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Hearing Equipment for Listening to TV

In the past, those with hearing loss had two choices when it came to assisted viewing of television; hearing aids or TV volume. Closed captioning provides a solution for some, but not universally. Assistive devices expressly for converting audio from TV to wireless signals are now common, some from hearing aid manufacturers themselves. This equipment allows hard-of-hearing users to retain control of entertainment without inconveniencing those around them, an important factor in preventing social withdrawal.

  1. TV Listeners

    • For those with mild to moderate hearing loss, including some age-related losses, a wireless TV listener system can provide significant improvement in clarity and comprehension. Most systems comprise a base unit and headphones. A microphone picks up sound from the TV and a transmitter converts the signal to infrared which is detected by wireless headphones worn by the viewer. The headphones have independent volume control so the user with hearing loss can set his desired volume. ClearSounds and Clarity are two manufacturers of TV listening systems.

    FM Systems

    • FM radio signals are used in a variety of hearing-assist devices, many of which offer wireless interaction with hearing aids. Like TV listeners, a microphone/transmitter is placed near a sound source and an FM signal was broadcast to a receiver around the user's neck. The receiver converts the FM to a signal picked up wirelessly by telephone coils in hearing aids. No headphones are needed. Phonak and Siemans are two hearing aid manufacturers who make FM systems for use with their hearing aids.

    Bluetooth Devices

    • Bluetooth also works on a radio signal basis. The name describes a protocol for digital communication within a "personal area network" of about 33 feet. Bluetooth-compatible systems for use with hearing-assist devices are becoming common, and in some cases replacing infrared and FM systems, as compatibility with the Bluetooth standard allows hearing systems to couple with TVs, cellphones, personal music players or any audio device, regardless of manufacturer.

    Other Considerations

    • Hearing loss comes in many types and degrees of severity, so a solution for one sufferer may not apply to another. In FM and Bluetooth systems, devices may include audio output jacks as well as t-coil loops. Some people find headphones or earbuds preferable, and indeed those with bilateral loss -- roughly equal in both ears -- may enjoy stereo listening through headphones instead of the mono signal that t-coils provide.

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