Hearing Health Guide
Definition
A hearing loop, also called an audio induction loop or hearing induction loop, is an assistive listening system consisting of a wire loop installed around the perimeter of a space (or under a counter) connected to an amplifier and microphone or sound system. The loop generates a magnetic field carrying the audio signal, which telecoil-equipped hearing aids and cochlear implant processors can receive directly, bypassing background noise and distance.
An audio signal (from a microphone, PA system, or TV) is fed through a loop amplifier into a wire loop installed around a room, counter, or seating area. The wire acts as an antenna, generating a magnetic field throughout the loop area that varies in proportion to the audio signal.
A hearing aid with an active telecoil detects this magnetic field and converts it directly into sound for the wearer. Because the hearing aid is receiving the signal electromagnetically from the source rather than through its microphone, it is unaffected by room acoustics, reverberation, or background noise.
Common hearing loop installations include theaters, cinemas, houses of worship, courtrooms, airports and transportation terminals, bank and ticket counters, and conference rooms. The international symbol for a hearing loop is a stylized ear with a 'T' below it.
Hearing loops are more widespread in Northern Europe (particularly the UK and Scandinavia) than in the US, though installation has increased significantly following ADA accessibility advocacy. Many new stadiums, churches, and transit facilities in the US now include loop systems.
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