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Traditional analog hearing aids have fewer options than digital hearing aids. They are equipped with a variety of circuits (diagram below) to meet each individual's hearing needs. They may have one or two controls for internal adustments and a volume wheel which the wearer may control. Analog hearing aids may perform well in quiet environments but are rarely satisfactory in the presence of noise. 
Description: 1. The microphone picks up sounds and converts it to electrical signals. 2. The electrical signals are amplified by the preamplifier. 3. The tone control will shape the frequency response according to different circuit. 4.The shaped signals will be amplified again by the final amplifier. 5. The receiver changes the electrical signals back into acoustic signals, which will then send to the ear. Digital Technology Digital hearing aids are the most advanced technology available today. Digital Signal Processing (diagram below) is capable of extreme high fidelity and accurate sound reproduction. This results in clearer sound and many more programming options. These hearing aids provide the most accurate fitting due to multiple bands for adjustment and advanced computer software programs. Directional microphones available on most styles provide enhanced hearing in the presence of noise. We recommend these hearing aids for people with active lifestyles, varied listening requirements, and those who wish to benefit from the most current technological advances. 
Description: 1. The microphone picks up sounds and converts it to electrical signals. 2. The analog-digital (A/D) converter changes these electrical signals to digital signals. 3. Digital signals are analyzed and manipulates by the microchip to perform precise, complex calculation to amplify sounds. 4.The digital-analog (D/A) converter changes the digital stream of numbers back into electrical signals. 5. The receiver changes the electrical signals back into acoustic signals, which are then sent to the ear.
The Audiology Department at William Newton Hospital dispenses many different styles of digital hearing aids including Open Fit, Canal Receiver Technology (CRT), Behind-the-Ear (BTE), In-the-Ear (ITE), In-the-Canal (ITC), and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aids. The audiologist will make recommendation based on your hearing loss, lifestyle, dexterity, cost considerations, and personal preference. Behind the Ear (BTE) Hearing aids Behind-the-ear hearing aids are designed to fit behind the pinna, the visible portion of the ear. They may be used with custom earmoold or slim tube which is inserted in the ear canal. The size requires little circuit compromise, and the aids frequently come equipped with several program controls. BTE hearing aids are appropriate for most hearing losses ranging from mild to profound. They can easily be adapted for use with classroom amplification and so are frequently used for children. 
Picture courtesy of http://enttreatmentcenter.com/Styles.html In the Ear (ITE) Hearing aids In-the-ear hearing aids are self-contained packages that fit within the bowl and ear canal, with all of the components located in the concha section of the pinna. This positioning of the hearing aid is more comfortable for some persons, and takes advantage of the natural sound enhancements produced by the pinna and ear canal. 
Picture courtesy of http://enttreatmentcenter.com/Styles.html In the Canal (ITC) Hearing aids In-the-canal hearing aids were conceived with further miniaturization of the microphone, receiver, and battery. They are self-contained and fit into a small section of the concha and the ear canal. This position in the ear takes advantage of natural high frequency resonance of the pinna, unblocked concha, and deep ear canal insertion. The smaller size limits the circuits and controls that can be built into the aid and may make them inappropriate for older clients and persons with disabilities who have dexterity or visual problems, as well as for individuals with significant hearing loss. 
Picture courtesy of http://enttreatmentcenter.com/Styles.html Completely in the Canal(CIC) Hearing aids Completely-in-the-canal hearing aids are the smallest in size. They are self-contained and fit completely within the external auditory canal. The aids are more cosmetically pleasing, because they are nearly invisible; however, the small size of these hearing aids makes them inappropriate for severe hearing loss. 
Picture courtesy of http://enttreatmentcenter.com/Styles.html
Payment in full is required at the time the hearing aid is ordered. Your payment includes the hearing aid, as well as all follow-up testing, fitting, and orientation services, and follow-up visits in this office as needed for the life of the hearing aid. It does not include further audiological evaluations or additional earmolds. We feel it is extremely important to use your new hearing aid on a trial basis for 30 days. You are the best judge of how much benefit your new aid is providing. If the hearing aid does not meet your reasonable expectations, and is returned during the trial period, you will receive a refund of the price of the hearing aid less a rental fee. Most new digital hearing instruments are covered by a 2-year service warranty which includes loss and damage. Some entry-level digital hearing aids are covered by a 12-month service warranty which includes loss and damage coverage. Most accessories (remote control, Blutooth, wireless connectivity, etc) are covered for 90 days for defects in materials and workmanship.
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| 1300 East Fifth Avenue, Winfield, Kansas 67156, (620) 221-2300 | |||||||||
