BEST TV LISTENING AIDS FOR
THE HEARING IMPAIRED FOR 2022
Adjusting your TV’s volume is not always the best solution for the hearing impaired. There are many types
of TV listening devices designed to enhance voice clarity and boost your TV’s sound more effectively.
Discover the best options to enjoy better TV sound.
If you are looking for affordable hearing aids instead, here are our top 7 picks for best cheap hearing aids.
Table of Contents
BEST TV LISTENING AIDS FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED
Knowing what type of TV listening device is right for you can depend on many factors. It’s essential to assess your level of hearing loss, your living space, as well as how much you’re willing to spend. In addition, convenience and comfort should not be overlooked – especially as you age in place. Features that are beneficial for seniors and the hearing impaired include customizable volume control, voice clarifying technology, ergonomic design, and easily rechargeable batteries. You also need to know if your TV has analog or digital connectivity, and if you need a hearing aid compatible listening device.
To help make your decision easier, we’ve identified key features and capabilities to consider and selected some of the best options available.
TV LISTENING AIDS WE REVIEWED:
- Best Hearing Aids for TV Listening – Phonak Audéo Paradise
- Best Automatic Sound Control – Eargo 6
- Best Value – MDHearing QuietTV Wireless TV Headphones
- Best Wireless TV Headphones – AudioRange ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones
- Best for Noise Reduction – Avantree HT280 Wireless Wireless TV Headphones
- Best Portable Speaker – AudioRange SPK-1000FM Wireless TV Speaker
- Best for Hearing Aids Wearers – Sennheiser Set 840-S Assistive Listening System
- Best for Sensitive Ears – Avantree Torus Wearable Wireless Neck Speaker
- Best Over-Ear Headphones – AudioRange OTE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones
- Best for Analog TVs – TV Ears Original
- Best on a Budget – Simolio Long-Distance Wireless TV Headphones
FEATURES AND SPECS
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ACTIVEVENT RECEIVER – Phonak’s advanced ActiveVent Receiver technology switches between open and closed acoustics more easily.
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TV CONNECTOR – Phonak offers a TV connector that streams audio wirelessly to your Paradise hearing aids.
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DIRECTIONAL MICROPHONES – Phonak’s Roger microphone line helps separate voices from background noise, making it easier for users to hear dialogue.
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TAP CONTROL – You can activate Bluetooth and take phone calls by simply tapping the device in your ear.
The Phonak Audéo Paradise hearing aids deliver pristine hearing aid technology that makes TV watching a breeze. The brand´s new ActiveVent Receivers use moving discs to modulate between open and closed acoustics. That makes for easy hearing, even when you’re talking with the TV on in the background. Combining Phonak hearing aid technology with the Paradise’s directional microphones and TV connector makes for a fantastic TV watching experience overall.
We recommend these Paradise devices if you’re looking for more features than most TV listening aids deliver. The Phonak Audéo Paradise hearing aids come with telecoil and Bluetooth streaming options. The receivers sit inside the ear canal for a comfortable, more natural fit. Audéo Paradise devices are also waterproof, sweatproof, and come with your choice of rechargeable or replaceable batteries. For traditional hearing aids that set the bar for TV listening, Phonak Audéo Paradise devices are an excellent choice.
Pros
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Helps mild to profound hearing loss
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Phonak has 70 years of hearing aid experience
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Advanced features, including Bluetooth, telecoil, tap control, and more
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Receiver-in-the-ear design makes for a comfortable fit
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Sweatproof and waterproof
Cons
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Pricier than other TV listening aid options
FEATURES AND SPECS
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SOUND ADJUST – Eargo 6 uses an algorithm to automatically adjust its sound settings for optimal TV listening.
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CUE INDICATORS – Eargo’s hearing aids play voice and audible cues that notify you when your volume or program settings change.
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SOUND MATCH TV PROGRAMMING – Eargo’s app lets you customize four sound programming settings to your preferences, including one for your TV.
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LONG-LASTING BATTERIES – Eargo 6 hearing aid batteries last up to 16 hours with every charge.
