Ask An Audiologist: What are the available types of hearing aid in the market?

Qualified as an audiologist at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom (UK), Matthew Murray has worked in the UK health sector where he developed a passion for complex diagnostics. Coupled together with extensive commercial audiology experience in regions such as Central Europe, Middle East, Africa, as well as Asia, Matthew now brings his wide experience to Signia.

Read on to see Matthew answering some questions we received from you!

What are the available types of hearing aid in the market?

There are lots of different types of hearing aids available in the market. However, choosing the right one for you is not always as simple as it may seem. Different types of hearing aids bring different features and advantages that are designed for specific hearing loss and lifestyle needs.

Most hearing aids available are behind-the-ear (BTE) or receiver-in-canal (RIC) products.

BTE and RIC products offer the most features as well as the greatest flexibility in fitting. Within these types, there is a wide range of sizes to suit different hearing loss levels and personal lifestyles! A BTE device with a custom-made earpiece such as the Signia Motion Charge&Go is suitable for up to a severe level of hearing loss. For milder hearing loss, a RIC device with a slim tube or wire directing sound from the body of the hearing aid directly to the ear-canal would be more suitable such as Pure Charge&Go, which from the front or side looks nearly invisible.

Some hearing aids have a custom-made shell – known as in-the-canal (ITC) or in-the-ear (ITE) aids.

Their small size makes them discreet but can also mean a compromise on some features. Signia’s Insio range of custom instruments are usually best suited to people with mild-moderate hearing losses who may not need to connect them to other devices such as their phones.

Most recently, we have introduced an instant-fit invisible-in-the-canal (InstantFit) devices.

Simply click, fit, and go with Signia Silk! These are the smallest hearing aids Signia offers- making them incredibly discreet. Silk is also highly convenient as they can be fitted off-the-shelf. Due to the comfortable Click Sleeves which comes in a range of sizes, Silk is able to fit virtually any ear canal size.

Many people want the smallest hearing aid, but often do not realize that it might not be the most suitable! Features, power performance and ease of handling are some additional factors to consider when looking to purchase a hearing aid. We recommend that you consult your audiologist to determine what hearing aids best suit you.

If you feel that you are having problems with your hearing and would like to find out more, you can use our handy Store Locator to find your nearest hearing care professional!