Rating of the best stethophonendoscopes for 2022

People who are far from medicine do not see the difference between a stethoscope, a phonendoscope and a stethophonendoscope. Despite the similar functionality, these devices have distinctive features, but they all help the doctor to obtain information about the state of the internal organs without the use of high-tech equipment. All of these devices involve the transmission of a sound signal mechanically or electronically from the patient's body to the doctor's ear.

One of the first medical devices was the stethoscope. He was invented by the attending physician of Napoleon Bonaparte, who, taking advantage of his official position, made him famous and widespread in the field of medicine at that time. It is a tube (wooden or plastic) that has extensions at the ends.

Phonendoscope - an improved modification of the stethoscope, is a bow connected to a plastic tube, which ends with a knob with a membrane. It is needed to enhance the transmission of sound signals, which helps to listen to distant organs.

Stethophonendoscope is a combination of the two above varieties. It combines their positive aspects, allowing the doctor to get the most complete information and hear even the smallest deviations in the rhythm of the work of a particular organ. In modern practice, this device is used. In this article, we will look at popular models of stethophonendoscopes, tell you what to look for in order not to make mistakes when choosing, and also form a rating of the best devices based on reviews from real customers.

Device and principle of operation

The device consists of several elements:

• acoustic head. A membrane is placed in it, which can be straight or convex. The membrane is necessary to amplify the transmitted sound signals. The capsule can be made of metal (stainless steel, aluminum) or plastic. The first material is wear-resistant and durable, but in contact with the skin causes discomfort to the patient. In order not to cause discomfort to a person, the doctor has to warm the head in his hand. The second is less damaged, but more pleasant to the body.
• A tube.This element transmits the sound wave from the membrane to the ear capsule. Most often, tubes are made of vinyl or rubber. It is believed that the first option is preferable because it has better airborne sound insulation. The shorter the tube, the more informative the transmission.
• Ear inserts. They are also called olives. They can be plastic or rubber. The second option is preferable, since it “sits” more tightly in the seat and does not fall out.
• Temples. Basically, they are metal, but sometimes there are plastic ones. To enhance the compressive effect, springs are built into some of them. The design of the arms can be folding or static.

Types of diagnostic devices

Depending on the purpose for which the device is used, they are divided into 4 types:

• Pediatric. As the name implies, it is used to diagnose the health status of children and adolescents. This category also includes neonatal stethophonendoscopes (used to treat young children). The main feature of such models is enhanced sound transmission, as well as the presence of a capsule made of “warm plastic” that does not cause discomfort when in contact with the skin.
• Cardiological. Used to detect cardiac pathology. They are distinguished by high quality sound transmission, and contribute to listening to high and low tones (which is achieved due to the presence of an amplifier).
• Obstetric - used in the practice of pregnancy. Designed to listen to the sounds of the fetal heart. Sometimes doctors working in the "old fashion" use wooden stethoscopes, while in "advanced" clinics more modern modifications are used.
• Therapeutic - the most common, are used in general practice and have a standard set of characteristics.
• Electronic - unlike mechanical ones, they are equipped with a microphone that amplifies the sound, and makes it possible to use the device for auscultation in noisy rooms, for example, in hospital boards.

Criteria for choosing stethophonendoscopes

• Appointment. Since all stethophonendoscopes differ in functionality, before buying, you need to decide for what purposes the device will be used most of the time.
• The number of sound lines. There can be 2 or 1 acoustic tubes. The first option is preferable, since it transmits sound vibrations to each ear.
• Type of ring on the capsule. As previously mentioned, they can be made from plastic or metal. The first material is more pleasant for the patient, the second is more durable and reliable.
• Olive material. It is better to buy products with rubber tips, among the recommendations of experienced doctors you can also find tips on choosing models with rotating olives, this will allow you to place them more comfortably in your ear.
• Membrane. The recommended operating frequency is from 10 to 1000 Hz. It is recommended to check that all parts to be connected fit snugly together, and also pay attention to the material of its manufacture. It must be plastic, and able to resonate at any frequency. On sale there are products with adjustable diaphragms, which increases the accuracy of sound transmission.

When buying a device, you need to keep in mind that the name "stethophonendoscope" is too long, and many simply abbreviate it to the familiar "stethoscope" - for convenience.Real stethoscopes are almost never used anymore, and most of the models sold are a combination of a stethoscope and a phonendoscope. The functionality of modern diagnostic devices is an order of magnitude superior to the capabilities of its predecessors, therefore, when choosing, it is recommended to buy “advanced” models.

