Hearing Aid Types

Making Senses of Hearing Aid Types

Hearing aids basically amplify frequencies depending on the user’s hearing loss and the situation or listening environment they are in. Depending on your personal needs and degree of hearing loss, the type of hearing aid most suitable to you will vary considerably in size, shape and functionality. At Complete Hearing Solutions we will help you select the best hearing aid type for your needs.

Receiver-in-canal

Receiver-in-canal (RIC) models use a tiny wire rather than tubing.

Completely-in-the-canal

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) aids are nearly invisible, nestling within the ear canal.

Behind-the-ear

Behind-the-ear (BTE) aids remain popular, sitting snugly behind the ear and delivering sound via a tube.

In-the-ear

In-the-ear (ITE) variety, which are custom molded for the wearer.

In-the-canal

For those seeking discretion, in-the-canal (ITC) aids are hardly noticeable

helping improve hearing loss

Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are probably the most commonly known type of hearing aid. These devices sit comfortably behind your ear and connect to a custom earpiece via a clear tube. They are powerful and suitable for many types of hearing loss. The smaller ones hide discreetly behind your ear.

The design allows for larger batteries for extended life and easier handling. Modern BTEs are stylish, and offer a range of colors. Connectivity is easy and they can sync with your phone, TV, or your home sound system for an immersive audio experience.

Some people have concerns about wind noise, however more advanced models are adjustable to these conditions. Behind the ear hearing aids are durable, with casing designed to resist moisture and ready for whatever life throws your way. Models are available for various budgets without compromising on quality.

Hearing aid types

In-The-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids are compact and custom-fitted. Once inside your ear thay just about invisible. They sit in the outer ear bowl, making them comfortable and easy to manage, without losing out on functionality.

These types of hearing aids have advanced features like directional microphones for understanding speech in noisy environments are available on these smaller devices. ITE hearing aids can include impressive technology, from wireless streaming to tinnitus masking, in their tiny frames. The absence of tubes or wires means nothing comes between you and clear sound.

Volume and program control can be done via a smart phone or remote control, allowing for easy setting changes. In the ear hearing aids are molded to your ear’s anatomy, which means they fit really well. These aids are reliable and come fortified against earwax and moisture, prolonging device longevity. ITEs offer a winning combination for individuals facing mild to moderate hearing loss, providing great performance in a small package. Their size makes them an excellent option for those with an active lifestyle, play sports, wear glasses and seeking an unobtrusive hearing aid.

In-The-Canal (ITC) and Completely-In-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids

Both the In-The-Canal (ITC) and Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are tiny and fit partly or entirely into the ear canal making them invisible. They provide a very discreet way to combat hearing loss. Customisation is essential with these devices as they are molded to your ear’s exact shape, providing a really comfortable fit.

These are simple in their design, making them easy to use without external tubes or wires. They’re ideal for those who don’t want their hearing aids to interfere with wearing glasses, using headphones, or other similar activities. Although small, they bring powerful features to the table, from noise reduction to feedback cancellation. Despite their size, battery efficiency is commendable, with some models being rechargeable.

These hearing aids are good for mild to moderate hearing loss. However, their discretion doesn’t mean they compromise on quality, as they deliver pristine, natural sound quality. Their placement within the ear canal allows for a more natural listening experience, leveraging the ear’s anatomy for sound collection.

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) hearing aids separate the receiver from the main body and the main component sits behind the ear. A tiny wire, not a tube, connects to the receiver positioned in your ear canal. This design offers a more natural listening experience, enhancing sound quality, especially in the lower frequencies.

RIC hearing aids are lightweight, making them comfortable for all-day wear, and come in various colors to match your skin tone or personal style. Even though they are smaller than Behind the Ear hearing aids, these devices include features such as multi-directional microphones, wireless connectivity, and sophisticated sound processing algorithms. Their modular nature means easier maintenance; if the receiver fails, it can be replaced without servicing the entire device.

Feedback is significantly reduced in RIC models due to their design. They cater to a wide range of hearing loss degrees, from mild to moderately severe. Despite their advanced technology, they remain user-friendly, with intuitive controls for volume and settings. And are available with rechargeable batteries.

Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids

If you are looking for an almost undetectable hearing solution, Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) hearing aids are a great choice. Hidden deep in the ear canal, these micro-devices are virtually unseen, allaying any stigma or self-consciousness associated with wearing hearing aids.

Custom-fitted to your ear canal, this type of hearing aid preserves the natural acoustics of your ear, delivering sound that’s as close to natural hearing as possible. Their deep placement also allows for easy use of telephones, headphones, and even less wind noise when outdoors. Despite their miniature size, they house cutting-edge technology, ensuring you don’t miss out on features like noise reduction and speech enhancement. And they can be worn all day long, 7 days a week (even when showering).

They are specifically designed for mild to moderate hearing loss, providing powerful assistance in the most inconspicuous way. Removing them is simple, with a transparent thread that is barely noticeable but highly efficient. These devices don’t interfere with your lifestyle; you can wear them confidently during your most vigorous activities. With IICs, you’re not just getting a hearing aid; you’re investing in confidence, the freedom to interact without the barriers often associated with hearing impairment.

Reliable and convenient Hearing Aids

Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Rechargeable hearing aids come with built-in batteries designed to be recharged, just like your phone. Simply place them in the charging station at night, and wake up to fully charged devices ready for the day. No more worrying your hearing aid will run out of power, or having to stock up on batteries.

Rechargeable hearing aids are eco-friendly, reducing the waste associated with disposable batteries. They’re reliable, offering 24 hours of hearing clarity on a single charge, ensuring your hearing experience is uninterrupted.

Portable chargers and cases ensure your devices remain powered, wherever you are. These hearing aids are designed for all, irrespective of the degree of hearing loss, bringing the benefits of rechargeability to everyone.

Get your hearing checked by an independent hearing health partner who truly listens

Book a FREE hearing test today. Or contact us for more information and we will be in touch.

LOCATION ADDRESS

Our Hearing Clinic Locations and Contact Details

Complete Hearing Solutions operates six hearing clinics across the eastern and northern regions of Melbourne. Contact the clinic near you to book an appointment.

Eltham

Main Road Specialist Centre
1185 Main Road

Bundoora

Bundoora Specialist Health Care
445 Grimshaw Street

Yea

Yea Medical
20 Miller Street

Broadmeadows

Hillcrest Health Care
50-52 Bamburgh Street

Preston

Murray Road Medical Centre
245 Murray Road

St Albans

Westgroup Medical Shop
14 Victoria Square

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