By kbeveridge
Our Top Recommendations
Personal sound amplifiers are hearing devices that can enhance your ability to listen to different sounds in your environment. These devices can bring many benefits for people who are starting to have hearing loss or other related issues.
In today’s guide, we’ll take a look at all you need to know about the best personal sound amplifiers. You’ll learn the different types of PSAPs, how they differ from hearing aids, and what features you need to consider before buying one.
What Is A Personal Sound Amplifier?
A personal sound amplifier product or PSAP is a device that enhances your ability to understand speech and sound. It amplifies the sounds surrounding you, and that’s why most people use it for bird watching or watching TV without disturbing anyone. But they can also be of great benefit for the hard of hearing.
It works similarly to a hearing aid device. The main difference is that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate PSAPs. Instead, the FDA defines these devices as electronic products that can amplify sound for people that are not deaf.
You do not need a doctor’s prescription to get a personal sound amplifier. So, you can get them for a couple of hundred dollars in most electronic stores.
What Are The Main Types Of Personal Sound Amplifiers?
At a Glance: Best Personal Sound Amplifiers
Image | Name | Length | Width | Height | Weight | Best For | Header |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enjoyee Hearing Aid | 1.75" | .5" | - | 8.47 oz | Affordable & User-friendly | |
| Williams Sound Pocke Talker | 1" (D) | 2.5" | 4" | 1 lbs | Simple & Easy to use | |
| Avantree HT280 Wireless Headphones | 4" (D) | 9.5" | 10" | 3.88 oz | Plug & Play | |
| Apple AirPods | 0.65" | 0.71" | 1.59" | 3.5 oz | 24 Hour battery life | |
| Bose TV Speaker - Soundbar | 4" (D) | 23.4" | 2.2" | 7.58 lbs | Clarifies Speech & Simple fix | |
| AT&T BL102-3 DECT 6.0 3 Cordless Phone | 3.81" | 6.04" | 7.21" | 2.55 lbs | Smart Call Blocker & Caller ID Announce |
Best Personal Sound Amplifiers
Best Hearing Amplifier: Enjoyee Hearing Aid Amplifier
Enjoyee Hearing Aid | |
|---|---|
Length | 1.75" |
Width | .5" |
Height | - |
Weight | 8.47 oz |
Enjoyee’s Hearing Aid Amplifier is a personal sound amplifier that provides many excellent benefits for you. For instance, you’ll be able to choose from three frequency modes and four different volumes, allowing you to customize it to your needs.
Its internal mechanism makes the voices and noises sound more natural than other personal sound amplifiers on the market. In addition, the smart chip inside the device also provides a 30% noise reduction upgrade from previous versions of the same model. So, if you are looking for the best sound quality, you should consider this model.
The shells of this model are waterproof, nano-coated, and sweatproof, making it an easy-to-clean device. It is also soft and small, making it the perfect option for sensitive ear canals.
However, this device can be affordable but doesn’t have much durability compared to other models and brands.
Pros
Cons
We recommend this hearing amplifier for: anyone looking for an affordable and user-friendly hearing amplifier.
Best Pocket Talker: Willimas Sound Pocket Talker
Williams Sound Pocket Talker | |
|---|---|
Depth | 1" |
Width | 2.5" |
Height | 4" |
Weight | 1 lbs |
The Williams Sound Pocket Talker is an excellent option if you want a sound amplifier to help you in different situations. You can use this pocket talker during one-on-one conversations, in group situations, or even when watching TV. It is a user-friendly device with clear and easy-to-follow instructions.
This device picks up close sounds and reduces the background noise for a better listening experience. In addition, it has a user-friendly interface, which allows you to control tone and volume with just a couple of steps. This product also comes with a year’s supply of batteries for a more convenient experience.
However, it does comes with some drawbacks. For instance, it is a wired model that can be uncomfortable to wear if you dislike corded headphones. You should also know that the headphones are also a one-size-fits-all model.
Pros
Cons
We recommend this pocket talker for: anyone looking for the best pocket talker for the hard of hearing.
Best TV Hearing Device: AVANTREE HT280 Wireless TV Headphones
Avantree HT280 Wireless Headphones | |
|---|---|
Depth | 4" |
Width | 9.5" |
Height | 10" |
Weight | 3.88 oz |
The AVANTREE HT280 is an excellent TV hearing device for seniors or people with hearing loss problems. This headphone set is very user-friendly, thanks to its plug-and-play design.
This model comes with an all-in-one charging dock that also works as a transmitter, making it a lot easier to use and set up. It also uses 2.4 GHz technology, which will guarantee a constant connection and no sound delay. Additionally, it provides extraordinary battery life, a comfortable headphone design, and a high-quality sound experience.
The main drawback of this device is that it doesn’t have the same durability as other models and brands. Also, it mainly works with Bluetooth technology and won’t connect with the most modern TVs. So, if you want a more compatible device, you should consider other options.
Pros
Cons
We recommend this TV hearing device for: anyone looking for a high-quality TV hearing device.
Best Sound Amplifier Headphones/Headsets/Earbuds: Apple Airpods with Charging Case
Apple AirPods | |
|---|---|
Length | 0.65" |
Width | 0.71" |
Height | 1.59" |
Weight | 3.5 oz |
The Apple Airpods with Charging Case is one of the best sound amplifier headphones on the market. The wireless technology of these earbuds is superior to most models and brands, providing the best quality sound possible. In addition, its internal mechanism and chip will deliver a stable, low-latency connection for a better experience.
