Additional Information
What are ALSs?
Assistive Listening Systems (ALSs) are sometimes called Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs). Essentially they are amplifiers that bring sound directly into the ear. They separate the sounds, particularly speech, that a person wants to hear from background noise. They improve what is known as the "speech to noise ratio
ALSs utilize FM, infrared or inductive loop technologies. All three technologies are considered good. Each one has advantages and disadvantages.
FM systems are ALSs that use radio broadcast technology. They are often used in educational settings and offer mobility and flexibility when used with portable body-worn transmitters. Some newer FM systems utilize miniaturized receivers that fit onto a hearing aid via a boot.
Infrared systems are ALSs that utilize light-based technology. They guarantee privacy because light does not pass through walls. They are the appropriate choice for situations such as court proceedings that require confidentiality. They are frequently installed in places of entertainment. They are also frequently designed and marketed for use in television listening.
Wide area loop systems utilize an electromagnetic field to deliver sound. They offer convenience to groups of t-coil hearing aid users because those users do not require body worn receivers. Loop systems can be used by non-hearing aid users through use of a headphone and inductive loop receiver.