Hearing loops
If there’s a loop system available at a venue, you’ll see this sign:
To use a hearing loop in a public venue, you’ll need a device with a telecoil receiver.
Telecoil receivers are in a variety of devices:
- NHS and private hearing aids
- hearing implants
- loop listener devices
- streaming accessory
Most hearing aids provided by the NHS have a telecoil built in.
You can check if your device has a telecoil using the My Hearing Aid tool from Connevans.
Your audiologist will need to set up a telecoil programme on your device. Speak to your audiologist if you do not have a telecoil programme, or if you’re not sure.
How to use a hearing loop
There are different ways to use a hearing loop depending on your telecoil receiver and equipment.
Hearing device with a built-in telecoil
You’ll need to switch to the telecoil programme. This is sometimes called the loop programme or ‘T’-setting.
You can switch it on by pressing a button on the device. You may need to press it more than once to get to the right programme. Check the instructions provided by your audiologist.
Some hearing devices allow you to switch programmes using:
- a smartphone app
- a dedicated remote control
Loop listener device
A loop listener is a battery powered device with headphones.
These are often used by venues to check that a hearing loop is working.
You can also use them to listen to the hearing loop signal if you do not have a hearing device with a telecoil programme.
Streaming accessory
A streaming accessory connects to your hearing device if it does not have a built-in telecoil.
A telecoil in the accessory picks up the signal from the hearing loop. The audio is turned into a digital stream and sent wirelessly to your hearing devices.
See the manufacturer’s instructions for how to use your streaming accessory.
A hearing loop uses a magnetic field to transmit the audio signal. To cover a large area, for example in a theatre, a loop of cable surrounds the seating area.
Hearing devices, such as hearing aids, have a tiny coil of wire which turns the magnetic field into an analogue audio signal.
The strength of signal that’s picked up depends on the orientation of the telecoil. Rotating it can make the audio louder or quieter.