Mini-Behind-the-ear (BTE) Instruments

• Two parts – hearing aid and open-fit tip or receiver
• Primarily suitable for most mid to high frequency hearing losses but also now available for many severe to profound hearing losses
• Very lightweight and typically very comfortable to wear
• Very low visibility

Behind-the-ear (BTE) Instruments

• Two parts – hearing aid and earmold
• Suitable for most hearing losses; typically required for severe to profound hearing losses
• Most appropriate for infant and child ears (while growing)
• Typically needed if direct audio input (DAI) is to be used (e.g. FM System)

In-the-Ear (ITE) and Half-Shell (HS) Instruments

• Circuitry is built within a custom-made shell
• In-the-Ear fills most or all of the concha of the ear whereas Half-Shell instruments fill about half of the concha
• Usually suitable for mild to severe-profound hearing losses
• Some circuits may be able to accommodate direct audio input (DAI)

In-the-Canal (ITC) and Mini-Canal Instruments

• Circuitry is built inside a custom-made shell
• Fit further into the ear canal than ITE instruments
• Smaller and less visible than ITE instruments
• Most appropriate for mild to moderate-severe hearing losses

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Instruments

• Smallest custom hearing aid available
• Usually suitable for mild to moderate hearing losses
• Can be used for some conductive hearing losses
• Usually come equipped with a small plastic retrieval line for removal