Assistive Listening Systems

The assorted information below can help you learn more about the assistive listening options various people use to access sound, including in public places such as arts and culture institutions.

Types of Personal Hearing Devices
There are several kinds of personal hearing devices that d/Deaf and hard of hearing people use on a regular basis, including:

• Hearing aids: Small electronic devices worn in or behind the ear that amplify sound to help individuals who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing hear more clearly.
• Cochlear implants: Surgically implanted devices with external processors that provide a sense of sound by stimulating the auditory nerve, designed for individuals with significant hearing loss who do not benefit from traditional hearing aids.
• Bone-anchored hearing systems: Devices that use bone conduction to transmit sound directly to the inner ear through the skull, often used for individuals with conductive hearing loss or single-sided deafness.
• Streaming accessories and remote microphones, either generic or specific to a brand of personal hearing device: Accessories that wirelessly transmit audio from a variety of sources (e.g., phones, TVs) directly to hearing aids or cochlear implants, sometimes tailored to work with specific brands of hearing devices.

Types of Assistive Listening Systems
Additionally, there are several kinds of ALSs that d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals use in combination with their personal listening devices. These include:

• Radio frequency (e.g. FM) systems utilize radio frequency signals (typically on the 72 MHz or 216 MHz frequency bands) to transmit sound from a microphone or audio source to a receiver worn by the listener. They can be portable or stationary, offering a transmission range up to 3,000 feet. They can be used in large areas, small areas, and one-on-one interactions. Interference may occur if multiple systems operating on the same channel or frequencies are used within the same area.
• Infrared systems transmit sound signals via infrared light waves to receivers, requiring a clear line-of-sight between the emitter and the receiver. This makes proper placement essential, such as positioning individually worn receivers at chest level with help of a lanyard or clip. Coverage can extend several hundred feet with a single emitter, or up to 900 feet with multiple emitters. Because the signal is blocked by walls, interference is less likely when multiple infrared ALSs are used within the same building. They are ideal for use in indoor environments, including both large and small areas, and do not work outdoors. The emitters require stationary placement for best coverage and typically use handheld, over-the-ear, or under-the-chin receivers.
• Audio over Wi-Fi systems transmit sound signals to an app on a mobile device (smartphone or tablet) via a Wi-Fi network. The mobile device acts as the receiver, where the user can connect using Bluetooth or headphones, earbuds, or a neckloop. These systems can experience interference from walls, physical barriers or bandwidth limitations. The range is typically up to 150 feet indoors and up to 500 feet outdoors. They can be used in large and small areas, and one-on-one interactions. They are portable or stationary, with users selecting their preferred audio connection method (e.g., direct Bluetooth, headphones, earbuds, neckloop, streamer accessory).
• Induction loop systems transmit audio signals through a loop of copper wiring installed around a venue’s perimeter. Users within the perimeter can access the signal by using their personal hearing device(s) in telecoil (T-coil) mode, or with a personal neckloop coupled to a receiver with an audio output jack and accessed via the telecoil setting. These systems are stationary and best suited for large areas (with proper installation), small areas (see counter loop below), or one-on-one settings. A receiver is only needed if the user’s hearing device doesn’t have a built-in telecoil; otherwise, they can use a hearing loop receiver with headphones or earbuds.
  • Counter-style loop systems are designed for smaller areas like ticketing booths, projecting the signal to a patron standing nearby. These areas are often particularly noisy and a counter loop can be helpful in mitigating sound interference.
• Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio with Auracast (version 5.2 or later) transmits audio signals via a Bluetooth LE/Auracast transmitter. Users select their preferred signal through an “assistant” on a mobile device, smartwatch, touchscreen, fob, or receiver. Transmitter options include standalone routers with repeaters for greater signal coverage, and devices embedded in televisions, mobile devices, or wireless microphones. Receiver options include hearing aids, cochlear implants, headphones, wireless earbuds, handheld receivers with headphones, wired earbuds, or neckloops. While not yet widely available, the production of Auracast-compatible transmitters and Bluetooth devices is increasing, with more personal hearing devices and headphones becoming Auracast-enabled through software or firmware updates. The system, with a range up to 30,000 square feet, can be portable or stationary and used in large areas, small spaces, or one-on-one interactions, requiring a receiver.

