Hearing Aid Types
How do you choose?
There are a host of hearing aids and related technologies available today. To choose you need clear, independent professional advice.
Hearing aids are distinguished by style and level of technology. As an experienced practice with over 20 years experience we provide fully independent advice selecting the very best solution for each patient, from whichever manufacturer is appropriate for your lifestyle and budget.
Complete the form below or call 0161 491 1943 for our next available appointment.
What styles are available to me?
Lyric
The world’s first 100% invisible hearing aid which can be worn 24/7 for up to 3 months at a time. They can be used in the shower, while sleeping and exercising and do not need batteries – you won’t even know you’re wearing them.
North West Hearing is the only authorised Lyric Centre in the north west. For details about Lyric click here
Invisible-in-the-ear (IIC)
IIC hearing aids fit deep into the ear canal and are almost invisible. The visibility is dependent on the size and shape of the ear canal but don’t worry, our audiologists will advise you. These instruments are removed for showering and sleeping, but can be worn at all other times.
In-the-ear (ITE)
Unobtrusive hearing aids that are worn in the ear. Aesthetically pleasing, they cover hearing losses from mild to severe. The smallest ITE-models are called CIC (Completely-in-Canal), as they fit completely in the canal they are almost invisible – amount of visibility will depend on the size of the ear canal.
micro OTE – (Over-The-Ear)
Micro Style generation models: The state-of-the art microStyle hearing aids are small and feather-light. The ergonomic design, combined with the extremely thin tubing, results in a uniquely satisfying cosmetic solution. They disappear behind your ear and you forget you are wearing them – until you hear the astonishing difference they make to your communication. In the most modern solutions the receiver (or speaker) is placed in the ear canal for unbelievable clarity of speech, even in noise.
BTE models (Behind-The-Ear)
Versatile and powerful hearing aids that are worn behind the ear. They can be utilised for all degrees of hearing losses, but are particularly beneficial for severe or profound hearing losses because they can provide a great deal of volume. They are also great to be used for special listening situations like the classroom or at a lecture by adding wireless technology like FM systems.
Hearing Glasses (Spectacle Aids)
Combining Sound and Vision – Two types are available, all-in-one version and adapting your own glasses, for more details click here. Ask one of our audiologists to explain the pros and cons.
Different Technologies
What are the different technologies available in digital hearing aids?
Hearing aids vary according to the technology and benefits they provide. Below is a guide to technology level. The technology level prescribed will vary depending on the lifestyle needs and budget of the individual. We will discuss the various options available for you and select the most appropriate instrument for you.
Premium digital
Highest number of channels for excellent compensation of hearing loss, sound quality and listening comfort. Multi-channel, fine, adaptive directional technology and noise cancellation for the best hearing in competing noise. Specialist high-tech features for different acoustic environments. Automatic situation recognition and adaptation, no need for manual selection of listening programmes. Suitable for those with a varied lifestyle with higher demands on their hearing.
Advanced digital
Medium channel configuration for compensation of hearing loss. Sound processing to improve communication in background noise. This level provides some excellent high-tech features but could be suitable in less environments – not for the user with very high demands on their hearing.
Basic digital
Standard channel configuration with added noise reduction features for improved listening comfort. These hearing aids will provide good, clear sound quality with additional features for noisy environments.
Entry digital
A simple digital amplifier for people with less variable listening environments and lower communication demands. Least channels for compensation of hearing loss. Single channel fixed directionality – less effective in noise. Suitable for use at home and one-to-one communication.
What to do next?
If you’re reading this then you already have some concerns for yourself or a relative. Our friendly staff will be pleased to check your/their hearing and advise you.