Eargo makes some of the smallest, most high-tech hearing aids on the market today. The Eargo 6’s new Sound Adjust feature makes it easy to recommend for TV listening. The hearing aids use an algorithm to automatically adjust to loud or quiet background noises. That helps speech sound clearer, even on your favorite TV program. Eargo 6’s cue indicators also announce something or play a sound whenever your soundscape automatically adjusts itself.
We recommend the Eargo 6 for anyone who doesn’t want to bother with adjusting custom settings and volume controls. However, if you do like customizing your personal sound programs, Eargo has that option available, too. Its Sound Match programming in its smartphone app allows four distinct settings: Normal, Restaurant, TV, and Music. You can select which Sound Match program you want to activate and customize it to your preference.
Pros
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Completely-in-canal (CIC) fit for discreetness
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Rechargeable batteries
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Helps mild-to-moderate hearing loss in the high-frequency range
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Water-resistant up to 30 minutes in a water depth of three feet or less
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Portable charging case lasts up to three days
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Financing available
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Telecoil, noise reduction, and directional microphones
Cons
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No Bluetooth streaming
FEATURES AND SPECS
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QUIET TV PAIR – MDHearing offers $100 savings when you buy two QuietTV headphones.
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EASY SETUP – No fuss included with this option, as there is a simple plug-in-and-play setup with most TVs. Also, this selection comes with optical, 3.5 to RCA, and 3.5 to 3.5 Aux cables.
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LISTEN AT DIFFERENT VOLUMES – Anyone with a QuietTV device can listen to the TV at their own preferred volume. You can even turn the TV on mute and listen exclusively with your headphones.
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TWO CHARGING CRADLES – QuietTV comes with two charging cradles, even if you only order one device.
MDHearing makes some of the best hearing aids in the business. That quality carries over to the brand´s TV listening aids with its QuietTV wireless TV headphones. You can plug the transmitter into your TV and start using it right away. We like the value MDHearing brings to its QuietTV Pair package, delivering a high-quality device and amplification at a cheap price for two devices.
An unlimited number of QuietTV devices can use the transmitter at the same time. QuietTV works with almost all TVs and provides hours of TV listening with its rechargeable batteries. MDHearing also offers a 45-day moneyback guarantee and lifetime support from its hearing aid specialists and audiologists.
PROMOTION: For a limited time, MDHearing offers two QuietTV devices at $199.99—only $50 more than a single QuietTV device.
Pros
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Volume and tone controls
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Automatic volume drops for loud commercials
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Comfortable earbud tips conform to your ear canal
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Rechargeable batteries with charging cradle
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Unlimited number of devices per transmitter
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45-day money back guarantee
Cons
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None
FEATURES AND SPECS
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EASY TO USE – Compatible with almost every TV make and model on the market, set-up is stress-free and straightforward after you charge your headphones for the first time.
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DUO PACKAGE – Choose a dual package for you and a loved one so you can both enjoy the same TV show or movie at different volumes.
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30-DAY GUARANTEE – Try before you commit to purchase with a flexible 30-day money-back guarantee.
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LONG RANGE – With a generous 100 feet of range without obstacles, you’ll be able to move about your room without needing to take your headphones off.
If you’re looking for a lightweight pair of TV headphones that deliver clear and continuous sound, AudioRange’s ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones are a great choice. Although not compatible with hearing aids, the ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones provide ample volume and balanced sound without lags or latency issues. The headset’s built-in mic/sound amplifier allows you to easily have a conversation without removing your headset by automatically muting the TV and amplifying the surrounding sound.
Easy to set up and compatible with most TVs, the AudioRange ITE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones are fully rechargeable and have a transmission range of 100 feet. In addition to the base station, the ITE-1000 system has an additional charging dock making it convenient to recharge your headset from any location. Also available is the AudioRange ITE-1000 Duo, a dual wireless headset package allowing two people to use the system while maintaining independent volume control.
