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Are Receiver-in-Canal Hearing Aids Right for You? Examine the

Pros and Cons

If you or a loved one have been shopping for a

hearing aid, you have probably come across

receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids. RIC

devices are related to the more common

behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid, but they

provide some advantages that BTE aids cannot.

This short article explores some of the key

pluses and minuses of the receiver in canal

hearing aid model.

Two standard types of hearing aid (behind-the-ear and in-the-ear) are designed to

keep the device component all in one case (behind the ear and in the ear

respectively). One of the key differentiating factors of the receiver in canal hearing

aid is that it has two separate parts. A case behind the ear holds the aid’s amplifier

and microphone, while a small bud that contains the receiver is used inside the ear

canal. A small tube connects the receiver to the case.

Separating the receiver from the rest of the device has a number of advantages.

Feedback and occlusion tend to be much less of a problem with RIC devices than they

are with other hearing aids. Listeners also enjoy a more natural sound, making the

listening experience much more comfortable. RIC hearing aids are favored by people

with mild to moderate hearing losses because they amplify high-pitched sounds very

well.

There is also a physical advantage to the RIC’s split configuration. Separating the two

components allows the device to remain very small, making it unobtrusive and easy

to hide. The small size of the case also makes it lightweight and comfortable to wear.

Receiver in canal hearing aids do have a few disadvantages to be aware of. They are

particularly vulnerable to ear moisture on the receiver, potentially making frequent

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repairs a necessity. Because they are so comfortable they are actually easier to lose:

if you are not used to feeling them in your ear, you may not notice when they are

gone. Finally, these devices tend to be high in price, making them difficult to obtain

for some listeners.

Even though they have their flaws, receiver in canal hearing aids are a great choice

for a large percentage of the hearing impaired population. Your hearing specialist

would be happy to answer all your questions about different hearing aid styles and

help you choose the best design.