Rating of quality stethophonendoscopes

Mechanical

Mechanical stethophonendoscopes have a simple design and are considered more reliable than electronic ones.

KAWE Planet Cardiology

KaWe is regarded as a leading manufacturer in the medical instrument industry. The company offers a wide range of products designed for use in various fields. The considered model is used for auscultation of the heart. It has been manufactured for more than 25 years and during this period has proven itself on the positive side. Each product is marked with an individual number that allows you to identify its origin and verify its uniqueness.

The head of the device with a diameter of 42 mm is made of metal, has a large weight, which allows you to level the noise from the movements of the doctor's fingers, and hear what you need without interference. It also has a built-in swivel mechanism that facilitates the application of the device to the patient's body. The membrane is free-floating, changes its position depending on the angle of application and transmits sounds at a depth of up to 12 centimeters. The funnel is replaceable, does not leave a feeling of cold in the subject. The tube is double, provides sound transmission to both ears. The bow is adjustable. The length of the rubber tube from the head to the olives is 75 centimeters, which allows diagnosing a visitor at a distance without creating a feeling of discomfort for both participants in the process.

Despite the fact that the device is positioned as a cardiological device, it can be used by physicians of various specialties, since most of the functions performed are unified. It can also be used as a home instrument, provided the user has the appropriate skills. The average price of a product is 15,000 rubles.

• one of the best manufacturers of medical equipment, has established itself over a long period of existence (the modification has been produced for more than 25 years);
• two-pipe system;
• can be ordered online at most medical device stores;
• floating membrane.

• high price.

ADSCOPE 602

The products of the American brand are not inferior to their predecessors in terms of fame. The considered model has a universal purpose, it is used for diagnosing diseases of a wide profile. In order to be able to be used in different cases, various diaphragm or bell configurations are provided, which are used for listening to both adults and children. The frequency is adjustable, which allows you to customize the device for use in different conditions.

Switching between modes is carried out by pressing: slight pressure for low frequencies, strong pressure for high frequencies. Olives are rigid, made of stainless steel. For user comfort, they are equipped with polyvinyl chloride inserts. The package also includes additional inserts made of material with a soft anatomical coating. Users note a snug fit and the absence of extraneous noise penetration when working with the tool.

The bell has a rim made of a material that does not create a feeling of cold, which can cause discomfort to the patient. The stainless steel arms are fixed in a 15º angle position to ensure a secure fit and prevent slippage when handling the equipment. The 48 cm PVC tube is double shaped, flexible and does not kink. Each product is completed with an individual plate with an identification number, which indicates that the product is not a fake. The total weight of the product with a bell is 215 grams, with a pediatric diaphragm - 243 grams. The assembled length is 71 cm. The average price of the product is 16,000 rubles.

• uncooled inserts do not bring discomfort to the subject;
• can be used for adults and children;
• the product is inexpensive in price (compared to how much competitors' products cost in a similar configuration);
• There are two types of inserts included.

• due to the fact that most of the elements are made of metal, the device is heavy, which may be inconvenient for women.

Amrus 04-AM507

This product differs from its competitors in its budgetary cost and has the appropriate workmanship. The product is made in China and has a pediatric profile. The head is bilateral, there is a plastic ring of a membrane with the antichill function. The membrane is made of polyvinyl chloride, diameter - 35 mm.

The headband is collapsible, there is a chrome finish. There is a compressive spring to enhance the fixation. Olives have a conical shape, made of vinyl. The tube is made of PVC, its length is 55 centimeters, the outer diameter is 0.9 cm.Users note the ease of use due to the low weight (130 grams), as well as bright colors, which are popular with young patients. The rotating head provides a convenient location on the body of the subject. It is possible to switch two operating modes: "bell" and "membrane". The package includes a head assembly, a tube, a headband (springs, olives, metal plates), as well as an instruction manual describing the assembly process and usage features. On sale you can find stethophonendoscopes with various colors, which facilitates the doctor's work, interest a child who is under stress from the manipulations carried out with him. The manufacturer declares a 1-year warranty for the products sold. The average price of a product is 500 rubles.

• there is an anti-chill pad;
• light weight;
• budget price.

• low quality of sound transmission, which is associated with design features;
• since the company is little known, not many pharmacies take a stethophonendoscope for sale, so some buyers have difficulty finding where to buy the product.

