Listening devices
Would you benefit from using a listening device, but you’re unsure about which products are right for you? Here’s our guide to help you find out more!
Radio aids
Radio aids are small, portable devices that are worn on a neckloop. They send sound directly into your hearing aid and so they are great for when you need to listen over distance and reduce background noise (such as watching TV, using your mobile phone, listening to music or taking part in a group conversation). Many radio aids use bluetooth to wirelessly connect to sound sources, such as mobile phones, MP3 players or conversational microphones. We like the CM-BT2 bluetooth neckloop and the Roger MyLink.
Streamers
These devices are similar to radio aids but work with specific hearing aids, often the smaller, more lightweight models. These hearing aids often have a small receiver inside them, instead of a telecoil. These receivers can receive sound only from the streamer which is produced by the same manufacturer. Streamers also use bluetooth to wirelessly connect to sound sources, such as mobile phones, MP3 players or conversational microphones.
They often offer additional functionality, like a remote control for your hearing aids, cable connections to audio sources that don`t support wireless connectivity and multiple device connections. We like the Phonak ComPilot 11 streamer and the Oticon Streamer Pro.
Direct audio input hearing aids
Most behind the ear hearing aids have a direct connection facility, meaning you can plug in a lead and listen to your phone, computer, TV etc. You will need a connector called a ‘shoe’ to connect the hearing aid to the device that you want to listen to. These are specific to each make and model of hearing aid and you may need your audiologist to activate the direct input program on your hearing aid, if it is not already turned on.
Note: Neckloop products such as bluetooth neckloops and streamers mentioned above are not suitable for use with pacemakers or implanted defibrillators. Therefore, please always check with your doctor and audiologist before purchasing any type of assistive listening device.
For more information or advice on the best listening product for you, please contact us:
Tel: 0800 132320
Text: 07950 008870
Text relay: 18001 then 0800 132320
Facetime: [email protected] (Not BSL)
BSL video relay: Please click here
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