ITE Hearing Aid Parts & Function: How They Work

Key Takeaways

• ITE (In-The-Ear) hearing aids are designed to fit the unique shape of your ear.
• Key components include microphones, amplifier, microchip, loudspeaker, and battery.
• Microphones capture sound, while the amplifier boosts it to a level you can hear.
• The microchip processes the sound signals, customizing them to your specific hearing loss.
• Nano's ITE OTC hearing aids, like the First Ear Plus ITE, offer a comfortable earbud design with advanced components for clear, personalized hearing, featuring simple touch controls and effective feedback cancellation.

NANO Hearing Aids are FDA-registered, Class I devices. Our OTC hearing aids are designed for individuals over 18 years of age with perceived mild to moderate hearing impairment. With prices starting at just $297, they offer a viable solution for those looking to improve their hearing without breaking the bank.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are designed for a comfortable fit, offering a practical solution for mild to severe hearing loss without customization.

Its components function as follow:

• The microphone captures sound and converts it into electrical signals. 
• The amplifier boosts these signals to make sounds louder. 
• The microchip (signal processor) customizes the signals for better speech clarity and reducing background noise. 
• The loudspeaker (receiver) converts the processed signals back into sound, delivering them to your ear canal. 
• And finally, the battery powers the components and can be either rechargeable or disposable.

Microphones

Microphones in ITE hearing aids play a crucial role by acting as the device’s ears, capturing sounds from your surroundings and converting them into electrical signals. The quality of the microphone significantly impacts overall performance - high-quality microphones capture sounds clearly and accurately, leading to a better listening experience.

Types of Microphones

• Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from all directions - ideal for quiet environments.
• Directional microphones focus on sound from a specific direction - useful for enhancing speech in noisy settings.

Amplifier

The amplifier boosts electrical signals from the microphone, making sounds audible. It strengthens these signals for clear hearing. A high-quality amplifier enhances sound clarity and naturalness - boosting volume without distortion.

Microchip

The microchip, or signal processor, analyzes and customizes amplified signals to match your hearing loss. It applies algorithms to enhance speech and reduce background noise, providing a tailored listening experience and ensuring clarity.

Loudspeaker

The loudspeaker, or receiver, converts electrical signals into sound and directs them into your ear canal. 

It vibrates in response to these signals, creating sound waves that travel into your ear.

Battery

Types of Batteries Used

ITE hearing aids use disposable zinc-air batteries or rechargeable options. Zinc-air batteries are small, efficient, and activated by exposure to air. Rechargeable batteries can be powered via a docking station, offering convenience and eco-friendliness.

Battery Life and Usage Tips

• Carry spare disposable batteries to avoid unexpected power loss.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
• Charge rechargeable batteries regularly to ensure readiness.
• Check and clean the battery compartment for corrosion as needed.

Type and Degree of Hearing Loss

Consider your hearing loss type and degree when choosing an ITE hearing aid - which are generally suitable for mild to severe loss. 

Your audiologist will help determine the best fit based on your hearing test results and lifestyle. Alternatively, over-the-counter (OTC) options like Nano Hearing Aids provide a convenient solution without the need for an audiologist appointment.

Desired Features

Evaluate necessary features - modern ITE hearing aids offer noise reduction, directional microphones, and wireless connectivity. 

Prioritize features that enhance your daily life to choose a hearing aid that meets your requirements.

Styles of ITE Hearing Aids

Full Shell vs. Half Shell

Full shell ITE hearing aids cover most of the outer ear and offer more surface area for features like volume control and directional microphones.

Half shell ITE hearing aids cover only the lower part of the outer ear - they are slightly smaller than full shell models.

At Nano, we offer high-quality, FDA-registered, Class I Over-the-Counter (OTC) ITE hearing aids, including our popular First Ear Plus ITE model. For over 7 years, we have provided safe, effective, and easy-to-use devices designed for your hearing needs. 

The First Ear Plus ITE is a top choice, featuring a portable charging case with a built-in dehumidifier for up to 3 full charges, 2 listening programs, simple touch controls, and customizable ear-tips. It also includes feedback cancellation and noise management for crystal-clear sound.

With over 6,500 reviews and a sale price of $347, our hearing aids come with a 1-year warranty and a 45-day money-back guarantee, making them a reliable solution to enhance your hearing and quality of life.

What are ITE hearing aids?

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are pre-designed OTC devices that fit within the outer ear and ear canal. They improve hearing by capturing, amplifying, and processing sound.

How long do ITE hearing aid batteries last?

ITE hearing aid battery life varies by type and usage. Disposable zinc-air batteries last 3 to 10 days. Rechargeable batteries typically last several hours to a full day on a single charge.

Can ITE hearing aids be adjusted for different environments?

Yes, many ITE hearing aids offer adjustable settings for various environments. Features like remote controls or smartphone apps allow you to change volume, switch listening programs, and customize sound based on your surroundings.

Are ITE hearing aids visible?

ITE hearing aids vary in visibility. The Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) models are nearly invisible, while full shell and half shell models are more visible but can be matched to your skin tone to blend in.

Why Should I Choose Nano ITE Hearing Aids?

Choosing Nano ITE hearing aids means opting for a high-quality, FDA-registered, Class I medical device tailored for superior sound amplification and ease of use—ideal for perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Our First Ear Plus ITE model provides a comfortable fit with features like portable charging case with a built-in dehumidifier, simple touch controls, and powerful feedback cancellation.