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Clear sound is essential for communication in public spaces, such as classrooms, houses of worship, museums, business environments and theaters. However, achieving an inclusive listening experience requires the right technology.
Two terms often come up in discussions about sound accessibility: assistive audio and assistive listening. While they may seem similar, they serve different purposes. Assistive audio refers to technology that improves sound for everyone, whereas assistive listening specifically helps individuals with hearing loss by delivering sound directly to their ears.
Understanding the differences between these two solutions is key to creating inclusive spaces where all attendees, regardless of their hearing ability, can fully participate. Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, are global leaders in assistive listening solutions, providing innovative systems that bridge this gap and ensure accessibility in any environment.
Assistive audio is any technology that enhances or amplifies sound for a general audience. It ensures that everyone in a space hears speech or music clearly, regardless of background noise, room size, or individual hearing ability. It improves sound distribution, volume, and clarity but does not necessarily cater to people with hearing loss who need direct audio transmission.
Common Types of Assistive Audio Solutions:
Who Benefits from Assistive Audio?
Assistive audio benefits everyone in a space by making sound clearer and more intelligible. However, it does not specifically address the needs of individuals with hearing loss, who often require sound to be delivered directly to their hearing devices.
Assistive listening is a specific type of assistive audio technology designed for individuals with hearing loss. It provides direct audio transmission to hearing aids, cochlear implants, or dedicated listening devices, reducing background noise and improving sound clarity. While assistive audio solutions like acoustic treatments amplify sound for everyone, assistive listening systems ensure that people with hearing loss receive the clearest possible audio signal.
Assistive Listening Solutions:
Who Benefits from Assistive Listening?
Assistive listening solutions are designed for individuals with hearing loss, ensuring they can fully engage with events, sermons, lectures, business conferences, or performances. These systems are often legally required in many public venues under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and in many other countries as specified by legislation.
Understanding the difference between assistive audio and assistive listening is more than just a matter of terminology; it’s about creating truly inclusive spaces where everyone can fully participate. While both technologies enhance sound, their distinct purposes address different needs. Here’s why this distinction matters:
Meeting Accessibility Requirements
Assistive listening is not just a convenience; it’s a legal requirement in many public venues. In the United States, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that theaters, lecture halls, stadiums, houses of worship, and other public spaces provide assistive listening systems to accommodate individuals with hearing loss. While assistive audio is beneficial for everyone, it does not fulfill the ADA requirements for accessibility unless it includes an assistive listening component.
Investing in the Right Technology
Choosing the wrong audio system can lead to costly retrofits or upgrades later. By understanding that assistive listening solutions are designed for accessibility and compliance, venues can invest in the appropriate technology, whether ListenIR for secure environments or ListenTALK for group interactions. We understand that the solution will vary depending on the venue’s needs.
Addressing Specific Needs with Tailored Solutions
Assistive audio systems, such as PA systems and sound field systems, are perfect for amplifying sound for large audiences. However, assistive listening solutions such as hearing loops, Auri™, or ListenWIFI are designed specifically for those who need direct audio access. Knowing which solution addresses which need allows venues to create an inclusive and optimized audio environment for all attendees.
Advancements in technology are making assistive listening more seamless, flexible, and user-friendly. Auri™, our latest solution built on Auracast™ broadcast audio, delivers a new standard in assistive listening. With next-generation Bluetooth® technology, Auri™ streams crystal-clear audio directly to hearing aids, a dedicated Auri™ receiver, or a device capable of receiving an Auracast™ broadcast. This cutting-edge solution enhances accessibility and provides superior sound quality in venues such as houses of worship, conference centers, and theaters.
By incorporating assistive listening, organizations can foster truly inclusive spaces, ensuring everyone can fully engage and participate, regardless of their hearing ability. Because we believe that there should be audio for all.
Looking for Assistive Listening Solutions?
For solutions that make your venue more accessible and inclusive, reach out to us at sales@listentech.com to learn how we can support your needs.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. The Auracast™ word mark and logos are trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Any use of such marks by Listen Technologies Corporation and Ampetronic is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
