Westone Earpiece Guide 2022

EARPIECE GUIDE

STYLES | MATERIALS | COLORS | westone.com

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Table of Contents About Westone Orders & Remakes

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Ear Anatomy Impressions

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Earpiece Materials, Tips & Guidelines Acrylic Materials & Colors Silicone Materials & Colors Vinyl Materials & Colors

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Earpiece Venting Guide

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Hearing Instrument Earpieces Receiver-in-Canal Earpieces Slim Tube Earpieces Occupational & Communications Earpieces DefendEar® Lifestyle Earpieces DefendEar® Industrial Hearing Protection Digital Hearing Protection Swimming & Watersports Hearing Protection Retubing Guide

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Ordering Phone:

Local: 719.540.9333 Toll Free: 800.525.5071

Fax:

719.527.3982

Online: westone.com/store

Customer Service

Email:

CustomerService@westone.com

Phone:

Local: 719.540.9333 Toll Free: 800.525.5071 Westone Laboratories, Inc. P.O. Box 15100 Colorado Springs, CO 80935 Physical Address: Westone Laboratories, Inc. 2235 Executive Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80906

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About Westone

Morgan family home, circa 1959

Our Story

Ron and Mickey Morgan founded Westone Laboratories in their home back in 1959. Ron was a hearing-aid sale representative and quickly recognized that the earpieces available at the time were not the quality genuinely needed to satisfy the needs of his customers.

That’s when Ron and Mickey began producing custom-fit products in their family home in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Soon, the demand for quality Westone earpieces began to grow.

Today, Westone is committed to providing our customers and their clients the quality products they need to protect, enhance, and enjoy their hearing. We offer an incredible range of products, including custom-fit earpieces, hearingprotection devices, impression materials and tools, audiology supply products, and consumer products. These products are all designed to make a difference in the lives of the people who use them.

What We Do

Westone is known worldwide for providing quality products and services that allow people to protect, enhance, and enjoy the hearing experience. We take great pride in the fact that our products, services, and innovations contribute to the success of hearing healthcare professionals in their practices and bring true value to end customers in support of their hearing healthcare needs.

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Protect, Enhance, and Enjoy Hearing

This is exactly what we do here at Westone. The company’s goal has always been, still is, and always will be to improve the quality of life and the hearing experience of all the people that use the products we offer.

Westone Quality Policy Westone is committed to providing quality products and services that improve people’s hearing experience, contribute to the effectiveness of hearing healthcare professionals, and support innovation in the hearing healthcare industry.

Westone’s quality policy meets or exceeds our customer’s needs, continuously improves our processes, and complies with applicable regulatory requirements.

Everyone at Westone shares the responsibility for quality and quality improvement. The Golden Rule and friendly, efficient service are the cornerstones of our business philosophy.

Earpiece Orders and Remake Policy Earpiece Orders

An in-house “Rush Service” is available for an additional fee. Standard shipping is always FREE via First Class Mail® unless another shipping method is chosen. Westone will supply First Class mailing boxes and shipping labels for your use, free of charge.

Please Note: Our Postage paid labels are for mailing earpiece orders only. Please do not use these labels unless shipping an earpiece order in a standard Westone shipping box.

If you need an order faster than First Class Mail, expedited shipping services are available through FedEx®, UPS®, or Priority Mail®. These services are offered at discounted rates available to Westone.

If sending us impressions via FedEx®, UPS®, or Priority Mail®, please specify on the order form the return shipping method for the finished product. If no method is specified, Westone will return the order using the same method that we received it, and charge the account accordingly.

Credit Terms and Policies

Credit will be evaluated after submission of a Westone credit application. Please call us or email us to request a credit application.

Call Toll Free: 1-800-525-5071 email: customerservice@westone.com Westone assigns a credit limit to each customer. All balances reflected on the monthly statement are due within 30 days of the invoice date.

Accounts that are past due or that exceed the credit limit may be placed on hold, and credit terms may be changed to a prepaid basis or suspended. Past due accounts may also be placed with a collection agency.

Please Note: Westone Laboratories, Inc. does not accept liability arising out of the use, the misuse or inability to use any accessory, tool, or product described herein, or any accessory, tool, or product subsequently offered for sale by Westone Laboratories, Inc. The user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection with these tools.

Earpiece Remake Policy

Westone will remake any custom-fit earpiece within 90 days of the invoice date for FREE when:

- Westone has made an error when manufacturing the custom-fit product - The earpiece feedbacks or does not fit properly - However, when a change in color, earpiece style, or material change is requested, the fee is $9.00 per earpiece, $18.00 per pair.

- The bench fee for any modifications is $5.50 per earpiece, $11.00 per pair.

Please Note: Slim-Tube, Open-Fit, IROS, CROS, Free Field, Non-Occluding, and open style custom-fit earpieces are not guaranteed against feedback.

Westone will not remake a custom-fit earpiece for free under the following circumstances:

- When the wrong style of custom-fit earpiece is ordered - When incorrect information is on the order form - When feedback or fit problems arise after 90 days of the original invoice date - If the custom-fit earpiece is lost or misused by the patient - When the custom-fit earpiece is lost in the mail - A new style of custom-fit earpiece is needed because of a change in hearing instrument - When the decision is made to fit the opposite ear with the hearing instrument - When the custom-fit earpiece is damaged because the tubing is pulled out, resulting in tears or other damage - Custom-fit earpieces are not guaranteed against occlusion - The ordered vent size is incorrect, and a new vent size is selected - The patient decides to change the color of the custom-fit earpiece Please Note: Shipping charges will apply to all remakes.

Custom-fit earpieces are not returnable/refundable due to hygiene and health concerns.

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The Ear and the Earpiece According to Westone When discussing the anatomical landmarks of the ear and the earpiece, it helps if the hearing healthcare provider and laboratory manufacturing the custom-fit product use the same terminology.

Here are the most commonaly used terms that describe the anatomical features of the ear as well illustrations showing these features highlighted on an ear as well as a earpiece. We hope these illustrations and definitions are useful when communicating with us about a patients custom-fit earpiece.

Antihelix A ridge of cartilage that is part of the pinna, just above the crus that the earpiece fits under

Ear Anatomy

Aperture The opening of the ear canal

The anatomical landmarks described here are of primary importance to the hearing healthcare provider. Several of these hold special significance for the creation of a proper fitting custom-fit earpiece.

Antihelix Helix lock

Auricle or Pinna The external ear Concha The bowl-shaped cavity just outside of the opening of the ear canal

Tube

Crus (ear) Valley (earpiece) The horizontal piece of cartilage located outside the ear canal that divides the upper and lower parts of the ear

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Helix lock

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Antihelix

Helix extension

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Valley

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Canal

l Concha l l

Crus

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Concha

Canal

Antitragus

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Heel

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l

Heel

Tube

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Helix lock

l l l

Canal Aperture

Valley

Antihelix

l

l

Heel

Concha

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Ear Canal The 2 to 3 cm long external auditory meatus, consisting of an outer cartilaginous portion and a inner bony portion Heel The intertragal notch located at the bottom of the concha bowl

Tragus

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l l

Antitragus

Antitragus A ridge of cartilage opposite and slightly below the tragus

Helix Lock (curl) A recessed “crevice” at the upper part of the ear, just above the valley Helix Extension (not including lock) An extension up to but not including the Helix lock

Antitragus

Tragus A small ridge in front of the external opening of the ear canal Long Canal

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Canal Length At Westone, we use the anatomical features of each individual ear to describe canal length. Short canals are defined by the center of the first bend of the ear canal, while long canals are centered at the second bend. Using this as the basis for canal length, a medium canal would be cut halfway between the 1st bend and the 2nd bend of the ear, while a medium long canal would be cut halfway between a medium and long canal.

Medium/Long Medium Canal Short Canal

Aperture

Retention

About Impressions The ear impression is the blueprint from which any custom-fit product will be produced, so the finished product can only be as good as the impression. Any deficiencies in the impression will greatly affect the patient’s satisfaction and use of the finished earpiece.

The impression materials listed here are formulated by Westone to be the finest available to our industry. When used according to proper practices and procedures, our material will help you provide the best impressions possible for your patients.

What Makes a GREAT Impression

For years, we’ve made what our customers regard as the finest silicone ear impression material on the market. Today our material is formulated to reveal every detail and feature of the ear, and provide the best possible blueprint for any of our custom-fit products. They’re still pink, and as always, the best impression material money can buy.

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1. Ensure that the the concha is full and has no voids 2. Ensure that the canal length is at or past the second bend 3. Ensure that the helix is complete and features no voids 4. Ensure that the tragus has been completely covered 5. Ensure that there are no shiny areas* on the impression (*Shiny spots on the impression indicate areas where impression material did not come into contact with the ear.)

