Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids

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What are RIC hearing Aids?

Receiver-in-canal hearing aids can be looked as at the new generation of hearing aids as they make use of innovative advances in technology to provide an effective and inconspicuous solution for those suffering from hearing loss.

RIC aids are also known as receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids, or may be referred to as canal receiver technology (CRT).

How do receiver-in-canal hearing aids work?

RIC hearing aids have a small casing that sits behind the outer ear. This casing holds the microphone, amplifier and processer, but (unlike BTEs) the receiver is situated in a small, soft dome that is placed inside the ear. Although this dome sits directly in the ear, it does not seal it completely. The casing and the receiver are connected by a wire. This design allows RIC aids to be much smaller in size than behind-the-ear hearing aids, and far less conspicuous.

The benefits of receiver-in-canal hearing aids

Ideal for Those Who Struggle to Hear High Pitched Sounds- Most people that suffer from hearing loss struggle to hear high pitched noises. Thanks to their innovative two-part design, RIC aids are great at amplifying high pitched noises so that the wearer can hear them better.
Comfort- When a RIC aid is fitted properly, you will hardly notice that you are wearing one as they feel very comfortable and secure.
Natural Sounds- One of the things that make RIC aids so popular is their ability to produce natural sound quality.
Inconspicuous- RIC hearing aids are known to be the most inconspicuous of hearing aids. They are small and compact, in sit in such a way that they are hardly noticeable.
Lower Feedback Levels- RIC aid users report far lower levels of annoying feedback when compared to other hearing aid devices.

Are there any disadvantages of RIC hearing aids?

RIC hearing aids make use of advanced technologies, which make them challenging to manufacture. For this reason, RIC hearing aids are usually quite expensive, and out of budget for many people.
Receiver-in-ear hearing aids are also very small. And this makes them easy to lose once the wearer takes them out. The receiver can also be susceptible to damage, and usually needs to be replaced every 1-2 years.