Riester Cardiophon 2.0

The model of foreign production (Germany) belongs to the category of cardiological and is sold in three colors: black, blue, burgundy. In the latest modifications, the manufacturer introduced a novelty - an improved head, which received an increased range of audibility. It is made of stainless steel and has two membranes (diameter 32 and 44 mm) built into it. Sound transmitting channels are double, for each ear of the user. There is a built-in compression spring that improves fixation.

The olives are anatomically rotatable, with a soft coating that improves comfort during use.There is an adjustment of their pressure, which is selected depending on the individual structure of the ear. In addition, the device is equipped with non-cooled rings, which increase patient comfort. The delivery set includes a diagnostic device, two spare membranes, an instruction manual, and a badge. The weight of the product is 204 grams. The total length is 71 centimeters.

This mass is due to the lightweight design of the temples. Together with the product, a plastic container is sold in which you can store the stethophonendoscope while it is not in use. According to users, the device is suitable for use by adults and children over three years old. Among the reviews, you can find the opinion that the device is sensitive and loud, suitable for both pediatric and pulmonological, therapeutic, cardiological practice. Many believe that the stethophonendoscope is superior to the Rappoport stethoscope in some characteristics. The average price of a product is 6,300 rubles.

• high-quality manufacturing materials;
• according to buyers, in terms of technical characteristics, it surpasses many models of competitors in the category up to 10,000 rubles;
• universal purpose;
• clear and loud sound.

• not suitable for toddlers under three years old as it is difficult to position the origin of the sound.

3M Littmann Classic III

The review continues with the products of the American brand. It is sold in various colors and is intended for therapeutic practice. Most often on sale there are black, burgundy, blue colors. Level of acoustic sensitivity - 7. The head is double-sided, both tips are membrane. The diameter of the larger one is 4.3 cm, the smaller one is 3.3. The total length of the product is 690 mm.Each product is supplied with an individual serial number to identify it.

The aperture is adjustable on both sides, and the head does not need to be turned over. No need to switch between modes. Adjustment is carried out using the pressing force (strong - high frequency, weak - low). A smaller aperture can transform into a funnel. The headband is made of aluminum, the head is made of stainless steel, the diaphragm is made of fiberglass. The total weight of the stethophonendoscope is 150 grams, heads - 82. Thanks to its lightweight design, the device is easy to carry throughout the day. The warranty period of the product is 5 years, which is longer than most manufacturers of medical equipment offer.

Buyers note high wear resistance, attractive appearance, as well as comfortable semi-rigid olives. Universal purpose makes it possible to use the equipment in various types of medicine, including pediatrics. The popularity of the model is due to high-quality components, durability, reliability, and low weight, which is important for frequent use. The average price of a product is 8,200 rubles.

• light weight;
• different colors of tubes;
• no need to switch between modes;
• long warranty period.

• buyers believe that a product with similar functionality should be cheaper.

Professional Welch Allyn

The American-made model is offered in two versions - for adults and children, and is designed to measure blood pressure. There are 4 colors to choose from - black, burgundy, green, dark blue. The product is most often used for binaural auscultation. The head is double-sided, both ends are membrane.The wide frequency range makes it possible to hear both low and high tones.

The total length of the product is 71.1 cm, and provides a comfortable distance between the doctor and the subject. Binaural temples, with built-in spring, can rotate in several directions. Olives are made of soft material, removable and interchangeable. The head is made of stainless steel, coated with a non-cooling coating, so that the visitor does not feel discomfort during the examination. Execution classical, a tube unary. Although the device is designed to diagnose arterial murmurs, it can also be used to detect cardiac and pulmonary defects.

Depending on whether the device is intended for adults or children, its cost also varies accordingly - the price of a product for small patients is several thousand rubles less than the cost of a device for adult visitors. The model is common, sold in most medical equipment stores. The average price of a product is: for children - about 6,000 rubles, for adults - 7,500 - 8,000. According to buyers, the cost of the product is too high, and you can find a Chinese analogue on sale much cheaper.

• a wide selection of colors;
• light weight;
• compact dimensions;
• the manufacturer offers models for both adults and children;
• soft removable tips;
• there is a seal that does not convey a feeling of cold to the subject;
• the long tube provides comfortable diagnostics.

• a single audio channel does not form the highest sound quality.

Electronic

Models that work using electronics are not popular with doctors due to the fact that many are accustomed to working "the old fashioned way" and consider mechanical devices to be more accurate. Despite this, the use of modern technologies in medicine makes it possible to carry out sound transmission at a higher level, contributing to an accurate diagnosis of the patient's health status.

