Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)

A receiver-in-canal hearing aid, also called receiver-in-the-ear (RITE), is a style in which the main body of the device sits behind the ear but the speaker (receiver) is placed directly in the ear canal via a thin wire, rather than through a tube connected to an ear mold. This design separates the microphone and amplifier from the receiver, which reduces feedback risk, allows for a smaller and lighter behind-the-ear component, and delivers sound more directly to the eardrum.

RIC hearing aids are among the most commonly fitted styles today because they are comfortable, relatively discreet, and suitable for a wide range of hearing loss from mild to severe. The ear canal end of the device typically uses a soft silicone dome tip, though custom ear molds are available for those who need a more secure fit or have significant hearing loss.

In Ontario, RIC devices are eligible for ADP funding when prescribed by a registered audiologist.