Options for Coupling to a Handheld Receiver:
Users of assistive listening devices have several options for coupling their personal hearing devices to gain external sonic input. These include:

• Headphones (plug into the audio output jack): Over-the-ear cushioned headphones are recommended for comfort when worn over in-the-ear personal hearing devices, as they minimize sound leakage, reduce feedback (squealing), and reduce the impact of environmental noise on the audio signal. Flat headphones should be avoided to prevent discomfort, feedback, background noise, and reduced sound quality.
• Earbuds (plug into the audio output jack): These are typically used by individuals without personal hearing devices, offering a portable and discreet listening option.
• Under-the-chin bar headphones: Commonly used with infrared systems, these headphones are an option for individuals without personal hearing devices. Some models may feature an audio output jack, allowing them to connect to headphones, earbuds, neckloops, or personal hearing device streaming accessories.
• Personal neckloop: This accessory plugs into the audio output jack and can be accessed through the T-coil setting on personal hearing devices, allowing users to hear audio directly through their hearing aids.
• Streamer accessory or remote microphone: These devices plug into the audio output jack via a 3.5mm dual male patch cord and transmit sound to personal hearing devices or other compatible receivers.

Personal Amplification Devices

• A personal amplification device, such as the Williams Sound Pocketalker, is another ALD option. It features a handheld transmitter with a directional microphone and a receiver, making it perfect for one-on-one conversations or small-group settings. This device can be used with or without personal hearing devices, offering flexibility for different needs.

As you work to install ALSs into your arts and culture organization, keep these implementation tips in mind:

• Consult with professionals: Work with experts to select the right ALS for your venue and ensure it is professionally installed.
• Coverage area: Ensure that your ALS provides adequate coverage for all seating areas, including remote, obstructed, or tricky spots. Testing should occur both when the venue is empty and when it is occupied to account for any dead spots or range issues.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the ALD you select is compatible with a range of hearing aids, cochlear implants, and personal devices. Consider options like Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast, which can work with various types of personal hearing devices, as well as systems like induction loops that directly connect to telecoils in hearing aids.
• Ease of use: Choose systems that are user-friendly, with clear instructions and minimal setup. For example, Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast may require an app or assistant to select desired audio signals, while other systems (FM, infrared, induction loops) are simpler to use. Offering multiple access methods, such as the telecoil setting on personal hearing devices or accessories like neckloops, enhances the user experience. Consider that you have no control over the state of a patron’s personal device or their level of comfort and knowledge in operating it, and take into account your own staffing capacity to assist with requests.

Finally, once you have selected and installed ALS/ALDs, it is important to keep up with ongoing maintenance and tech support to ensure that visitors can use the system successfully. Keep the following considerations in mind:

• Regular testing: Conduct routine maintenance and functionality checks and tests of ALDs to ensure they are working properly. It’s important to account for charging/battery status, interference, changes in the venue layout, or any technical issues that may arise. Also be sure to provide fully charged devices or, if you are letting patrons use their own devices, provide charge locations.
• Communication of ALD availability: Communicate ALD availability both in advance (website, brochures, and ticketing platforms) and on-site (clear signage throughout the venue indicating where ALDs are available). Specify which types of ALDs are available (e.g., FM systems, induction loops, Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast). Google Maps will allow you to indicate if you have an Auracast system.
• Staff training: Staff should be properly trained to operate the ALDs and troubleshoot any issues patrons may face. This ensures a smooth experience for individuals using the devices and minimizes service disruptions.
• Patron support: Provide assistance to patrons, if needed, on how to use the available assistive listening devices and the benefits they offer. This may involve providing basic instructions on how to access signals using hearing aids or cochlear implants in telecoil mode, connecting to Bluetooth devices, or using personal receivers.
• Feedback mechanisms: Create a system for patrons to report issues or provide feedback on the assistive listening systems. This can help identify areas for improvement and allow you to refine the services you offer.