Please Note: Avoid remakes and order delays by making the best impressions possible. Impressions that are deficient in critical areas will require a new impression to be submitted before your order can be processed.

Impression Materials

Numerous tools and techniques have been used throughout the years to make impressions of the human ear. Recent advances in materials and procedures have led to the most consistent, dimensionally stable, and easy-to-use impression materials and delivery systems to date. Even so, only strict attention to the manufacturer’s instructions will ensure the best impressions possible.

There are three primary families of impression material available: two-part vinyl polysiloxane, addition-cure silicone, and methyl methacrylate polymer and monomer (powder and liquid).

Vinyl Polysiloxane

Otherwise known as Westone’s “pink stuff,” the latest advancement in impression material is available as individual portion packs, in specially formulated cartridges, or in bulk containers. Vinyl polysiloxane is the most popular impression material in use today.

Westone offers several different vinyl polysiloxane products to meet your needs: Silicone Singles®are available as pre-measured units, making them extremely easy and convenient to use.

SiliClone®, SiliClone FIRM, and SiliClone X-act cartridges are conveniently packaged for use with manual or electric impression guns. When propelled through the special mixing tip, the two-part material is automatically mixed to the proper consistency.

Silicast® is a two-part material packaged in bulk containers. Accurate measurement of the material is ensured by using the two different color-specific scoops provided.

Addition-Cure Silicone

Blue Silicast® is a base and catalyst material that consists of a base putty and a tube of hardener. A scoop is provided for easy measuring. Blue Silicast can be mixed either by “Spleading” (recommended, see page 8) or by hand. As with any impression material, it is very important not to deviate from the manufacturer’s instructions.

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About Impressions

Oto-Dams

All oto-dams work on the same basic principle. An oto-dam is manufactured to a specific diameter from a material that has an inherent resistance to reduction in diameter. As the oto-dam is placed in an ear, it is compressed by the canal walls. The resistance of the oto-dam to this compression, or what is called “radial pressure,” holds the otodam in place against the force of the impression material. The two types of oto-dams in common use today are vented and non-vented.

Vented Oto-Dams

With any conventional oto-dam (foam or cotton), once the impression material has made full contact with the ear canal wall, any air trapped behind the dam is forced to compress against the eardrum. This sensation of ear “fullness” can range from minimal to significant discomfort. A vented foam oto-dam allows for the equalization of air pressure within the ear during the impression making, curing, and removal process, which can significantly reduce discomfort.

Non-vented Foam Oto-Dams

Non-vented foam oto-dams are available in a wide variety of sizes and are soft, comfortable, and easy to use. Size selection is the most common challenge in using a foam oto-dam.

Be sure to choose the appropriate size for your patient, using visual inspection to ensure that it fits snugly in the ear canal.

Non-vented Cotton Oto-Dams

Non-vented cotton oto-dams are soft, comfortable, and function well. However, because of the manufacturing process, many cotton otodams are supplied as hard, compressed wads, so be sure to fluff the cotton oto-dam before use.

The softer, more pliable the oto-dam, the more effectively and comfortably it will seal off the ear canal.

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Impression Syringes

Historically, the syringe method has been used to take impressions of the human ear, offering clean, quick, and precise control of the impression material as it enters the patient’s ear. Syringes are available in several designs to work with specific impression materials.

Impression Guns

Manual or electric impression guns effectively eliminate the guesswork associated with the mixing of materials by using dual-chamber cartridges and special mixing tips. The precise amounts of “A” and “B” components, propelled through the tip, ensure proper mixing prior to delivery into the ear.

Earlites

Earlites help to properly place oto-dams in the right spot by shining light into the ear canal. It’s important to place the oto-dams correctly to avoid damge to the inner workings of the ear.

Otoscopic Examination

Before making an impression, the patient’s ear must be thoroughly examined to determine if it is acceptable for the impression process. The exam not only gives an overall view of the health of the ear, but it can also reveal concerns or contraindications to impression making such as: • Impacted cerumen (earwax) • Fluid discharge • Bony growths (exostosis) • Inflammatory conditions • Prolapsed canal • Perforated eardrum • Foreign objects • Enlarged canal • Thick hair growth • Cauliflower ear • Swimmer’s ear • Surgical ear • Foreign objects • Enlarged canal

About Impressions

Earlite Use

The earlite serves as an aid in oto-dam placement.

When using earlites and otoscopes, it is always important to hold the tool properly and to use the proper bracing technique.

Oto-Dam Placement

Proper oto-dam placement is critical to ensuring the safety of your patient and ensuring a successful ear impression. The primary acoustic seal is established in the ear canal and is complicated by the fact that the ear canal actually changes dimension whenever the jaw moves.

Use the otoscopic examination to gauge the size of the oto-dam you will use for your patient. An oto-dam with too small a diameter allows the impression material to flow beyond the oto-dam and impinge on the eardrum. An oto-dam with too large a diameter prevents proper placement in the ear canal at the depth required for a good impression. It can also cause discomfort for your patient. Apply Oto-Ease® lubricant to the oto-dam to make insertion easier and more comfortable.

If the size you have chosen for the oto-dam does not seal the ear canal, remove it and try a different size. Once you have selected the proper size, use the tip of the earlite to place the oto-dam into the ear canal and to make any slight adjustments. Use the otoscope to verify that the oto-dam is placed properly in the ear canal, checking to see that it is in full contact with the entire canal wall.

Open vs Closed Jaw Impressions

There has been much debate regarding open versus closed jaw impression techniques. Bite block/ open jaw impressions should be taken for hearing protection products, musicians’ products, and whenever acoustic feedback is the primary concern.

Impressing the Ear

Using the proper bracing technique, place the end of the mixing tip or syringe approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) inside the ear canal opening. Gently begin to express the impression material into the ear canal, allowing the material to flow back over the syringe or mixing tip. Once the material starts to flow past the tip, start backing the tip out of the ear canal. It is critical that you fill all the landmarks in the ear. For instance, fill the concha bowl, move up into the antihelix crevice, and then follow the contour of the ear, finishing at the center of the concha.

After about 3 to 5 minutes, check to see if the impression has cured. Press an earlite tip gently into the material to see if an indentation remains.

If there is no indentation and the material is not tacky, the impression is cured. It is then safe to remove.

Removing the Impression

The removal string or vent tube of the oto-dam should not be used to aid in removal of the impression. Instead, gently pull the patient’s pinna up and back to break the seal. Remove the impression from the antihelix area and gently rotate forward and out. Should the oto-dam remain in the ear canal, the removal string or vent tube can be used to remove it.

Please Note: Proper bracing of the tools being used is of paramount importance to the safety of the patient.

During the impression process, some patients may experience a cough or gag reflex. This is a normal response due to stimulation of the vagus nerve. To avoid injury, always brace your hand to the patient’s head by using your little finger. This will keep the tool in the same relative location to the ear in the event the patient coughs, jerks or moves suddenly.

Examine the ear for any material remaining from the impression process. Some slight redness may be evident and is normal. In the rare case that any impression material remains and cannot be easily removed, refer the patient to the appropriate medical authority for treatment.

Important: Prior to sending the patient home, inspect the impression to make sure that the necessary canal length and all anatomical landmarks are present.

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About Impressions

Mixing Impression Material

To use the “Spleading” technique, fill the scoop with impression material. Flatten the impression material onto the SPLEAD pad and add the catalyst.

Thoroughly mix the material until it’s uniform in color. Once the two components come into contact with one another, the curing process has begun.

Work as quickly as possible to mix the material, load the syringe, and make the impression.

To mix by hand, thoroughly wash your hands and then fill the scoop with the recommended amount of impression material. Flatten the impression material in the palm of your hand and add catalyst.

Mix the material for 20 to 30 seconds or until the material is a uniform color. While it may be tempting to speed up the cure of the impression material by using a little extra catalyst, the minute that may be saved in cure time is not worth the risk of a possible ill-fitting earpiece. Remember that once the two components have come into contact with one another, the curing process has begun.

Work as quickly as possible to mix the material, load the syringe, and make the impression.

Once the impression has cured, it is dimensionally stable. Place the impression in the mailing box along with the order form and ship.

How to SPLEAD

“Spleading” is a technique for mixing ear impression materials that reduces the chance of contamination. We’ve found that products containing sulfur—often found in latex gloves and hand lotions— can react with vinyl polysiloxane impression materials, preventing proper setup. “Spleading” is recommended for Silicone Singles® and other silicone materials. All you need is a Westone SPLEAD pad, metal spatula, silicone syringe, and Westone impression material.

