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Assistive listening devices compliment the capabilities of digital hearing
aids and cochlear implants, significantly enhancing the user's ability to use
phones, cell phones, TV/DVD, and audio devices such as iPod. Although we could
wish for a "one-product-does-it-all" solution, job specific assistive listening
devices still offer the greatest benefit and assistance for improved speech
comprehension. These "best-of-breed" products get our recommendation based on
personal testing and customer feedback.
T-Link – Cordless Phone and Cell Phone Headset
 What we like:
T-Link T-coil inductive, silhouette ear hooks get
two-thumbs-up for excellent volume, wires that don’t harden with use and a
low-profile, right-angle plug that reduces strain to the phone’s headphone
socket.
While some users may prefer Bluetooth headsets, T-Link
remains one of our favorite, time-tested products that doesn’t require batteries
or recharging – a great option as a primary or backup headset solution.
Headset Buddy adapters are available that provide
compatibility with iPhone, smart phones, DVD and audio devices, and PC sound
cards for a one-product phone/audio/PC solution.
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CLA7v2 – Amplified Neck Loop for Cell Phone and Audio
 What we like:
CLA7v2 offers dual functionality as both a phone headset
(with microphone) and an amplified audio neck loop. Its four, interchangeable
connector cables provide compatibility with a range of cell phones (iPhone,
Blackberry), cordless phones, iPod and MP3 players, personal amplifiers,
computer soundcards, and other audio devices.
CLA7v2’s rotary volume control is easy to use and delivers better amplification
than non-powered neck loops – an excellent alternative to T-Link and Music Link
for those who prefer a neck loop.
CLA7v2's optional CS-M22C adapter cable provides
connectivity with Plantronics' M12 and M22 Vista series desk-phone amplifiers
for office and call center use.
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Music Link –
Stereo Ear Hooks for Audio Listening
 What we like:
Music Link dual delivers true left and right stereo channels - one to each
ear hook. And, for those with monaural hearing, Music Link single merges left
and right stereo channels so you don’t miss a thing.
Think of Music Link as a T-coil inductive substitute for normal ear buds. Use
Music Link with any stereo audio device; iPod, MP3 player, CD player, Walkman,
computer.
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Beetle H-3ST – Bluetooth Ear Hooks and Neck Loop for Telephony and Stereo Audio
 What we like:
Beetle H-3ST includes both ear hook(s) and a neck loop so users can experience
both and use whichever they prefer.
Beetle H-3ST has an easy to use joystick control for volume adjustment and
audio track selection.
Beetle H-3ST supports all the Bluetooth profiles necessary of telephony and
stereo audio streaming via Bluetooth enabled cell phone, music phone or
computer.
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Quattro – Bluetooth Amplified Neck
Loop for Telephony and Stereo Audio
 What
we like:
Quattro is the easiest to use Bluetooth neck loop that we’ve tried. Touch the
multifunction button once; say a voice tag, and you’re making hands-free calls
without touching your phone.
Quattro has an easy to use rotary volume control as well as good reception and
sound quality.
Quattro sound amplification is independent of the cell phone so adjusting volume
is immediate, without any audio interruption. We suggest setting cell phone
volume first (max. for many of us) and then fine-tuning, via the rotary dial, as
required.
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Sennheiser SET 840S
– Wireless, Radio Frequency Stereo TV System
 What we like:
Sennheiser 840S uses a wireless radio frequency to transmit separate stereo
channels (or merged mono if you prefer) up to 100 feet. And, unlike similar
infrared systems, there’s no line-of-sight requirement or concern about signal
interference from lighting or obstructions.
The wireless receiver includes a rotary volume control and standard 3.5 mm
stereo headphone jack - a versatile solution for normal hearing people, using
headphones or ear buds, as well as T-coil users with ear hooks or the included
neck loop.
The receiver attaches to the neck loop, clips to your belt or fits easily in
a pocket.
840S takes its audio signal from the TV’s “audio-out” red and white RCA
sockets, without interfering with normal speaker volume, so everyone can listen
at their own comfort level.
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UniVox DLS-50 – TV and
Small-Area Hearing Loop
 What we like:
The greatest feature of any Hearing Loop is ease of use. Provided that the
user’s hearing aid or cochlear implant processor has a manually selectable
T-coil program, that’s all that is required. There’s no need for any additional
receiver, headgear, wires or batteries – it’s simple and easy to use.
Listening options include a room loop (wire installation required) or a
chair-pad loop placed under the cushion of your favorite chair – a quick and
easy setup.
DLS-50 takes its audio signal from the TV’s “audio-out” red and white RCA
sockets, without interfering with normal speaker volume, so everyone gets to
enjoy TV and DVD audio at their own comfort level.
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Pocketalker Ultra
– Personal Amplifier
 What we like:
Pocketalker Ultra gets high marks for value and versatility, and comes with an
impressive manufacturer 5-year parts and labor warranty.
This personal amplifier is available with a variety of headgear including
earphones, headphones or neck loop – options for both aided and un-aided users.
Pocketalker Ultra’s standard 3.5mm microphone socket makes it easy to use with
lapel, tabletop or directional microphones. Correct microphone type and
placement are key factors for improving speech comprehension. Positioning a
microphone close to the speaker reduces background noise, sound decay and
distortion.
Pocketalker Ultra has easy to use rotary volume and tone controls that help
adjust the sound to your preference.
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Comfort Contego – FM Wireless Transmitter and Receiver
 What we like:
While Contego’s high-tech LCD screens and modern design are certainly
impressive, its most distinctive feature is its use of directional microphones.
For situations where there is moderate background noise, directional microphones
can significantly improve speech comprehension. Contego provides not one but two
integrated, directional microphones: one in the transmitter, one in the
receiver.
This versatile, wireless system may be used for lecture hall presentations,
conference room meetings, TV listening or without the transmitter as a personal
amplifier.
The neck loop extension cord allows both the receiver and transmitter to be
positioned on a conference-room or dinner table, close to the speakers, and
aimed at different areas providing two directional boundary type microphones.
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Comtek AT-216 – Personal FM Wireless Assistive Listening System
 What we like:
Comtek AT-216 offers a high quality, wireless, audio transmission system – made
in the USA.
The rugged design and highly portable carry case provide a compact and
self-contained sound amplification system – a favorite of educational
institutions and an excellent choice for college students attending lectures
where hearing detailed information is critical.
The AT-216’s lapel style microphone comes with an adapter that converts it to a
boundary type microphone for tabletop use during meetings.
AT-216 also connects to TV or a conference facility’s sound mixing board
allowing full access to audio visual presentations.
This system includes a neck loop and earphone – the bases are covered.
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Note – Using T-coil inductive devices
Several of these ALDs are suitable for both aided and un-aided users.
Users with hearing aid(s) or cochlear implant processor(s) must have a manually
selectable T-coil program – usually via a program selection button or remote
control.
M+T programs, where the hearing aid or CI’s telecoil wireless receiver and
environmental microphone are active simultaneously, may also be used.
In some limited situations noise from electromagnetic interference can be an
issue.
Pacemaker users should seek advice from their pacemaker’s manufacturer and
additional sources such as the American Heart Association.
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