BTE Hearing Aids
These hearing aids are also known as post-aural aids, and consist of two parts. A mould goes inside the ear and another small plastic unit fits behind the ear. A small piece of tube connects these two parts. Hearing aid technology has progressed beyond the very first models, but they are still only aids to complement a wearer’s hearing.
Most hearing aids are binaural, and are used in both ears. This is a good idea, as the level of hearing would become much bigger. A small percentage of hearing aids are monaural, which means it is meant for one ear only.
These pieces are comfortable and there are different models that would suit almost any degree of hearing loss. It is possible to have them custom made to precise dimensions, which will give maximum comfort. There may even be different colours to match the wearer’s hair and skin tone.
Besides this one key advantage, there are also some less obvious ones:
- All age groups can wear a BTE hearing aid.
- Hearing amplification is very good with a BTE hearing aid.
- The batteries are bigger and easier to handle.
- Hot earwax would not affect BTEs.
- Directional microphones come standard with most BTEs
- BTEs tend to be more reliable.
Behind the ear hearing instruments are also not perfect. Some users may receive a bad fitting, which could cause feedback. Ear moulds may need the occasional remake to preserve the acoustic seal. These instruments are also larger than other hearing aids. This does mean they are a bit more noticeable.
How does a BTE hearing aid work?
Most normal hearing aids consist of the following:
- A tiny microphone
- An amplifier
- A loudspeaker
Who should consider a BTE hearing aid?
People who are prone to getting ear infections, have had surgery, or who suffer from excessive earwax production may want to get BTE hearing aids.
Digital Signal Processing
BTE Digital hearing aids use digital technology to process sound signals. The processor, which is really a tiny computer, has scientific models for sound and hearing programmed into it. Digital hearing aids therefore have a wider range of possibilities compared to analogue hearing aids.
Digital Signal Processing relies on the microphone for the incoming analogue signal. The signal gets sent to an analogue-to-digital converter (ADC) and is converted into numerical values, which the digital signal processor can process.
When the digital signal processor finishes the task, a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) converts these signals back into an analogue signal.