Pros
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Additional charging dock
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Multiple ear tip sizes and styles
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Customizable sound settings
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No pairing required
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Built-in mic/sound amplifier for conversation
Cons
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Not compatible with hearing aids
Features and Specifications
- 【PLUG & PLAY】 Not a tech junkie? No problem! With our HT280 wireless headphones, there is no need to worry about pairing them with your device. Simply turn on both devices and they will auto connect. Our headset also comes with an all-in-one charging…
- 【STOP SQUABBLES ABOUT SOUND】Whether your family is sleeping or just enjoy the full volume capacity of your favorite shows and games, our over the ear headset allows you full range of sound-without being constantly told to turn it down! Unlike other…
- 【NO MORE DELAY】Featuring 2.4 GHz wireless technology, our HT280 headphones allow you to binge watch your favorite series on Netflix, catch the highly anticipated game, or pop in your favorite video with high quality sound and in perfect…
- 【CONVENIENTLY COMPATIBLE】Whether you are spinning albums on a record player, or watching your favorite show on the latest model of TV, our HT280 offers the flexibility and compatibility with any device with optical, AUX/3.5mm or RCA audio out port.
- 【LONG BATTERY LIFE】Immerse yourself in your shows with up to 12 hours of battery life! HT280 also spans up to 100ft / 30m of the transmitter allowing you free range listening.
If you struggle to hear dialogue on TV, Avantree HT280 Wireless TV Headphones are an affordable option for a seamless audio experience with plenty of volume. The over-the-ear style headphones help to enhance voice clarity and reduce background noise with no audio delay. Featuring customizable volume 30% louder than comparable products on the market, the Avantree HT280 Wireless TV Headphones are a good solution for those with hearing impairment who are constantly adjusting the volume.
The comfortable, padded headphones are surprisingly lightweight compared to most over-the-ear style headsets making them easy for seniors to take on and off. The system is simple to set up right out of the box and easy to operate with no device pairing needed. With an impressive battery life up to 12 hours and a wireless range up to 100 feet, these are a great pair of headphones for daily use as you age in place.
Pros
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High volume setting
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Customizable audio controls
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Rechargeable battery works up to 12 hours
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Multi-purpose transmitter
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Well priced
Cons
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Not ideal for high-frequency hearing loss
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Dolby / DTS is not supported
FEATURES AND SPECS
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EASY TO TRANSPORT – Lightweight, cordless, and rechargeable speaker is easy to transport and delivers superior sound quality. A simple alternative to headphones for better TV sound and hearing aid compatible.
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EASY TO SET UP – Connects easily to most TVs, devices, and streaming services.
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LONG BATTERY LIFE – Fully rechargeable battery lasts up to ten hours on a single charge.
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WIRELESS – Transmits audio wirelessly from your TV. Position the speaker wherever you like in your room or carry it around the house.
If you wear hearing aids or find headphones to be uncomfortable no matter what brand or model you try, a wireless speaker is a good choice to hear TV sound more clearly. The AudioRange SPK-1000FM Wireless TV Speaker is a cordless, fully rechargeable TV speaker that provides easily adjustable volume control wherever you are. It’s lightweight and compact design make it easy to transport and position in a direction that is best for you to hear. The SPK-1000 is easy to place by your favorite chair, by your bed, or in the kitchen and features a built-in FM radio.
AudioRange’s SPK-1000FM Wireless TV Speaker has a 100-foot range and can last up to ten hours on a single charge so you’ll never have to worry about the sound dropping out during the middle of your favorite show. It also automatically goes into standby mode when it’s not in use to conserve battery power so you won’t unknowingly be left with a battery that needs to be recharged when you’re ready to enjoy TV.
Pros
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Reliable performance
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Receiver can be paired with multiple devices
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Simple to switch from TV audio to FM radio
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Wireless range up to 100 feet
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Up to 10 hours of use
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Easy to operate
Cons
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No background noise reduction
Features and Specifications
- Receiver is ideal for connection to hearing aids and Headphones (3. 5 mm stereo jack plug)
- Easy to set up and operate
- Wireless mobility within a range of up to 100 m
- Transmits even through walls
- Ideal for plasma TVs; connectivity technology: Wired
Especially suited for those who wear hearing aids, Sennheiser’s Set 840-S is an RF stereo assistive listening system that delivers a clear sound and ample volume. Easy to use with your existing TV’s audio, the Set 840-S receiver can transmit sound directly to telecoil-enabled hearing aids using induction loop technology. You can also transmit your TV’s audio to your headphones using the lightweight clip-on receiver.
