Types of Hearing Aid Styles
Like fingerprints, no two ears are alike, and no two ears have the same degree of hearing loss.
As a result, there are several styles of hearing aids that have been developed over the years that vary in size and thus have varying levels of visibility and performance. Below are descriptions of the main hearing aid styles as well as a reference to the sub-types of styles. Of the four types, Zounds Z1 hearing aids are offered in the top two selling designs, Behind-The-Ear and In-The-Canal.
It should be noted that traditional hearing aid manufacturers require an ear mold for each style. Zounds’ revolutionary methods do not require ear molds. We incorporate the use of soft, pliable foam sleeves or open fit tips for a same day fit, all within one hour.
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
The Behind-The-Ear (BTE) style is the traditional style of modern day hearing aids. The main difference between the BTE style and the other three designs is that the components placed in the hearing aid shell do not need to be designed for placement in the ear or ear canal. The shell of the BTE style is placed on the back of the ear with only the sound transmitting to the ear via a thin plastic tube.
Mini Benind-The-Ear (M BTE)
The Mini BTE is a miniaturized version of the traditional BTE. It is substantially smaller in size, while still being placed behind one’s ear. This style has soared in popularity over the past several years due to being a powerful hearing aid and more discreet than its larger parent. For those concerned about the size of a traditional BTE, the Mini BTE is a very cosmetically appealing option.
Zounds is proud to offer a Mini Behind-The-Ear hearing aid.
Open Fit Mini Behind-The-Ear (OF M BTE)
An additional option for Behind-The-Ear styles is Open Fit. Becoming quite popular in recent years, the Open Fit option for Behind-The-Ear hearing aids allows a more natural feel for the hearing aid user. Open Fit styles do not require ear molds and allow natural air flow in and around the ear canal, thus eliminating the occlusion or plugged up sensation. The Open Fit option is ideal for those individuals with an early stage hearing loss.
Zounds is proud to offer an Open Fit Mini Behind-The-Ear hearing aid.
In-The-Canal (ITC)
The ITC style is smaller than the traditional BTE model. ITC hearing aids fit entirely in the ear canal, lending itself to being virtually invisible. Despite being smaller and more discreet than the BTE, ITC hearing aids are still powerful and effective devices.
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC)
The CIC model of hearing aids are the smallest on the market, fitting completely in one’s ear canal.
Since the size of a CIC hearing aid is so small, performance and battery life is compromised. Due to this, Zounds does not offer the CIC style at this time.
In-The-Ear (ITE)
The ITE model is a custom made hearing aid that fits completely in the outer ear, making this model visible from all angles. Due to the lack of discreetness and need for custom molds, Zounds does not offer this style.