Manufacturers are putting compatibility and networkability front and centre with these next generation assistive listening devices.
Ampetronic delivers full networkability
Ampetronic’s D14-2 Class D networkable DSP hearing loop amplifier is a dual-output driver, with both drivers featuring capacitive touch front panels with intuitive menus, and built-in test signals. They are also fully networkable with a WiFi-accessible standard browser-based control panel for remote set-up, monitoring and email alerts.
The D14-2 outputs 14A rms per channel with ample voltage headroom, making it sufficiently flexible for a range of applications including lecture theatres, sports venues and transport hubs. The added power of the D14-2 provides a solution for installations in environments containing very high levels of metal, something that was previously not possible without the use of combiners.
Multi-stage filtering ensures compatibility with other system equipment and global EMC regulations, ensuring installation can be performed with total confidence. The D Series also boasts dual-slope metal loss control that caters for a wide range of metal loss frequency characteristics.
Increased voltage capacity from Univox
The SLS-1, 3, and 5 light loop amplifiers from Univox’s Class D Tech series deliver dynamic performance and clear sound to a number of applications in a compact design.
The Class D Tech design includes multiple parallel amplifier stages to create the highest possible performance. The SLS-3 and 5 amplifiers have advanced current, temperature and power protection, which makes them durable regardless of loop load, and even when short circuited. They also feature an upgraded balance between available current and voltage due to the Class D technology combined with optimised construction for modern loop design. This has also resulted in increased voltage capacity, while keeping a high current capacity at real loads.
The SLS-3 and SLS-5 are suitable for different room sizes and can cope with higher impedances than earlier models.
In addition, the self-diagnostic system can isolate system errors, indicating which systems are operational and which need to be adjusted. The built-in signal generator, which is part of the self-diagnostic system, can also be used to set the output level.
Listen Tech provides compatibility options
The LR-5200-IR receiver from Listen Technologies provides high-performance audio in a compact device that is claimed to offer best-in-class pick-up and range.
From the ListenIR iDSP line, the receiver has four selectable four channels at frequencies 2.3, 2.8, 3.3 and 3.8MHz. The LR-5200-IR can also offer venues an option when adding or expanding systems as it is compatible with any new and existing system, including all competitors.
The built-in rechargeable battery technology makes the LR-5200-IR an economical and environmentally friendly solution, reducing the costs of operation and ownership. Each unit features a micro-USB connection, which in addition to being used for quick battery charging, also allows for fast firmware updates, set-up, and programming.
The integrated neck loop and lanyard with DSP loop driver makes the LR-5200-IR easy to wear and operate by listeners with T-coil equipped hearing aids. The OLED display in each receiver provides information on channel status, battery level and more.
Environments particularly suited to this iDSP model include houses of worship, theatres and cinemas, as well as public spaces such as transport hubs.
Williams Sound adds DSP and Dante
The DL210 NET D 2.0 is a next-generation Digi-Loop DSP dual-channel loop amplifier with Dante in a standard 2RU 19in rackmount.
Its network control capability provides remote system set-up, operation and monitoring via laptop or tablet. DSP audio processing offers flexible, powerful software control of mixing, equalisation, compression and more. Class D pulse-width amplifiers maximise efficiency, and the Digi-Loop’s amplifier design offers dual 12A rms loop outputs for perimeter loop(s), single array(s), dual loop, or phased-array configuration. A 70-100V input provides connection to a distributed speaker/paging system, ensuring announcements are heard by loop users.
The DL210 features magnetic signal couples directly to devices equipped with T-coils such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or optional loop receivers. It is also suitable for phased-array or dual-loop systems.
Additional features include USB jack to provide firmware upgrades to the amplifier via a computer, fault warning and active protection against shorted or open circuits and overheating, as well as adjustable output delay for multiple amps in large venues.
Sennheiser embraces BYOD with mobile app
MobileConnect is an assistive listening app that enables low-latency transmission of audio content to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets in a diverse range of venues.
Sennheiser’s WiFi-based system utilises a real-time audio streaming server and the MobileConnect app to provide assistive listening, audio description, language interpretation channels or audio for silent screens.
It embraces BYOD, allowing users to use their own mobile devices on the MobileConnect WiFi network. The system is based around a ConnectStation, a central unit for integrating different audio streams and transmitting them via WiFi access points to personal mobile devices.
Contacta brings modular flexibility
The HLD9 large-area hearing loop is a modular hearing loop driver for perimeter or phased-array configurations, suitable for applications such as theatres, conference facilities, sports arenas, and concert halls.
As a Class D driver it manages power efficiently, so it emits very little heat from its compact packaging. The driver includes advanced communication capabilities, making it user friendly and enabling remote set-up and control of levels, as well as system and performance monitoring.
