Receiver in Canal (RIC) Similar to the RITE model, the RIC device is suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Most of the components sit behind the ear but the receiver (or loudspeaker) is connected by a thin wire and placed in the ear canal, reducing the size of the device. It is an extremely discreet, yet powerful, hearing aid and is fully automatic.
Receiver in the ear (RITE) The RITE model is suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Most of the components sit behind the ear but the receiver (or loudspeaker) is connected by a thin wire and placed in the concha of the ear, reducing the size of the device. It is a very discreet, yet powerful, hearing aid that is fully automatic.
Completely in canal (CIC) This is the smallest type of hearing aid available and is especially suitable if you have a mild to moderate hearing loss. Its full automatic electrical components are completely contained within a custom made shell. It is placed deeply in the ear canal making the hearing aid almost invisible – a huge aesthetic advantage.
In the ear (ITE) An in-the-ear model is suitable if you have a mild to severe hearing loss and has all its electronic components contained within a plastic shell molded to fit your ear. The size, and therefore visibility, of the ITE depends on your degree of hearing loss and the shape of your ear canals.
Behind the ear (BTE) Generally suited to those with severe hearing loss, but also a solution for people with small ear canals that make it difficult to fit the entire device into their ear. The electronic components are located in a housing placed behind your ear, while a slim plastic tube directs the amplified sound into your ear canal.