Step-by-Step: How to Set Up and Adjust Your OTC Hearing Aids at Home

Getting a new pair of hearing aids should feel like a win, not a puzzle. Many first-time users assume setup requires a specialist, a prescription, or a long wait. It doesn't.

Audien's OTC hearing aids are audiologist-developed and ready to use right out of the box. Whether you choose the Atom X, which uses a touchscreen case for effortless control, or the ION Pro 2, which offers app-guided personalization from your smartphone, setup takes under 30 minutes. Nearly 2 million customers have done it themselves, no doctor's office required.

In this guide:

• What's in the box (and what to check first)

• How to fit your earbuds correctly

• How to charge before first use

• How to make your first adjustments

• How to use your complimentary Audien Sound Check appointment

Atom X vs. ION Pro 2: Setup at a Glance

Step 1: What's in the Box

Before you charge or insert anything, take a few minutes to unpack and inspect every component. This will help avoid confusion later.

The Atom X and ION Pro 2 come with nearly identical components. The two key differences: the Atom X includes a wax guard kit, and its charging case features both CaseControl™ touchscreen technology and self-cleaning UV. The ION Pro 2 case includes self-cleaning UV only.

Check that both hearing aids are present and marked Left and Right. Confirm the case lid closes securely, and that no components look damaged. If anything is missing or appears off, contact Audien's support team before moving forward.

Step 2: Fitting Your Earbuds

Fit is the most overlooked step in setup, and the most common reason new users can feel like something is off. A loose earbud leads to muffled sound and feedback. A snug, secure fit creates clean, clear amplification.

Both models include six replacement earbuds. To insert, angle the earbud slightly toward the ear canal and rotate it gently until it seats. You should feel a light, comfortable seal. If you feel pressure or pain, stop and reposition.

To check the fit, say a few words out loud or listen to the TV. Sound should feel natural and balanced. If it sounds hollow or echoey, try adjusting the angle before moving on.

Step 3: Charging Before First Use

Place both hearing aids in the charging case and plug it in via the included USB-C cable before powering them on for the first time. A full initial charge supports long-term battery performance.

Charging times by model:

• Atom X: approximately 2 hours

• ION Pro 2: approximately 3 hours

Once both devices are fully charged, you’re ready to start personalizing your sound.

Step 4: Making Your First Adjustments

Both the Atom X and ION Pro 2 are audiologist-optimized before they reach you. The steps below let you personalize from there based on your personal preferences and listening environment, no appointment or in-office fitting required.

Step 4A: Adjusting with CaseControl™ (Atom X)

The Atom X was built around one idea: hearing aids should be simple to use. Every adjustment happens through the CaseControl™ touchscreen on the charging case itself.

To get started, open the case and use the touchscreen to select a listening mode, then set your volume anywhere from level 1 to 10. You can change modes or volume at any time, straight from the case.

Start with Comfort if you’re in a quiet setting. Switch to Conversation when talking with someone. Most users settle into their preferred modes within the first week.

Step 4B: Setting Up the Audien Ion Pro App (ION Pro 2)

The ION Pro 2 is designed for app-based customization. Download the Audien Ion Pro app from the App Store or Google Play. Open it and follow the Bluetooth pairing instructions. Pairing should take less than a minute.

Once paired, the app guides you through a brief personalized hearing setup. You’ll answer a few questions about your listening preferences, and the app will adjust your sound profile from there.

After setup, you can switch modes and adjust volume in real time from your phone, wherever you are.

Step 5: Your Complimentary Audien Sound Check™ Appointment

Every Atom X and ION Pro 2 purchase includes a complimentary 30-minute Audien Sound Check™ with a certified hearing specialist, included in your purchase price.

The appointment is optional, but it’s one of the things that sets Audien apart from other OTC options. A specialist reviews your current settings, fine-tunes your sound profile and fit, and answers any questions you may have.

Many customers complete setup on their own and hear clearly from day one but Sound Check™ is there when you want it. Additional appointments are also available, and an AudienCare subscription at $9 per month includes four Sound Check™ appointments per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to see an audiologist to set up OTC hearing aids?

No. Both the Atom X and ION Pro 2 are built for complete at-home setup. The Atom X uses CaseControl™ for mode and volume control directly from the case. The Ion Pro 2 uses the Audien Ion Pro app to walk you through personalization. Audiologist-developed presets mean both devices deliver clear, quality sound from the start. A complimentary Sound Check™ appointment is available if you want optional specialist input.

What is the difference in setup between the Atom X and ION Pro 2?

The Atom X requires no phone and no app. You select modes and adjust volume using the CaseControl™ touchscreen on the charging case. The Ion Pro 2 offers deeper customization through the Audien Ion Pro app, including a personalized hearing profile. Both models include a complimentary Audien Sound Check™ appointment with purchase.

What if my hearing aids don't sound right after setup?

Start with your earbud fit. A loose seal is the most common reason sound feels off or muffled. From there, try switching modes via CaseControl™ or the Audien Ion Pro app. If issues continue, your Audien Sound Check™ appointment is the right next step. Audien's customer support team is available seven days a week by phone and email.

The Bottom Line

Setting up OTC hearing aids does not require a specialist, a waiting room, or a steep learning curve. Nearly 2 million customers have made that discovery with Audien’s audiologist-developed technology. Whether you prefer the simplicity of CaseControl™ on the Atom X, or the hands-on personalization of the Audien Ion Pro app on the ION Pro 2, setup is designed to be simple and straightforward.

Ready to hear the difference? Explore Audien's hearing aids with a 45-day risk-free trial and free shipping.

Last updated July 21, 2026