Hearing Aid Styles
There are six common styles of hearing instruments. All six help with mild to moderate losses. However, choices may be limited if your hearing loss is severe.
Invisibel (IIC) Invisible In The Canal
Invisible in the Canal (IIC)
devices live in the second bend of the ear canal.
They are 100% invisible when worn.
Occlusion and feedback are
virtually nonexistent!
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)
Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) devices are designed to widen the distance between microphone and receiver, thereby lessening feedback. RIC comes with best-in-class Whistlefree Feedback Cancellation, the industry's top rated feedback canceller.
Receiver-In-Canal Power Solution (RIC-P)
Receiver-In-Canal Power Solution (RIC-P) provides the power you need with the sophisticated, discreet look of a RIC. The Power Solution is a receiver-in-the-canal device attached to a small earmold that fits completely in the ear canal.
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC)
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) hearing instruments are the smallest and most discreet instruments available. CIC's are custom designed to fit entirely int he ear canal, improving sound quality and reducing feedback. CIC's are popular for their aesthetic appeal, but the physiology of some people's ears may make the style unsuitable for them.
Nearly invisible for complete discretion
Appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
Used in adults exclusively
In-The-Canal (ITC)
In-The-Canal (ITC) instruments are custom designed to fit in the ear canal. ITC's 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 instrument.
Less visible than BTE or ITE
Appropriate for mild to mildly severe loss
Variety of circuit choices despite small size
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.
Easy to insert and adjust
Appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss
Custom-made shell fits snugly in the ear
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
Behind-The-Ear (BTE) instruments are the largest models. They can house a variety of circuit options and amplify sounds to a greater degree than most custom models. BTE's 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 are.
Easiest to adjust and maintain
Appropriate for nearly all types of hearing losses
Secure fit with minimal passageway obstruction
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