(2021 Update) 19 Best TV Listening Aids For The Hearing Impaired

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TV – whether cable shows or streamed box sets on smart TVs and other devices – has become more cinematic and immersive. This means we want the best audio experience possible. But this can be difficult or those with hearing impairments. Where possible, it is better to amplify the sound in a clear, unobtrusive manner than to just ramp up the volume, distort the sound and disturb other peoples enjoyment of the show. You essentially have a series of options when deciding which type of amplification system you use to hear your TV and other streaming devices with ease.

The first choice here is to add a sound amplifier to the TV to help those that are hard of hearing to increase the output. This should be a simple way of adjusting the output of the device rather than have to wear anything instead. But, this isn’t always the most effective solution depending on the limitations of the device, the severity of your hearing loss and the location of the television/device.

An alternative here is to add a hearing loop to the room in your home where you must often watch TV. This means that you install a wire that helps direct the sound to your hearing aids. Obviously, this is better for those that actually have corrected hearing rather than those that have uncorrected hearing loss. There is also a limited amount of products commercially available.

This is why some people will turn to headphones and other wearable devices instead. Wireless headphones with the right features can amplify the sound on a portable device. You can watch TV on multiple compatible devices in the home. Bone conduction headphones can offer this convenience while bypassing the damaged part of the ears. Corded headphones for the hearing impaired are also a possibility for those that would prefer the reliability of this type of system or that don’t have wireless capabilities.

Another option that has a lot of competition in the market is the neck loop. This is a common option with older users that want a good connection between their TV and heating aid but it isn’t the most attractive option for younger users, who may prefer headphones.

The following reviews include products that fall into all of these categories. We have two neck TV loops, two built-in TV loops, a series of headphones that are wireless, corded or bone conduction models and a pair of sound adapters. This range means you can see the options available and their different benefits or disadvantages. The reviews are designed to be objective with the pros and cons associated with using the device. This should help you determine the best approach to help you hear your TV with greater ease.

The Best Sound Amplification Systems for TVs

1) Z-Roya Digital Assisted Hearing Amplifier Wireless TV Speaker

The first group of products to mention in this guide a pair of amplifiers for the TV. These sit on the television and manipulated the sound to project a better volume and clarity to the user. They can be a great tool for the hearing impaired in larger families. This model is appealing because it works independently from the TV so the user can adjust the volume to their needs. There is the promise of “superb” hearing assistance and a large wireless range of 33 feet.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • free control of the volume from the best experience
  • two headphones in one package
  • 8 hour battery life

Cons:

  • Issues with the Bluetooth connection
  • Complicated set-up with all the different wires

There are some great benefits here. The first is that there are two pairs of headphones in the box so that two people can listen and watch together. In addition to this, it should be compatible with most modern TVs and similar devices and has a built-in 2000mA rechargeable battery for 8 hours of battery life on one charge. There are users saying that it can get very loud without distorting.

The first issue to be aware of here is the fact that some users found the product was losing the Bluetooth connection when turning the speaker on and off. This is a simple fix but it requires far too much fiddling with the system every time they want to sit down and enjoy a show. It is not ideal if a program has already started. Another possible drawback here is that there is a lot of kit here to work out and set up. Buyers need to make sure that they choose precisely the right cable for their needs.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

There are issues here for those that want a nice plug-and-play model because they lack the technical knowledge for anything else. However, it might be worth taking the time to get this set-up properly because if the sound quality offered and the opportunities for more than one user.

2) ZVOX AccuVoice AV200 Sound Bar TV Speaker with Hearing Aid Technology

This next model has a lot of different pieces of tech on board to try and provide the very best experience for users. This includes the patented AccuVoice technology for what the company say is state-of-the-art voice clarity. The system comes in a small body that sits nicely on the TV without getting in the way. Despite the small size and the lightweight of the aluminium body, it should be able to project out nicely into the room to help all those that need to hear it.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • Compact design that doesn’t stand out on the TV
  • Good sound quality
  • Helpful for families

Cons:

  • Compatibility with Samsung televisions
  • A bit simple in its function and tech compared to other types of products

There are some great comments from users about the quality of the sound and volume, with one user pointing out the way that this product handles dialogue in a clear manner. There are also those that appreciate the simple set up because there aren’t many cords or connections to worry about. The company are proud of their simple system and one-page manual and this seems to do the trick.

