1300 658 986
info@hearingloopsmelbourne.com

Hearing Augmentation System is also sometimes known as Assistive Listening System.

In Australia, generally, there are 3 types of hearing systems available:
Audio-frequency Induction Loop System (IL)
Infrared Light Transmission System (IR)
VHF Frequency-Modulated Radio System (RF or FM)

Induction Loop Systems.

  • A hearing loop (HL) (Also called an audio induction loop) is a special type of sound system for use by people with hearing aids. The HL provides a magnetic, wireless signal that gets picked up by the hearing aid when it is set to ‘T’ (Telecoil) setting. It is the only assistive listening technology that can broadcast directly to a wide range of hearing aids, making them the most popular option for accessible audio in public spaces. Where are hearing loops found? You can find them in a wide variety of locations. From service counters in shops, banks or reception desks, to meeting rooms, teaching spaces, theatres, cinemas, concourses and waiting areas, on board public transport and integrated into help points, intercoms or museum exhibits. Why use a hearing loop? - Cuts out unwanted background noise. - No need to use a receiver/headset. - Sound goes directly into the hearing aid. - Can be used by anyone with a compatible hearing aid. - It is inconspicuous. - Cost effective. - Any number of users can use the system. - Can cover any size of space.

  • Hearing Induction Loop are also known as:
  • - Audio Frequency Induction Loop.
  • - Audio Induction Loop.
  • - Hearing Aid Loop.
  • - Hearing Induction Loop.
  • - Powered Audio Induction Loop.

Infrared Systems.

Infrared Hearing Assistance systems use light waves to transmit a sound signal within a venue. This technology keeps the sound/signal contained within the room/space. With these systems an Infrared signal is sent by a transmitter connected to the sound system in your venue. This radio signal transmission can then be picked up by receivers worn by customers/patrons while they are attending the venue.
Why use an Infrared System?No unwanted radio signals – with some FM systems, you occasionally pick up stray radio signals from other FM/wireless systems.
More privacy – because IR signals cannot travel through walls, the audio cannot be heard through the walls. For this reason, this system is common in movie theaters and courtrooms. Considerations of an Infrared System?Personal receiver required – there is no option to directly send IR signal to a hearing aid or cochlear implant only. A dedicated IR receiver is required. Due to the use of a personal receiver, it is obvious that a person is having trouble and many people are uncomfortable putting their hearing disability out there for everyone to know. Most people would prefer to not use the system at all.
Light effects signal – Infrared suffers quite badly from shadowing, offering many situations in rooms where the signal is lost (this means that there must be a direct line of sight from the transmitter to the receiver)
Line of site necessary – should another individual in the room stand between the transmitter and receiver, the signal could blocked causing the audio to cut out.

Frequency-Modulated (FM) Known as Radio System (RF)

FM systems, also known as radio frequency is an assistive listening device designed to improve the hearing experience for hearing aid wearers, particularly in challenging environments. FM systems pick up speech closer to its source, reducing unwanted noise and improving the signal-to-noise ratio, making speech easier to understand. They can also connect directly to sound sources like televisions to transmit a clear signal to hearing aids. Why Use an FM System?Less expensive than a Hearing Loop (initially) – Hearing Loops take more labor and equipment to install a proper system initially.
Easy to install – An FM system is easily installed by connecting a transmitter to an audio output. Considerations of an FM System?Signal loss – FM’s suffer from loss of signal and privacy issues as the signal can travel significant distances and through walls.
Personal receiver required – There is no option to directly send a FM signal from a transmitter directly to a hearing aid or cochlear implant. A different frequency is used at each venue requiring the syncing of a receiver to a venues transmitter. Due to the use of a personal receiver, it is obvious that a person is having trouble and many people are uncomfortable putting their hearing disability out there for everyone to know. Most people would prefer to not use the system at all.
Hearing Loops Melbourne
Hearing Loops Melbourne is a sub-division of Save Time Visuals set-up specifically for the design and installation of the Hearing Augmentation Systems.
Contact Info
1300 658 986
info@hearingloopsmelbourne.com.au
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