There are many Assistive Listening Devices (ALD’s) available. Volumes have been published about the scores of different devices and options on the market.  It would be difficult at best to exhaustively consider each of them. Most claim to be “the best” with exclusive advanced technology of one type or another.  While all systems have their strengths and weaknesses, “the best” ALD is the one that best meets the user’s needs.  Below are some questions to consider before choosing an ALD that may simplify your decision making process and improve your ALD experience by choosing the system that is best for you.

1.  Hearing Loss - This may seem a simple and obvious point, but many ALD’s are purchased only to listen to TV while not disturbing a spouse or others while listening to TV at night, etc. Most basic or entry level devices are capable of performing this function. If hearing loss is a consideration, be careful to choose a system that meets your needs. Most systems are rated for mild, moderate or severe hearing loss.  Many also have varying degrees of technology that will affect the listening experience such as commercial volume control, noise reduction and more.

2.  Primary Listening Function/Situation - If your ALD will be used primarily for TV Listening, then a system that is designed mostly for that purpose is obviously your best option. However, if you intend to use your ALD for a broad range of listening situations as well as TV, you may be better served with other options such as Pocket Talker (Williams Sound), Comfort Duett (Comfort Audio) or others intended for more general overall use.

3. Plasma/LCD TV’s and Fluorescent Lights – This issue is generally associated with wireless systems primarily used for TV Listening. Most 95 KHz systems ARE NOT COMPATIBLE WITH PLASMA/LCD TV AND FLUORESCENT LIGHTS.  Simply stated, this is because light from Plasma/LCD and fluorescents interfere with the transmission signal from your ALD. However, TV Ears claims to have overcome this issue by boosting signal strength with their Power Stacker on select models or simply arranging your transmitter in a fashion that reduces interference with light from Plasma/LCD TV’s.  Most other manufacturers have overcome this issue by utilizing a different transmission frequency; most commonly 2.3 MHz.

4.  Public Theaters and Auditoriums – Many public auditoriums, theaters and churches offer hearing assistance. Most commonly they utilize a 95 KHz system. 2.3 MHz systems are not compatible with such systems. The Clarity C120 (Clarity Products) is the only system with the unique capability to switch between 2.3 MHz and 95 KHz at the flip of a switch on the headset receiver.

5.  Coverage Area – Most wireless systems will cover a room from 600sq. ft. and up depending on the model. All are limited to LINE OF SIGHT. Meaning you must be within sight of the transmitter for the receiver (headset) to function properly. The Sennheiser Set 820 is an exception. Sennheiser Set 820 utilizes an RF (Radio Frequency) Signal.  This allows the transmitted signal to penetrate walls and barriers from room to room, floor to floor, etc. Use is not limited to line of sight issues.

6.  Can I Use My ALD With Hearing Aids? – Many hearing aid wearers utilize ALD’s with hearing aids. If this is an important consideration, check to see whether or not the ALD of interest to you is recommended for use with hearing aids. Many ALD’s also offer optional accessories such as neck loops and other items that optimize use with hearing aids.

7. Battery Life – Most TV Listening Systems utilize a rechargeable proprietary or watch type battery. They range in life cycle depending on use, some up to two years. Replacement cost is usually about $20. Others utilize common AA or other retail batteries.

8. Multiple Headset Systems – Most systems will work with two or more headsets simultaneously. However, most usually will not accommodate more than one headset in the charger transmitter base at the same time. TV Ears transmitter/charger base will accommodate two headsets and is a very popular choice for multiple headset systems.

9. Wired Vs. Wireless Systems – Wireless refers to the signal from the transmitter to the receiver (headset). Wireless systems are limited to “line of sight” meaning you must be within sight of the transmitter for the receiver to function properly (with exception of Sennheiser Set 820 – see tip 5) Wireless systems do not necessarily provide better sound quality than wired systems.