LITTMANN Electronic Stetoscopes 3100BK27

The manufacturer of this model claims that it is capable of amplifying noise 24 times better than the best LITTMANN stethophonendoscope. The instrument is used to amplify the noises produced by the heart, lungs and other human organs. The principle of operation of the device is to filter and transmit sound vibrations using a binaural tube to the auditory canals of a doctor. The device can be used to listen to both adults and children, including newborns.

In order for the user to control the stethophonendoscope, on its part, which is in sight when listening, there is a small display with 5 control buttons. The electronic processor is powered by one alkaline battery, which lasts for several months of constant use. The display has a backlight that can be used in low light conditions. The device can be used to listen to both low and high frequencies, for this it has two types of settings, similar to how it happens in mechanical models when listening with a diaphragm and a bell. The sound amplification level is also adjustable (8 steps).

The tool comes with an instruction manual, which describes in detail how to choose the optimal mode of operation, features of use in different conditions, as well as ways to replace the battery. The product comes with headphones in two sizes so that the user can choose the right one for their individual characteristics. The product is guaranteed for 2 years. The average price of a product is 33,000 rubles.

• high quality sound transmission;
• a large number of settings;
• one of the most functional models that are on sale;
• the internal processor is able to tolerate low temperatures down to -30 ºС without losing the main functional characteristics.

• high price.

Switel BH170

The model is designed to listen to the fetal heartbeat in the womb and is used in gynecological practice during pregnancy. It can also be used by women at home on their own. The device is manufactured in Switzerland, and is capable of transmitting not only the sounds associated with the fetal heartbeat, but also its movements, as well as “hiccups”. In medical practice, more technological models are usually used, and this device is most often purchased by pregnant women on their own in order not to worry about the health of the unborn child.

The device consists of a listening sensor, headphones, speaker, connecting cable. Along with it, an instruction manual is supplied, which describes the main technical characteristics, as well as the features of the operation of the device.The functionality of the stethophonendoscope also allows the child to turn on music or record the voice of the parents, which, according to ongoing research, contributes to the early development and calm of the unborn child.

Reviews on the device are contradictory. Some buyers claim that nothing was heard during the entire period of operation, while others say that in order to listen, the mother needs to lie down for some time without moving and wait for her pulse and heartbeat to stabilize, not to block the sounds of the baby’s heartbeats with their noise. Warranty for trouble-free operation - 12 months. The average price of a product is 3,900 rubles.

• low cost for a stethophonendoscope of this level;
• allows the expectant mother to calm down and make sure that everything is in order with the child;
• there is “feedback”, you can turn on music or record the child’s voice.

• the level of sound transmission does not allow the use of a stethophonendoscope as a professional diagnostic device.

Master Elite Welch Allyn

The rating is completed by the products of a well-known American brand, which has established itself as a reliable and durable equipment. The device is equipped with a switch between high and low frequencies, which allows you to listen to both low and high tones. Due to the presence of this function, the doctor can listen to both diastolic sounds and pulmonary murmurs.

Audio data processing is carried out using proprietary software that not only registers information, but also records it for further storage and analysis.There is also the function of simultaneous listening by several users, which is implemented using the built-in distribution block. The arms are equipped with an adjustment mechanism depending on the needs of the user, binaural. Built-in battery provides continuous operation for 140 hours or more. The tool is equipped with headphones, a standard electronic unit, as well as a veterinary one; a cable for connecting to a personal computer, a disk with software and an instruction manual. The average price of a product is 26,000 rubles.

• it is possible to set up simultaneous listening by several users, so you can conduct joint consultations;
• universal purpose (can be used to diagnose animals);
• long battery life;
• quality components.

• the product is not common, which is why many are afraid to buy it without reviews from real buyers.

Conclusion

When choosing which company's stethophonendoscope is better to buy, it is recommended to focus not only on the cost criterion, but also on the functionality of the product. The price of diagnostic devices starts at 400 rubles, but you can’t find a decent stethophonendoscope for this money.

Models of domestic production are used most often in public medical institutions, as they are practically not competitive due to the high price and poor build quality, compared with the products of foreign competitors. We recommend that you pay attention to the reviews of real buyers, as well as to the technical descriptions of manufacturers before buying.It is best to purchase highly specialized devices, as they are configured to perform specific tasks and cope with the assigned functions better than universal models.

If the budget allows, you can consider electronic models that have the ability not only to listen to noises, but also record them in memory for further analysis. Some modern stethophonendoscopes can also reproduce recorded sounds for multiple users, making it possible to hold joint consultations or medical conferences for especially difficult cases. We hope that our review will help you make the right choice!