Here’s an at-a-glance comparison of Phonak’s custom AI style to the RIC AI style.
| Feature | Virto Infinio Sphere (Custom) | Audeo Infinio Sphere (RIC) |
| Style | Custom molded to fit inside the ear (ITE) | Receiver-In-Canal instrument (RIC) |
| AI Sphere Technology | YES—DEEPSONIC AI chip | Same chip |
| Speech in noise | Excellent | Usually slightly better due to mic placement and separation from ear canal |
| Sound Quality | Natural but more limited acoustically | Often clearer and fuller because receiver sits deeper in the canal |
| Power | Mild to moderately severe loss | Mild to profound options |
| Directional mics | Smaller microphones | Stronger directional microphones |
| Bluetooth streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Battery | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Maintenance | More cleaning | Easier maintenance |
What audiologists often recommend:
- Audeo Sphere RIC: Best overall performance and flexibility
- Virto Custom Sphere: Best cosmetics and simplicity
The RIC style can support more advanced directional microphone arrays, which means the Sphere AI has slightly more acoustic information to work with. That’s why many audiologists say RIC models still provide the absolute best speech in noise performance.
Comparison between Phonak Virto Infinio and Phonak Virto Infinio Sphere Custom Products
Here’s a look at the differences between their new custom styles (Sphere AI vs the non-Sphere AI).
| Feature | Phonak Virto Infinio | Phonak Virto Infinio Sphere |
| Core chip | ERA chip | ERA chip + Deepsonic AI chip |
| Speech in noise | Very good automatic reduction | Best-in-class speech separation using AI |
| Battery | Disposable or rechargeable | Rechargeable only, slightly faster battery drain due to 2nd chip |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth for calls/streaming | Same |
| Form Factor | Custom ITE/ITC/CIC options | Custom styles, but slightly larger due to extra chip |
| Best for | Mild to severe hearing loss | People who struggle most in noisy environments |
Recommendations:
- Choose Virto Infinio if you want a smaller custom hearing aid and spend most of your time in quieter environments.
- Choose Virto Infinio Sphere if restaurants, parties, and group conversations are your biggest challenge.
Need help deciding which Phonak hearing aid is right for you?
Having a high degree of understanding your specific hearing loss situation is essential to choosing the right hearing aid. The team at Prescription Hearing will help you better understand your hearing and help you find the best fit to maximize your hearing experience.
Contact our team to get matched with the best Phonak hearing aid for your needs.
