These are some of the newest and most successful hearing instruments we had in many years. The advancements in technology and materials make these instruments the most natural sounding and most comfortable aids around. Almost every company has an open ear model and they all claim to be the best. What makes them different besides the technology used is the overall design and features like directional microphones, built in telephone coils, multi-memories, either manual or automatic, and battery size. We will educate you in all of these options so do not worry about the terminology at this point. “Open Ear” stands for any hearing aid that leaves your ear open so as not to feel “pluggy” and to greatly minimize the occlusion effect associated some times with traditional hearing aids. Complaints like “head in a barrel”, or “my voice sounds too loud” are a thing of the past with these units. The “CRT” stands for Canal Receiver Technology. These are in the family of the open ear units but separate the receiver, (speaker), from the main unit placing it inside your ear by a very thin tube, while the standard open ear keeps it in the main unit. Because of their design, these aids will allow us to fit mild to severe losses while using a very small aid.

While we do not recommend choosing any hearing instruments solely on the bases of brand name, we do see advantages on some designs from specific companies. The recommendation of any hearing instrument in no longer based on the hearing test alone; we must also consider the patient’s lifestyle. These aids are usually very small and light, but some companies manage to make these aids with a lot of useful options. Directional microphones allow the user to hear 360° around them or just what is in front of them. This can be done manually or automatically. Built in telephone coils or t-coil allow the user to amplify the phone without feedback and as clear as possible. It can also be used to connect to loop systems used in many public places as well as schools. Multi-memories allow the user to choose sound options used for different situations. Some aids give you the option of manual or automatic memory changes, sometimes even both on the same aid.

All these units come in many styles and circuit levels, from very basic, non-programmable to extremely advanced computer programmable models. Most of these aids can be fitted right in the office without the need of custom-made molds. There are so many choices that is certain we can find something to fit your unique loss and lifestyle.