Behind the Ear (BTE) – All the components are encased in a small slim case worn behind the ear. Sound is conducted to an earmold through a plastic tube. These aids tend to have larger controls which are easier for some people to adjust. May be fit to all degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound. BTE hearing aids are now smaller less visible than ever before. They come in many colors.
In the Canal (ITC) – All the components are contained in a housing that fits in the ear opening and the ear canal. The sound is conducted into the ear by the receiver in the canal. There are adjustable volumes, with small controls. These aids are less visible in the ear than the ITE type hearing aids. For mild to moderately-severe hearing losses.
Completely in Canal (CIC) – All components are contained in a molded housing that fits completely in the ear canal. The receiver is located in the canal and there are usually no outward adjustable controls. The hearing aid can usually not be seen from the outside. For mild to moderately severe hearing losses.
In the Ear (ITE) – all the components are contained in a housing that fits in the outer ear and extends into the ear canal. The sound is conducted into the ear by the receiver in the canal. There is an adjustable volume control which requires greater dexterity than BTE styles. For mild to severe hearing losses.
Canal Receiver Technology (CRT) – An external receiver provides a smoother frequency response than can be obtained with an acoustic slim tube. Placement of the receiver in the ear canal provides the fullest access to extended high frequencies. By taking the receiver out of the micro BTE housing and placing it in the ear canal, the Receiver in the Canal or RIC becomes unbelievably small. The tiny case size and transparent wire combine to offer unrivalled cosmetic appeal.