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Easy Steps for Spleading Place equal amounts of Part “A” and Part “B” impression material on the SPLEAD pad.

Mix the two materials together by blending them with the spatula.

Don’t touch the materials with your hands! Continue mixing until the material is a uniform color.

To load the silicone syringe, remove the plunger and place the chamber of the syringe on the SPLEAD pad at a slight angle. Using the syringe chamber like a cookie cutter, press down on the material, progressively scooping up the material until all of it is loaded into the syringe.

Put the plunger back into the syringe to complete the loading process. Tear off and discard the used sheet of the SPLEAD pad before mixing material for the next impression.

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Tips and Guidelines for Earpiece Mateial Selection Westone offers a range of earpiece materials, including digitally manufactured and traditional acrylic, several types of silicone, and injection molded vinyl. Our materials are available in a wide variety of both natural skin tones and vibrant colors.

Many decisions must be made in order to successfully fit your patients with hearing instruments and earpieces. The following are simple guidelines based on Westone’s more than 60 years of experience making custom-fit products for the ear.

Discomfort

If you suspect that discomfort might be an issue, there are a few things to consider before selecting an earpiece material. First, check your patient’s skin texture. If the skin texture is firm, consider using a soft earpiece material. If your patient’s skin is soft or delicate, as can often be the case with elderly patients, try using a firmer earpiece material, or a silicone earpiece with Slick-Sil® AM coating.

The helix area of an earpiece can sometimes cause problems. Many earpiece styles do not require a helix to ensure a secure fit. You can reduce potential problems by ordering a 3/4 shell or half-shell style earpiece. This is a particularly good choice for patients who may experience sensitivity in the antihelix area.

Mandibular Action

Use the softest earpiece material possible for fitting a patient with severe mandibular action.

Consider tapering the canal or specify a KC (hollow) style that will allow the earpiece to flex with jaw movement.

Feedback

If you suspect that feedback could be a problem, use a bite-block, deep-impression technique.

Consider using a silicone material (with matte finish) if the patient’s skin texture will allow.

Loose Fit

If loose fit is a concern, request that the earpiece be built up for a tighter fit. If you are using an acrylic material, consider changing to a softer material as well.

Allergies

Use OtoBlastTM clear silicone earpiece material (specify “no glaze/matte finish”) if allergies are a concern. Since earpieces made from silicone can be abrasive to delicate skin, particularly in elderly patients, request our Slick-Sil® AM earpiece coating to ensure ease of insertion. For minor itching with minimal skin irritation, you can order clear acrylic or clear vinyl and request that we boil the earpiece in a saline solution. Polyethylene earpiece material is available for extreme allergy situations.

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Acrylic Earpiece Materials & Colors Acrylic Earpiece Material

Acrylic is Westone’s standard hard earpiece material. It is an ideal material for most hearing healthcare needs as well as many occupation/communication applications. Acrylic is available in a wide variety of colors, ranging from traditional clear and natural skin tones to some of the most vivid colors imaginable, including our unique Swyrl™ color combinations.

Flex Canal

Flex Canal is a body temperature-reactive, semi-soft canal additive available on all standard Westone acrylic earpieces. The unique properties of this material allow the canal portion of the earpiece to remain firm at room temperature for ease of insertion and then soften at body temperature for increased comfort and seal. It is only available in beige. The flex canal option is also available in combination with the e-Compound™ canal option.

e-Compound™ Additive

The e-Compound™ canal additive is designed to reduce feedback by diffusing reflected sound between the tip of the earpiece and the eardrum. e-Compound™ is available on all standard acrylic earpieces, but it can also be ordered in combination with the flex canal option. It can come in hard or soft in both beige or white.

Acrylic Earpiece Finishes Gloss: The high gloss finish looks great on more vivid colors such as our custom colors, neon colors, acrylic Glitter, and Swyrl™ earpieces.

Matte: The smooth matte finish helps hide the earpiece in the ear when using clear or one of Westone’s many skin tone or DisappEar™ color choices.

Cords

Add a nylon “pop” cord for earpieces manufactured with preset anchors. Black is the default color, but upon request we offer purple, blue, green, red, white, pink, and yellow. There is also a clear vinyl cord option, as well as metal detectable.

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Acrylic Earpiece Materials & Colors Acrylic Standard Colors

Clear

Pink Tint

Beige

Light Brown

Med. Brown

Dark Brown

Acrylic Custom Colors

Red

Blue

White

Green

Pink

Light Blue

Yellow

Black

Orange

Safety Red

Safety Blue

Gold

Black

Turquoise

Grey

Acrylic Glitter Colors

Blue

Green

Red

Purple

Pink

Silver

Acrylic Neon Colors

Yellow

Pink

Orange

DisappEar “B”

Candy Blue

Green

Neon Blue

Candy Purple

Acrylic Canal Additives

Acrylic DisappEar Colors

DisappEar “A”

Red

DisappEar “C”

Clear Flex Canal

Beige Flex Canal

White e-Compound

e-Compound w/ Flex Canal

Please Note: Color samples depict actual earpiece colors as closely as the printing process will allow. Please be aware that some colors are difficult to reproduce. Brightly colored earpieces will be significantly brighter and more vivid than can be shown here.

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Silicone Earpiece Materials & Colors OtoBlast™

OtoBlast is Westone’s premium silicone earpiece material. It is soft, durable, and available in a myriad of bright vivid colors or simply crystal clear. OtoBlast options also include beautiful skin tones, our popular DisappEar™ colors, Glitter, Cat Eyes, and of course Swyrl™.

W-1™

W-1 is our softest silicone material. It is available in water clear, six skin tones, DisappEar™ (“A” and “B” tints only), many colors, Cat Eyes, as well as Glitter.

AquaNot™

AquaNot is the ultimate floatable swim plug material. It’s 100% American made silicone and is available in many bright colors. AquaNot material can also be mixed (up to three colors) to create our unique Swyrl™ finish.

e-Compound™ Additive

The soft e-Compound canal additive is designed to reduce feedback by diffusing reflected sound between the tip of the earpiece and the eardrum. e-Compound can be added to the canal portion of OtoBlast and W-1 earpieces.

Slick-Sil® AM (Anti-Microbial)

Slick-Sil AM is a chemically bonded coating for silicone earpieces that is proven to be 99.9% effective** against bacteria, germs, and other pathogens. As a result, Slick-Sil AM can be part of an aggressive infection control protocol. Slick-Sil AM produces a beautiful velvet finish that not only looks great but also helps with the insertion of silicone earpieces by providing a low friction surface finish. Available in a matte finish only. Not available with DisappEar™ skin tone additive.

Silicone Earpiece Finishes Gloss: The gloss finish is a shiny glaze that looks great, especially with vivid colors such as our AquaNot™/ Swyrl™, neon colors, Glitter, or Cat Eyes earpiece options.

Matte: A smooth matte finish helps hide the earpiece in the ear when using a clear earpiece material, or one of Westone’s DisappEar™ or skin tone color choices.

Cords

Add a nylon “pop” cord for earpieces manufactured with preset anchors. Black is the default color, but upon request we offer purple, blue, green, red, white, pink, and yellow. There is also a clear vinyl cord option, as well as metal detectable. * Westone OtoBlast™ material compatibility tested according to MIL-STD-810F by an independent NIST-NVLAP / OSHA NRTL / DSCC / NCC CB / A2LA accredited laboratory. OtoBlast has passed testing according to ISO Standard 10993: Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices Part 10, Tests for Irritation & Delayed Hypersensitivity Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices Part 5, Tests for In Vitro Cytotoxicity. ** Independent testing performed October 23, 2009, in compliance with JIS Z 2801 standards.

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Silicone Earpiece Materials & Colors OtoBlast™ Standard Colors

Clear

White

Green

Camo Brown

Forest Green

Rose

Black

Camo Green

Red

Camo Green

Trans. Brown

W-1™ Standard Colors

Matte Water Clear/ SCT-0

Black

Matte Pink/ SCT-10

Red

Pink

Blue

Yellow

Pink

Grey

Purple

Smoke

Turquoise

Classic Yellow

Orange

Beige

Brown

(Transparent Brown, Smoke, and DisappEar W-1 earpieces are matte only. Rose defaults as matte unless gloss is requested.)

Matte Beige/ SCT-20

Blue

Matte Light Brown/SCT-30

Yellow

Grey

Purple

Matte Medium Brown/SCT-40

Matte Dark Brown/SCT-50

Smoke

Classic Yellow

Orange

Green

Matte Beige

Brown

Camo Brown

White

Forest Green

Turquoise

Glow in the Dark

OtoBlast™ + W-1™ Glitter Colors

Blue

Green

Red

Purple

Pink

Silver

Gold

Please Note: Color samples depict actual earpiece colors as closely as the printing process will allow. Please be aware that some colors are difficult to reproduce. Brightly colored earpieces will be significantly brighter and more vivid than can be shown here.

