They are expensive, but don't go by retail price. Since almost no insurance covers them, most are discounted 40-50%. Severity of hearing loss will determine if you can use in the ear or need behind the ear aids. BTE being for severe hearing loss. Mine are behind the ear. Too many gunshots, Harleys, etc. over a lifetime. I have a remote and can control volume and select from three different channels that are set up for conversation, music and extreme noisy areas. Also, charger for the batteries. The set up was discounted to $3600 from $8500.