Sennheiser’s Set 840-S system has an impressive radio transmission range of up to 100 feet, allowing you to receive high-quality sound even if you move to the next room or outside. The wireless assistive listening system incorporates built-in voice enhancement technology, preset audio adjustment levels for different types of hearing loss. It allows you to adjust the volume for each ear independently.
Pros
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Designed to work with telecoil enabled hearing aids
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Wireless range up to 100 feet
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Optimized speech intelligibility
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Multiple transmission channels for best reception
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Large, ergonomic volume control on the receiver
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Preset audio levels for different types of hearing loss
Cons
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Limited volume range
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Variable battery life
Features and Specifications
- [Hands Free, Ears Free] Enjoy music with you at all times and still be aware of your surroundings with no wires getting in your way, simply rest the speakers on your shoulders and immerse yourself in sound. Unlike headphones, this Bluetooth wireless…
- [High Quality 3D Sound] Experience a full-range speaker on both sides of the neck speaker surrounding your ears to produce 3D theater sound quality. Featuring aptX Low Latency codec eliminating lip sync delay for watching TV / movies when used with an…
- [GREAT FOR MUSIC ] Proprietary aptX-HD processing preserves sound data throughout the audio transmission, resulting in a ‘better-than-CD’ listening experience. Pair with your mobile device for listening to music in HD.
- [Ergonomic Design] The lightweight wireless neck speaker loops gentle around your neck and rests on your shoulders providing a comfortable and secure fit for long periods of use or while relaxing.
- [Retractable Built-in Earbuds] Designed with built-in retractable earbuds as an alternate option of use. Switch to the earbuds when you want privacy and / or do not want to disturb others.
Unlike traditional headphones, the Avantree Torus Wearable Wireless Neck Speaker amplifies sound near the ear to produce precise, 3D stereo sound. The wearable wireless speaker takes the pressure off your head and ears, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive ears. The Avantree Torus neckband also offers in-ear sound thanks to the built-in retractable earbuds, which are convenient if you don’t want to disturb others around you or need to take a personal phone call.
The Avantree Torus Wearable Wireless Neck Speaker is an easy-to-use hearing amplifier that works with all Bluetooth-enabled devices and utilizes low latency technology to ensure no audio lag. It is a good option for those with hearing impairment looking for full TV sound but find wearing headphones uncomfortable.
Pros
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Ample volume
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Low latency, no audio lags
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Removes pressure from head and ears
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Superior sound quality
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Optional earbuds for versatile use
Cons
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Battery life may vary
FEATURES AND SPECS
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WATCH IN COMFORT – Headphones are made of durable, comfortable, adjustable materials that fit well across your head and over your ears.
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EASY TO SET UP – Connects easily to most TVs, streaming devices and services.
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LONG LASTING – Rechargeable battery lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge.
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WIRELESS – Wear the headphones as you move about your home without losing sound or audio quality.
If you prefer over-the-ear style headphones that have a traditional headband with ear pads that cover your entire ear or you wear hearing aids, we recommend AudioRange’s OTE-1000 Wireless TV Headphones. The OTE-1000 has a lightweight and durable headset that’s easy to adjust and cushioned ear pads that fit securely without feeling too tight or constricting. The headset’s ergonomic design makes it easy to find the right position without any fuss which is beneficial for seniors with dexterity issues who may find it difficult to manipulate the ear tips of in-ear headphones.
