Hearing Aid Accessories: Remote Mics, TV Streamers, and More

Modern hearing technology has advanced remarkably, offering sophisticated sound processing and automatic adjustments. However, there are specific listening environments where even the most advanced devices benefit from additional support. At Buckinghamshire Hearing, our independent audiology clinic in High Wycombe, we frequently guide patients through the world of hearing aid accessories. These supplementary devices, ranging from TV streamers to remote microphones, are designed to bridge the gap in particularly challenging acoustic situations, ensuring you remain connected to the sounds and people that matter most. This comprehensive guide explores the various accessories available, how they function, and when they might add significant value to your auditory rehabilitation journey.

One of the most common challenges reported by individuals with hearing loss is understanding television dialogue, especially with modern flat-screen televisions that often have rear-facing speakers. A TV streamer is a dedicated accessory that transforms your hearing aids into wireless, high-definition stereo headphones.

These devices connect directly to your television's audio output (typically via an optical or analogue cable) and transmit the sound signal wirelessly to your hearing aids. This direct transmission bypasses the room's acoustics, eliminating background noise and reverberation, which are often the primary culprits in degrading speech clarity. The setup is generally straightforward, and once paired, the streamer can be activated with a simple button press on your hearing aids or via a smartphone application.

Most major manufacturers offer proprietary TV streaming solutions designed to work seamlessly with their specific technology features. For instance, Phonak's TV Connector, Oticon's TV Adapter, and ReSound's TV Streamer all provide excellent sound quality and low latency, ensuring the audio remains perfectly synchronised with the visual action on screen.

While modern hearing aids excel at managing background noise in close proximity, their effectiveness diminishes as the distance between the listener and the speaker increases. This is where remote microphones become invaluable. These small, discreet devices capture the speaker's voice at the source and transmit it directly to your hearing aids, significantly improving the signal-to-noise ratio.

Partner Microphones

A partner microphone, often referred to as a lapel mic, is designed to be worn by a single speaker. It is typically clipped to their clothing or worn around the neck on a lanyard. This is an exceptional solution for one-on-one conversations in noisy environments, such as a busy restaurant or a car journey, where the speaker's voice is delivered directly to your ears, overcoming the competing background noise.

Table Microphones

For group settings, such as business meetings or family dinners, a table microphone is highly effective. These devices are placed in the centre of a table and utilise multiple directional microphones to automatically detect and focus on the active speaker. Some advanced models, like the Phonak Roger Select, allow you to manually select which direction you want to listen to, providing unparalleled control in complex acoustic environments.

A frequent observation at our High Wycombe clinic is the transformative effect of a remote microphone. Patients often report that while their hearing aids are excellent for general use, a remote microphone is the key to actively participating in challenging social situations without experiencing listening fatigue. It shifts the focus from merely hearing to effortless understanding.

Many contemporary hearing aids feature direct Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream phone calls and audio directly from your smartphone. However, for individuals with older devices or those who require a truly hands-free experience, a phone clip is a highly useful accessory.

A phone clip acts as an intermediary device. It pairs with your mobile phone via Bluetooth and then transmits the audio to your hearing aids. Crucially, it also contains a built-in microphone to pick up your voice, meaning you can leave your phone in your pocket or bag during a call. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who spend significant time on the phone or those who struggle with the dexterity required to hold a phone to their ear for extended periods. If you are considering upgrading your devices, exploring our guide on Bluetooth hearing aids may provide further insight into built-in connectivity options.

Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your hearing aids. Accessories dedicated to care and charging are fundamental components of your daily routine.

Charging Cases

The shift towards rechargeable hearing aids has made charging cases a standard accessory. These cases not only replenish the battery but also provide a secure and protective environment for your devices when not in use. Many modern charging cases also incorporate built-in dehumidifying features, using gentle heat to remove moisture accumulated during the day.

Dehumidifiers and Drying Kits

Moisture is one of the primary causes of hearing aid malfunction. For individuals who live in humid climates, perspire heavily, or use battery-operated devices, a dedicated dehumidifier or drying kit is highly recommended. These range from simple passive drying pots containing silica gel desiccants to active electronic drying boxes that use UV-C light to sanitise the devices while removing moisture. Regular use of these tools can significantly reduce the need for repairs and extend the lifespan of your hearing aids.

When selecting accessories, it is important to understand that most are designed to work within a specific manufacturer's ecosystem. While this ensures seamless integration and optimal performance, it also means that accessories are rarely interchangeable between different brands.

During your consultation at Buckinghamshire Hearing, we will discuss which manufacturer ecosystem best aligns with your lifestyle and hearing needs. You can learn more about the different options available on our hearing aid brands page.

A common question we receive is whether accessories are truly necessary given the advanced capabilities of modern hearing aids. The answer depends entirely on your individual lifestyle and the specific listening environments you frequent.

If your primary environments are relatively quiet, such as one-on-one conversations at home, the built-in features of your hearing aids may be entirely sufficient. However, if you regularly attend lectures, participate in noisy social gatherings, or struggle significantly with television dialogue, an accessory can provide a substantial improvement in clarity and reduce listening effort. It is also important to consider cost; while accessories require an additional investment, the enhancement they provide to your quality of life and communication abilities often justifies the expense.