There are other remote microphone systems that are not included on TAP. These include multiple use systems designed to be accessible to more than one person in a public space.
Sound field systems
A sound field system may be used in a classroom. It amplifies a teacher’s voice. The teacher’s voice can be heard more easily over background noise. These systems benefit all children in the classroom, including children with hearing loss.
Sound field systems are designed for group use rather than individual use. They are more cost effective when multiple people require support in the same environment.
Loop system
A hearing loop system is designed to assist people who use hearing aids in public spaces. The loop system sends sound directly to a person’s hearing aids. This cuts out background noise and makes speech clearer and easier to understand.
A microphone picks up the speaker’s voice. The sound is sent through a special loop wire. This is usually positioned under the carpet or in the ceiling.
People with hearing aids can identify the presence of a hearing loop system by looking for the symbol. They can sit anywhere within the identified loop system area.
To use the system, the person switches their hearing aids to the ‘T’ setting (also called telecoil) to pick up the signal directly in their hearing aids.
Loop systems are built into buildings or rooms. They are not a product provided for individual use.