AudioRange’s OTE-1000’s produce clear and balanced sound and are well suited for extended wear. The cushioned ear pads fit comfortably around the ear making them more comfortable than most in-ear headphones which tend to hurt after prolonged use.The over-the ear style helps to reduce background noise and can be worn with hearing aids. Seniors will appreciate the product’s ease of use and features for added convenience. Compatible with nearly all TVs and streaming devices, the AudioRange OTE-1000 system is easy to set up right out of the box. The OTE-1000 headphone system has a fully rechargeable battery that lasts up to 10 hours and has a 100 foot wireless range allowing you to move freely while still listening to your TV.
Pros
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Compatible with hearing aids
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Lightweight and durable headset
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Reduces background noise
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Optional USB charging
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Long battery life
Cons
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May interfere with pacemakers
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Can take up to two hours to fully charge
Features and Specifications
- Connects best to Analog TVs – for Digital TVs, look for TV Ears Digital Headset System. The Original Wireless Headset System works with TVs Equipped with 3.5 or RCA Audio Out Ports.
- Voice Clarifying Circuitry with twice the Power at 120 db. Connects wirelessly to your analog TV using infrared technology so please ensure there is no interference in the line of sight of the transmitter to keep your signal strong.
- Television and headset volume function separately so you can turn up your headset volume while others mute or set the television volume to their preferred level. The Audio Frequency Response is 20 – 20,000 Hz.
- Our wireless headset is ultra-lightweight for added comfort. Please see instructions for tips to adjust to your personal comfort! Enjoy the battery life of 4-6 hours of use in between charges but please note you must charge your headset for 14 hours…
- Background noise reducing foam ear tips ensure maximum volume for the headset. For best audio quality, we recommend rotating the ear tips into different positions to align them with your ear canals.
TV Ears is well known for headphones designed specifically for improving TV hearing. TV Ears Original is an affordable voice clarifying headset system design specifically for use with Analog devices, so it’s important to note it will not work with digital or Smart TVs. It is a good choice for many seniors looking for a simple solution to hear TV more clearly. TV Ears Original has twice the maximum volume compared to other headphones because they are classified as an Assistive Listening Device for hearing impaired individuals. The brand’s voice clarifying circuitry makes dialog easier to understand while maintaining volume control separate from your TV’s sound.
There are no complicated settings or pairing needed to use the TV Ears Original system. Simply plug in the device, let it fully charge, and it is ready to use. You can easily adjust the volume and mute sound via the headset so TV can be enjoyed with others or alone. The headphones are lightweight, and easy to take on and off with an ergonomic ideal for seniors. They can conveniently be worn around the house to listen to the TV while doing other tasks although the rechargeable batteries only last 4-6 hours which is less than most TV headphones.
Pros
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Adjust volume independently from TV’s sound
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Eliminates interference of background noises
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Easy to set up and operate
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Lightweight and portable
Cons
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Battery only last 4-6 hours
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Not compatible with digital TV’s
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Not suitable to use with hearing aids
Features and Specifications
- √ HEARING PROTECTION AND ASSISTANCE WIRELESS HEADPHONES FOR TV – voice highlighting & noise reduction tech reduce TV background sounds and make TV dialogues stand out. The auto signal control tech adjusts the sudden increasing volume to make the audio…
- √ ADVANCED 2.4GHZ FHSS TECH,NO PAIRING OR DELAY, LONG TRANSMISSION – Wireless headphones for TV with 2.4GHz automatic FHSS tech promises superior sound reproduction and its strong signal can go through ceilings or walls, you can even walk around in your…
- √ CUSTOMIZE THE TV SOUND TO BEST FIT YOURSELF – People who have different sound frequency sensitiveness can select TONE(Treble/Normal/Bass) to find the optimum parameters, and hear the target audio source clearly.The BALANCE control is specifically…
- √ RECHARGEABLE & REPLACEABLE LI-BATTERY, PERSONAL SOUND AMPLIFIER FUNCTION – One full charge supports 5-7 hours continuously working depending on working condition, such as volume setting. The personal sound amplifier mode enables you to hear what…
- √ WIRELESS TV EAR BUDS WITH IMPRESSIVE DURABILITY AND FLEXIBILITY – it incorporates “memory stainless steel strips” at the headphone arms for adjusting to more comfortable shape. Super-soft and body-heat activated memory foam eartips and decompression…
Simolio’s Long-Distance Wireless TV Headphones offer seniors a solid option for voice clarifying headphones at a reasonable price. The wireless headset system uses 2.4GHz technology which helps ensure a long range up to 100 feet and consistent, lag-free sound. Simolio’s Wireless TV Headphones deliver better sound quality than expected for the price. The voice highlighting technology and volume control settings are well suited for anyone who struggles to hear dialogue on TV. You can customize your sound via balance and tone controls while maintaining a healthy volume level. The balance control is specifically designed for seniors with different levels of hearing loss in the left and right ears.
