Hearing aids are available in different styles and different levels of technology. At Norfolk Audiology, we offer specific recommendations based on audiological test results, hearing and communication needs, lifestyle, and price points.
We offer devices from all major hearing aid manufacturers, so we are sure to have the best devices to meet any of your hearing needs. All devices are fit using real-ear verification.
Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing loss is unique for each individual which is why hearing aids are not created equally. Hearing aids are small electronic devices that are worn in or behind the ear. These small devices are engineered to make sounds louder so people who have hearing loss can hear better and participate fully in daily activities.
The type and severity of hearing loss will be the main determining factor when choosing what type of hearing aid will be used or prescribed.
Receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids
RICs are open-fit hearing aids that have a thin, plastic micro-tube that extends from the body of the device over the outer ear and into the ear canal. A soft tip sits inside the ear canal without completely sealing it so that air and sound can still flow through naturally.
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
Most parts of behind-the-ear hearing aids are enclosed in a plastic case that rests behind the ear. The case is connected to an earpiece or earmold with clear tubing. BTE hearing aids are usually recommended for kids because they can accommodate various earmold types and can be replaced as the child grows. Behind-the-ear hearing aids are relatively sturdy and can be cleaned and handled easily.
“Mini” BTE (or “on-the-ear”) aids
As the name implies, mini-BTE or on-the-ear hearing aids are smaller than the traditional behind-the-ear hearing devices. Mini BTEs offer an open fit or a traditional earmold. Open-fit hearing aids reduce occlusion (plugged-up sensation) in the ear canal while increasing comfort and reducing feedback.
In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids
In-the-ear hearing aids are contained in a shell that fills in the outer part of the ear. ITE hearing aids are larger than completely-in-the-canal hearing aids and in-the-canal hearing aids. For some individuals, ITE hearing aids are easier to use than smaller hearing aids.
IIC – invisible hearing aids
Invisible-in-canal hearing aids are fitted deep down in the ear canal, well-hidden, and almost undetectable by others. The deep fit of IIC hearing aids means they are less likely to pick up wind noise and can produce a more natural sound quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common type of hearing aids?
In-the-ear hearing aids are considered to be the most popular option of the moment, mainly because they come in tiny, discreet designs while carrying a good amount of technology. Just like any other prescription hearing aid, you will need the expertise of an audiologist or hearing health professional as it will need to match the shape of the inner ear.
What are the most comfortable hearing aids?
Receiver-in-canal and behind-the-ear hearing aids are often considered to be the most comfortable hearing aids because they minimize the “plugged-up” sensation thanks to their tiny sound transmitters.
Hearing Aid Brands/Manufacturers
Phonak Hearing Aids
Phonak continuously challenges the limits of technology to help users thrive even in the most difficult listening situations. Phonak hearing technologies include Roger wireless technology, AutoSense OS, and Binaural VoiceStream™. Phonak is represented in more than 100 countries worldwide, regarded as one of the industry leaders since 1947, and has been providing pediatric hearing expertise for more than 45 years.
Oticon Hearing Aids
Experience new, superior technology for any type of hearing loss with Oticon hearing aids. Oticon builds its hearing devices on its proprietary BrainHearing™ philosophy to provide access to the full sound scene while allowing the brain to function in a more natural process. Oticon hearing aids provide different levels of support to meet the various hearing requirements of people from all age groups, including those with single-sided deafness.
Unitron Hearing Aids
Unitron hearing aids are ideal for design-conscious hearing aid users who are looking for sleek hearing devices that offer superior sound quality and aesthetics. Unitron has been getting recognition for its hearing aid designs for consecutive years. The Blu hearing aid lineup has received two international design awards and just recently, Moxi B-R has been awarded the MUSE Design Award. We highly recommend Unitron hearing aids for individuals who are looking for sleek, comfortable, and powerful hearing devices.
Widex Hearing Aids
Widex hearing aids offer AI-powered personalization, an advanced sound engine, and seamless integration to give users effortless high-quality listening. With its proprietary PureSound technology, Widex is a proud game-changer by delivering the purest, most natural sound from hearing aids.
Starkey Hearing Aids
Starkey is one of the industry-leader in advanced hearing solutions. Starkey hearing aids are intricately engineered to provide the highest standard for performance, comfort, and personalized hearing care. Starkey Evolv AI hearing aids offer exceptional, effortless hearing with Starkey Sound™ technology. Starkey Livio hearing aids allow clear and comfortable hearing even in the most difficult listening environment while Starkey Picasso can be custom-fit in all kinds of sizes.
Resound Hearing Aids
Known as a pioneer in the hearing aid industry, ReSound offers a personalized sound that suits various lifestyles. As part of the GN Group, ReSound comes from a global leader in intelligent audio solutions alongside Beltone, Jabra, and Interton. ReSound was the first to offer 2.4GHz technology in hearing aids for direct connectivity and the world’s first Made for Apple® hearing aid with direct stereo sound streaming.
Signia Hearing Aids
Signia gives access to a groundbreaking Augmented Xperience technology platform with their new hearing aid features that include Auto EchoShield, HandsFree, and Own Voice Processing 2.0. Enjoy excellent speech clarity with an immersive 360-degree soundscape in any listening situation with Signia hearing aids.
What is the most advanced hearing aid?
Hearing aid manufacturers today are equally getting more aggressive when it comes to developing their own set of hearing aid technology. Aside from considering a hearing aid’s advanced technology, it is important to get a hearing aid that can specifically address your type and level of hearing loss.
Which brand of hearing aid is best for tinnitus?
Did you know that hearing aids can provide relief for tinnitus by masking tinnitus sounds and strategically amplifying background noises? Various hearing aid brands have their tinnitus relief technology incorporated into their hearing devices and dedicated apps. Popular hearing aids for tinnitus include Starkey Livio Edge AI, Phonak Lyric, Signia Silk X, Oticon More, and ReSound ONE.
Best Hearing Aids in Norfolk NE
Norfolk Audiology is committed to providing a wide range of hearing healthcare products and solutions to give people with hearing loss a chance to better communicate and live life to the fullest. Our team will be happy to assist with any questions you may have about our available hearing aids.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!