A Hearing Solution For Every Scenario
We offer assistive listening devices for every unique need.
Understanding Assistive Listening Technologies
Clear communication is essential for participation in public events, performances, and everyday interactions. For individuals with hearing loss, background noise and poor acoustics can create significant barriers. Assistive listening technologies bridge this gap, providing amplified, direct sound that enhances clarity and accessibility.
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Induction hearing loops, or assistive listening loops, is hands-down the user-preferred of assistive listening technology. Hearing loops are common in churches, theaters, senior centers, and libraries, to name a few places. Most users utilize a hearing loop with their personal hearing device—such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant—using the telecoil program.
The beauty of hearing loops lies in their simplicity and discretion. Hearing loops transmit sound to one’s ears using an electromagnetic field. Users with telecoil-equipped devices can seamlessly connect without additional equipment, enhancing their listening experience with minimal effort.
Additional hearing loop receivers and headsets, come standard with each installation for those without telecoil enabled hearing devices, ensuring accessibility for all!
FM (RF) Systems
FM/RF systems are an alternate assistive listening solution to ensure hearing accessibility and ADA compliance in spaces where a hearing loop is not a viable option.
FM/RF systems transmit audio through radio waves directly to the user. Unlike hearing loops, each user of an FM/RF system must wear a receiver, as well as either a headset, earbuds, or neck loop. Allow Assist2Hear to put together an FM package with the best combination of accessories for your individual venue!
Infrared (IR) Systems
Infrared (IR) systems use light-based transmission to deliver sound from a venue’s audio system to a receiver and headset or neck loop. Unlike FM or Bluetooth, IR signals do not pass through walls, making them an excellent choice for spaces requiring confidentiality, such as courtrooms.
While IR technology ensures ADA compliance, it is less effective in spaces with natural light or large windows, as sunlight can disrupt signal transmission.
Wi-Fi Assistive Listening Systems
Wi-Fi assistive listening systems enable users to stream venue audio straight to their smartphones, pairing seamlessly with headphones, AirPods, or certain hearing aids for a convenient and adaptable accessibility option. To comply with ADA standards, venues must supply standalone receivers for those without smartphones.
A system’s performance hinges on network reliability, rendering it impractical for places with spotty or unstable internet connections. Latency between the many components used to stream can also be a problem with Wi-Fi based assistive listening systems.
Auracast™ (Bluetooth)
Auracast™, is a Bluetooth-based assistive listening solution. Its compatibility is restricted to newer hearing aids with Bluetooth LE support, leaving older models out of the loop. As it’s yet to be proven in broader markets, uncertainties linger around latency and range. For the time being, traditional hearing loops paired with telecoils remain the most dependable option for users who want to utilize their personal hearing device for accessibility purposes.
Window Intercom Systems
Window intercom systems enhance communication through glass barriers, commonly found in customer service areas, bank teller counters, and ticket booths. By amplifying speech and reducing background noise, these systems improve clarity and ensure seamless interaction without raising voices or opening windows.
Often overlooked in accessibility planning, one-on-one communication areas are required to meet ADA standards, just like wheelchair-accessible counters. Every window intercom system offered by Assist2Hear includes a built-in hearing loop for full compliance.
Combination Systems
Combination systems integrate FM or IR technology with Wi-Fi, offering users multiple accessibility options. Tech-savvy individuals can connect via a mobile app, while others may prefer a traditional FM/IR receiver with headphones or a neck loop.
Designed to ensure full ADA compliance, combination systems provide venues with a versatile solution for accommodating diverse audiences and maximizing accessibility.
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