Black

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Silicone Earpiece Materials & Colors OtoBlast™ + W-1™ Cat Eyes Colors

(Up to 2 colors can be added to Cat Eyes)

White

Black

Red

Blue

Yellow

Camo Green

Pink

Purple

Beige

Brown

Turquoise

Classic Yellow

Orange

Camo Brown

Forest Green

W-1™ DisappEar™ Colors

DisappEar™ Standard Colors

(Available with matte finish only)

DisappEar “A”

DisappEar “B”

DisappEar “C”

DisappEar “A”

DisappEar “B”

e-Compound™ Canal Additives (Slick-Sil AM and gloss finish not available with e-Compound )

DisappEar™ Colors An earpiece made with Westone’s remarkable DisappEar skin tone additive virtually vanishes when inserted in the ear. Our unique manufacturing process embeds microfibers in the material that work like camouflage, breaking up the earpiece’s outline and reflection. DisappEar is available in three different colors - pink (A), beige (B), and brown (C) - to blend with almost any skin tone, in your choice of hard acrylic or soft silicone materials.

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Please note: DisappEar earpieces not available with Slick-Sil® AM finish. DisappEar earpieces not available in brown (C) color in W-1 silicone.

Green

Grey

Silicone Earpiece Materials & Colors AquaNot™ Standard Colors

White

Green

Black

Red

Forest Green

Camo Green

Blue

Turquoise

Yellow

Classic Yellow

Pink

Grey

Orange

Purple

Swyrl™ it up!

Beige

Brown

Can’t decide on your favorite color? You can Swyrl 2-3 silicone colors together for a completely custom look! (DisappEar, Smoke, Rose, and Transparent Brown are not available to Swyrl.)

Camo Brown

OtoBlast™ Camo Colors

Classic

Desert

Urban

Pink

What’s growing on your patient’s earpieces?

It’s a fact – hearing instrument earpieces are breeding grounds for bacteria, fungi, and other germs. The solution is Slick-Sil® AM finish (AntiMicrobial), a chemically-bonded coating for silicone earpieces, proven to be 99.9% effective against bacteria, germs, and other pathogens.

Slick-Sil® AM finish also provides a low-friction surface for easier insertion of silicone earpieces.

Please Note: Color samples depict actual earpiece colors as closely as the printing process will allow. Please be aware that some colors are difficult to reproduce. Brightly colored earpieces will be significantly brighter and more vivid than can be shown here.

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Vinyl Earpiece Materials & Colors Formula II (F-2)

Formula II is a soft vinyl material. F-2 comes standard in light tan but is also available in light, medium, and dark brown.

Formula II Clear (F-2C)

Formula II Clear is the same material as our Formula II but with no color additive. F-2C is also available in nine translucent colors.

Vinyl Earpiece Finish

Our vinyl earpieces come in a smooth matte finish that helps hide the earpiece in the ear when using clear or one of Westone’s many skin-tone color choices.

Cords

Add a nylon “pop” cord for earpieces manufactured with preset anchors. Black is the default color, but upon request we offer purple, blue, green, red, white, pink, and yellow. There is also a clear vinyl cord option, as well as metal detectable.

Formula II (F-2) Standard

Light Tan

Light Brown

Med. Brown

Dark Brown

Formula II Clear (F-2C) Custom Tints

Orange

Blue

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Clear

Purple

Hot Pink

Pink

Forest Green

Black

Red

Please Note: Color samples depict actual earpiece colors as closely as the printing process will allow. Please be aware that some colors are difficult to reproduce. Brightly colored earpieces will be significantly brighter and more vivid than can be shown here.

Earpiece Venting Guide Earpiece Venting Guidelines Venting typically affects frequencies below 1000 Hz. In general, the larger the vent, the more low-frequency energy is “bled off.” By using different vent diameters, varying amounts of lowfrequency amplification can be reduced. Earpiece venting can range from totally open or nonoccluding to very precise and interchangeable venting via a vent control insert such as a Mini Vent Plug (MVP).

Open earpiece fittings are earpieces with very large vents. These types of earpieces can be quite effective for hearing loss that does not require low-frequency amplification. They allow the patient to perceive low-pitched sounds naturally (through the open vent), while using an instrument for high-frequency amplification.

Reduction or elimination of the occlusion effect is an added benefit for the patient.

Westone Vent Sizes Vent Size Pressure

Inches .040”

Millimeters 1.0 mm

Standard

.063”

1.6 mm

Medium

.081”

2.0 mm

Large

.095”

2.4 mm

MVP

(Includes all sizes)

SAV Inches(Includes all sizes)

Venting Glossary Angle Vent (AV) The vent intersects the sound bore as close as possible to the tip of the canal.

Half-External Vent A channel from the canal tip, half way down the canal length, that transitions to an internal vent. Used when drainage or discharge from the ear is a problem.

Parallel Vent (PV)* The sound bore and the vent travel through the earpiece side-by-side and do not intersect.

Semi-IROS Vent The vent is cut half way from the end of the canal.

Mini Vent Plugs (MVP) Normally drilled with a 2.8 mm diameter bore. MVPs come with each of the following vent sizes: #1(0.100” / 2.54 mm) #2 (0.080” / 2.03 mm) #3 (0.060” / 1.53 mm) #4 (0.040” / 1.02 mm) #5 (0.030” / 0.76 mm) #6 (solid plug) Select-A-Vent (SAV)** Normally drilled with a 4.5 mm diameter bore. SAVs come with each of the following vent sizes: #1(0.125” / 3.18 mm) #2 (0.110” / 2.79 mm) #3 (0.080” / 2.03 mm) #4 (0.050” / 1.27 mm) #5 (0.025” / 0.64 mm) #6 (solid plug) * Vents will be parallel as a default if no vent configuration is specified.

If the physical size of the earpiece prevents use of a parallel vent, an angle vent will be used. ** Defaults to MVP if SAV cannot be fit in the earpiece.

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Hearing Instrument Earpieces Westone has made over 60 million custom-fit earpieces, and even though we have made that many, we still treat each and every order as if it were the most important one we have ever made.

Our hearing instrument earpieces are available in an incredibly wide selection of styles, including many sound bore and venting options. All are designed to meet the requirements needed to successfully fit almost any type of hearing loss. From discreet and almost invisible to earpieces that are loud and proud, we have a custom-fit product for every hearing application imaginable.

If you are not certain which style earpiece might be the best choice for your patient, call us. Our Customer Experience team (1-800-525-5071) can help you select the earpiece style and material that is most appropriate.

Style No. 2

Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only) Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

When this happens, the canal can become occluded, causing a conductive hearing loss. This can be corrected by opening the ear canal, using a stent made from our acrylic earpiece material.

“Ear opener” earpieces are available in style numbers 2, 3, 3 Inverted, 4, 5, 6, 6 Thick, 8, and 8 Thick.

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Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Advanced Bionics T-Mic, includes post type removal handle, (standard T-Mic holder is vertical, horizontal holder is available) Materials: OtoBlast, Formula II, Formula II Clear Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 3

Semi-Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only) Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 3 (Inverted)

Ear Openers/Stents Our “ear opener” earpieces keep collapsing ear canals open. Sometimes the tissue of an aging or surgical ear canal becomes very soft and flaccid, to the point of losing all of its definition and collapsing.

Style No. 2 (T-Mic)

Style No. 4

Semi-Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only)

Canal Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, , telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, Acrylic only)

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 4KC

Canal Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for cases of pronounced mandibular action and/or severe feedback Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Hearing Instrument Earpieces Style No. 5

Style No. 6

Style No. 6 (Thick)

Style No. 8

Canal Lock Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only)

Shell Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only)

Full Shell Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only)

Half Shell Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, telecommunications, teleprompter, law enforcement, security, stenotic ear opener/stent (order “ear opener” on the comment line of the order form, available in Acrylic only)

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 10

Acoustic Modifier Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for use with mild or moderate high-frequency hearing losses (not guaranteed against feedback) Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Open bore only, Select-A-Vent, Mini-Vent-Plug, and tubing options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 12

Style No. 13

Non-Occluding Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for use with highfrequency hearing losses, tinnitus masker, CROS and BICROS fittings, and cochlear implants (not guaranteed against feedback)

Non-Occluding Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for use with highfrequency hearing losses, tinnitus masker, CROS and BICROS fittings, and cochlear implants (not guaranteed against feedback)

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options

Accessories: Sound bore, and tubing options (no venting options)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

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Receiver-in-Canal Earpieces The sound quality and discreet size of many RIC (Receiver In Canal), RITE (Receiver In The Ear), and CRT (Canal Receiver Technology) instruments have made them an extremely popular choice for hearing instrument fittings. These types of hearing instruments are usually fitted with a simple one-size-fits-all dome tip. Despite the advancements these products offer, sometimes the need for a custom-fit earpiece can improve the user’s overall experience for a variety of reasons, including: Providing the necessary gain before feedback Helping to retain the receiver portion of the instrument in the canal Helping to solve insertion problems or improve overall comfort Our custom-fit earpieces can help address these concerns. Select from canal, canal-lock, half-shell, shell, or skeleton style earpieces to meet the individual patient’s needs.

