ListenIR – The Most Powerful Infrared Assistive Listening Technology

ListenIR Provides a Superior Assistive Listening Experience  

Our wireless audio distribution technologies support many applications, including assistive listening, language interpretation, tour group communications, and venue audio. To provide the best solution for any environment, we offer several wireless platforms – from radio frequency (RF) to (Wi-Fi) to infrared (IR) — all of which “broadcast” one or more high-fidelity audio signals. 

ListenRF and ListenWIFI transmit audio using radio waves, with signals that can facilitate exceptional reach and coverage with little concern for physical or structural obstacles. The listener can easily move about a venue, even down the hall and from room to room, while receiving audio without signal dropouts. That is a great approach for many, if not most, applications. Yet, other situations (e.g., courtrooms, medical facilities, classrooms) require private and secure audio with the signal limited to a specific space. The solution for this scenario is infrared (often referred to as IR.) ListenIR transmits audio via infrared light, and that light does not penetrate the room walls (nor floors and ceilings) so only the IR receivers in the room, with line-of-sight visibility, can receive the audio. ListenIR meets the needs when private or secure audio is required, with proprietary Listen-only, patented* IR technology to deliver the most advanced, powerful infrared audio systems available. 

Let’s explore some of the many ListenIR advantages. 

Transmitters and Radiators

An infrared audio system begins with a transmitter and one or more radiators. The transmitter modulates (converts) the venue’s audio signal into the appropriate frequency range, then that signal is sent to one or more infrared radiators installed in the intended coverage space. A radiator is the unit that emits the infrared signal into the room. 

In many cases, just a single radiator is needed to provide complete coverage for IR receivers in the room. In some cases, though, such as very large venues and/or rooms with columns or odd angles, the necessary radiator-to-receiver line-of-sight connection can be interrupted. In those situations, ListenIR systems allow for the addition of one or more “extension” radiators, assuring IR coverage throughout the room. Multiple radiators, emitting the same signal though, can still be problematic. Different cable lengths and variable physical positioning can create a situation where the IR radiators may be “blinking” at slightly different times, potentially causing signal cancellation and audio dropouts at the IR receivers. That is why Listen Technologies developed variable IR delay compensation. This signal-timing innovation makes ListenIR the first, and only, IR listening system with on-board delay compensation, assuring receivers get clear, time-aligned audio. 

ListenIR systems can fully cover any venue, regardless of size or configuration. 

ListenIR Receivers

Part of our Intelligent Digital Signal Processing (iDSP) line, ListenIR receivers are half the size and weight of typical IR receivers … that alone is a significant advantage. ListenIR receivers have many other unmatched features. Where other IR receivers have a tiny little IR window through which they “see” the incoming IR signal (think about that little red square on your television,) Listen iDSP IR receivers are constructed of infrared-transparent material, meaning the entire unit can “see” the IR signal, from any angle! This assures superior quality and the best range and reception in their class. 

ListenIR receivers provide standard 3.5mm connectors for use with wired Listen headphones/earbuds, and also facilitate a LA-430 neckloops/lanyards (more on this below.)

The built-in rechargeable battery, with micro-USB charging port, is an economical and environmentally friendly feature, eliminating the costs and concerns of traditional battery replacements. Battery level, as well as channel and volume information, is shown on the receiver’s easy-to-read OLED display. 

Plus, ListenIR iDSP receivers work with ANY IR system (including our competitors) so you can upgrade any infrared system for an improved listening experience. 

Integrated Neck Loops – Personal Assistive Listening Induction Loops

Connecting a Listen LA-430 integrated neck loop/lanyard to an iDSP receiver allows users with telecoil (t-coil) enabled hearing aids and cochlear implants to comfortably wear a personal induction loop around their neck. And for those without the need for a neck loop, the LA-430 functions as a secure lanyard and features an integral 3.5mm earphone jack for use with wired headphones/earbuds. 

So, now you know some of the innovations and advancements that make ListenIR the most powerful IR audio system available. 

To get the most out of ListenIR, contact our sales team to convert your infrared system to ListenIR, or learn more about the benefits of a ListenIR assistive livening system. 

*US Patent No. 9,712,246