Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids sit comfortably behind your ear, with the sound delivered into the ear through tubing and an ear mould. They are the most powerful hearing aid style, making them suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, including more severe hearing loss.
Who are BTE hearing aids suitable for?
BTE hearing aids are best suited to people with moderate to profound hearing loss and are recommended for those who:
- Lead an active lifestyle and want a secure fit
- Need a powerful hearing aid for more severe hearing loss
- Have dexterity issues and need larger hearing aids for handling
- Have narrow ear canals that may not be suitable for other styles
Advantages of BTE hearing aids
01.
Powerful performance
The most powerful hearing aid style, suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, including severe.
02.
Easy to handle
Larger controls and batteries make them easier to insert, remove and use.
03.
Durable design
A robust hearing aid style designed for everyday use.
04.
Secure fit
Compatible with custom earmolds to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
05.
Rechargeable options
Available with rechargeable or disposable batteries, depending on the model.
06.
Bluetooth connectivity
Selected models include Bluetooth streaming and compatibility with the My Starkey app.
Your Hearing Aid Journey
Initial enquiry
Getting started is easy. You can contact our practice in Ebbw Vale or Cardiff by phone, through our online booking system, or via a referral. Many people get in touch after noticing it’s becoming harder to follow conversations, particularly in noisy environments, or because family members have commented on their hearing.
Booking your assessment
We’ll arrange your appointment using Blueprint and explain exactly what to expect. Your visit will typically include a discussion about your hearing and a comprehensive hearing test. Hearing assessments are completely free of charge. The only cost would be if earwax removal is needed, in which case our standard wax removal fees apply.
Case history & ear examination
When you arrive, your audiologist will take the time to discuss your medical history, lifestyle, listening difficulties, tinnitus and any noise exposure. They’ll then examine your ears using otoscopy to check for earwax, infection or any abnormalities that may need onward referral before your hearing test can take place.
Diagnostic hearing assessment
You’ll have a comprehensive hearing assessment, including pure-tone audiometry and, where appropriate, speech-in-noise testing. This allows us to identify the type, degree and configuration of hearing loss in each ear. All testing is carried out in a soundproof environment and meets the gold standard in audiology.
Results & discussion
Once your assessment is complete, your audiologist will explain your results in clear, easy-to-understand language. They’ll go through your audiogram with you and discuss how your hearing loss may be affecting your everyday life. If hearing aids are recommended, they’ll talk you through the most suitable options.
Hearing aid recommendation & selection
Your hearing aid recommendation will be tailored to your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle, dexterity, cosmetic preferences and budget. We’ll discuss suitable hearing aids from leading manufacturers such as Starkey, along with different styles (RIC, BTE and ITE/CIC), features including rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming and noise reduction, and the available pricing options.
Ear impressions (if required)
If you choose custom-moulded or custom in-ear hearing aids, we’ll take ear impressions or digital ear scans, which are then sent to the manufacturer to create your hearing aids.
Ordering & fitting appointment
Once you’ve chosen your hearing aids, we’ll place the order with the selected supplier. As soon as they arrive, we’ll arrange your fitting appointment.
Fitting & programming
At your fitting appointment, your audiologist will ensure your hearing aids fit comfortably and securely before programming them to match your individual hearing test results. Where appropriate, real-ear measurements are carried out to ensure accurate amplification. You’ll also be shown how to insert, remove, clean and care for your hearing aids, as well as how to charge them or change the batteries.
Trial period & orientation
We provide a FREE two-week trial period with your hearing aids. During this time, we’ll explain what to expect as your brain adjusts to amplified sounds, as this adaptation can take time. We’ll also provide guidance on troubleshooting and using any compatible apps, where applicable.
Follow-up appointment
Within your two-week trial period, we’ll contact you for a review phone call or arrange an appointment if needed. This gives us the opportunity to check your comfort, benefit and overall satisfaction, while making any fine-tuning adjustments to help you get the best possible performance from your hearing aids.
Ongoing aftercare
Our aftercare service includes routine servicing, cleaning, replacement tubing or domes where required, battery or charging support, and annual hearing reviews. We use Blueprint to schedule reminder appointments, helping you keep your hearing aids performing at their best.