Please Note: Canal additives such as e-CompoundTM and Flex Canal are not available with any RIC earpiece styles.

Style No. 87

Canal/RIC Fitting Applications/Suggested Uses: Amplification, designed for the Seimens family of RIC hearing instruments, this earpiece can be used with hearing instruments from other manufacturers as well, includes the proprietary Seimens C-Grid wax guard system Receiver Bore Options: Seimens RIC family of receivers includes; 45, 55, 60, 65, and 70 db models, please specify receiver dB and hearing instrument model Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic Accessories: Venting, all vent sizes including SAV, MVP, and largest vent possible, Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal filaments/handles

How to Clean Vents Fot those very small vents on hearing instruments or earpieces, try cleaning them with a dental floss loop. For larger vents try a wax loop or a pipe cleaner.

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Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart), also available in the following earpiece styles; Canal Lock (87-5), Half Shell (87-8), Full Shell (87-6), Skeleton (87-2) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil (default finish is matte unless otherwise specified)

Style No. 89

Canal/RIC Fitting Applications/Suggested Uses: Amplification, designed for use with many manufacturers’ RIC hearing instrument fittings, including but not limited to Oticon, ReSound, Phonak, Widex, Siemens, Unitron, and similar receivers.

Receiver friction-fits into earpiece sound bore.

Receiver Bore Options: ”Drill-to-Fit” manufactured to accommodate most manufacturers RIC fittings - please specify receiver dB size and hearing Materials: OtoBlast OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) also available in the following earpiece styles; Canal Lock (89-5), Half Shell (89-8), Skeleton (89-2), Full Shell (89-6) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil (default finish is matte unless otherwise specified)

Slim-Tube & Open-Fit Earpieces The acoustic and cosmetic appeal of Slim-Tube/Open-Fithearing instruments has kept this style of fitting popular for many years, and was initially designed for high-frequency hearing losses. The small size of these behind-the-ear hearing instruments, with super-thin tubing and a one-size-fits-all dome-tip, make them very discreet in the ear, and therefore very appealing.

However, many people who select this type of one-size-fits-all hearing solution may not be the best candidates for this type of hearing instrument. Some of the reasons for this could be the degree of their hearing loss, or the stock generic ear tips that come standard with these types of hearing instruments may not fit properly or stay securely in the ear. A custom-fit earpiece can help solve these problems.

Please Note: Alternative canal materials such as Flex Canal and e-CompoundTM are not available.for the earpieces on this page.

Style No. 3 (Inverted)

Style No. 4 (Air)

Style No. 2 (Air)

Style No. 3 (Air)

Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments

Semi-Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments

Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP

Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 5 (Air)

Style No. 6 (Air)

Semi-Skeleton Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments

Canal Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments

Canal Lock Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments

Shell Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments

Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, W-1, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, W-1, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Materials: OtoBlast, W-1, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear

Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP

Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP

Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP

Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart)

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

*IROS (Ipsilateral Routing of Signal)-An IROS fitting is not a truly non-occluded earpiece fitting, it is a modification of a traditional occluded style custom-fit product with a very large open vent that allows lowfrequency sounds to enter the canal unaided and naturally, while at the same time amplifying high frequencies.

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Slim-Tube & Open-Fit Earpieces Style No. 8 (Air)

Half Shell Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments Materials: OtoBlast, W-1, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, semi-IROS* canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 12 (Air)

Non-Occludding Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments , bulk of canal removed for minimal contact with ear canal Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, long minimal canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 13 (Air)

Non-Occludding Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for Slim-Tube/Open-Fit hearing instruments , earpiece designed to be as non-occluding as possible, bulk of canal removed for minimal contact with ear canal Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, short minimal canal, no venting options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 85 (Occluded)

Canal/Fully-Occluding Applications/Suggested Uses: Hearing instrument amplification, designed for use with Slim-Tube/ Open-Fit hearing instrument fittings, controlled venting allows more gain before the possibility of feedback, (Not guaranteed against the occlusion effect) Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, W-1, W-1 with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound, Formula II, Formula II Clear Accessories: Slim-Tube fitting only, full canal, venting options, largest vent possible, SAV or MVP Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart), also available in the following earpiece styles; Canal Lock (85-5), Half Shell (85-8), Shell (85-6), Skeleton (85-2), and Semi Skeleton (85-3) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

AquaNot/Nub Type Removal Handle

Post Type Removal Handle

Filament Type Removal Handle

Removal Handles Sometimes it can be very challenging for patients to remove custom-fit earpieces, this is especially true for those with dexterity problems. A removal handle can be specified for most custom-fit products.

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Westone offers three different types of removal handles. AquaNotTM swim plugs always feature a molded-in “Half Moon” style removal handle. This “Half Moon” removal handle is available on other earpiece styles if size permits. On all other earpiece styles, choose from either a removal filament w/ball end or a Post/Nub style removal handle.

Communications & Occupational Earpieces Westone has worked closely with professionals in many different occupations to develop a series of highly effective earpieces that bring new levels of comfort and efficiency to their professions. Getting the job done is the most important thing. With the comfort and secure fit that only a Westone custom-fit earpiece can provide, professionals can concentrate on the task at hand, and not worry about their communications.

Style No. 1

Full Shell/Snap Ring Applications: Originally designed for body-worn hearing instruments, snap ring allows earpiece to be used in a number of applications Suggested Uses: OtIdeal for use in schools as a auditory trainer, or as an earpiece for a anesthesiologist’s monitor, medical and listening stethoscopes, communications and telecommunications, in office phone systems such as the Plantronics and Telex communications headsets Materials: OtoBlast, OtoBlast with e-Compound, Acrylic, Acrylic with Flex Canal, Acrylic with e-Compound Accessories: Sound bore, venting options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. RH1

Style No. 7

Full Shell Applications: Upgrade the fit and performance of any stock”round style” ear bud type speaker, increases comfort and fit (Please include ear buds with order) Suggested Uses: Ideal for music lovers, audio book listeners, podcast fans, helps keep ear buds in place and distracting sounds out Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic Accessories: Sound bore, venting options, and tubing options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte

RH1 No. 32 Style

Skeleton Applications: Designed for use as a telecommunications or teleprompter earpiece, features 30-inch coiled long-over-the-ear tube with button-style adapter that attaches to external communications or radio equipment (communications/radio equipment not included) Suggested Uses: Ideal for Telecommunications, teleprompter earpiece, or as a communications product for law enforcement and security personnel Materials: OtoBlast, Acrylic, Formula II Accessories: Includes; 30-inch coiled long-over-the-ear tube with a button-style adapter, venting options Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart), also available in the following earpiece styles; Canal (32-4), Canal Lock (32-5), Half Shell (32-8), Shell (32-6), Non-occluding (32-12), Non-occluding (32-13) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Full Shell Applications: Modular headset, works with most racing radio communications systems, features the modular RH1 communications cable and i pair custom-fit earpieces Suggested Uses: Designed for communications between race-car driver and pit crew in racing environments Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

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DefendEar® LifeStyle - Hearing Protection Earpieces Westone DefendEar custom-fit hearing protection provides an effective, comfortable, and repeatable fit, time after time. DefendEar Hearing protection products are suitable for a variety of applications, whether for work, going to a concert or nightclub, shooting, motor sports, or just doing some chores around the house such as mowing the grass, or using power tools. Westone has the hearing protection products that can help protect your hearing in a very noisy world.

Tests conducted by the United States Air Force Research Laboratory suggest that participants who wore custom-fit hearing protection experienced a greater consistency of fit and more attenuation than those using generic over-the-counter products.

Below are common sounds that we may experience in our everyday lives. This chart provides an idea of the relative decibel levels from a wide range of sources. The chart is divided into two sections a safe range and a risk range.

