Comfoor does not recommend a RIC solution for narrow ear canals, because receivers with hearing aids (and domes) often do not fit (well). If you desire a RIC model anyway, these alternatives are possible in some cases.
RIC bikini
If a hole is formed at the front or back of the RIC ear mould when making the mould, a RIC bikini is a good solution. There is more space for the receiver (see figure 1). The hole, which was already there anyway, is just made bigger. Naturally, there must be enough space for any fixing ring.
Soundbore
If there is insufficient space in the hearing canal for the receiver, the soundbore solution could be an option (see figure 2).
The ear mould is shaped higher and the receiver is positioned behind the tragus.
The sound channel (soundbore) runs from the receiver into the ear canal.
This solution can be selected for the following receivers:
Beltone or GN Resound NP/LP/HPG
Signia (Siemens) RIC 2 (S, M, P)
The disadvantages of the soundbore model are:
Because it is positioned higher, the advantage of positioning close to the eardrum is negated.
The receiver is positioned further outward. This is not optimal from a cosmetic perspective.
Acoustically, there is a loss of capacity, because the receiver is positioned further outward.
There is no guarantee on this model
Short version of the RIC
If there is insufficient space to position the receiver in the ear canal, a short version can be made in combination with a concha ring.
The earpiece is shaped higher and the receiver is positioned behind the tragus.
The nipple is shortened to the end of the receiver (see figure 3).
Because this shortened version offers no grip in the ear canal beyond the second curve, this solution should always be used in combination with a full concha ring.
This solution can be used with the following receivers:
Oticon
Widex
Phonak
GN Resound RIE S (the receiver must be able to be removed from the fixing ring with a tool).
The disadvantages of the short version of the RIC are:
The advantage of positioning the receiver close to the eardrum is negated.
The receiver is positioned further outside of the ear canal. This is not optimal from a cosmetic perspective.
Acoustically, there is a loss in capacity, because the receiver is positioned further outward.
This model offers less grip because the nipple does not extend into the ear canal.
