Widex RIC 312 D (MFi & ASHA): A Complete Product Description

What Is the Widex RIC 312 D?

The Widex RIC 312 D is a receiver‑in‑canal (RIC) hearing aid from the Widex Moment™ family. Unlike the rechargeable “R” models, this version uses a disposable size 312 zinc‑air battery, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer traditional battery operation or who may not have easy access to daily charging. The “D” designation indicates direct streaming compatibility with iPhones (MFi) and ASHA‑compatible Android devices.

The RIC design places the main body discreetly behind your ear, connected by a thin, nearly invisible wire to a small receiver (speaker) that sits inside your ear canal. This open‑fit design reduces the “occlusion effect” (that plugged‑up feeling) and allows natural low‑frequency sounds to enter your ear while amplifying high frequencies where most hearing loss occurs. The Widex RIC 312 D is designed for individuals with mild to moderately severe hearing loss, with a fitting range of 40‑115 dB HL for the 440 and 330 levels, and 20‑115 dB HL for the 220 and 110 levels.

Battery Type and Daily Use

The use of a size 312 disposable battery offers several practical advantages. Batteries are widely available, inexpensive, and can be replaced instantly without waiting for a charger. A single 312 battery typically provides 3‑7 days of use depending on streaming activity and listening demands. This makes the RIC 312 D ideal for travellers, users who spend extended periods away from power outlets, or those who simply prefer the simplicity of battery changes over remembering to charge nightly.

The hearing aid includes a battery door that also serves as an on/off switch – open the door to turn off the device, close it to power on. There is no LED indicator for battery level on disposable models, but the hearing aid will provide audible low‑battery warnings (beeps or voice alerts) when the battery needs replacement.

The Sound Philosophy: PureSound™ and Natural Hearing

Widex has built its reputation on a “less is more” approach to sound processing. The Moment RIC 312 D respects how your auditory system naturally works. Rather than aggressively manipulating every sound, it preserves the subtle details of your environment and applies extreme sound processing only when necessary. This results in sound that feels authentic rather than artificial.

At the heart of this experience is PureSound™ technology, which uses ultrafast sound processing to eliminate delay‑based distortion. In open fittings, natural sound enters your ear alongside amplified sound. Without PureSound, the slight delay between the two creates a hollow, echo‑like quality. PureSound removes that delay, delivering clean, personal, and natural sound.

Technology Levels: 440, 330, 220, and 110

The Widex RIC 312 D is available in four technology levels. While the PDF does not provide a detailed feature matrix specific to this model, the numbering follows the same Widex convention used across Allure and Moment families. Below is what can be reliably stated based on the PDF and general Widex product architecture.

Widex Moment RIC 312 440 (MRB2D 440)

This is the flagship level of the disposable‑battery RIC line. Based on the pattern seen in other Moment models, the 440 level offers the highest number of processing channels (likely 15), the most advanced version of Speech Enhancer, and the full suite of noise reduction and comfort features. It is designed for users who face complex listening environments – restaurants, group conversations, public transport – and who want the maximum available speech clarity in noise. The fitting range extends to 115 dB HL, accommodating significant hearing losses.

Widex Moment RIC 312 330 (MRB2D 330)

The 330 level provides a strong balance of performance and value. It typically offers 12 processing channels and an advanced version of Speech Enhancer, along with SmartWind Manager and TruSound Softener at advanced levels. This tier is suitable for most daily situations, including family gatherings, office meetings, and outdoor activities. The fitting range is also 40‑115 dB HL.

Widex Moment RIC 312 220 (MRB2D 220)

The 220 level is a reliable choice for users with quieter lifestyles or those who want core Moment features at a more accessible price point. It typically offers 10 processing channels with standard Speech Enhancer, basic wind and impact noise management, and basic directional focus. The fitting range expands to 20‑115 dB HL, meaning it can accommodate slightly milder losses on the low end while still handling severe losses up to 115 dB. This level does not include hands‑free calling (direct streaming still works, but the hearing aid microphones are not used for phone calls).