Apple is one of the most reliable brands regarding technology and accessories for phones and other devices. These Apple earbuds are entirely user-friendly and have an in-built automatic on and off mechanism for easier use. You can also easily connect it with your iPhone, iPad, Macbook, or other Apple devices.
It comes with a charging case that lets you charge your earbuds while you are out and away from a power outlet.
However, you should know that Apple products and accessories are a lot more expensive than other brands. You’ll also need to have an iCloud account and an iOS or macOS for the earbuds to function.
Pros
Cons
We recommend this sound amplifier headphone/headset/earbud for: anyone looking for high-quality and comfortable sound amplifier headphones.
Best Soundbar/Speaker For The Hearing Impaired: Bose TV Speaker Soundbar
Bose TV Speaker Soundbar | |
|---|---|
Depth | 4" |
Width | 23.4" |
Height | 2.2" |
Weight | 7.58 lbs |
The Bose TV Speaker/Soundbar is the perfect option for people suffering from hearing loss or other related issues. It has one of the best enhanced-dialogue technologies on the market, ensuring clarity and amplifying vocals and pronunciation. So, if you have a hard time understanding dialogue in movies, you should consider this model.
This model has a powerful Bluetooth connection, allowing you to link it to your smartphone in a couple of simple steps. It also comes with an easy-to-use remote that lets you control the bass depth, volume, and dialogue-enhance intensity. Additionally, this model is easy to set up and doesn’t require much to connect to your TV.
It is an affordable and compact soundbar that is perfect if you are suffering from hearing loss. However, it does have some prominent drawbacks you should know about. For instance, this model won’t give you the best sound depth or bass intensity than other models would.
Pros
Cons
We recommend this soundbar/speaker for the hearing impaired for: anyone looking for a high-quality soundbar for the hard of hearing.
Best Phone For The Hearing Impaired: AT&T BL 102-3 DECT Cordless Phone
AT&T BL102-3 DECT 6.0 3 Cordless Phone | |
|---|---|
Length | 3.81" |
Width | 6.04" |
Height | 7.21" |
Weight | 2.55 lbs |
The AT&T BL 102 Cordless Phone is one of the best phones for hard-of-hearing on the market. This cordless model has an excellent answering system and speaking range that will make your experience a lot more enjoyable. It also comes with a digital answering machine that can record up to 22 minutes of incoming messages.
Thanks to its many features, it is a perfect option for the visually impaired and hard of hearing. For instance, this model comes with an in-built phone speaker and audio assist system for better clarity in the conversation. It also has high-contrast texts and an extra-large screen, making it an ideal option for seniors.
Additionally, it comes with a caller ID and an intelligent call blocker. The main drawback of this phone is that its battery doesn’t last long and you’ll need to charge it regularly. Also, the intercom system of the phone won’t let you use the in-built speakers or the audio assist.
Pros
Cons
We recommend this phone for the hearing impaired for: anyone looking for the best phone for the hard of hearing with an in-built audio assist.
Buying Guide: Choosing The Best PSAP For You
PSAP vs. Hearing Aid - What’s The Difference?
PSAPs and hearing aids are technological devices that can help you enhance your ability to hear. However, even if these two devices are similar, they also have many different features that make them unique. For instance, a hearing aid is a more customized option that will cost you a lot more than a PSAP.
The main difference between a PSAP and a hearing aid is that a manufacturer will make a hearing aid specifically for you. PSAPs are general devices that will amplify sound but cannot be customized. However, studies have shown that modern PSAPs can bring many benefits to people with mild hearing loss.
A hearing aid needs to be prescribed by a professional after an evaluation. So, you’ll need to go to an audiologist before getting the model you need. On the other hand, you can buy PSAPs online on Amazon and eBay or most electronic stores.
Note: If you feel like you are losing your hearing, you should go to an audiologist before buying a PSAP.
How Do Personal Sound Amplifiers Work?
There are several types of personal sound amplifiers on the market. However, most of them will work in the same way. The device picks up the sounds and voices in your environment and amplifies them directly into your ears. That way, it allows you to hear conversations far away from you or listen to the TV at a low volume.
What Brands Of Personal Sound Amplifiers Are The Best?
Where To Buy Personal Sound Amplifiers (Online And In-Store)?
Online
In-Store
There are different places where you can buy personal sound amplifiers. For instance, you can go to your local technology and electronic store or visit a retailer like Walmart.
What To Look For In A Personal Sound Amplifier?
There are certain features you should consider when buying a sound amplifier:
Conclusion
You should consider the Enjoyee Hearing Aid Amplifier if you want the best personal sound amplifier. This model is user-friendly and has a long-lasting battery life that will let you use the device for up to 80 hours with just one charge. It is also easy to adjust, comfortable and works in many different situations.
Overall, when buying a personal sound amplifier, ensure that it is a durable and high-quality device. PSAPs are not inherently dangerous nor expensive, but the higher the quality, the safer the device will be and the more it will last.
Sources:
Difference Between Hearing Amplifiers & Hearing Aids
Pilot Electroacoustic Analyses of a Sample of Direct-to-Consumer Amplification Products
Hearing Aids vs. Personal Sound Amplifiers: What's the Difference?