The comments on the sound quality and amplification are generally good here. The majority get what they need so that they don’t have to turn up the volume too much. However, this is only possible for those with compatible television. There are warnings from buyers that while the company may say that this is suitable for use with a Samsung television, this isn’t actually the case. This meant that buyers did waste their money as the product had no use for them whatsoever.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

There is a lot about this product that will appeal to families that don’t want to mess with the TV too much and disturb other viewers. There isn’t as much to help the hearing impaired as in other products but enough sound quality to help most users. Just don’t get this if you have a Samsung television.

3) COBY Wireless Digital Hearing Amplifier

This audio speaker offers precise sound volume for different levels of hearing difficulty. Connect through the supplied analog or optical audio cables to optimize the TV’s volume to a distance of about 100 feet. And as this COBY dialog amplifier is compatible with most types of TVs, it is perfect for families and seniors alike. Devices like this make TV watching more convenient and enjoyable.

Pros:

  • Highly portable, cordless, and rechargeable
  • Voice highlighting
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Compatibility with almost all types of TVs

Cons:

  • Complicated sound setting set-up

This COBY Wireless Digital Hearing Amplifier model is highly portable. You can bring them from one room to another without the hassle of losing Bluetooth connectivity. Recharging the device is also easy. You just need to reattach the amplifier unit to its base or use a micro USB port to charge it like any other wireless device.

Aside from serving as a dialogue amplifier, this digital hearing amplifier can also serve as a Bluetooth speaker. You can pair it with your smartphone or any Bluetooth-capable audio device and you listen to your favorite music or podcast with optimized clarity. Plug in your wired headphones for an even more personalized watching and listening experience.

There is one downside to this device, though. The initial setup can be complicated, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. The instructions are not straightforward enough, though once set, the controls are more intuitive.

4) ZVOX AccuVoice AV157 TV speaker

ZVOX’s AccuVoice is a patented hearing technology with 12 levels of voice amplification. Lightweight and sleek at 17 inches long, 3.38 inches wide, and 2.88 inches tall, this amplification device for the hearing impaired will sit nicely on the TV and will not create a distraction.

Pros:

  • Excellent dialog voice clarity
  • 24-watt Class D Digital Amplifier
  • Dolby Digital Encoding

Cons:

  • Dialogue enhancement is at the expense of other sounds
  • The device is not compatible with a receiver or surround systems

The AV157 has a remote control with large buttons with labels that are easy to read. When connected via an optical connection, AV157 can be set to turn on and off simultaneously with the TV. Also, the TV’s remote control can pair with the sound bar for more seamless volume control. AV157 will also relay automatically when connected to a headphone.

One disadvantage of this dialog amplifier model is that it sacrifices music and background sound quality to enhance the volume and quality of the speaking voice. Those with normal hearing describe the AV157’s audio output as “flat”.

Is this TV dialogue amplification system still recommendable?

Even with its disadvantages, the ZVOX AccuVoice AV157 remains a solid TV listening aid with its digital algorithms, hearing aid technology, and 12 amplification settings that will enable the device to be customizable according to the user’s individual needs.

The Best Headphones for the Hearing Impaired

1) Lucid Audio AMPED Sound Amplifying Hearing Headphones

The first model that I want to talk about here is this wired model. These can be restrictive for some users but more reliable than others. Here the wire seems to be strong and long enough for most users and it has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack that should be compatible with most systems. The tech is meant to remove harmful noises and ambient sounds with Lucid’ s patent-pending system and omnidirectional microphones.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • These wired headphones have the same great tech as wireless headphones
  • One of the more affordable options out there
  • Comfortable design

Cons:

  • The tinny sound quality – according to some users
  • Doesn’t have the reach of other products

One of the main benefits here is that this model is affordable at under $50. There is also an adjustable headband that is light and durable and comfortable foam ear cups. This is important when considering the comfort issues of some other headphones in this guide.

