Hearing Augmentation
Hearing augmentation refers to a system that enhances sound clarity, whether in speech, conversations, or music, for individuals with hearing impairments. By boosting volume and minimising reverberation and background noise, the listener benefits from a significantly improved signal-to-noise ratio (S/N).
Various methods can achieve this, such as hearing loop systems (utilising hearing aid T switches or providing loop receivers), frequency modulation (where users wear individual receivers to pick up radio waves), infra-red technology (employing emitters and receivers for a direct line of sight reception) or using the latest technology from Bluetooth SIG, Auracast.
Technologies
Discover different hearing enhancement options that are suitable for your specific environment. With a range of options such as IR, FM, hearing aid manufacturers, proprietary wireless platforms, and WiFi-based systems available in the market, the solutions mentioned below are customised to meet both current requirements and future expectations.
Auracast
Auracast™ is a part of the new Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio specifications and differs significantly from classic Bluetooth®. This new standard marks the first-ever support for true broadcast audio by Bluetooth®, opening up new possibilities for various applications, including public assistive listening in wide areas.
Auracast™ broadcast audio will enable all types of public locations – from large venues such as airports and conference centres to smaller establishments such as gymnasiums, cinemas, and houses of worship – to deliver audio experiences that will enhance visitor satisfaction and increase accessibility.
Auracast™ enables seamless transmission of audio to a wide range of compatible devices, including hearing aids, headphones, earphones, and Auracast receivers, ensuring an immersive and inclusive audio experience for all users.
Roger Hearing System
The cutting-edge Phonak Roger technology harnesses a digital wireless signal to securely deliver audio on a 2.4GHz frequency to Roger receivers that work seamlessly with compatible hearing aids or receivers attached to them. Additionally, it offers versatility by being compatible with universal neck-worn receivers, allowing it to integrate with other technologies like telecoil.
Any space using r FM transmitter-receiver systems must cover at least 95% of the floor area. There is also a minimum receiver ratio based on how many people can fit into the space
Hearing Loops
An Induction or Audio loop is a wireless signal that can be received by a hearing aid when set to the Telecoil setting. Instead of using the hearing aid's built-in microphone and amplifier, the signal is picked up and converted into sound by the hearing aid. This method of signal reception results in improved speech understanding.
Induction loops have a long history dating back to the mid-1930s. However, they are now being gradually replaced by newer wireless technology, aiming to enhance audio quality and reduce the size of hearing devices.
Induction loops installed in these areas need to cover at least 80% of the floor space.
Are you uncertain about which solution would be the best fit for your needs?
A question we're often asked is how to find a solution that seamlessly works across all hearing aid types.
At present, we lack a universal technology that serves every hearing aid model. So, where do we go from here?
Hear Room is thrilled to partner with the pioneering Hear and Learn team, who have crafted an interface that beautifully melds multiple transmitters together. This breakthrough allows for the concurrent transmission of sound to a wide array of hearing aids and systems. Proudly Australian, Hear and Learn's UConnect interface comes in two designs, tailored for spaces of varying sizes.
01
UConnect SoundHouse
Get an all-in-one Instructional audio solution for your school with UConnect SoundHouse, available in wall recessed or wall-mounted models and customisable to your preferred color and labeling.
UConnect Soundhouse means an internal amp/receiver broadcasts to speakers' voices and screens audio in a way that is accessible to all to create a calmer, more intelligible listening experience. Speakers can replace ceiling tiles, be recessed in ceilings, or be out of reach on walls. Any learning space can be equipped to complement architecture and education outcomes.
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02
UConnect Mini
The UConnect Mini is an excellent steel hearing augmentation solution that is designed to be recessed into a wall. Its low profile and dimensions of approximately 315 x 280 mm make it easy to install on-site. It is prebuilt by Hear and Learn, and requires no on-wall power points or cables. The UConnect Mini comes with prewired inputs for PA speakers, screens, and other audio equipment. Simply connect it to electricity to get it up and running.
For optimal use, the UConnect Mini should be installed within the view and reach of learners, teachers, and visitors. Additionally, a soundfield can be added to enhance its performance.
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Need Receivers? How many?
Are you installing a hearing augmentation system that needs receivers? If so do you know how many you need to use to comply with NCC 2022?
NCC 2022 D4D8 Hearing Augmentation
- a system requiring the use of receivers or the like, it must be available to not less than 95% of the floor area of the room or space served by the inbuilt amplification system, and the number of receivers provided must not be less than—
- if the room or space accommodates up to 500 persons, 1 receiver for every 25 persons or part thereof, or 2 receivers, whichever is the greater; and
- if the room or space accommodates more than 500 persons but not more than 1000 persons, 20 receivers plus 1 receiver for every 33 persons or part thereof in excess of 500 persons; and
- if the room or space accommodates more than 1000 persons but not more than 2000 persons, 35 receivers plus 1 receiver for every 50 persons or part thereof in excess of 1000 persons; and
- if the room or space accommodates more than 2000 persons, 55 receivers plus 1 receiver for every 100 persons or part thereof in excess of 2000 persons.
Make sure you have the correct number of receivers for your project by using our calculator.