Induction Loop System for the Hard of Hearing
Audio Frequency Induction Loop Systems (AFILS) are installed in places where hearing aid users will benefit from direct sound input to their personal hearing aid. The user switches their hearing aid to the "T"-position (Telecoil) - this reduces background noise and increases clarity of speech information and the enjoyment of live sound. The direct sound may come from dedicated microphones and/or the microphones used for a sound reinforcement (loudspeaker) system.
Microphones for Audio Loop Systems
Hearing aids have microphone(s) built-in to them. The loop induction system is simply a way of transmitting sound directly to the hearing aid. This is only of benefit to a hearing aid user, when the microphone(s) connected to the loop system are better placed to to the source and therefore pick up less unwanted (ambient) sound than the microphone(s) built into the hearing aid. Ideally, microphones should normally be less than 1 metre from the talker in quiet locations, and as close as 300mm in some noisier environments. In theatre (stage) applications, this can be up to several metres, but only when the actors project their voices and the background noise level is low. If more than three microphones are used for speech, then an automatic microphone mixer is desirable, as recommended in the British Standard for best practice.
Examples where a loop system is used
1. A bank counter. The speech from the bank counter clerk comes through a 'window', but the hearing aid microphone is in the open plan area, where there is other noise. A microphone near the bank clerk is much better located to pick up 'wanted' sound, and with less general noise from the bank area. This also avoids the clerk having to raise their voice, which would otherwise mean other people may hear the conversation. (see also, Speech Privacy Systems).
2. A church. The hearing aid user could be anywhere in the congregation, but a microphone(s) at the pulpit, lectern, or a tie-clip mic on the minister, is much better placed than the internal mic which is on the hearing aid where the user is sitting. More 'wanted sound', less 'unwanted' sound from background noises in the church, and less reverberant sound.
A hearing aid loop fed by a microphone that is much better placed than the hearing aid’s internal microphone, will be of significant benefit to the hearing aider user.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
Supply may be zero rated VAT when purchased by registered disabled persons, or for the benefit of hearing aid users by a registered charity or equivalent church organisation. Ask us for details.
If you need ...
...simply Make an EnquiryEquipment
We supply loop amplifiers from several manufacturers, including Ampetronic, AVX and UNIVOX and select the most appropriate unit for your application and budget.
You can also buy DIY & portable loop systems at our Online Audio Shop.
Find out more by reading some Frequently Asked Questions about AFILS and other useful links loop system installation service by making an enquiry