The downside of this product is that while it does so much to provide a clear audio stream at just the right volume for users, there are problems with the quality of that sound. There are comments that the audio can sound a little tinny and echoey. It doesn’t offer the richness of sound that you would normally get from the television. The question here is whether this is good enough for the hearing impaired, especially those with more severe hearing loss that say that they don’t get enough sound amplification from the product.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

If you are certain about getting a wired pair of headphones to eliminate any risk of connectivity then this is a good pair to get. They aren’t the most intense or high tech but they can be reliable for many people. They are also a more affordable option than many of the wireless models out there. This could be the budget solution that you need.

2) Srhythm Active Noise Cancelling Stereo Headphones – NC35

The Srhythm NC35 is an upgrade to the NC25 headphone. Srhythm promises effective external noise cancellation and high clarity internal sound without audio leakage. This wireless hi-fi stereo headphone with Bluetooth 4.1 CSR 8635 chipset offers clear audio streams for up to a distance of 30 feet.

Pros:

  • Advanced active noise cancellation technology
  • Vector Flow technology
  • Low latency Hi-Fi stereo Bluetooth headphone

Cons:

  • Volume control is only through a paired smartphone
  • Difficult to turn off

Srhythm headphones feature a vector flow technology for a balanced pressure output and powerful bass. This flow technology includes a ventilation hole at the headphone cavity’s back. Aside from the ventilation, the Srhythm headphone offers all-day comfort. It’s adjustable, foldable, and lightweight at 180g. The built-in 360 mAh battery can last for up to 12 hours of continuous usage. Srhythm also comes with a cable for a wired connection option.

One tedious feature of this Srhythm model is that you can only control the volume through your phone. There are no inbuilt volume controls and the headphone will emit a beeping sound as you shuffle through songs. Another issue is that when using a Bluetooth connection, you can’t seem to turn off the headphone fully. The battery will still drain even after being turned off.

Is this wireless Bluetooth headphone still recommendable?

All in all, Srhythm’s NC35 model is a reliable Bluetooth headphone with active noise canceling features. The price is worth it if you consider all the features and advantages that this Bluetooth headphone came with.

The Best Wireless Headphones

1) Lucid Audio Amped Sound Amplifying Bluetooth Wireless Hearing Headphones

This next pair of headphones are wireless. This can be a more appealing option for those that struggle with the physical restriction of the cord. This product is a Bluetooth enabled device that offers the choice of being both a wired and wireless product. The idea is that you can use the Bluetooth when moving around the house to get drinks without pausing the playback. Alternatively, you can get a reliable wired connection with the 3.5mm headphone jack for a wired

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • The choice of a wireless or corded experience
  • technology to amplify the sounds outside of the headphones
  • comfortable ear cup

Cons:

  • the headband is too tight for many people
  • Some quality issues

As this is a Lucid model, you can expect to experience some great technology with the sound activated compression system and the “patent pending” amped tech. The idea here is that this instantly protects users from harmful noises and unwanted surrounding sounds with the omnidirectional microphones. There are also positive comments from users about the comfort of the product. These are over-the-ear headphones with a soft cup that you can wear for a long time.

There is a common complaint with these headphones that isn’t seen with the other models reviewed in the guide. While most of these over-ear headphones have an adjustable headband, many find that this model is far too tight even on the largest setting. Another problem here is that these headphones suffer from one of the issues seen with the Lucid model above. The sound quality doesn’t match the quality in amplification. The sound created can be a bit flat and tinny. It seems that some companies that make models for the hearing impaired can compromise on this factor to great the right volume.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

If you know that your head size is large, or at least a little larger than average, then you need to be aware that this might not be the best option for you. However, those with smaller heads that can get comfortable may still appreciate all the different piece of tech in these headphones.

2) Artiste ADH300 2.4GHz Digital Over-Ear Stereo Headphone for TV

There are some impressive claims about these Artiste headphones from the company themselves. They talk about the 2.4GHz band transmission as being like a “car driving fast on an 8-lane highway without interference”. What we think this means is that there is a smooth, fast stream of data that won’t slow down or start stuttering when it comes across any flaws. There is also the promise of triple the range than traditional Bluetooth headsets at 100ft

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • The promise of a reliable transmission into different rooms
  • A long battery life
  • A decent sound quality

Cons:

  • The buttons can be difficult to use
  • The volume is automatically too high

Despite all of this great tech, this pair of headphones is surprisingly affordable at around $70. There are items with less tech and less comfort at more than $100. There are good comments here about the battery life, range, sound quality and the reception in different rooms.

