Hearing Instrument Styles

We offer a wide selection of custom hearing devices, including a variety of sizes, circuit options, and special features. We are able to provide hearing instruments from most manufacturers.

Five styles of hearing devices are currently available. Three types contain all the circuitry, microphone, battery, etc., inside a shell that goes inside the ear: Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC), In-the-Canal (ITC), and In-the-Ear (ITE). The other two styles, Behind-the-Ear (BTE) and Open Fit BTE, are encased in a shell that rests behind the ear. The BTE has a connection to an ear piece that goes inside the ear. The Open Fit BTE has a thin clear tubing and tip that sets inside the ear.

Hearing Aid Video:

Advantages of CIC, ITC and ITE devices:

In CIC, ITC and ITE hearing aids, the receiver, microphone and amplifier are contained in a shell which is worn in the ear. Completely-in-the Canal aids are the smallest model available. They fit deep inside your ear canal so that they're practically invisible. In-the-Canal aids are small enough to fit almost entirely in your ear canal, making them hardly noticeable. In-the-Ear aids fit within your outer ear.

Inconspicuous and comfortable: invisible to hardly visible when worn. Ideal for use at home, work, and during sports activities 
Good directional hearing

Advantages of a BTE with earpiece device:

In BTE hearing aids with earpiece, the receiver, microphone and amplifier are contained in a unit which is worn behind the ear. The sound is carried from the receiver (loudspeaker) via the ear hook and a flexible plastic tube, to the earmold that is worn in the ear canal.

Versatile;  a wide range of applications ranging from mild to severe hearing loss
Easy to handle:  easy battery replacement; easy to use and wear
Very comfortable to wear
Fits securely behind the ear
Good directional hearing

Advantages of an Open Fit BTE device:

The Open Fit BTE is similar to the BTE with earpiece except that, instead of an earmold worn in the ear canal, it has a very slim tubing and tip that sets inside the ear.

Excellent cosmetic appeal; inconspicuous clear tip and tubing fits inside the ear
Needs no ear mold; eliminates the "plugged up" feeling; one's voice sounds more natural; lessened feedback and whistling
Can fit mild to moderate hearing losses
The patient can often be tested, evaluated, and fit with the open fit BTE the same day

Latest Innovations

Many of the newest hearing systems have features that reflect the most recent advances in hearing instrument technology.  The latest generation of hearing devices can soften intrusive noises, predict the level of hearing you'll need in any situation and automatically adjust so you can hear and understand speech better, and reduce wind noise.  Other innovations include rechargeable batteries, moisture resistance, wireless ear-to-ear technology (which allows information from both ears to be processed as one for more natural hearing), and even Bluetooth compatibility with your cell phone and other devices.

Whatever your lifestyle, hearing needs, and budget, the Midwest Ear Institute has the hearings devices to solve your hearing problem.

For a Spanish language brochure about one of our products, click here.

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