In-the-Ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-built to fit the unique shape of your ear. Unlike behind-the-ear styles, all components are housed within a single shell that sits in your ear, with nothing behind the ear at all. This makes ITE hearing aids a popular choice for people who want a discreet device that is also easy to handle and maintain.
There are two main ITE variations available at SoundClear: the full-shell ITE which fills the bowl of the ear, and the smaller half-shell ITC (In-the-Canal) which sits partially in the ear canal. Both are made from a physical impression of your ear taken during your consultation, ensuring a bespoke fit that is unique to you. The custom moulding process is quick, painless, and results in a hearing aid that fits like it was made just for you, because it was.
ITE vs ITC: Choosing the Right Style
In-the-Ear (ITE)
The full-shell ITE fills the entire bowl of your outer ear. Its larger size allows for more powerful amplification, making it suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. ITE devices can accommodate manual controls such as volume wheels and programme buttons, which many patients appreciate. The larger battery size means longer battery life, and the bigger size makes handling easier for those with dexterity concerns. Available in a range of skin-tone colours for a natural appearance.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
The ITC is a smaller version of the ITE, sitting in the lower portion of the outer ear bowl and extending slightly into the ear canal. It is less visible than the full-shell ITE while still large enough to include advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and directional microphones. ITC devices suit mild to moderately severe hearing loss. They offer an excellent middle ground between the discretion of CIC devices and the functionality of larger ITE models.
The Custom Moulding Process
Creating your custom ITE or ITC hearing aid begins with taking an impression of your ear. Your audiologist places a soft foam block in your ear canal, then injects a safe, quick-setting silicone material that captures the exact shape of your ear. The process takes about ten minutes and is completely painless. This impression is sent to the manufacturer where your hearing aid shell is precision-crafted to match your ear exactly. The internal electronics are then fitted into this custom shell. The entire process typically takes five to seven working days from impression to finished device.
Benefits of In-the-Ear Hearing Aids
Custom-moulded comfort
Each hearing aid is individually crafted to your ear shape, providing a fit that is uniquely comfortable and secure. No one-size-fits-all approach.
Nothing behind the ear
All components sit within the ear, so there is nothing behind or over your ear. This makes ITE styles comfortable for glasses and mask wearers.
Easy to handle
Larger than CIC and IIC devices, ITE and ITC hearing aids are easier to insert, remove, and adjust, making them a great option for those with dexterity challenges.
Natural sound localisation
The microphone sits in the ear rather than behind it, which helps preserve your ability to localise sounds and determine direction naturally.
Manual controls available
ITE models are large enough to include volume controls and programme buttons, giving you direct, tactile control over your hearing experience.