Hearing Aids
Discover a wide range of top hearing aid brands tailored to improve your hearing experience. Over our three decades of service, we at Hear4U have helped hundreds of people improve their hearing and regain their quality of life.
How Do Digital Hearing Aids Work?
Digital hearing aids use advanced technology to convert sound into digital signals, providing clearer and more precise audio compared to older analogue models. They offer a much-improved listening experience by reducing background noise and enhancing speech clarity.
Modern hearing aids often feature multiple microphones to focus on sounds coming from specific directions, providing a more distinct and crisper audio experience. Most recent models also offer additional features like Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio directly from your phone or other devices.
Hearing aids work by amplifying and processing sounds to improve your hearing. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
Microphone
Captures sound from the environment.
Amplifier
Increases the volume of the processed sound.
Processor
Converts sound into digital signals to enhance clarity and reduce noise.
Speaker
Delivers the amplified sound into your ear.
What Types of Hearing Aids Are There?
There are three main types of hearing aids: Behind-the-Ear (BTE), Receiver-in-Canal (RIC), and In-the-Ear (ITE). Each type has its own unique features and benefits, as well as additional subdivisions to cater to different hearing needs and preferences.
BTE hearing aids sit on the back of the ear and connect to a tube and a custom ear mould. They are typically used for moderate to profound hearing loss, depending on the required power level. BTE hearing aids are available in various colours to match hair skin and tones or to suit your personal style, offering both discreet and bold looks depending on your preference.
Standard BTE: Suitable for most levels of hearing loss, especially moderate to severe. These devices offer robust amplification and are often more durable.
Mini BTE: Smaller and more discreet, often used for mild to moderate hearing loss. Mini BTEs are less noticeable and provide a comfortable fit.
Power BTE: Designed for severe to profound hearing loss, providing higher amplification. These are the most powerful BTEs and are ideal for those with significant hearing impairment.
Customisable Fit: BTE hearing aids come with custom ear moulds that are tailored to fit your ear perfectly, ensuring comfort and effectiveness
Variety of Colours: Available in multiple colours to match your preference
Directional Microphones: Improve hearing in noisy environments by focusing on sound from a specific direction
Telecoil: Enhances hearing during phone calls and when using loop systems in public spaces
Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for wireless streaming from smartphones and other devices
Rechargeable Options: Many models offer rechargeable batteries, providing convenience and cost savings over time
High Power: Suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss, able to provide sufficient amplification.
Advanced Sound Processing: Features like noise reduction and feedback cancellation enhance sound clarity and listening comfort.
High Power: Suitable for severe to profound hearing loss, providing the necessary amplification.
Durability: Larger size can accommodate more robust components, making them more durable.
Features: Often include advanced features like directional microphones, telecoils, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Comfort: Less occlusion effect (blockage feeling) compared to in-the-ear models, offering a comfortable fit.
Size: Generally considered the least discreet type of hearing aid.
Maintenance: Require regular cleaning of the tubing and ear mould to ensure optimal performance and hygiene.
Who Should Consider BTE Hearing Aids?
BTE hearing aids are ideal for individuals with moderate to severe hearing loss who need stronger amplification and advanced features. They are also suitable for those who prioritise comfort and durability and are not overly concerned with the visibility of their hearing aids. However, many modern BTE models are designed to be sleek and stylish, far removed from the bulky, conspicuous devices of the past, making them an attractive option even for those concerned about aesthetics.
RIC/RITE hearing aids have a speaker built into an ear dome that is inserted into the ear canal, while the microphone and processor rest behind the ear in a small case. These hearing aids offer an open-fit style, allowing for a more natural sound experience. They are available as rechargeable or battery-operated models in a range of colours.
Standard RIC/RITE: Ideal for mild to severe hearing loss. These devices provide clear sound quality and are less prone to feedback.
Mini RIC/RITE: Smaller and more discreet, suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. They offer a comfortable fit and are nearly invisible.
Power RIC/RITE: Provides higher amplification for severe hearing loss. These are suitable for individuals who need more sound amplification.
Discreet Design: The small case behind the ear and the thin wire make RIC/RITE hearing aids less visible than BTE models.
Open Fit: The open-fit style allows natural sound to enter the ear canal, reducing the occlusion effect and providing a more natural listening experience.
Directional Microphones: Help focus on sounds from specific directions, improving hearing in noisy environments.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Many models feature Bluetooth for wireless streaming from smartphones and other devices.
Noise Reduction: Advanced noise reduction technology minimises background noise, making it easier to focus on conversations.
Sound Quality: The separation of the microphone and receiver reduces feedback and delivers clearer sound.
Rechargeable Options: Rechargeable models are available, providing convenience and eliminating the need for regular battery changes.
Customisable Settings: Many RIC/RITE aids come with customisable programmes that can be adjusted for different listening environments.
Discreetness: Smaller and less visible than BTE hearing aids, offering a more cosmetically appealing option.
Comfort: The open-fit design is comfortable and reduces the occlusion effect, making it feel more natural.
Sound Quality: Better sound quality and less feedback due to the separation of the microphone and receiver.
Flexibility: Suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, from mild to severe, making them versatile.
Durability: The receiver in the canal is more prone to moisture and wax damage, which can affect performance.
Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning and occasional replacement of the receiver to maintain optimal performance.
Battery Life: Smaller size may result in shorter battery life compared to BTE models, especially for non-rechargeable versions.
Who Should Consider RIC/RITE Hearing Aids?
RIC/RITE hearing aids are ideal for individuals with mild to severe hearing loss who prioritise discreetness and comfort. They are also suitable for those who want a natural sound experience and are looking for a hearing aid with advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and noise reduction.
ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit the shape of your ear, using an impression to create an exact mould. They are available in various sizes and styles, based on dexterity, power level, and visibility preferences.
Full Shell: Fills the entire outer ear, suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss. Full shell aids provide a larger battery and more features.
Half Shell: Fills the lower part of the outer ear, suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. These are smaller than full shell aids and offer a good balance of power and discretion.
Invisible-In-The-Canal (IIC): Sits deep in the ear canal, almost invisible, suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. IICs are highly discreet and nearly invisible.
Completely-In-The-Canal (CIC): Fits completely inside the ear canal, offering discretion and suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. CICs are barely visible and provide a natural sound quality.
Custom Fit: ITE hearing aids are moulded to fit the unique shape of your ear, providing maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Range of Sizes: Available in multiple sizes, from Full Shell to Invisible-In-The-Canal (IIC), to suit different preferences for visibility and dexterity.
Ease of Use: Larger ITE models are easier to handle, making them a good option for individuals with limited dexterity.
Advanced Sound Processing: Includes features like feedback cancellation, noise reduction, and directional microphones to enhance sound clarity.
Wireless Connectivity: Many ITE hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless streaming from smartphones and other devices.
Telecoil: Enhances hearing during phone calls and when using loop systems in public places.
Natural Sound Quality: Positioned within the ear, ITE hearing aids provide a more natural sound experience.
Directional Microphones: Available in many ITE models, these help improve hearing in noisy environments by focusing on sounds coming from specific directions.
Custom Fit: Provides a snug and comfortable fit tailored to the individual’s ear shape.
Discreet Options: Smaller ITE models like IIC and CIC are nearly invisible, offering a high degree of discretion.
Convenient: Easy to insert and remove, especially for those with dexterity challenges.
Advanced Features: Despite their compact size, many ITE aids come equipped with advanced technology, such as wireless streaming and noise reduction.
Occlusion Effect: Some users may experience a blockage feeling due to the ear canal being partially filled by the hearing aid.
Limited Power: ITE hearing aids may not provide as much amplification as larger models like BTEs, making them less suitable for severe hearing loss.
Durability: More prone to moisture and earwax damage due to their placement inside the ear canal.
Who Should Consider ITE Hearing Aids?
ITE hearing aids are ideal for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss who prioritise a custom fit and ease of use. They are also suitable for those who prefer a more discreet hearing aid option and do not require the highest levels of amplification.
Additional Considerations
- Dexterity Needs: Larger ITE models are easier to handle, making them a good choice for individuals with limited dexterity.
- Visibility Preferences: ITE hearing aids offer a range of options from nearly invisible (IIC) to more visible but still discreet (Full Shell), allowing users to choose based on their preference for visibility.
- Active Lifestyles: While smaller and more discreet, ITE hearing aids may require more frequent maintenance due to their exposure to moisture and earwax, especially for active individuals.
Special Focus: Phonak Lyric – The Extended Wear Invisible Hearing Aid
While most invisible hearing aids, like Invisible-In-The-Canal (IIC) models, are removed daily, the Phonak Lyric offers a unique advantage. The Lyric is designed for extended wear, allowing users to leave the device in their ear for several months at a time without needing to remove it for cleaning or battery changes. This makes it an ideal solution for those seeking the ultimate convenience and discretion.
How the Lyric Works:
The Lyric is placed deep within the ear canal by a professional and remains there continuously. It delivers clear, natural sound while being completely invisible to others.
Key Benefits:
- Extended Wear: No need to remove daily; wear continuously for months.
- Hassle-Free: No battery changes or daily maintenance required.
- Invisible: Positioned deep in the ear canal, making it virtually undetectable.
Learn more about the Phonak Lyric and see if this innovative hearing aid is right for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to get my hearing aids?
The timeline depends on whether you choose custom or non-custom hearing aids:
- Custom hearing aids take up to 2 weeks, as they are specifically made to fit your ear perfectly.
- Non-custom hearing aids are usually available much quicker, but occasional delivery delays may mean it takes closer to 2 weeks.
What happens if my hearing aid isn’t right?
If you’re not getting along with your hearing aid as well as you’d hoped, don’t worry! We offer a 30-day trial period where you can come back to our clinic and try different models that might suit you and your unique needs better. Just keep in mind that this trial applies to hearing aids purchased from us, not from other providers like Specsavers, Boots, or Hearing Direct.
Will hearing aids fix my tinnitus?
Hearing aids can help reduce tinnitus by amplifying the sound around you, making the tinnitus less noticeable. While they can’t cure tinnitus, they can certainly help manage it. Tinnitus is often a symptom of another condition, and hearing aids can make a big difference.
What is the longest guarantee I can get for my hearing aids?
Every hearing aid we sell comes with a minimum 2-year guarantee, so if something goes wrong, we’ll send it to the manufacturer for repairs at no cost to you. If you’d like extra peace of mind, you can opt for a care package that extends your guarantee for up to 5 years!
What happens if I lose my hearing aid?
We always suggest getting insurance to cover any accidental damage or loss, since those aren’t covered under the guarantee. If your hearing aid is lost, unfortunately, we won’t be able to replace it for free – but your insurance can help with the cost of a replacement.
Are NHS hearing aids as good as privately bought ones?
While NHS hearing aids can be a good option for some, they don’t offer the advanced functionality or the product quality of privately bought ones. Privately purchased hearing aids can include features like AI, directional microphones, background noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, and much more. Most importantly, advanced hearing aids are often better equipped to handle more complex hearing loss, offering more tailored and effective solutions.
What is the average cost of a good set of hearing aids?
A high-quality set of hearing aids typically costs anywhere from around £2,000 to £3,300 for a pair. The exact price depends on the brand, features, and the specific needs of the individual.
