Real-Ear Measurement (REM) — Hearing-Aid Fitting Verified in Your Ear
A manufacturer's first-fit screen is an estimate based on an average ear. REM uses a thin probe microphone to measure what the hearing aid is actually delivering close to your eardrum, then helps the audiologist adjust it toward the prescribed target for your hearing.
Why average settings are not enough
Ear-canal size and shape change how amplified sound reaches the eardrum. Two people with similar hearing tests can receive different real-ear output from the same programmed device. REM measures the individual ear instead of assuming it behaves like an average one.
What happens during REM
- The audiologist inspects the ear and positions a thin probe tube safely in the ear canal.
- The hearing aid is worn normally while a calibrated speech-like signal is played.
- The system measures aided output near the eardrum at soft, medium and loud input levels as clinically appropriate.
- The audiologist fine-tunes gain and output toward an evidence-based prescribed target, while also considering comfort and listening goals.
What REM can verify
- Whether important speech sounds are sufficiently audible across frequencies.
- Whether output is below uncomfortable or potentially excessive levels.
- Whether physical changes, a new ear mould or a different receiver have altered the fitting.
- Whether fine-tuning is based on a measured result rather than guesswork alone.
REM is verification, not a hearing test
REM does not diagnose hearing loss and it does not replace audiometry, ear examination or outcome follow-up. It verifies the fitted device after the audiologist has assessed your hearing and selected a suitable prescription.
Frequently asked questions
Does REM hurt?
REM is non-invasive. Most people notice the thin probe tube but do not find the measurement painful. Tell the audiologist immediately if you feel discomfort.
Why can software first-fit be different from REM?
First-fit uses average acoustic assumptions. REM captures the acoustics of your own ear canal and the actual device, receiver, dome or mould being worn.
Should I ask whether my hearing aids were verified?
Yes. A useful question is: ‘Was the hearing-aid output measured in my ear and compared with my prescribed target?’