Different Hearing Aid Types/Styles (Most Popular)...
Please note: all brands like to call their aid styles different names, we've listed the most common
RIC: The receiver-in-the-canal device is small, discreet, and incredibly quick to fit; perfect for many first-time wearers.
RIC Power Mold: Receiver-In-Canal with custom mold. A custom mold combines a custom-formed ear mold with the sleek, sophisticated receiver-in-canal instrument allowing people with even the most severe hearing loss to enjoy style without sacrificing power and performance.
CIC: Completely in the Canal. These devices fit completely in the canal. Only the head of a tiny plastic line—with which you insert or remove the instrument—shows above the canal.
In the Canal. In-The-Canal instruments feature an ear mold that fits down into the ear canal and a smaller portion that faces out into the outer ear.
BTE: Behind the Ear. Major components are housed outside the ear. Initially popular years go, this style is again becoming popular due to their flexibility, and ability to make power - generally used for profound hearing loss and children.
The term BTE, is reserved for open tube aids.
ITE: In-the-Canal, Fits and fills the outside of the ear. Secure, with room for a large 13 battery, Bluetooth, and can generally make more power than a CIC or canal style by separating the microphone and receiver.
IIC: Invisible in the Canal, the smallest custom hearing aid made. For more active and younger users that do not want a hearing aid seen. Tiny, and discreet, pro's and con's of the IIC need to be discussed.