Widex Moment RIC 312 110 (MRB2D 110)

The essential level provides core Widex sound quality and connectivity with streamlined features. It shares the 10‑channel architecture of the 220 but with fewer fine‑tuning options. The fitting range remains 20‑115 dB HL, making it a capable option for a wide range of hearing losses. It is ideal for users who primarily need reliable amplification in quiet to moderately noisy environments and who value affordability.

Features Common to All Levels

Across all four technology levels of the Widex RIC 312 D, the following core features are present:

• Dynamic Feedback Controller: Fast and efficient detection and cancellation of feedback (whistling), engineered to adapt and preserve sound quality without artifacts.

• TrueInput Technology: Impressive speech intelligibility and sound quality due to an expanded input range of 113 dB SPL. Handles very loud sounds without distortion while preserving soft sounds.

• Variable Speed Compression: Compression adjusts dynamically from fast to slow for consistent speech understanding and listening comfort at all input levels.

• Direct Audio Streaming: Direct streaming of audio from iPhones (MFi) and ASHA‑compatible Android devices. Stream phone calls, music, podcasts, and videos directly to your hearing aids.

• Call Control: Answer and end phone calls from a compatible iPhone using the hearing aid push button or a double‑tap to the device or ear.

• Widex Moment App: Allows users to control their hearing aids, access MySound AI for powerful sound personalization, enjoy direct streaming, and get tips via My Guide.

• Find My Hearing Aids: GPS‑based location tracking for lost devices (via the app).

• Personalized Programs: Save your hearing aid adjustments using AI tools or the sound equalizer as easily accessible personal programs.

• Telecoil: Connect easily to telecoil‑enabled systems (e.g., theaters, places of worship).

• TV Play 2 Compatibility: Direct stereo streaming of TV audio to your hearing aids.

• RC‑DEX Compatibility: A simple remote control for volume and program adjustment.

• Push Button: Programmable button to control hearing aid functions with a short or long press.

Connectivity and App Ecosystem

The “D” in the model name ensures seamless wireless connectivity. You can stream audio directly from any compatible iPhone or ASHA‑enabled Android device without needing an intermediary device. The Widex Moment App (available on Apple App Store and Google Play) serves as your command center. Key app features include:

• MySound AI: Machine learning algorithms that guide you to a better, more personalized hearing experience by asking simple questions about your preferences in specific listening situations.

• Sound Equalizer: Fine‑tune bass, mid, and treble to your liking.

• Directional Focus Adjustment: Manually steer the microphones (advanced on 440/330, basic on 220/110).

• Program Selection: Switch between saved programs.

Listening in Noise and User Comfort

While the PDF does not list HD Locator bands explicitly for this model, Widex RIC devices generally include channel‑specific directionality to improve speech intelligibility in noise. The higher levels (440 and 330) provide more bands for finer control. SmartWind Manager reduces wind noise without compromising speech understanding – ideal for outdoor activities. TruSound Softener smooths out sudden loud sounds, making unexpected noises like a door slam or clanking dishes less jarring. Soft‑level noise reduction works continuously to reduce background hiss and hum, making quiet environments more comfortable.

Physical Design and Customization

The RIC 312 D is supplied in a standard beige colour. Other colour housing options are available with a delivery lead time of three weeks (as per the terms on page 2). Receivers (the part that goes into the ear) come in different lengths and power levels (S, M, P, HP). The cost to customize HP receivers is already included in the RIC pricing, so no extra charges apply. The push button can be programmed for short or long presses – for example, short press to change program, long press to adjust volume or answer a call.

What You Should Know Before Buying

The Widex RIC 312 D requires professional fitting by an audiologist. While the technology is sophisticated, its effectiveness depends entirely on proper programming to your unique hearing loss. In India, hearing aids are exempt from GST; however, accessories (TV streamers, remote controls) do attract GST. Warranty varies by technology level – please confirm with your provider. Unlike rechargeable models, you will need to purchase size 312 batteries separately.

For users with hearing loss exceeding 115 dB HL, a more powerful device like a super‑power BTE may be necessary. But for losses up to 115 dB, the RIC 312 D offers a compelling combination of natural Widex sound, disposable battery convenience, and modern streaming connectivity.