Decibels Common Sounds

Risk Range Safe Range

Firecracker, Firearms, Jet Engine at Take Off

120 dB

Ambulance Siren, Chainsaw, Thunder

115 dB

Sandblasting, Rock Drilling

110 dB

Jackhammer, Rock Concert, Symphony

100 dB

Snowmobile, Power Tools, Leaf Blower

95 dB

Motorcycle, Engine Sounds, Bulldozer, Hammer

85 dB

Heavy City Traffic, Night Club, Noisy Resturant

80 dB

City Traffic, Food Blender

70 dB

Dishwasher, Vacuum Cleaner

60 dB

Normal Conversation

40 dB

Refrigerator

30 dB

Whisper

20 dB

Rustling Leaves

10 dB

Normal Breathing

0 dB

Threshold of Hearing

hes hes

Millimeters

Please Note: In the risk range, the potential for hearing loss can occur after several exposures, or in the case of excessively loud noise, the damage could happen in even a single instance of exposure.

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Canal Applications: Lifestyle hearing protection, designed for use under a motorcycle helmet to protect the enthusiast from engine noise, exhaust noise, wind buffeting, and other road noise Suggested Uses: Motorcycling, Motorsports, off-road scramblers, four-wheelers, snowmobilers, etc.

Materials: OtoBlast

How Loud is Loud?

140 dB +

Style No. 4RT

Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil Please Note: Please check all local laws governing the use of an in-ear product while operating a motor vehicle.

Style No. 40-4 Sleep

Canal Applications: Lifestyle hearing protection, originally designed to promote an uninterrupted night of sleep, canal style earpiece does not put any pressure on the outer ear, this earpiece is also useful in other applications Suggested Uses: Ideal for sleeping, traveling, or other situations where outside sounds or noises could be distracting Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil Style No. 40 Solid

Full Shell Applications: Lifestyle hearing protection, designed for high noise load environments, this product is ideal whenever maximum sound attenuation is required or desired Suggested Uses: Ideal for yard work, landscaping, power tools, home construction and improvement projects Attenuation: NRR 29 dB – 24 dB (material dependent) Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

DefendEar® LifeStyle - Hearing Protection Earpieces Protecting Hearing

Our hearing is at risk everyday. Here at Westone we are committed to offering the highest quality hearing protection products available on the market. Our hearing protection products are suitable for a variety of applications and lifestyles, whether it’s for work, listening to music, shooting, motorsports, or just doing jobs around the house, such as mowing the grass or using power tools.

Please Note: We recommend second-bend, open-mouth, bite-block impressions for all hearing protection products.

Style No. 42 Ultra-Light

Full Shell Applications: Lifestyle hearing protection, designed for low-noise environments, useful in situations where sound can be distracting but not at harmful levels Suggested Uses: Ideal for lownoise, light industry, open office spaces, concentration, etc.

Attenuation: NRR 10 dB Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 47 Filtered

Half Shell Applications: Filtered hearing protection designed for low to moderate noise environments, allows face-to-face communication Suggested Uses: For use in low to moderate noise environments, light industry, open office spaces or where light to moderate sound attenuation is helpful or desired Attenuation: NRR 21 dB Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart), also available in the following earpiece styles; Canal (474), Canal Lock (47-5), Shell (47-6), Full Shell (47-40) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Style No. 47 Convertible Open

Half Shell Applications: Convertible filtered hearing protection, features dual purpose removable pop cord, with cord in sound bore maximum attenuation is acheieved, with sound bore open a lower amount of attenuation is provided allowing basic face-to-face communication Suggested Uses: For use in moderate noise enviornments, industry, construction, motorsports and more Attenuation: Selectable attenuation with adjustable cord, NRR 28 dB with filtered sound bore closed/NRR 21 dB with filtered sound bore open Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart), also available in the following earpiece style; Full Shell (47-40) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil Style No. 47 Convertible Closed

Attenuation Data for DefendEar Earpieces Maximum (Full Shell, Style No. 40) Motorsports/Sleeping (Canal, 40-4) Convertible (Full Shell, Style No. 47-40, closed) Convertible (Full Shell, Style No. 40-47, open) Filtered (Full Shell, Style No. 47-40) Ultra Lite (Half Shell, Style No. 42) Hunter Passive (Full Shell, Style No. 39)

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DefendEar® LifeStyle - Hearing Protection Earpieces Westone’s Musician’s Earplugs (Style No. 49) and our TRUTM hearing protection devices bring together high-performance filter technology and the comfort that only a Westone custom-fit earpiece can provide.

Originally designed for musicians, these products provide comfortable and discreet hearing protection options that are perfect for use in a wide variety of applications.

Style No. 49 Musician’s

Style No. TRU® Concert

Our Musician’s Earplugs and TRUTM hearing protection products are designed to reduce exposure to loud noise/sound while at the same time maintaining excellent sound quality across the entire frequency range.

Westone’s Musician’s Earplugs and TRUTM custom-fit hearing protection products allow users to hear what they want and customize the level of hearing protection to match the requirements of the environment.

Canal Applications: High-fidelity filtered hearing protection with changeable filters, designed for musicians and music lovers, ideal for musicians, but can also be used by anyone who needs to hear accurately in high-noise or constant noise environments.

Canal Applications: High-fidelity filtered hearing protection, designed for musicians and music lovers, lowprofile and discreet filters can be easily removed and replaced, allows user to quickly and easily change the level of attenuation to match the requirements of the environment

Please Note: We recommend second-bend, open-mouth, bite-block impressions for all hearing protection products.

Suggested Uses: Musicians, dancers, concerts, performance, night clubbing, audio engineers, DJs, music teachers, bartenders, wait staff, subway and train commuters, airline personnel and travellers, dentists, noisy restaurants, theaters, movies, etc.

Suggested Uses: Musicians, dancers, concerts attendees, night clubbing, DJs, music teachers, bartenders, wait staff, subway and train commuters, airline personnel and travellers, etc.

Westone Musicians’ Earpieces Comparison Style No. 49 Musician’s Eaplugs Features

TRU Customs Concert Features

Filters: 9 dB, 15 dB, 25 dB Filters

Filters: 10 dB, 16 dB, 20 dB, and 25 dB Filters

Filter Fit: Raised/Surface Mount Filter

Filter Fit: Flush/Internal Mount Filter

Solid Plug: Solid Adapter Provided

Solid Plug: Solid Adapter Provided

Attenuation: ER-9 Filter NRR – 9 dB, ER-15 Filter NRR – 15 dB, ER-15 Filter, ER-25 Filter NRR – 25 dB, Plus Solid Adapter (not rated).

Attenuation: WM 10, NRR 2 (Average Attenuation 14 dB), WM 16, NRR 10 (Average Attenuation 18 dB), WM 20, NRR 13 (Average Attenuation 21 dB), WM 25, NRR 15 (Average Attenuation 24 dB)

Flat Attenuation: Style No. 49 > TRU Custom

Flat Attenuation: TRU Custom > Style No. 49

Earpiece Material: OtoBlastTM only

Earpiece Material: OtoBlastTM only

Suggested Uses: Musicians, dancers, concerts, performance, night clubbing, audio engineers, DJs, music teachers, bartenders, wait staff, subway and train commuters, airline personnel and travellers, dentists, noisy restaurants, theaters, movies, etc.

Suggested Uses: Musicians, dancers, concerts attendees, night clubbing, DJs, music teachers, dentists, bartenders, wait staff, subway and train commuters, airline personnel and travellers, etc.

Attenuation: ER-9 Filter NRR – 9 dB, ER-15 Filter NRR – 15 dB, ER-15 Filter, ER-25 Filter NRR – 25 dB, Plus Solid Adapter (not rated).

Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Initials, Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes, and choice of one pair of the following – 9 dB, ER-9 Filter, 15 dB, ER-15 Filter, or 25 dB, ER-25 Filter. Filter colors include: Clear, Beige, Brown, Red, Blue, plus a Solid Adapter (not rated) colors include: Black, Beige, Clear Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

Attenuation: WM 10, NRR 2 (Average Attenuation 14 dB), WM 16, NRR 10 (Average Attenuation 18 dB), WM 20, NRR 13 (Average Attenuation 21 dB), WM 25, NRR 15 (Average Attenuation 24 dB) Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Includes; Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes, and choice of one pair of the following – WM10, WM16, WM20, WM25 Filters Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil Product

Average Attenuation

NRR

WM10 Filter

10

2

WM16 Filter

12-15

10

WM20 Filter

20

13

WM25 Filter

24

15

26 Note: Second-bend, open-mouth, bite-block impressions are recommended for all DefendEar hearing protection devices.

DefendEar® LifeStyle - Industrial Hearing Protection Earpieces The Westone DefendEar line of Industrial Hearing Protection products is specifically designed for use in a wide range of industrial and occupational applications. This line of products can be used in, but is not limited to the following: factories, assembly lines, food-processing plants, machine shops, heavy industry, heavy-equipment operators, construction sites, construction personnel, commercial and private aviation, and much, much more.

