Conversation and audio-visual amplifiers

This section includes equipment to amplify conversational speech or sound from audio-visual devices. Some portable amplifiers are for use with hearing aids set to the 'T' setting, others can be used by people who do not have hearing aids.

Portable amplifiers for use in one-to-one or group conversations. These are used with hearing aids set to the 'T' setting. Most consist of a handheld or table top amplifier with an internal or plug-in wired external microphone which is placed near the sound source. They can be used with a neckloop or earhooks. headphones or stetoclips.

Portable wireless amplifiers for use in one-to-one or group conversations. Most consist of a microphone and transmitter worn by the speaker, and a receiver worn by the user with a socket for connecting a neck loop or ear hook, or a headphone socket.  On some models the microphone and transmitter may be worn round the speaker’s neck, other models have a clip on lapel microphone.

Amplifying systems for multimedia equipment. These devices can be used to amplify the sound from television or audio equipment. They have cables which plug directly into sockets on your television/audio equipment or a microphone which is placed adjacent to the sound source. This transmits amplified sound to headphones or a neckloop.

Cordless amplifying systems for multimedia equipment. These devices can be used to amplify the sound from your television or audio equipment. They have either an FM radio frequency transmitter or infrared transmitter which plugs directly into sockets on a television/audio device, or they are placed adjacent to the sound source. This transmits amplified sound to cordless headphones either in direct line of sight of the transmitter (FM radio frequency) or several metres away, even in a neighbouring room (infrared).

Neckloops, earhooks, headphones or stetoclips may come with the amplifier or require purchasing separately.