Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) - radio aids and proprietary remote microphone systems - optimising listening opportunities

Revised version: Contributions by members of the ALTWG (Stuart Whyte, Brian Copsey, James Mander) including Educational Audiologists from the professional associations; British Association of Educational Audiologists (BAEA) (Claire Bateson, Anne Bailey) and BATOD (Teresa Quail). | View as single page | Feedback/Impact

Choosing a system

There are a variety of assistive listening device systems available.  It is a good idea to discuss the choice with your QToD or Educational Audiologist as there are a number of considerations.

  1. Some systems are incompatible with some hearing aids.
  2. Some systems are not compatible with other systems, and this can lead to complications for your CYP in their educational/home environment.
  3. Systems have different features that make them more or less suitable.
  4. The technology is improving all the time, so it is advisable to check the latest models.
  5. The different manufacturers have websites which give the relevant information.
  6. Have a practical demonstration of the system.

Manufacturer websites

The main manufacturers for paediatric hearing aids on the NHS are GN Resound, Oticon and Phonak. To gain more detailed information on each specific model, select the manufacturers via the Connevans dedicated ‘My Hearing Aid‘ webpage. 

The main manufacturers for paediatric cochlear implants on the NHS are Advanced Bionics, Cochlear and MED-EL. To gain more detailed information on each specific model, select the manufacturers via the Connevans dedicated ‘My Cochlear implant’ webpage.

The main manufacturers for paediatric bone conduction hearing devices on the NHS are Cochlear and Oticon Medel. To gain more detailed information on each specific model, select the manufacturers via the Connevans dedicated ‘My Bone conduction hearing aid’ section of their webpage.