Advantages of custom-fit earpieces over “onesize-fits-all” foam:

DefendEar Max*

Full Shell Applications: Industrial hearing protection, provides maximum amount of hearing protection available Suggested Uses: Factories, industry, food processing, heavyequipment, construction, airline industry, emergency vehicles, etc.

Attenuation: NRR 29 dB, NRR 24 dB

• • • • •

Repeatable attenuation Custom fit for maximum comfort Situationally appropriate attenuation Environmentally friendly Lower long term costs per employee

Please Note: We recommend second-bend, openmouth, bite-block impressions for all hearing protection products.

Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Initials, Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Colors, (please see Color Chart), embedded metal for detection equipment available on request

DefendEar Convertible Open

Full Shell Applications: Filtered industrial hearing protection, dual-purpose adjustable cord allows two levels of hearing protection, lower attenuation allows face-to-face verbal communication and helps maintain situational awareness Suggested Uses: Factories, industry, food processing, heavyequipment, construction, airline industry, emergency vehicles, etc.

Attenuation: Selectable attenuation with adjustable cord, NRR 28 with filtered sound bore closed/NRR 21 dB with filtered sound bore open Materials: OtoBlast

DefendEar Convertible Comm Open

Full Shell Applications: Filtered industrial hearing protection, earpiece allows the use of surveillance kit-type radios, while still offering two levels of hearing protection (radio and surveillance kit not included) Suggested Uses: Factories, industry, food processing, heavyequipment, construction, airline industry, emergency vehicles, etc.

Attenuation: Selectable attenuation, NRR 28 dB with radio/ comm port closed /NRR 21 with radio/comm port open, and radio attached Materials: OtoBlast Options: Colors (please see Color Chart), embedded metal for detection equipment available on request

Finishes: Slick-Sil

Options: Colors (please see Color Chart), embedded metal for detection equipment available on request

Please Note: If the order deviates from the options listed above, standard earpiece charges will apply.

Accessories: Initials, Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case

Accessories: Initials, Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case, Includes: Adapter and tube for surveillance type kit radios

Finishes: Slick-Sil

Finishes: Slick-Sil

Please Note: If the order deviates from the options listed above, standard earpiece charges will apply.

Please Note: If the order deviates from the options listed above, standard earpiece charges will apply.

DefendEar Convertible Closed

DefendEar Convertible Comm Closed

Please Note: The purpose of hearing protection is to reduce the impact of the sound and to reduce the potential for hearing loss. Hearing protection devices, including TRUTM products, do not eliminate sound. The user is responsible for determining whether the noise reduction provided by TRUTM products will provide adequate hearing protection based on the user’s unique medical history and exposure level. Medical history, particularly any prior trauma to the ear or prior hearing loss, as well as the noise (decibel level and exposure time) the user will be exposed to should be considered prior to using TRUTM products. If you have any questions concerning the appropriate TM exposure levels or the level of hearing protection provided by TRU products please contact Westone before using.

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DefendEar® LifeStyle - Swimming & Watersports Eapieces Swimming, surfing, kayaking, rafting, water skiing, or even swimming a few laps in the pool for exercise can be great fun.

Unfortunately, water in the ear is not. Water can remain trapped in the ear canal and cause swimmer’s ear and surfer’s ear. AquaNotTM custom-fit swim plugs will keep ears dry and help reduce water-related ear problems.

Swim plugs are great for all kinds of watersports. They are also ideal for use while showering or bathing. Every Westone swim plug is guaranteed to be more comfortable and effective than any other swim plug.

Because our ears are as unique as our fingerprints, only a custom-fit swim plug or surfer’s plug can provide all-day comfort while keeping water out of the ear. Our custom-fit swim and surfer plugs are handcrafted and made of 100% floatable American-made silicone right here in the U.S.A. Please Note: We recommend second-bend, openmouth, bite-block impressions for all Swimming and Watersports products.

Style No. AquaNot*

Full Shell Applications: Swimming and Watersports, floatable silicone, AquaNots are guaranteed to keep water out of ears Suggested Uses: Ideal for swimming, watersports, showering, and bathing Materials: AquaNot only

Style No. Surfer*

Full Shell Applications: Swimming and Watersports, designed for surfers, passive membrane keeps cold water and air out of the ear canal, allows basic communication while in the ear Suggested Uses: Ideal for surfing, swimming, watersports, skiing, snowmobiling, etc.

Accessories: Molded-in right and left side indicators and removal handles, ridged Polycon storage container in one of 6 bright colors; Yellow, orange, pink, blue, purple, and green

Materials: AquaNot only

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, Cords, Colors, (please see Color Chart), Swyrl, Slick-Sil

Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, Cords, Colors, (please see Color Chart), Swyrl, Slick-Sil

Finishes: Gloss, Matte

Finishes: Gloss, Matte

Accessories: Ridged Polycon storage container in one of 6 bright colors; Yellow, orange, pink, blue, purple, and green

Style No. H2O*

Full Shell Applications: Swimming and Watersports, earpieces for waterproof earphones (earphones not included) Suggested Uses: Specifically designed for use with the H2O Audio line of Waterproof Sport Headphones Materials: AquaNot only Accessories: Ridged Polycon storage container in one of 6 bright colors; Yellow, orange, pink, blue, purple, and green Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, Cords, Colors, (please see Color Chart), Swyrl Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil Please Note: This earpiece is only made for earphones manufactured

by H2O Audio

Please Note: Westone Swimming & Watersports earpieces are not intended for use when snorkeling, scuba diving, or breath-hold diving below 6 feet.

Deep Water and Swim Plugs Don’t Mix

Believe it or not more scuba divers are certified every year here in Colorado than almost any other state in the U.S.A. Most of the water we have is the white fluffy stuff we call snow! Please remember, Westone custom-fit earpieces and swim plugs are not intended for use when snorkeling, scuba diving, or breathhold diving below 6 feet.

When an earpiece is seated in the ear there is approximately 2cc of air between the end of the earpiece and the eardrum (tympanic membrane). This air is subject to changes in volume and density as the swimmer/ diver changes depth. When descending to a depth of 33 feet both the pressure and the density of the air will double. For this to happen, the volume of air must decrease by half. This is true for the air in the scuba tank and the air in the swimmer’s or diver’s ear canal.

With the volume of air reduced by one half within the same physical space, something has to give. The earpiece is prevented from moving further down the ear canal because of its shape, therefore the only way to equalize the pressure differential is to distend or breach the eardrum . . . not a pretty picture.

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Please Note: There are no “safe depth limit guidelines” for swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving for an individual with a perforated eardrum.

DefendEar® LifeStyle - Shooting Hearing Protection Earpieces Westone offers two different types of hearing protection designed exclusively for the shooting sports enthsiasts.

Our DefendEar Hunter shooters hearing protection earpieces are designed for use in situations where only a few, or a low number of shots will be fired. The unique dual-filter design of the Hunter (Passive) allows minimal attenuation of low sounds while the two small orifice filters in our unique “Y” bore design provide non-linear properties for impulse noise.

Our family of Digital DefendEar hearing protection products are desgined exclusively for the shooting sports enthusiast. The DefendEar DigitalXTM series of modules and Westone custom-fitare the most advanced way to prevent hearing loss from the gunshot noise created while shooting recreationally or while hunting. DefendEar DigitalX earpieces also enhance your hearing for improved situational awareness at the shooting range or in the field tracking game.

DEDX

Full Shell Applications: Designed for use with the Digitail DefendEar family of hearing protection modules, module and custom-fit earpiece provide the best fit, comfort, and protection available to the shooting enthusiast Suggested Uses: All hunting and shooting sports, (Digitail X module not included) Attenuation: Not Rated Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Initials, Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Gloss, Matte, Slick-Sil

DigitalX™ is the latest development in digital hearing protection and leads the trend towards obstruction-free, comfortable custom noise suppression for today’s shooter.

DigitalX 1

Description: Digitally optimized module with single optimized program Attenuation: NRR 26 IPIL Rating: 37.3 dB/44 dB/42 dB Applications: For outdoor use only, recreational shooting, target shooting, and hunting

Each DigitalX order includes:

1 pair custom-fit DEDK Westone earpieces, 1 pair DX digital modules (right and left), High-Impact hard carring/storage case, cleaning cloth, battery tool/cleaning loop, Oto-Ease® earpiece lubricant, Oto-ClensTM cleaning solution, embroidered DefendEar patch, 6 each size # 13 batteries, and user’s guide. See westone.com for other accessories.

Please Note: We recommend second-bend, openmouth, bite-block impressions for all Hunting and Shooting Sports products.

