There are five common styles of hearing instruments. All five help with mild to moderate losses. However, choices may be limited if your hearing loss is severe. While size is the most obvious difference, each style has different attributes that are important to consider.
1. Behind the Ear (BTE)
Behind The Ear (BTE) hearing instruments are the largest models. They can house a variety of circuit options and amplify sounds to a greater degree than most custom models. BTEs work by sending sound to the ear canal via the earmold and clear plastic tubing, which has been molded to fit comfortably in the outer ear area.
- BTEs are the easiest to adjust and maintain
- BTEs are appropriate for most types of hearing loss
- BTEs provide a secure fit with minimal passageway obstruction
2. On The Ear (OTE)
On The Ear (OTE) instruments feature a comfortable, open earbud which conforms for an instant, secure fit. OTE hearing aids are appropriate for mild to moderate high frequency hearing loss.
- OTEs comfortable "open" earbud promotes airflow and conforms for secure fit
- OTEs are appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
- OTEs have micro-thin tubing and small attractive case
3. Receiver In The Canal (RIC)
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) devices are designed to widen the distance between microphone and receiver, thereby lessening feedback. But only the Virtue RIC comes with best-in-class Active Feedback Intercept (AFI), the industry's top-rated feedback canceller.
- RICs offer a discreet open-fit solution
- RICs are appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
- RICs have Fusion technology
4. In The Ear (ITE)
In The Ear (ITE) instruments house a variety of circuit options in a custom-made shell that fits in the outer portion of the ear. Their size and easy-to-use controls may be helpful for people with limited dexterity.
- ITEs are easy to insert and adjust
- ITEs are appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss
- ITEs custom-made shell fits snugly in the ear
5. In The Canal (ITC)
In The Canal (ITC) instruments are custom designed to fit in the ear canal. ITCs are discreet, yet still slightly visible within the outer ear. ITC instruments offer a variety of circuit choices that would have previously required a larger aid.
- ITCs are less visible than BTE or ITE
- ITCs are appropriate for mild to mildly severe hearing loss
- ITCs have a variety of circuit choices despite their small size
6. Completely In The Canal (CIC)
Completely In The Canal (CIC) instruments are the smallest and most discreet aids available. CICs are custom designed to fit entirely in the ear canal, improving sound quality and reducing feedback. CICs are popular for their aesthetic appeal, but the physiology of some people's ears may make the style unsuitable for them.
- CICs are nearly invisible for complete discretion
- CICs are appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
- CICs are used in adults exclusively
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