Listening Devices
How listening devices can benefit you
If you are at the movies, in church or even at a sporting event you likely want to hear everything that is going on. Although many are happy just listening to a standard sound system or PA and others have their own hearing aids, inevitably there will be several people in any gathering who could use a little hearing help. Some might even hear fine but just want an enhanced auditory experience.
In these cases, you may want to consider trying an assistive listening device (ALD). Listening devices can be used to overcome the effects of background noise, poor room acoustics or far distance from the speaker. And for people who are hard of hearing, an assisted listening device may be used with or without a hearing aid. There are a variety of listening systems on the market, all designed to provide an easy-to-use and convenient wireless sound solution for you.
Types of Listening Devices
There are a couple different systems available such as:
- Personal FM systems. These are like miniature radio stations. They operate on special frequencies assigned by the Federal Communications Commission. They usually consist of a transmitter microphone used by the speaker and a receiver and headset used by the listener.
- Infrared systems. Infrared systems transmit sound using infrared light waves. Although they are often used in the home with TV sets, they can also be used in large settings like theatres and sporting events.
FM systems are used in a variety of situations such as listening to a tour guide, a classroom lecturer or a sales trainer, or to listen to sounds while at a sporting event or a theatre. In most situations, the microphone and transmitter is built into the overall sound system. You are provided with a FM receiver that can connect to a headset or hearing aid.
Choose Your ALD Wisely
Whatever system you end up using for your listening needs, it’s important to pick a company that sells a wide range of solutions and technology that can tailored to your specific needs. One size does not fit all in the ALD industry. It is also important to try out the equipment before you purchase a system. You really need to know first-hand how an assistive listening system will benefit you.