Warranty & repairs
If your hearing aid develops a fault, we’ll arrange for it to be returned to the manufacturer (such as Starkey or Phonak) under warranty or repaired in-house where possible. A loan device can be provided while your hearing aid is being repaired. All Starkey hearing aids come with a 5-year warranty as standard, which is significantly longer than the industry average of two years. Accessories, including chargers, receivers and TV streamers, are covered by a 2-year warranty.
Our Packages
Our hearing aid packages combine advanced technology with personalisation, ensuring you receive the perfect match for your individual hearing needs based on your initial hearing test & assessment. Get ready to experience clarity, comfort & convenience with a solution specifically for you.
Package
Description
Payment Plan
36 months, 10.9% interest.
One Aid
Two Aids
Essential
For individuals seeking a hearing aid for uncomplicated listening situations, such as one-on-one conversations.
From £64.18*
£998
£1,995
Bronze
Perfect for improving hearing in quieter settings, such as one-to-one conversations, small group discussions, and environments with less background noise.
From £94.90*
£1,525 £1,675
£2,800 £2,950
Silver
Enhance your hearing experience in more demanding settings, such as socialising in big groups or navigating loud work environments.
From £113.40*
£2,225 £2,425
£3,325 £3,525
Gold
Ideal for more complex listening environments, featuring the most advanced technology & seamlessly integrates with both Apple & Android devices.
From £119.84*
£2,375 £2,625
£3,475 £3,725
Platinum
Get both clarity & control with this package that’s crafted for dynamic listening. This range actively filters out background noise while simultaneously giving you full access to your surroundings.
From £128.52*
£2,575 £2,925
£3,645 £3,995
Compare the packages
Essential
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
*We also offer alternative finance plans: 6 months at 0% interest, 10 months at 0% interest, 12 months at 5.9% interest, 18 months at 9.9% interest and 24 months at 9.9% interest. Please speak with our team for more details.
Finance is subject to status, and is arranged through Tabeo.
Tabeo Broker Limited, incorporated in England & Wales (registration number 10416530), with its registered office at C/O Fox Williams, 10 Finsbury Square, Finsbury, London EC2A 1AF. Tabeo Broker Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and entered on the Financial Services Register, reference number 777539.
Audiology Associates Ltd trading as Audiology Associates is an Appointed Representative of Tabeo Broker Limited (“Tabeo”)Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to carry out the regulated activity of credit broking.
Frequently asked questions
Are BTE hearing aids suitable for severe hearing loss?
Yes. They are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, including moderate, severe and profound hearing loss. They are the most powerful hearing aid style available.
Are they easy to handle?
Yes. Their larger size makes them easier to insert, remove and adjust than smaller hearing aid styles, making them a popular choice for people with dexterity issues.
Can BTE hearing aids connect to my phone?
Yes. The G Series AI range include Bluetooth streaming and are compatible with the My Starkey app, allowing you to stream audio and manage your hearing aids from your smartphone.
Can I use BTE hearing aids with a hearing loop?
Selected models are compatible with hearing loop systems using a telecoil, making them suitable for venues equipped with hearing loop technology.
Do they need much maintenance?
Like all hearing aids, BTE devices benefit from regular care. We recommend cleaning the tubing, checking for moisture and replacing the earmold when needed to keep them performing at their best.
Can BTE hearing aids help with tinnitus?
Yes. Tinnitus features are available on most models. During your appointment, your audiologist can recommend the most suitable hearing aid for your hearing needs.
Are BTE hearing aids rechargeable?
Yes. Rechargeable models are available, alongside disposable battery options depending on the hearing aid you choose.
Are BTE hearing aids more visible than other hearing aid styles?
Yes. They sit behind the ear, making them larger and more visible than in-the-ear hearing aid styles. However, they offer excellent performance and are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses.
Will an earmold feel uncomfortable?
Some people may experience a blocked feeling, known as occlusion, when wearing an earmold. Your audiologist will ensure your hearing aids fit as comfortably as possible.
How do I look after my BTE hearing aids?
To keep your hearing aids performing at their best, we recommend cleaning the tubing regularly, replacing the earmold as needed and checking the device for moisture.
