The Banglijian BL16R is the newest version of this company’s RIC hearing amplifier. Their previous model, the AL08R, perfectly explained the popularity of Banglijian. In our comparison article of the best RIC hearing amplifiers, it came a close second behind Neosonic’s model. Not bad, for a hearing amplifier that will cost you half.
In this review for the Banglijian BL16R, we’ll take an in-depth look into the changes and see what improvements Banglijian has made compared to the previous model. Before coming to a buying recommendation, I’ll guide you through the model’s key features, see how it works, and give you the possible downsides and some alternatives.
As always, I have summarized my findings in a 30-second visual review. You can find it at the bottom of this review, or click here to skip all the reading.
Something that was not updated, was the model’s name. Much like its predecessor, the BL16R’s name on Amazon is more a description of what a hearing amplifier does than a real name: Banglijian Hearing Amplifier Rechargeable with Digital Noise Cancelling and Feedback Cancellation, Powerful Hearing Assist for Adults and Seniors. Don’t let the people from Banglijian pick your kids’ names, people.
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Key features of the Banglijian BL16R
The first key feature for the Banglijian BL16R is the RIC configuration. In hearing amplifiers, RIC stands for receiver-in-canal. While at first glance there’s little difference with the more common behind-the-ear (BTE) amplifier, the RIC configuration delivers the amplified sounds straight into the ear canal. According to many people, this radically improves sound quality, but it’s often paired with less options in the amplifier itself.
Also read: the different types of hearing amplifiers
Another key feature, as I mentioned above, is that the BL16R is an improved and updated version of an already proven model. The amplifier is sturdier, comes with better buttons and an overall better structure. Additionally, Banglijian regularly updates their models to keep them competitive regarding technological advances.
Lastly, the BL16R is rechargeable, like all other models from this manufacturer. This saves you money in the long run, makes the amplifier more convenient and is better for the environment. A full charge gets you a whole day of use.
Who is this hearing amplifier for?
The BL16R helps address a moderate to severe hearing loss. People who most benefit from this amplifier have perhaps ‘grown out’ of a previous amplifier, started having trouble hearing with a traditional BTE model, or want to try a RIC model to see how the sound quality could improve. For a very first hearing amplifier, it’s rather powerful, but someone who is late getting their first amplifier could still benefit from the BL16R.
How well does the Banglijian BL16R work?
Banglijian products are generally well-designed, and this latest model is no exception. The sound quality is good and the amplifier has all the technological features that give the sound an extra boost.
There are three listening programs and seven volume levels. The listening programs help you adjust your listening experience to your environment, giving you more control over what you hear and don’t hear.
Lastly, as a Banglijian product, you can count on a 45-day free return policy, a one-year manufacturer warranty, and a responsive customer service.
What’s not to like about the Banglijian BL16R?
The Banglijian BL16R is not the world’s best hearing amplifier, but then it doesn’t try to be. Buying this amplifier gives you a good listening experience for a sharp price. There are some downsides to this model that you won’t find in other models.
This amplifier is not ambidextrous, which means that there is a designated amplifier for the left ear and one for the right ear. Make sure you buy one of each.
Also, and this may be a pet peeve of mine, the name on Amazon is a confusing heap of words. It doesn’t affect how well this amplifier works, but it makes it a lot harder to find it.
Hearing amplifiers that are good alternatives
If you’re interested in an alternative for the Banglijian BL16R, my overview of the best RIC hearing amplifiers is a good place to start. Especially the Neosonic Mini RIC is worth a look – it’s essentially an upgrade from this model, but also bumps you up into a higher price category.
Staying with the same brand, other popular options include the Banglijian Ziv-201 or the Banglijian BLJ-109, this website’s favorite budget option. For more alternatives, make sure to take a look at all of our 30-second reviews.
Should you buy the Banglijian BL16R?
The Banglijian BL16R is a good buy on all accounts: the technical specifications are all in order, the Banglijian company offers excellent customer support, and buying on Amazon makes returning a breeze. The downsides are hardly there, so if you’re looking for a more than decent amplifier for a sharp price, this Banglijian model is a great buy.
