Types of Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Types of Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE)

Behind-the-ear hearing aids are fitted behind the ear with a connecting tube to a small rubber dome or moulded earpiece which sits in the ear canal. The benefits are:

  • best reliability
  • most powerful to fit widest range of hearing losses
  • easiest to use and maintain

Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)

Receiver-in-the-canal hearing aids are similar to BTEs in shape and style, but are smaller because the loudspeaker is placed in the ear canal instead of the housing. Sound is therefore sent directly to the ear drum, without passing through a tube as in traditional devices, giving improved sound quality and clarity.

The benefits are:

  • outstanding sound quality
  • improved cosmetics
  • better ventilation
  • reduced sensation of blockage
  • more natural sound – less echo and improved quality of the wearer’s own voice