With one of the hearing neck loops below, there is a problem with the design being too old-fashioned. This isn’t going to be a problem with most wireless headphones. However, this one goes a little too far the other way. One reviewer complains about the way that the switches are too hard to find while the headphones are in use. This is because they are built flush with the earphones. Noone wants to have to take the headphones off in order to change the settings. Another issue here is that some find that the volume is automatically set to maximum when turning them on. This could risk further damage to the ears if users aren’t careful.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

There is a lot in the sound quality and the projection the output to appeal to those that want to listen while they move between rooms. There is actually a lot here for people with hearing impairments and those without, so these could be shared between users as needed. Once users get used to the volume and placement of the buttons, it can work well.

3) Monodeal Over Ear Headsets for TV Watching

Watch movies, TV shows, or videos even in the middle of the night. This over-ear wireless headphone is not just for TV watching. It’s compatible with AV receivers, smartphones (with 3.5mm audio jack), laptops, PC, AM/FM radio, and record players. Monodeal’s Over-Ear Headset is designed to keep the peace at home whatever device you used to watch shows or listen to music. It is also suitable for use by those who are hard of hearing, removing the need for TV amplifier devices.

Pros:

  • No audio transmission delays
  • 3x the range of Bluetooth headsets
  • The smart transmitter also functions as a charging cradle
  • Fully sealed earpads for minimal sound leakage

Cons:

  • It can be difficult to dock and charge the headphones on the charging cradle
  • Bulkier than similar headphone models.

This headphone’s intelligent auto-tuning function works in tandem with a low-latency RF transmitter to minimize audio delay down to levels that are not audible to the human ear.  2.4GHz wireless TV RF and 25Hz – 20kHz frequency response allows the headset to deliver clear, undistorted, and balanced sound. The RF technology also prevents transmission interference up to almost 100 feet, even through walls and ceilings.

You may need to fiddle on the charging cradle as the charging contacts don’t easily align and connect to the headphone as you dock them. The connection can also be lost altogether. And though the headphone is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to wear, it is heavier and bulkier than average headphones.

4) WGP Bone Conduction Headphones

Bone conduction headphones are excellent alternatives for traditional wireless headphones, especially for those with profound hearing loss. Designed for sports use, this bone conduction headphone from WGP has several features that make it convenient to use and charge.

Pros:

  • Perfect for hard-of-hearing individuals
  • IP5 sweatproof
  • Magnetic charging port
  • Compatible with voice assistants

Cons:

  • The sound quality is not impressive
  • No battery status indicator

The WGP bone conduction headphone is lighter and sleeker than average wireless headphones. And as it uses bone conduction technology, it has an open ear design that enables the wearer to hear their surroundings clearly.

The magnetic charging port improves the headphone’s water resistance. There is only one multifunction button and the entire headphone has an IP5 rating, meaning it can sustain a continuous spray of water. This model also has a charging moisture alert.

The 180 mAh lithium battery takes 2 hours to charge fully with 6 hours operating time and 10 days standby time. One issue is that there is no battery status indicator. There is only a soft alarm for low battery. The multipurpose (volume/power) button can also be cumbersome.

As this model is on the low end of the price spectrum, the lower quality sound is not unexpected. It’s not the best bone conduction headphone for music, but it’s adequate for listening to podcasts and audiobooks.

Is this bone conduction headphone still recommendable? For a mid-priced bone conduction headphone, WGP’s model is serviceable, especially for those who are not picky with sound quality.

The best bone conduction headphones for the hearing impaired

1) Arndox Bone Conduction Headphones, Arndox Bluetooth V5.0 Open-Ear Wireless Sports Headsets

Bone conduction earphones are a bit of a love it or hate it item. They can be a better choice for those with hearing loss or those that want to avoid hearing damage. But, the tech isn’t always the best for listening to media immersively. The first model to consider here is this one from Arndox. The first thing that stands out to consumers here is the low price at well under $50. Compared to the next model, this is incredibly affordable.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • One of the more affordable options out there
  • A comfortable design
  • Compatibility with different types of devices

Cons:

  • A little bit flimsy compared to more expensive models
  • The headband is not adjustable

The device sits over the ear and uses that vibration tech to offer clear audio. The wireless system works with more than just the TV as it is also compatible with other devices like phones and tablets. This means that there is a great worth to the product long term as users can take calls and listen to audio from their personal devices. There is also a built-in battery of 170mAH that has a playtime of around 5 hours.

