Hearing Instrument Styles

Did you know every other person over age 50 has difficulty understanding?

Did you know the incidence of hearing loss has doubled over the last 30 years?

Did you know at least 20% of the population suffers from tinnitus, which is a ringing in the ears?

Did you know 65% of those with hearing loss are under age 65?

Did you know only 16% of doctors routinely screen for hearing loss?

Did you know the number one cause of hearing loss is exposure to excessive noise?

Hearing Instrument Styles

Now more than ever, there is a hearing instrument available to fit every hearing loss and lifestyle. We have sizes, colors, styles, and technology levels to suit every need. View the pictures below for an overview of the styles available. Not every style is appropriate for every loss. Your audiologist will be able to recommend which instrument is best for you based on the results of your testing and lifestyle.

Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) This style, also called "Open Fit," is the latest innovation in hearing instruments. Designed specifically for those with mid-to-high frequency hearing loss, these instruments combine excellent cosmetic appeal and high-definition function. Open Fit instruments offer the widest variety of sizes, colors, and levels of technology.		(pictured above: Oticon Delta)
Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) This style offers the ultimate in concealment and cosmetic appeal, but is best for those individuals with excellent finger dexterity. The CIC style fits completely in the canal of the ear. It is virtually unnoticeable. Newer, more modern circuit technology has allowed for more CIC instruments to perform better in a multitude of listening situations. CIC digital hearing instruments can change volume and reduce noise automatically just like the larger size digital hearing instruments. Feedback and wind noise are also greatly reduced due to the position of the instrument deep in the ear canal.
In-the-Ear (ITE) This style is custom made to fit completely in the "bowl" part of your ear. ITE hearing instruments also meet a wide variety of hearing impairments. They are easy to handle and the most widely recommended hearing instruments if dexterity is a problem.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) This style places the circuitry and microphone behind the ear. BTE hearing instruments meet a very wide range of hearing needs and frequently are used for more severe hearing impairments, steeply sloping hearing losses, or when dexterity is an issue. This style is least susceptible to wax problems.