Behind-The-Ear

The most common style of hearing aids is the “Behind-The-Ear” device. BTEs have two parts — the hardware which is housed in a durable plastic case that rests behind the ear and the ear mold which sends the sound into the ear canal. The ear mold is made specific for the shape of the user’s ears (as no two ear canals are the same). This type of hearing aid is usually more powerful than Receiver-In-The-Canal (RIC), In-The-Ear (ITE), In-The-Canal (ITC) or Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC) aids – the bigger shell design can house a bigger amplifier and battery. For this reason, BTE hearing aids are often the only choice for people with severe hearing loss. BTEs have many benefits — they are comfortable, durable, more flexible, more powerful and often include more features.

BTE Special Features

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  • Ultimate power and performance
  • Most common hearing aid
  • For moderate to severe hearing loss
  • Color choices to match your hair, skin tone and lifestyle
  • Switches modes seamlessly to match your listening environment

Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC)

These hearing devices are the smallest and most discreet. They fit completely in the ear canal making them virtually invisible. Other than aesthetic advantages, benefits include less wind noise, more natural hearing and telephone use without feedback.

Receiver-In-The-Canal (RIC)

Receiver-in-the-canal hearing aids are small, discreet, and incredibly quick to fit the ear(s) devices. They are a preferred choice for many first-time hearing aid users.

In-The-Canal (ITC)

In-the-Canal hearing aids are molded to fit almost entirely in the ear canal. They are small, occupying about one quarter of the concha (the bowl-like outer portion of your ear). Advantages include custom comfortable fit and reduction of wind noise.

In-The-Ear (ITE)

In-the-Ear hearing aids are custom-formed instruments molded to fit in the outer portion of the ear (concha). These are custom made for you, and are the most widely recommended hearing aid style. Advantages include the ability to use powerful amplifiers and telephone switches.

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

Behind-the-Ear aids are made up of a plastic case that houses the electronic components, and a custom-fit earpiece that comes down to fit in the ear canal. They are designed for a wide range of hearing loss and may be connected to external sound sources such as TVs, FM systems or infrared listening systems. Advantages include the ability to house many features, including volume control, directional microphones, and memory push buttons.