The term DIGITAL is used so often today, it can be confusing. When the term "digital" is used when referring to hearing aids, it generally means the hearing aid is 100% digital. In other words, the hearing aid is indeed a "complete computer". 100% digital hearing aids have been commercially available since the mid-1990s and they are wonders of modern technology. 100% digital hearing aids can process sound using incredibly fast speeds. Interestingly, most 100% digital hearing aids have some analog components, such as the microphone and the receiver. 100% digital hearing aids transform analog information into a digital signal and process the sound to maximize the speech information you want to hear, while minimizing the amplification of sounds you do not want to hear.

Digital technology is tremendous and it allows the audiologist maximal control over the sound quality and loudness of the hearing aid. Importantly, digital technology allows the audiologist to tailor or customize the sound of your hearing aids to what you need and want to hear. In summary, if you want the best technology — get 100% digital hearing aids.

There is an exception to the digital "revolution" in hearing aids.  Some people who have worn ANGLOG hearing aids for many years find that they have become so accustomed to the sound quality of non-digital aids that they do prefer that type of aid.  I have had many customers report that they were FALSELY told that this option is no longer available.  NOT TRUE. If you prefer analog we can easily get them for you!

OPEN EAR FIT: This is the most popular and successful type of hearing aid ever created.  Fully 70% of all aids that we dispense are of this design.  It is a small behind the ear device with a thin wire that inserts into the ear canal.  No custom made ear molds, same day fitting, excellent background noise control, comfortable and no distortion of your own voice.  Available in a wide price range ($850 -$2700 per aid)

ITE: In-The-Ear units are often the most comfortable, the least expensive and the easiest to operate. They are also the largest of the custom made styles.

ITC: In-The-Canal units are usually more expensive than ITEs. They require good dexterity to control the volume wheel and they are smaller than ITEs.

MC: Mini-Canals are the size between ITC and CIC. A mini canal is a good choice when you desire the smallest possible hearing aid with a tiny volume wheel.

CIC: Completely-In-the-Canal units are the tiniest hearing aids made. They require a "removal string" due to their small size and the fact that they fit deeply into the ear canal. CICs can be difficult to remove without the pull string. CICs do not usually have manual controls attached to them because they are too small.

BTE: Behind-The-Ear hearing aids are the largest hearing aids, often the least expensive, and they are very reliable. BTEs have the most circuit options and they typically offer more power than custom made units. BTEs rest on the back of your ear. They are connected to the ear canal via custom-made plastic tubing; the earmold. The earmold is usually custom made from an ear impression to perfectly replicate the size and shape of your ear.

REMOTE CONTROLS: Some hearing aid systems have remote control units available for volume control and program changes.  THis is a helpful feature for those users with dexterity problems. Average cost is $275.