The built-in microphone enables you to hear people talking nearby without taking off the headphones by simply pressing the personal sound amplifier button located on the headset. The adjustable headset is made with durable materials and fitted with memory foam eartips plus ear loops for a secure fit, although the headset’s under-chin design puts pressure on ears, which can be uncomfortable. The plug and play system is easy to set-up and use with no pairing required. A spare battery is always in the base, charged and ready so you don’t have to worry about your headphones not having power when you want to watch TV.
Pros
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Durable design
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Compatible with Digital and Analog devices
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Personalized volume and tone control
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Affordable
Cons
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Not compatible with hearing aids
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Does not reduce background noise
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Under-the-chin headset pulls down on eartips
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Not recommended for use with pacemaker
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING DEVICES FOR TV LISTENING FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED
Television listening for the hearing impaired is more natural when you choose the right hearing aids for TV. Comfort and clarity rate are at the top of the criteria. There are several considerations to explore to ensure that your final choice meets all of your needs.
EASE OF USE
There are numerous device styles, so consider which is the easiest to use. For example, those wanting to move around easily might consider a slip-on or in-ear device. If you need more significant noise reduction, headphones are typically the superior choice. The easier the device is to use, the more it contributes to greater independence for seniors.
ADDED FEATURES
Some hearing devices come with different added features that add to their convenience. One feature to look for is programmable settings that allow you to preset specific volume levels that you prefer for different types of televisions and movies. Another feature is the ability to cancel background noises. This option allows for more natural listening. The sounds and voices around you when you are using the device will typically be more precise. Some devices make it possible to set a different volume level for each ear. If your hearing loss is different in both ears, this can be an excellent feature.
DESIGN
Regarding the design, it is imperative to consider the ergonomics and the overall style of the aid. Better ergonomics make it easier for seniors to use the product. For example, look at the volume control and how easy it is to replace the batteries. It is also crucial to consider the ease with which the device goes in or around the ears.
LIVING SPACE
It’s essential to consider your living space and social situation when looking for a TV listening device. Consider the environment you watch TV in usually. For example, are you in a shared environment, such as an assisted living home community room, or are you in a private space in a room or at home? Certain features, such as easy volume control and noise-canceling, become more critical in a noisier environment.
BATTERY LIFE
Some of these devices have rechargeable batteries, so keeping them at an optimal charge and ready for use is easy. Others require you to replace the batteries. Those with rechargeable batteries typically have lithium-ion batteries. These tend to have a long life, reducing the need to purchase new ones often. No matter which type you opt for, reliable battery life is crucial. Ideally, you want to find an aid that provides at least 48 hours of hearing amplification before recharging is necessary.
MAINTENANCE
TV listening devices require some maintenance to ensure the best performance. Headphones and ear devices typically wipe off with an alcohol pad to help reduce residue build up. Speakers should be easy to wipe off with a dry cloth. For example, a microfiber cloth that traps dust and removes it. An aerosol can of air is also a fast way to remove dust from crevices. There is a lot to explore when considering hearing aids for TV. Use this information and consider your personal preferences when deciding on the best TV listening devices for you.
SUMMARY
The criteria for picking the best TV listening aid for you is not a one size fits all decision. It is important to make sure the device is right for your lifestyle and level of hearing loss, and that it will effectively clear and consistent sound. A device with ergonomic design that’s easily rechargeable is recommended. While what type of TV listening device you choose may in the end come down to personal preference, features that offer added convenience and ease of use are important for those who are aging in place.