focus on:
Kirkland
Signature
HEARING AID USERS know that technology today allows the hearing challenged to
sport devices that are barely noticeable while
offering dramatically increased functionality.
The new Kirkland Signature™ 5.0 hearing aids retain a small profile and improve
sound quality and clarity, with special processing that enhances speech understanding,
even in noisy environments. These new
hearing aids also improve another aspect of
daily living: connectivity to other devices.
The 5.0 uses a 2. 4 GHz radio frequency to
transmit sound, which allows for better transmission over distance as well as less echo and
distortion of the signal. Also, earlier wireless
TRAVEL IS A JOY, but it can also be a challenge, particularly when it comes to lugging
luggage. One major improvement for all travelers was the introduction of luggage with
wheels (hello!). Then came spinning wheels,
which allowed even greater maneuverability
and ease of transport.
Incorporating those features, and more, is
the new Kirkland Signature hybrid carry-on
(Item #754073).
“This item rocks,” says luggage buyer Kelly
Hunt. “Our team has been working on this for
years to get it just right, and we have been able
to take advantage of new materials and other
innovations in the luggage industry.”
The hybrid nature of the piece provides it
with the best features of two distinct con-
struction styles: hard-sided and soft-sided.
“This is a true hybrid case with a configuration that you won’t see out in the market,” says Kelly. The hard side of the case is
constructed of high-quality Bayer Makrolon
polycarbonate. “Not only is this material
strong enough to endure the travel of
extreme road warriors, but its light weight
helps bring the weight of the bag down. At
9. 2 pounds, it’s almost 2 pounds lighter than
our previous model,” Kelly notes.
Kirkland Signature luggage:
A case study of quality
make fitting the bag into the overhead
more manageable, especially with airline
restrictions getting more restrictive,” says Kelly.
And, while Costco’s carry-on costs only
$99, Kelly says the bag’s closest comparisons
are cases that sell for more than $500.
She adds, “We are very proud of how this
new item turned out. This piece will make a
great addition to our luggage lineup.”
— T. Foster Jones
The soft side of the bag is
constructed of high-quality
Cordura nylon. It retains the
popular front-pocket feature
from the previous incarnations of Kirkland Signature
luggage to allow quick access to
important items, and the material
provides a little wiggle room when
placing it in an overhead bin.
“Our case is also expandable
for those times when you bring a
little extra back from your travels,” says Kelly.
And, in keeping with the
latest developments in luggage,
the Kirkland Signature carry-on
has been equipped with spinner
wheels. “These Hinomoto wheels
glide very smoothly and provide great
maneuverability,” says Kelly. “No more hitting
every chair as you make your way through
the plane. Just spin the case sideways and
glide down the aisle.”
The interior dimensions— 15 by 9. 5 by 21
inches—remain the same. “We kept the pack-
ing capacity where it has been but made the
overall case dimensions a little trimmer to
5.0 hearing aids
are your ears
to the world
hearing aids required an intermediary device,
typically worn around the neck, to communicate with wireless devices such as remote controls, clip-on microphones, TV streamers and
cellphones. The 5.0 works directly with those
wireless devices.
Music and hearing aids have not always
worked well together, due to signal processing
designed to optimize speech rather than
music. A new program in the 5.0 preserves the
nuances of music, providing a high-fidelity
listening experience.
The 5.0 also includes features such as:
Directionality options. Lets you join con-
versations and still remain aware of surround-
ing sounds, even in a noisy environment.
Device-to-device communication.
Allows your hearing instruments to work
together as one by keeping volume levels
and programs synchronized.
Wind protection. Premium technology lessens wind noise in the outdoors.
Sound processing. Delivers such a
natural-sounding listening experience,
you almost forget you’re wearing hearing instruments.
Automatic gain adjustment.
Individualized volume for any situation.
Noise regulator. Tracks and
reduces disturbing sounds, even in the
noisiest settings.
Data logging. Tracks how you use your
hearing instruments for a personalized fit.
The 5.0 package includes two premium
wireless hearing aids plus a remote control for
changing programs and volume easily, all for
$1,899.99—$100 less than the previous model
and up to a 65 percent savings over comparable packages sold elsewhere. It’s a strong
addition to the quality and value offered
in the industry-leading Costco Hearing
Centers.—Steve Fisher