First, there is the problem of the cheaper build. A bit flimsy and one reviewer states that they stopped working after being dropped on the floor. Otherwise, the performance is far but not ideal. The sound quality is good but not perfect. Also, there is no adjustment to the headband. It is important to remember that these aren’t sold for those with a hearing problem, they are just affordable compatible.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

If you like the idea of testing out these bone conduction headphones, but don’t want to spend too much money, this is a good place to start. You can get an idea of what it feels and sounds like. But, you might want to upgrade to a tougher, higher-quality model at a later date if you do like the way that they work.

2) AfterShokz Air Open-Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones

By comparison, these open-ear bone conduction headphones are a lot more expensive at over $100. Again, they are sold for use by the active users that don’t want to deal with in-ear or other ear headphones that may lead to ear damage and hearing loss. A high price means better technology with the premiumpitch tech, dynamic range, bass and no sound leakage. However, for all those extra features and all that extra cost, there is only one extra hour of battery life. Again, compatible with all kinds of devices, not just your TV.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • no risk of sound leakage
  • compatible with all kinds of devices
  • premium pitch technology

Cons:

  • More expensive than the model above
  • Problems with the volume controls

There are some definite benefits in choosing this type of system over a cheaper model because you get the improvements in sound quality and in the build of the device. There is a better chance that this product will be able to offer the depth of sound and volume needed while remaining comfortable. They are also less likely to break under pressure.

There have been some problems with the volume controls. Those that struggle with very intense hearing loss may not get the volume that they need without the system vibrating too much against their head. Another issue here is that there have been some malfunctions that users couldn’t fix and this occurred just months into the use of the product.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

The issue here is that you might not be getting as much for your money as you do with the cheaper version above. There are still flaws and only a little more in the way of tech. But, the premiumpitch tech and protection from sound leakage do mean that this brand is especially recommendable.

3) AfterShokz Sportz Titanium Open Ear Wired Bone Conduction Headphones

If you like the AfterShokz brand but don’t like the price of the model above, but you can get this pair for around half the price. The idea is similar in the way that the headphones conduct the sound into the bones. There are the same premiumpitch tech and promise of a great dynamic range, bass and the high sound quality. One of the interesting things about this version instead of the one above is that the battery life is much higher. The promise here is that there are up to 12 hours of playback.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • Premiumpitch technology
  • a long battery life
  • More flexible than the model above

Cons:

  • Still not an adjustable product
  • Issues with external noise

It is interesting to see such a big change between models when there are few other differences and such a lower price. This means that you can use them for a couple of days without charging if needed. Another benefit of this model is the use of the lightweight, flexible band. This is much better than the cheaper band of the product at the start of the section. Where that one was rigid and liable to break, this one should be more comfortable for more users. It might not be as adjustable, but there is a chance that this will have a slightly more adaptive fit

However, this product is still not adjustable for different head sizes. This seems to be a common flaw in this type of product. It shouldn’t take much for designers to add in a simple mechanism to make this a reality. Also, like all of these products, there are issues with external noise. This is something that those with hearing issues may struggle with if they have problems separating out sounds.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

The issues seen with this product are seen with most products of this nature. That is why this is still a recommendable option if you want a bone conduction model. The tech and the flexibility in the band mean that this is a more effective option than some competing products.

4) AFTERSHOKZ Titanium Bone Conduction Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

Aside from bone conduction technology, the AFTERSHOKZ Titanium Bone Conduction headphones feature an OpenFit design that enables the ear to be completely open for external noise. This is the perfect model for those that need to be aware of their surroundings at all times or for those who have hearing difficulties but want to have an immersive media listening experience.

Pros:

  • Bluetooth v4 multi-point pairing
  • Designed for prolonged wear
  • PremiumPitch technology for rich bass and wider dynamic range
  • IP55 rating making the headphone dust and moisture-proof

Cons:

  • There’s still sound leak even with the LeakSlayer technology
  • Bone conduction drivers can vibrate loudly, especially on specific bass frequencies.

