Soundfield systems
Soundfield systems provide a clear and consistent level of sound throughout a room.
Unlike a PA system, soundfield systems don’t produce very loud sounds. Instead, they are designed to be just loud enough to be heard above unwanted background noises, improving the listening conditions for all children in the room.
Features of soundfield systems
Soundfield systems are typically used in schools. They consist of a microphone which wirelessly transmits the teacher's voice to a speaker. The system ensures that both deaf and hearing children can hear the teacher clearly, regardless of where they are sitting in the room. It helps reduce the impact of background noise, distance, and reverberation, making it easier for all students to focus on learning.
Children with mild hearing loss, including those who have temporary hearing loss such as glue ear, may particularly benefit from a soundfield system.
Soundfield systems can either be permanently fixed to a wall or portable. A fixed system is ideal for classrooms where a deaf student spends most of their time, as it can transmit sound from multiple sources such as a microphone, computer, or an interactive whiteboard. Portable systems offer more flexibility, as they can be moved to different areas as needed.
Before installing a soundfield system, the first step should be to improve the acoustics in the classroom. A soundfield system in a room with very poor acoustics could make listening conditions more difficult, rather than improving them.
Soundfield systems can be used alongside radio aids in classrooms.
Where to get soundfield systems
You can buy soundfield systems online from many different retailers, including:
You may qualify for support to get a soundfield system. Check out how to get assistive technology.
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Full references for this webpage are available by emailing
informationteam@ndcs.org.uk