Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) / Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) Hearing Aids

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) are terms often used interchangeably to describe one of the most popular and versatile styles of modern hearing aids—particularly within private audiology clinics like ours at Finchley Hearing.

In this style, the main body of the hearing aid—housing the microphones and core electronics—sits discreetly behind the ear. A thin wire runs from this section down the side of the ear to a tiny speaker (known as the receiver) that sits inside the ear canal. This setup allows for excellent sound delivery with a highly discreet appearance.

Why Choose a RIC / RITE Hearing Aid?

RIC hearing aids are the most commonly recommended style in private audiology due to their flexibility, comfort, and advanced features.

1. Discreet and Stylish

RIC hearing aids are small, lightweight, and cosmetically appealing. The behind-the-ear component can be matched to your hair colour or skin tone, or even customised with a bold colour that suits your personality—bright pink, anyone?

2. Feature-Rich Technology

With most of the electronics in the behind-the-ear portion, RIC hearing aids can accommodate a full suite of modern features without compromise:

Rechargeable or battery-operated options
Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones and accessories
Telecoil for connecting to public hearing loop systems (e.g. in theatres, churches, or banks)
Advanced noise reduction and directional microphones for improved hearing in noisy environments like restaurants or family gatherings

Because the internal components are split between the ear and behind-the-ear sections, many issues can be resolved in-clinic, avoiding delays from sending devices back to the manufacturer.

3. Natural Sound Quality

RICs typically offer a more open fit than other styles, allowing the ear to remain unblocked. This takes advantage of your ear’s natural shape and acoustics, resulting in clearer, more comfortable sound quality—especially for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Customising the Fit: Domes vs. Moulds

The part of the hearing aid that sits inside your ear—the receiver—can be fitted with different types of tips to suit your ear shape and hearing needs. The two most common are domes and custom earmoulds.

Domes

Domes are soft, flexible pieces of silicone or plastic that fit over the receiver. They come in a range of shapes and sizes, and your audiologist will select the type that best suits your ear anatomy and hearing loss. Domes are easy to replace and are ideal for many users due to their comfort and discretion.

Custom Moulds

Custom earmoulds are made from an impression of your ear, offering a tailored fit. These are particularly beneficial for:

Severe hearing loss, where better sealing is needed to prevent sound leakage
Preventing feedback (whistling)
More secure placement, especially for patients who find the wire or dome slips out easily
Easier handling, as some patients find inserting a mould simpler than a dome

Your audiologist will advise whether a dome or mould is more suitable during your hearing assessment and consultation.

Is a RIC Hearing Aid Right for You?

At Finchley Hearing, we find that RIC/RITE hearing aids suit a wide range of patients due to their comfort, versatility, and advanced performance. If you're unsure whether this style is right for you, we’re here to help guide you through the options with an in-depth, personalised assessment.

Book a consultation today to explore the benefits of RIC hearing aids and find the best fit for your hearing and lifestyle.