Styles of Digital Hearing Aid Instruments
There are seven main styles of hearing aids commonly used today. Each style offers different advantages, depending on the design, size and technology. Pictures courtesy of (c) Unitron Hearing
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
BTEs are worn comfortably behind the ear while amplified sound travels down a tube to a customized earmold that fits securely into the ear. Because they are larger, BTEs can accommodate bigger batteries for longer life and larger amplifiers for maximum amplification. Most BTEs are compatible with assistive listening devices. BTEs are suitable for mild to profound hearing losses.
Receiver In Canal (RIC)
RICs are smaller devices worn behind the ear with a small wire running down into the ear canal attached to a small speaker. Benefits include cosmetic appeal, more natural sound, reduced feedback and less occlusion ("talking in a barrel" effect). RICs are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
Half Shell (ITE)
Half shells are custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear, ensuring optimum performance and maximum comfort. Half shells are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses.
Canal (ITC)
Canal hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside the external ear canal, making them almost unnoticeable. Canal hearing aids are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
Mini-Canal (ITC)
Mini canal hearing aids are custom-made to fit almost entirely inside the ear canal, making them difficult to notice. Mini canal hearing aids are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
The smallest hearing aid available, the CIC fits deeply inside the ear canal, making it almost invisible. Benefits include cosmetic appeal, more natural sound, reduced feedback, less occlusion ("talking in a barrel" effect), improved telephone use and decreased wind noise. CICs are suitable for mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
Full Shell (ITE)
Full shells are also custom-made to fit securely in your outer ear. They are larger in size than the half shell and are suitable for mild to severe hearing losses.
