At Hearing First Audiology Clinic, we believe that every individual different and so we do not simply choose hearing aid types and styles based on just your test results. We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, because every hearing loss and individual is unique. We carry everything from the smallest invisible hearing aids to the most advanced, Bluetooth compatible, rechargeable hearing aids. Whatever your needs, we have a solution for you.

This wide range of options falls into two types of styles: Behind-the-ear (BTE) and In-the-ear (ITE). Below is an overview of these styles. In the end, the best hearing aid for you will address your unique hearing ability, lifestyle, and budget.

EHIND-THE-EAR (BTE) HEARING AIDS

BTE hearing aids sit behind or on top of the outer ear with a tube that connects to an ear tip or mould inside of the ear canal. BTE’s offer the widest range of features, colors, sizes, battery types, and degrees of power. Today, they’re offered in small, discreet designs that are often unnoticeable when worn. There are a variety of BTE styles available including:

IN-THE-EAR (ITE) HEARING AIDS

ITE hearing aids are worn in the ear instead of resting behind it, and are custom-fit based on an impression of the ear.

There are a variety of ITE styles available including:

ALL STYLES AND SIZES
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Completely in Canal (CIC)

Completely in Canal (CIC) instruments fit into the ear canal, but not as deeply as the IIC models. Slightly larger than the IIC, they are still relatively hard to see.

Invisible in Canal (IIC)

Invisible in Canal (IIC) instruments are the smallest custom hearing aids available. They sit deep within the canal and are nearly invisible to the naked eye.

In the Canal (ITC) or Half Shell

In the Canal (ITC) instruments sit in the lower portion of the outer ear bowl. Since they are slightly larger than the CIC, they are able to hold additional features, including a larger battery, directional microphones, and volume controls.

Mini BTE

Mini BTEs are the smallest of the BTEs and equipped with a soft tip at the end of the tubing to enable airflow and sound to enter the ear canal along with the amplified sounds, creating a more natural experience.

BTE with Earmold

BTEs with Earmolds are designed with a custom earmold at the tip of the discrete tubing directing sound into the ear canal. These have a longer shape that follows the contour of the outer ear and enables them to house more features and power.

In the Ear (ITE) or Full Shell

In the Ear (ITE) instruments fill the entire outer ear bowl. Their larger size allows for more features and functions, including a larger battery, directional microphones, volume controls, and larger receivers for more severe hearing losses.

Receiver in Canal (RIC)

BTEs with Earmolds are designed with a custom earmold at the tip of the discrete tubing directing sound into the ear canal. These have a longer shape that follows the contour of the outer ear and enables them to house more features and power.