Assistive listening devices (ALDs) are essential in churches to ensure everyone, especially those with hearing impairments, can engage fully in worship and sermons. ALDs improve audio clarity by reducing background noise and amplifying the speaker’s voice directly to the listener. Here’s a guide to the best assistive listening systems for churches, covering different technologies, such as FM, infrared, and loop systems, to meet varying needs and budgets.
1. Williams Sound FM ADA Kit System
Best For: Medium to large churches that need wide-area coverage and a user-friendly setup.
- Features:
- FM-based system with excellent range, covering up to 1,000 feet, ideal for larger sanctuaries.
- Comes with multiple receivers and headphones, making it easy to accommodate various listeners.
- Portable transmitter and antenna, making it adaptable for different areas in the church.
- Pros:
- Clear, reliable audio over long distances.
- Compliant with ADA requirements for assistive listening.
- Simple to use and set up, with minimal maintenance.
- Cons:
- Requires separate devices (receiver and headphones) for each listener.
- May experience interference in areas with a lot of radio frequency activity.
- Pricing: Starting around $900 for the basic ADA kit.
2. Listen Technologies ListenRF System
Best For: Churches needing customizable FM-based listening systems with flexible range options.
- Features:
- Available in multiple range options, from 150 feet to over 1,000 feet.
- Comes with multiple receivers and options for headset or neck loop, making it compatible with hearing aids.
- Durable transmitters and receivers with digital tuning for clear signal and minimal interference.
- Pros:
- Good range and excellent sound clarity, even in large venues.
- Compatible with hearing aids equipped with T-coil.
- Simple operation for both church staff and users.
- Cons:
- FM systems may pick up interference from nearby signals.
- Initial cost can be high, though the system is durable.
- Pricing: Starting around $800 for a basic system with several receivers.
3. Sennheiser MobileConnect Streaming System
Best For: Churches with tech-savvy congregants who want a smartphone-based solution.
- Features:
- Connects directly to the church’s Wi-Fi network, allowing users to stream audio directly to their smartphones.
- Users can download the MobileConnect app and listen using their own headphones or Bluetooth hearing aids.
- Customizable audio settings within the app for individual listening preferences.
- Pros:
- No need for separate receivers, which can lower costs and simplify management.
- High audio quality with low latency, ideal for real-time audio streaming.
- Great for churches with existing Wi-Fi infrastructure and tech-savvy congregants.
- Cons:
- Requires reliable Wi-Fi network with sufficient bandwidth.
- Congregants need smartphones and compatible headphones or hearing aids.
- Pricing: Starting around $1,000, plus any Wi-Fi network enhancements if needed.
4. Phonak Roger Soundfield System
Best For: Small to medium churches wanting an inclusive solution that works with both hearing aids and standalone receivers.
- Features:
- Uses Phonak’s Roger digital wireless technology, minimizing interference for clear audio.
- Directly compatible with hearing aids equipped with Roger receivers, making it discreet for users with hearing aids.
- Portable transmitters and multiple receiver options, including neck loops and headsets.
- Pros:
- Excellent sound clarity and minimal background noise, especially useful in reverberant spaces.
- Ideal for users who already have hearing aids with Roger receivers.
- Portable and easy to set up, making it versatile for various church spaces.
- Cons:
- May require investment in Roger-compatible hearing aids or receivers.
- Higher cost compared to traditional FM systems.
- Pricing: Starting around $1,500, depending on configuration.
5. Williams Sound PPA R37 Personal PA FM System
Best For: Small churches on a budget that still need effective FM assistive listening.
- Features:
- Compact and lightweight, the PPA R37 transmitter provides reliable audio within a range of 500 feet.
- Includes multiple receiver options with volume control and stereo/mono switch for personalized audio.
- Runs on AA batteries, making it portable and easy to maintain.
- Pros:
- Affordable and easy to install, great for smaller congregations.
- Simple to operate with basic controls, no training required.
- Good audio quality for a smaller range, sufficient for most church needs.
- Cons:
- Limited range may not be sufficient for large sanctuaries.
- Basic features, so lacks the customization options of more advanced systems.
- Pricing: Starting around $500 for the transmitter and a few receivers.
6. Contacta Hearing Loop System
Best For: Churches with members who use hearing aids, as it provides direct audio without external devices.
- Features:
- Loop system installed around the sanctuary, creating an electromagnetic field that can be received directly by hearing aids with T-coil.
- Provides clear, interference-free audio directly to hearing aids without needing a separate receiver.
- Permanent installation allows for a seamless experience with minimal ongoing maintenance.
- Pros:
- Discreet and convenient for users with hearing aids.
- No external receivers needed, reducing the need for handling equipment.
- High sound quality with minimal interference, ideal for churches of all sizes.
- Cons:
- Installation can be complex and costly, as it requires professional setup.
- Only works for those with T-coil-equipped hearing aids, so other listeners may need separate devices.
- Pricing: Starting around $1,500 for smaller venues; costs vary significantly based on sanctuary size and installation requirements.
Comparison Table
| System | Technology | Range | Ideal For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Williams Sound FM ADA Kit | FM | 1,000 ft | Medium to large churches | $900+ |
| Listen Technologies ListenRF | FM | Up to 1,000 ft | Customizable and flexible | $800+ |
| Sennheiser MobileConnect | Wi-Fi Streaming | Wi-Fi range | Tech-savvy users with smartphones | $1,000+ |
| Phonak Roger Soundfield | Digital Wireless | 100-300 ft | Compatible with hearing aids | $1,500+ |
| Williams Sound PPA R37 | FM | 500 ft | Small churches, budget-friendly | $500+ |
| Contacta Hearing Loop System | Induction Loop | Installed area | Direct to hearing aids (T-coil) | $1,500+ (varies) |
Tips for Choosing the Right Assistive Listening Device for Your Church
- Consider Congregation Size and Layout
Large churches will benefit from FM systems like Williams Sound FM ADA Kit or Listen Technologies ListenRF, which provide extensive coverage. For smaller churches, the Williams Sound PPA R37 is a budget-friendly option with sufficient range. - Determine Hearing Aid Compatibility
For congregants with T-coil hearing aids, Contacta Hearing Loop systems provide direct audio without the need for receivers. Phonak Roger Soundfield is also ideal for those with Roger-compatible hearing aids. - Evaluate Installation and Maintenance Needs
Permanent systems like Contacta Hearing Loop require professional installation but need little maintenance afterward. Portable systems like the Williams Sound FM or ListenRF are easy to set up and can be moved around as needed. - Consider Wi-Fi-Based Systems for Smartphone Users
If your congregation is comfortable using smartphones, Sennheiser MobileConnect offers a cost-effective solution by streaming audio directly to mobile devices. - Budget Constraints
If you’re on a budget, Williams Sound PPA R37 or Listen Technologies ListenRF offer quality FM options without high costs. For larger budgets, loop systems like Contacta Hearing Loop provide a seamless experience with higher upfront investment.
Final Recommendation
For most medium to large churches, the Williams Sound FM ADA Kit or Listen Technologies ListenRF offer excellent coverage, clear audio, and flexibility. For tech-savvy churches, Sennheiser MobileConnect provides a modern smartphone-based solution. For churches focused on accessibility for hearing aid users, the Contacta Hearing Loop system offers unparalleled convenience and high-quality audio.
An effective assistive listening system will greatly enhance the worship experience, ensuring all members of the congregation feel included and connected during services