Hearing aids are available in analog or digital models. Analog hearing aids have been on the market for years. These are less expensive than digital hearing aids but do not provide the sound quality and features that digital hearing aids do. Digital hearing aids offer a cleaner sound quality than analog models and can be programmed by computer to achieve a high level of adjustment. Digital hearing prices have fallen, hence, more people can afford them.

There are several types of hearing aids on the market. A hearing aid specialist can help you choose the type that suits you best. The closer the hearing aid sits to the eardrum the better the sound will be.

Here are 4 types of hearing aids:

BTE: Behind the Ear

This type fits over the ear and rests behind it. It is typically the least expensive.

ITE: In the Ear

This is the most common type that sits in the ear

ITC: In the Ear Canal

This type fits slightly lower into the ear and is not very noticeable.

CIC: Completely In the Ear Canal

This fits down into the ear canal, requires the most fitting and is the least visible to others.

There are 4 leading manufacturers of hearing aids that have proven to provide superior products. They provide the ultimate in customer service to ensure improved hearing and customer satisfaction.

Siemens hearing aids

Siemens is a name you can trust for hearing aids. Siemens has been in business for over 125 years and is the largest manufacturer of hearing aids in the United States. Siemens has hearing aids to meet every budget yet all are made with the same expertise and precision. There are basic styles, value and ultimate. All Siemens hearing aids come with a two-year warranty. The higher priced Siemens hearing aids have more channels and offer more features than the lower priced versions. If cost is a concern try the Phoenix or Cielo models. The top of the line Artis e2e has wireless ear-to-ear technology.

Beltone hearing aids

Beltone is a leading brand of hearing aids. It has an outstanding reputation and boasts over 1300 locations in the United States. They offer an aftercare program called Belcare to help with your ongoing needs. The professionals at Beltone will help you complete a lifestyle assessment called the Personalized Hearing Health Assessment (PHHA) to determine which type of Beltone hearing aid is best for you. Beltone offers a wide variety of hearing aids including basic, quality, advantage and premier styles. Each group has products to suit your needs. The Edge model is affordable and has 3 channels. The Mira model is a mid-range model with 6 channels. The top of the line Oria has 12 channels and offers many additional features.

Starkey hearing aids

Starkey Laboratories is the world's largest manufacturer of hearing instruments. They offer many hearing aids to provide you with the best solution for your hearing loss and lifestyle. They were the first to provide a warranty as well as a free trial period. They have many hearing aid models available starting with the 3-channel Aspect. The mid-level Destiny comes in several models to accommodate your needs. The top of the line Eli provides a wireless solution that is compatible with Bluetooth enabled phones.

Phonak hearing aids

Phonak is a worldwide company with headquarters in Switzerland. They offer specialized hearing instruments, which are available in a wide array of products to suit your hearing loss and budget. The 6 channel eXtra model provides a basic entry-level hearing aid. The mid-range Valeo and Elva models have 16 channels. The top of the line Savia has 20 channels and numerous features to provide the best hearing assistance available. Phonak also has wireless hearing aid solutions.