Published Oct 30, 2025
SONNET 3: Insights into UNC’s Early User Experience Study
MED-EL is committed to meeting the evolving needs of the industry. The SONNET 3 audio processor and MAESTRO 11 system software are the latest innovations in processor design which improve upon the existing SONNET series and MAESTRO system with a smaller, lighter design, integrated Bluetooth, and software options making it the most customizable processor from MED-EL to-date.
Key Features of SONNET 3 & MAESTRO 11
- Compact, ergonomic design for all-day comfort
- Flexible earhook for enhanced security and comfort on-ear
- Customizable TouchKey control for increased convenience and power optimization
- IP68 waterproof rating with standard earhook for active lifestyles
- Direct streaming from compatible Android™ & Apple™ devices
- Extended configuration options for greater processor customization
- Streamlined fitting workflow with enhanced interface for efficient programming
To learn more about the benefits of SONNET 3 and MAESTRO 11, visit:
Studying Early User Satisfaction with SONNET 3
In partnership with The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, the first U.S. recipients and audiologists had early access to SONNET 3 and MAESTRO 11 ahead of commercial availability. Participants had at least 12 months of experience with their CI and were currently utilizing a behind-the-ear audio processor for comparison. This cohort included a range of ages and demographics with 15 adults and 5 pediatric participants completing the study. The average age was 44.7 years with an average of 6.23 years of hearing experience with their cochlear implant at the time of the study.
Participants were fit with SONNET 3 and wore it for 3 weeks before completing a survey asking their impression of how the SONNET 3 new key features compared to their current audio processor. Study audiologists shared their feedback on MAESTRO 11 and processor improvements.
Recipient Impressions
Participants overwhelmingly agreed that SONNET 3 design enhancements were an improvement over their current audio processor.
100% of participants reported that SONNET 3…
Benefits of Direct Bluetooth Streaming
Direct Bluetooth streaming offered benefits in all domains from usability to sound quality for the SONNET 3 participants who chose to direct stream during the study.
“The main and incredibly significant shift for me is the ease of using Bluetooth — being able to seamlessly do some “listening exercises” via connecting Bluetooth to my Apple Music/podcasts is a GAME CHANGER.”
SONNET 3 Study Participant
Guardian Impressions on Increased Durability
The guardians of 5 pediatric participants expressed strong agreement for the increased durability and peace of mind that SONNET 3 offers for their child’s active lifestyle.
Audiologists’ Perspectives
Across the board audiologists reported improvements with SONNET 3 and MAESTRO 11 over previous generation audio processors and software.
- Clinic Efficiency: Intuitive software updates, simplified Bluetooth connectivity, and overall design enhancements offered streamlined approaches to device counseling and programming that audiologists said saved them time.
- Patient-Centered Care: New earhook options coupled with extended processor configuration features in MAESTRO 11 made SONNET 3 more customizable for individual patient needs.
100% of audiologists agreed…
"The SONNET 3's smaller, lighter design offers greater peace of mind, featuring waterproofing, a redesigned microphone cover, improved retention with the FLEX earhook, and direct Bluetooth audio streaming."
Amanda Sloop, AuD, CCC-A
UNC Clinical Research Audiologist
Industry Impact & Future Directions
In this early user study, the first U.S. patients and audiologists to use SONNET 3 and MAESTRO 11 shared their insights, demonstrating the measurable impact these design enhancements have on daily use and clinical usability. Benefits of these new features are already being observed in clinical care.
“The direct streaming options to both Android and iPhone have made it easier for my patients to stay connected through phone calls. It has also saved time during clinic.”
Lindsey VanLooy, AuD, CCC-A
UNC Clinical Audiologist
MAESTRO 11 and SONNET 3 combine the benefits of existing tools like OTOPLAN, Anatomy-Based Fitting, and Bimodal Synchronization, with new extended configuration options and customizable design features, building on the portfolio of individualized hearing solutions, available only from MED-EL. Collaborative research allows MED-EL to accelerate innovation through real-world data from patients and clinicians alike. MED-EL continues to strive to meet the needs of the industry head-on while moving the industry forward with innovations designed to mimic natural hearing.
To learn more about SONNET 3 visit: SONNET 3 Audio Processor
References
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© MED-EL Medical Electronics. All rights reserved. The content on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Contact your doctor or hearing specialist to learn what type of hearing solution suits your specific needs. Not all products, features, or indications are approved in all countries.