The multi-point pairing feature allows for a seamless transition between devices. The AFTERSHOKZ book conduction headphone is compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled Android and iOS phones/tablets, and Mac or PC computers.

One standout advantage of the AFTERSHOKZ model is that it has a design that makes it comfortable to wear for prolonged periods. The headphone’s straps have titanium wraps that are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable. An open-fit is a common feature of bone conduction headphones, but most of the time, the fit is too tight or too uncomfortable to wear for more than half an hour. The AFTERSHOKZ’s slim-fit design and the battery will allow for up to 6 hours of calls and music listening.

LeakSlayer technology supposedly prevents sound leaks, but sounds may still leak when the headphone volume is moderate to high. Specific bass frequencies can also cause the bone conduction drivers to vibrate noticeably. This can be difficult to tune out.

Is this bone conduction headphone still recommendable?

Most issues with the AFTERSHOKZ Titanium bone conduction headphone provide adequate performance with an excellent battery life that will allow you to listen to media content and make calls for over 4 hours straight.

The Best TV Hearing Loops

1) Univox AutoLoop 2.0 Home Hearing Loop System

TV loops are a great choice for those that want to make a more permanent set up in their home. They use devices to project sound directly to the hearing aids of the hearing impaired. This way, you can have a TV playing at a normal volume with no worries about the enjoyment of other users. This system is suitable for use with a loop pad and has a wire that creates an area of 500 sq ft. there is also the option of personal level adjustments for adaptions to a different hearing aid. You should be able to connect this up to your TV as well as other compatible devices.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • The quality of the components used in this set-up
  • A range of the system from the television
  • The audio quality

Cons:

  • The complexity of the wiring
  • The expense compared to other solutions

If you are going to go for one of these systems, you can do a lot worse than opt for one of those products because of the quality of the components used. You get a long line of wire that will create a loop around the room for the reliable projection of sound. There are great comments about the quality of the audio and range of the wire. You don’t have to be as close to the TV as with some other product.

There are two downsides to this product to consider. The first is the fact that this product is a pretty expensive way to improve the sound quality of the television. Many would say that the result is worth it. But, it has to be a long-term investment. There is the additional problem of rewiring and routing the cable if you move the TV to another room. There has also been a comment about the complexity of the wiring and the need for extension cables in some cases.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

If you are happy to pay more than the standard $100 price for something completely different you can completely transform your home with this sort of product. There are some potential complications with the wiring but this is worthwhile for the quality and range achieved.

2) Williams Sound PLA 90 Counter Loop

This product does things differently as it is not the same sort of loop for the home. Instead, this system uses a magnetic signal that links directly to hearing aids that are equipped with telecoils. Users in this situation should then be able to improve their hearing. There is also a headphone output for users without a hearing aid if this is necessary. The makers say that this can either be portable or permanently installed but the former is more likely.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • A completely portable system for use in different situations
  • A choice of ways to listen
  • Decent audio quality

Cons:

  • Not the best loop solution for the home
  • The small range from the transmitter

While this approach has its niche uses, there are still some great comments from users that have tested it out away from home. They have set this up in small groups and allowed the system to bounce the sound to the hearing aid of users with hearing impairments. They say that all those present seemed to get a similar experience when using the device. It was a game-changer for those that previously struggling in those situations.

The problem with this product is that it might not be the most practical for all situations. The aim here is that you can set this up and create a form of portable loop away from the home. It is all about providing a little bit clearer audio for those attending group events. This can translate into TV watching with the right set-up but it isn’t the same as the product above. There is also the issue here that the optimal range is only about 3 to 4 feet from the transmitter. This doesn’t work in larger rooms or if moving around.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

This option is only recommendable in certain situations. This isn’t the best approach for at-home loop systems when compared to the one above. However, there is something fairly unique about this type of portable system. There aren’t that many commercially available loop systems so it is still worth a look.

