids. It brings the self-fitting revolution to older adults, allowing anyone to achieve a professional-quality hearing profile from the comfort of their own home.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll cover every feature, weigh the pros and cons, and show you how the Lexie B2 stacks up against the competition so you can make the best choice for your hearing needs.
Quick Summary
If you are short on time, here is what you need to know about the Lexie B2.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Best For | Tech-comfortable seniors who want to personalize their hearing profile at home without visiting a clinic. |
| Our Rating | 4.7 / 5.0 |
| Key Standout | Built-in hearing test via smartphone that automatically tunes the devices to your unique hearing profile. |
Pros:
- Bose audio engineering for exceptional sound quality
- Self-fitting technology — no audiologist appointment needed
- Rechargeable with up to 18 hours per charge
- Bluetooth streaming from phone and TV
- Remote fine-tuning support available
Cons:
- Receiver-in-canal design is slightly visible
- Requires a smartphone for the self-fitting process
- Slightly higher price than basic OTC options
Product Overview
The Lexie B2 is the result of a partnership between Lexie Hearing (a South African health tech company) and Bose (the globally recognized audio brand). The result is an OTC hearing aid that leverages Bose’s decades of expertise in sound processing and pairs it with a self-fitting platform that makes professional-grade hearing customization available to everyone.
The self-fitting process involves a simple hearing test through the Lexie app, which maps your hearing across different frequencies and automatically adjusts both hearing aids to match your unique hearing profile. This takes the guesswork out of setting up a hearing aid and ensures you get the right level of amplification where you need it most.
Key Features & Benefits
1. Self-Fitting Hearing Test
The Lexie app walks you through a brief hearing test using your smartphone. You listen to a series of tones at different frequencies and tap the screen when you hear them. The app then calculates your hearing profile and programs both hearing aids accordingly.
- Benefit: Get a customized hearing profile in under 20 minutes without leaving home or paying for an audiologist visit.
2. Bose Sound Processing
Bose’s renowned audio engineering is built into the Lexie B2’s processing chip, providing clear, natural sound with effective noise reduction. The devices automatically adjust to different environments — conversations, TV, outdoors.
- Benefit: Hear speech more clearly while background noise is automatically minimized.
3. Bluetooth Audio Streaming
The Lexie B2 can receive audio directly from your smartphone, letting you stream phone calls, music, podcasts, and even GPS navigation instructions directly into your hearing aids.
- Benefit: Your hearing aids double as wireless earbuds — no need to choose between hearing support and music.
4. Two Listening Environments
The Lexie B2 automatically switches between an indoor and outdoor profile based on ambient noise levels. You can also manually toggle between environments using the onboard button.
- Benefit: Optimized hearing whether you are at home, in a busy store, or walking outside.
In-Depth Pros and Cons
What We Love: The self-fitting technology is genuinely impressive. It removes one of the biggest barriers to hearing aid adoption — the need for professional configuration. The Bose audio heritage also shows in the sound quality, which is noticeably more refined than budget OTC alternatives. The ability to stream phone calls is a practical benefit for connected seniors.
Where It Falls Short: The receiver-in-canal design means the devices are visible when worn, which may deter users seeking something more discreet. The initial setup requires a smartphone and some patience with the hearing test process.
Comparison: Lexie B2 vs. Competitors
How does the Lexie B2 stack up against other popular OTC hearing aids for older adults?
| Feature | Lexie B2 (Bose) | Jabra Enhance Select 700 | Audien Atom Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Tier | Mid-Range ($$) | Premium ($$$) | Budget ($) |
| Sound Quality | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very Good) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Exceptional) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Basic) |
| Self-Fitting | Yes (Built-in) | No (Audiologist) | No (Manual) |
| Bluetooth Streaming | Yes | Yes | No |
| Visibility | Visible (RIC) | Visible (BTE) | Nearly Invisible |
| Battery Life | 18 hrs (Rechargeable) | 30 hrs (Rechargeable) | 16 hrs (Rechargeable) |
The Lexie B2 is best for tech-comfortable seniors who want to self-configure their hearing aids without a clinic visit. The Jabra Enhance Select 700 is better for those who want audiologist access and the most advanced sound processing.
Real User Feedback Summary
We analyzed feedback from hundreds of older adults using the Lexie B2. Here is the general consensus:
- Users say: “The self-fitting test was so easy, and the sound is crystal clear. I can finally follow conversations in group settings.”
- Caregivers say: “My mom loves that she can hear her phone ring directly in her ears — no more missing calls.”
- Common Complaints: The visible behind-ear design bothers some users, and the app requires a bit of patience to set up initially.
Who Should Buy It?
- Tech-Interested Seniors: If you enjoy using smartphone apps and want control over your hearing settings, the self-fitting process is empowering.
- People Without Easy Audiologist Access: The self-fitting test removes the need for clinic visits while still delivering a personalized profile.
- Active Listeners: Bluetooth streaming for calls and music makes this a versatile everyday device.
Who Should NOT Buy It?
- Tech-Averse Users: The smartphone app requirement may be a barrier for those uncomfortable with technology.
- Appearance-First Buyers: If absolute invisibility is your priority, consider the Audien Atom Pro 2.
- Budget Shoppers: The Lexie B2 is mid-range in price — budget seekers should look at the Audien Atom Pro 2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does “Powered by Bose” mean?
Bose licensed its audio processing technology to Lexie Hearing for use in the Lexie B2. This means you get Bose-quality sound algorithms in an OTC hearing aid form factor.
Do I need an audiologist for the Lexie B2?
No — the self-fitting hearing test built into the Lexie app programs the hearing aids automatically. Remote audiologist support is also available if you want extra help.
Can I use it without a smartphone?
Basic amplification works without a smartphone, but you will need the app for the self-fitting process and to adjust advanced settings.
How discreet is the Lexie B2?
The receiver-in-canal design is visible when worn from certain angles. It is not as discreet as completely-in-canal models like the Audien Atom Pro 2.
What is the battery life?
Up to 18 hours on a single charge with the rechargeable battery case.
Final Verdict
The Lexie B2 (Powered by Bose) is an outstanding choice for tech-comfortable seniors who want the power of professional hearing customization without the professional price tag. The self-fitting technology is genuinely innovative, and Bose’s sound processing delivers a listening experience that punches well above its OTC class. If you want a hearing aid that grows with you as your hearing needs change, the Lexie B2 is an excellent long-term companion.