Any time a hearing aid user attempts to tune in to a speaker in a crowded location, the amount of background noise can easily become overwhelming. This is especially true in boisterous settings such as movie theaters, concert halls, churches, and auditoriums. Fortunately, hearing loops systems offer a solution to this problem, permitting hearing aid wearers to easily hear the sounds they wish to enjoy.
Any time a Hearing loop systems take advantages of the telecoil feature that is included in most hearing aids. The original purpose of these telecoils was to work with the magnetic fields created by telephone hardware. This allowed the wearer to easily listen to telephone conversations without distraction from background noise. These same telecoils can be used by today’s hearing loop systems, which create magnetic fields on a much larger scale.
The first part of a hearing loop system is an audio input, often from a PA system or a dedicated microphone feed. The input travels into a hearing loop amplifier, which then drives a current through one or several cables that are looped around the venue. If the loop is set up correctly there will be no dead zones or dropouts, allowing everyone in the loop with a telecoil to clearly hear the transmitted sound.
Despite the fact that several newer technologies like FM transmission neck loops are being installed in public and private venues, traditional audio loop systems continue to offer several unique benefits. These systems are very convenient for patrons whose hearing aids have a telecoil feature, allowing them to visit any properly equipped venue without worrying about their ability to hear. They also provide a simpler, more discreet listening experience, since they don’t require the user to wear any additional equipment.
Though no hearing technology is perfect, hearing loop systems offer a huge service to many people, giving many listeners a much more enjoyable experience.