What’s new in Software 1.3.2 (and why it matters)
We’re excited to share that our latest Studio software release, v1.3.2 brings early access to the National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL), NAL‑NL3 fitting system, an evolution and revolution to the world’s most widely used prescription, now available first through MedRx verification and test systems. The new fitting system is compatible with the AVANT HIT+, AVANT REM+, AVANT ARC, MedRx WREM, and MedRx AWRC—so you can bring next‑generation fittings to your existing MedRx workflow with a simple software update.
What is NAL‑NL3?
NAL‑NL3 is the next generation of NAL’s prescriptive fitting system, designed to optimize speech intelligibility and listening comfort using a modern, data‑driven approach. Building on NAL‑NL2, it applies real‑world fitting data and machine‑learning insights to deliver more personalized amplification targets—especially in complex listening environments. [nal-nl3.com.au]
More than an incremental update, NAL-NL3 fitting system represents a revolution in prescription science and a shift toward modular, patient-centred design. It comprises the NAL-NL3 Prescription and a growing suite of NAL-NL3 Modules that extend the benefits of evidence-based fitting to a wider range of hearing needs. This framework is purpose-built for today’s hearing-aid technologies and user expectations, marking a transformative step forward in personalized hearing care.
Why NAL‑NL3 inside MedRx?
Better targets where it counts. NAL-NL3 incorporates insights on contemporary clinical unmet needs, 10+ years of fitting data, and in‑the‑moment user inputs (e.g., ecological momentary assessments) to help provide gain targets that align with how patients actually experience sound in daily life - whether that is in quiet places, crowded restaurants, outdoor settings, or dynamic background noises. The integration of NAL-NL3 in the new MedRx Studio Software v1.3.2 delivers fittings that start closer to “right” and need fewer fine‑tuning visits. [nal-nl3.com.au]
Future‑ready verification. As hearing instruments adopt more intelligent DSP and adaptive features, prescriptions must keep pace. NAL‑NL3’s modular architecture was conceived with these realities in mind, making it a natural fit for MedRx’s PC‑based verification ecosystem. [nal-nl3.com.au]
Seamless compatibility with your MedRx setup
With MedRx Studio 1.3.2, NAL-NL3 appears alongside your existing fitting options and works across our REM/LSM and HIT modules, so you can verify to NAL-NL3 targets during real‑ear or RECD procedures and confirm device performance in the test box—without changing your software. (Supported systems: AVANT HIT+, AVANT REM+, AVANT ARC, MedRx WREM, MedRx AWRC.)
Tip: If you use the AWRC or WREM, you can pair NL3 verification with wireless, binaural probe microphones and high‑frequency fitting up to 12,500 Hz to match the extended bandwidth of modern hearing aids.
A quick refresher: Why REM (and LSM) still set the standard
Even the best first‑fit won’t account for individual ear acoustics. Ear canal shape, volume, and length vary widely, which means two people with identical audiograms may need different amplification in situ. That’s why Real‑Ear Measurements (REM) and Live Speech Mapping (LSM) are best practice—they objectively verify that amplification at the eardrum matches prescriptive targets.
What makes MedRx REM special?
- Wireless, binaural REM/LSM with wireless probe mics: Reduce cable clutter, move freely, and keep focus on your patient while maintaining accuracy.
- High‑frequency capability to 12,500 Hz: Verify fittings for instruments with extended bandwidth and unique high‑frequency gain needs.
- Probe Tube Depth Guide: Audio and visual cues help you place the probe 3–5 mm from the tympanic membrane, improving accuracy and confidence for clinicians and comfort for patients.
- Speech‑centric verification tools: LSM supports realistic stimuli—including ISTS and recorded passages—around typical conversational levels (e.g., 65 dB), with options to check at 50 and 80 dB to round out the fitting.
Together, these features streamline appointments and provide clearer, more engaging counseling visuals—showing patients exactly how their devices perform against NAL-NL3 targets in the real ear
HIT matters too: Close the loop in the box
Before you verify in the ear, verify the instrument itself. The AVANT HIT+ and Studio HIT module help you confirm that a hearing aid meets the manufacturer’s specifications and performs within ANSI/IEC tolerances. Core capabilities include automated runs of the 10 standard tests—OSPL‑90, Full‑On Gain, Reference Test Gain, Frequency Response, Equivalent Input Noise, Harmonic Distortion, Battery Current, Input/Output (AGC), Attack/Release, and Induction Coil (SPLITS)—plus 2cc and RECD measurements when needed. Additionally, with the Avant HIT+ you are able to perform RECD measurements or prefit a hearing aid to target using the NAL-NL3 fitting system.
Running HIT first catches technical issues early, ensuring the device you bring into the fitting room is functioning correctly—so your NAL-NL3‑based REM or LSM session focuses on acoustics and patient preference, not hardware surprises.
How NAL‑NL3 fits into your clinical flow
1. Pre‑fit QA (HIT)
Run the automated ANSI/IEC battery in HIT+, compare against datasheets/tolerances, and document results. Pre-fit hearing aid to desired targets.
2. Initial fit with NL3 targets (REM/LSM)
In Studio 1.3.2, select NAL‑NL3 as your prescription, calibrate speakers and probes, and run your preferred protocol:
- REM with noise or ISTS‑like stimuli to match targets, or
- LSM with ISTS/recorded speech at 65 dB, expanding to 50 and 80 dB as needed; add MPO checks where appropriate.
3. Counsel, fine‑tune, and document
Use live displays and recorded stimuli to align patient expectations with objective measurements. The Probe Tube Depth Guide and wireless probes make placements faster and less stressful.
4. Follow‑up and outcome tracking
Re‑run key conditions (e.g., 50/65/80 dB) and reinforce self‑reported outcomes against objective measures aligned to NL3 targets.
Getting started
Download and update to MedRx Studio v1.3.2 on your PC. Once installed, you’ll find NAL‑NL3 listed alongside existing prescriptions in the REM/LSM or HIT interface. Select the NAL-NL3 target in the target menu of Studio to populate for use with your next patient.