Features: Push button volume control, dedicated On/Off button, digital DSP circuitry, mute function, low- battery warning, four-stage digital volume control push button, WaterShield protection, and 2 Year Warranty

DigitalX 3

Description: Digitally optimized module with three programs is ideal for any type of shooting, module includes ambient sound enhancement Attenuation: NRR 26 IPIL Rating: 37.3 dB/44 dB/42 dB Applications: For outdoor use only, recreational shooting, clay target shooting, competition shooting and game hunting Features: Digital volume control switch, dedicated On/Off switch, vocal feedback, startup program indicator, minimum and maximum volume, program selection, mute function, battery warning, program auto-save, three digitally optimized programs, WaterShield protection, andWestone 2 Year Warranty

Style No. 39 Hunter Passive

Full Shell Applications: Passive shooters hearing protection, unique “Y” bore and small orifice filters provide nonlinear attenuation for impulse noise Suggested Uses: Shooting sports with low nuber of shoots fired Attenuation: NRR 4 dB IPIL Rating: 132 dB = 15.1 dB/150 dB = 22.8 dB/168 dB = 26.7 dB Materials: OtoBlast Accessories: Initials, Oto-Ease Earpiece Lubricant, Oto-Clens earpiece cleaner, and zippered carrying case Options: Initials, Right (red) + Left (blue) indicators, removal handles, Colors, Clear, Skin Tones, DisappEar, Swyrl, Glitter, Cat Eyes (please see Color Chart) Finishes: Matte, Slick-Sil

DigitalX 5

Description: Digitally optimized module with five optimized programs, ideal for any type of shooting, module includes ambient sound enhancement, enhanced situational awareness, and wind noise reduction Attenuation: NRR 26 IPIL Rating: 37.3 dB/44 dB/42 dB Applications: For outdoor use only (Can be used indoors with additional hearing protection), recreational shooting, clay target shooting, competition shooting and game hunting Features: Digital volume control switch, dedicated On/Off switch, vocal feedback, startup program indicator, minimum and maximum volume, program selection, mute function, battery warning, program auto-save, five digitally optimized programs, WaterShield protection, and 2 Year Warranty

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Retubing Guidelines Retubing a custom-fit earpiece can sometimes present more challenges than expected. By using the tools and techniques described in this section, removing old tubing and installing new tubing can be made a little easier. Always keep notes on fittings earpiece styles acoustic modifications, venting, tubing size, tubing angles, and earpiece materials used in the patients records. These files will be beneficial when a they return to have their earpieces retubedyou will be able to remove old tubing and install new tubing on your patients’ earpieces.

Removing Old Tubes

Tube-Through

There are two quick and easy ways to remove old tubing from earpieces.

Use a small amount of the appropriate cement on a pipe cleaner to clean the sound bore along the entire length (thin cement for acrylic earpieces, vinyl cement for vinyl earpieces).

If you have a microwave available in your office, bring a small glass container filled with water to a rolling boil. While the water is still actively boiling, drop the earpiece you wish to re-tube into the container. Once the water is cool enough to take the earpiece out, remove it from the still warm water and use a small pair of needle nose pliers to remove the old tube. A sharp tug should be all that is required to pull the tubing free from the earpiece. (Fig. 1) The second way to remove tubing from an earpiece is to use a Westone hand reamer (Westone part #30451). Cut the tubing flush with the outside surface of the earpiece, insert the hand reamer and rotate in a clockwise direction. The drilling action will remove the old tubing from inside the sound bore. After you have removed the old earpiece tubing with either method, inspect the sound bore for any remaining debris. Any debris left in the sound bore can have an effect on the high-frequency response or completely block sound transmission.

(Fig. 2)

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Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Please Note: Never use powered drill bits or cutting burrs when trying to remove old tubing from an earpiece.

Use of powered tools can quickly alter the inside diameter of the sound bore and render the earpiece unusable.

From the canal tip, insert a tube puller into the earpiece (monofilament for acrylic earpieces, wire for soft earpiece materials). Place the quilled end of the tube through the loop of the tube puller and pull through the earpiece.

(Fig. 1)

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

When the tube is all the way through, adjust the tube by hand until you have it at the proper angle.

(Fig. 2) When the tube is all the way through, adjust the tube by hand until you have it at the proper angle.

Pull the tubing away from one side of the sound bore and apply a small amount of cement. Capillary action will cause the cement to flow around the entire tube. (Fig. 3) When the glue is dry, cut the tube flush with the end of the canal. You are now ready to refit the instrument. (Fig. 4)

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Retubing Guidelines Keeping Tubing High and Dry In areas of high humidity, water droplets can form inside the tubing in BTE fittings. When enough of these droplets form, they may bridge the tubing walls and effectively occlude the sound channel. To your client, it might sound like the instrument is cutting out Venting the earpiece (if possible) and using a Dry-Tube will help eliminate the problem.

Half-Tubing

Tube-Locks & TRS Tubes

After cleaning the sound bore, hold the new tube against the earpiece canal and gauge approximately where you want the tube to end in the sound bore. Clip the tubing straight across.

Note: It is very important that the tubing be cut at 90 degrees to the tube sidewall. (Fig. 1)

Cut the old tube flush with the outside of the earpiece.

Insert a tube-lock tool into the base of the earpiece and push the remaining tube and tube-lock or TRS tube out of the earpiece through the canal tip.

Make sure the sound bore is free of obstructions.

(Fig. 1)

Pour a small amount of tubing cement (thin cement for acrylic earpieces, vinyl cement for vinyl earpieces) into a small cup or bowl.

Fig. 1

Insert a wire tube puller into the sound bore from the canal end. (Fig. 2) Fig. 2

Note: The following steps must be performed quickly.

Familiarize yourself with all of the steps before you begin: Dip the end of the tube into the cement. Tap the tube against the sides of your cement container until only a small amount of cement remains in the tube end. (Fig. 2) Place the tube over the sound bore. Pinch the tube and quickly insert it into the sound bore. Pinching the tube causes the cement inside the tube to coat the wall of the sound bore, acting as a lubricant during tube insertion and then securing the tube when it dries. (Fig. 3) Make sure the tube is at the proper angle and allowed to dry.

The earpiece is now ready to be refitted to the hearing instrument.

Fig. 1

Thread the quilled end of the tube-lock or TRS tube through the tube puller and then pull the tube into the earpiece. (Fig. 3)

Fig. 2

Pull the quilled end of the tube and gently work the tube-lock or TRS sleeve into place in the earpiece.

(Fig. 4) Fig. 3

Continue manipulating the earpiece and tube until the tube-lock or TRS is approximately 3 mm below the outside surface of the earpiece. Once the tube is in the proper position, trim the excess tube from the canal end and refit the instrument.

(Fig. 5)

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Fig. 5

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Retubing Guidelines Slim-Tube Modification Chart

Removing Slim-Tubes Retubing an earpiece fit with a Slim-Tube requires modifications to the tubing provided by the hearing instrument manufacturer. Please refer to Slim-Tube Modification Chart.

Remove the old tube by pulling it free of the earpiece with a firm tug.

Keep this tube handy as a reference when preparing the new tube for the earpiece. (Fig. 1)

Slim-Tube/Standard

Slim-Tube/Modified

Slim-Tube Style “A”

Fig. 1

The first step is to remove most of the “retention tail” from the tubing. All three styles of Slim-Tubes require that about 1 to 2 mm of the “retention tail” be left on the tubing. The small stub that remains from trimming the “retention tail” is used to create Fig. 2 friction inside the sound bore of the earpiece and help hold the tube in place.

You must also remove the retention threads from the end of the slim tube.

Refer to the old tube or the Slim–Tube Modification Chart as a guide for these modifications. (Fig. 2)

Slim-Tube Style “C”

Slim-Tube Style Phonak CROS

Re-Tubing Slim-Tubes Next, insert the modified Slim Tube into the earpiece to verify that the tube fitting is as close as possible to its final position. Reposition if needed. (Fig. 1) Once the tube is in position, fit the earpiece and hearing instrument to your patient and visually check to see if any final adjustments need to be made.

Slim-Tube Style “B”

Slim-Tube Oticon miniFIT Corda 2* Fig. 1

Slim-Tube Style “Oticon Corda miniFIT*

Oticon Corda miniFIT does not require modification. *Please Note: Adjust sound bore diameter to fit.

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Ordering Phone:

Local: 719.540.9333 Toll Free: 800.525.5071

Fax:

719.527.3982

Online: westone.com/store

Customer Service

Email:

CustomerService@westone.com

Phone:

Local: 719.540.9333 Toll Free: 800.525.5071 Westone Laboratories, Inc. P.O. Box 15100 Colorado Springs, CO 80935 Physical Address: Westone Laboratories, Inc. 2235 Executive Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80906

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