The Best TV Wireless Neck Loops

1) SIMOLIO Digital Wireless Headsets for TV

Finally, we have a duo of products that are designed to be worn in a different way to headphones. Here the sound of the TV is transmitted to a receiver worn around the neck of the user. This then sends the audio information to the earbuds. This model offers the added bonuses of voice clarification and noise reduction while it also aims to reduce TV background sounds. The idea here is that it should make the dialogue stand out better.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • Designed to be light and comfortable
  • A spare battery so you don’t have to stop watching
  • Noise reduction technology

Cons:

  • The old-fashioned design with the dial
  • Quality issues for the price paid

The first benefit here is that this headset is designed to be comfortable. As you will see with the model below, this isn’t always a guarantee. The system has what is described as super-soft memory foam ear tips. These should conform nicely to the shape of the ear. Another important benefit of these earbuds on the loop system is that there is a spare battery in the base that charges while the other is in use. Therefore, you should be able to enjoy uninterrupted streaming of box sets.

Unfortunately, not all users are impressed with the design. There is one user that says that they wish the volume was one simple button rather than a dial. They say that this makes it too difficult for them to control when they are moving around. The use of a dial also suggests that this product is also a bit oldfashioned in its approach. This can be a problem when dealing with products that are typically seen as being for the elderly. Companies don’t always think to add in any modern design. Another user says that they simply expected better quality for the $100 that they paid.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

There are mixed comments over the quality and the audio of this product. There are also much more modern products out there that don’t have the same design issues. However, for this type of old-fashioned product, there is a lot to like for all those that need simple amplification.

2) EarTech TV Audio Digital Wireless TV Listening System with Neckloop-

This final model is pretty similar in terms of what it can offer to users. The system works with both telecoil-equipped hearing aids and cochlear implants to provide clearer audio. There are balance and volume controls on the receiver so you don’t have to get up to change anything. It is also meant to work with a range of TVs up to 100 feet away.

The pros and cons of this amplification device for the hearing impaired.

Pros:

  • The range of the device from the television
  • The ability to tune out unwanted noise
  • The clarity of the audio

Cons:

  • Issues with the range between the receiver and hearing aid
  • The weight of the receiver

Again, there are some great comments here about the quality received. These wearable loop systems can be a great tool for a reliable way to get clear audio. They seem pretty good at tuning out background noise and also have what is said to be the best Signal-to-Noise (SNR) ratio on the market. Whether this is true or not, there is no doubt that there is little white noise or static behind the dialogue. Buyers like that they can wear this and adjust it as needed without disturbing the enjoyment of other people in the room.

For the most part, users are impressed with the quality that they get from this system. However, there are some comments about the weight of the product as it hangs around the neck. This is something that you need to consider when looking at any model in this category. The transmitter has to be lightweight so it doesn’t pull on the earbuds. There is also a comment about a questionable range to the hearing aid. One says it needs to be held nearer to their ear, but this could be their hearing aid rather than the product.

Is this TV amplification system for the hearing impaired still recommendable?

The issue with the range between the receiver and hearing aid doesn’t seem to be enough of a concern to stop this from being recommendable. This could be more about user error than anything to do with the system. But, the weight of the problem might be too much for those that want the most comfortable experience possible. That said, there is still great audio quality.

3) BeHear Proxy Wireless Bluetooth Neck Speaker Personal TV Listening System

BeHear offers a personalized sound experience based on each wearer’s unique hearing profile. Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 is compatible with most TVs and allows for seamless and no lip-sync delay audio experience. Similar to other neck loop models, the BeHear Wireless Proxy Bluetooth Neck Speaker transmits audio from the TV to a receiver that is worn around the neck.

Pros:

  • EasyListen feature to improve speech intelligibility
  • Dual function wireless neck loop can be used as a regular earphone and as a speaker
  • Suitable for use with hearing aids
  • Removable earbuds for private listening

Cons:

  • Reliable Bluetooth range is only 12 feet

This model also offers voice enhancement and SonicVibrance (for a richer sound) – features that compliment the EasyListen feature, enabling better voice quality and enhancing speech intelligibility. The EasyListen feature slows down and clarifies speech so you can better understand individual words while the voice enhancement feature will allow your voice to be better heard during calls.

The earphones’ design enables the sound to become closer to your ears. Each unit has a flexible strap and comes with pairs of mushroom-shaped tips, cone-shaped tips, open-fit tips, and open-ear tips. And more importantly, the BeHear Proxy is suitable for use with hearing aids, serving as a TV amplification device.

Though Bluetooth 5.0 ensures that there is no audio delay, for this device, the Bluetooth range seems to be below the average 30 feet. At 12 feet, there are noticeable audio delays.