Hear2day

(Daniel Ho on June 10, 2010)

Not sure if you have the same problem, but I had a hard time looking for the right phone, desktop (wired) or handphone after I had my first CI (2004).
My daily routine office work involves frequent calling and receiving calls from customers. Initially, I shy away from phone calls and that affects my work productivity very badly. I often resort to using SMS to communicate with people.

The situation makes me hunt around for the right phone. I searched the internet for hearing aid compatible phones and also tried the phones at retail shops. But do not seem to get one that is really suitable for my use. So far, I have tried Bluetooth & handsfree device from Noizfree. The sound quality was good but somehow the device did not last. I have also tried the MaxIT bluetooth neckloop, the volume was so soft that I could hardly hear any voice.

After a long search, at last I found one neckloop, CLA7v2 Powered Neck Loop which I am most satisfied with. The call quality is good and there is little or no disruptions during calls. I have been using it for the last one month and I hope it will last as long as possible. Based on my own experience, I hope the information below is also useful to you if you are hunting around for a suitable phone.

Desktop wired phone
I am using a handset amplifier, HA-40 model (purchased from SGH). Just plug the HA-40 to the base set of your phone and connect the handset to the amplifier. The amplifier has an independent volume control which can increase the volume. No restriction to the type of phone you are using. Very useful for office or home. It operates on a 9V battery. No drop in call quality. Other family members can also use. Can choose to use with or without T_Coil, depending on individual.

Hand Phone
I am currently using Nokia E71. So far I find this most friendly to use with CI. When used with T-Coil, there is minimum interference and buzzing sound. Call quality is usually good.

If you need handsfree for phone call, below are options you can consider:

Bluetooth Neck Loop
There are a few versions available in the local market, the MaxIT, the Artone and the Noizfree Beetle. Most of these devices control its volume through the handphone. I found them too soft for my use. So, try them before buying. Try them in nosier environment and not just in quiet enclosed room.
Another option is the CLA7BT Neckloop Bluetooth. It has an independent volume control with amplification up to 30db. Even in noisy environment, you should be able to hear clearly. It is powered by a lithium rechargeable battery. Though I have not tried the bluetooth version but I am now using the wired version with the same technical technical specification. See below on CLA7v2 Powered Neck Loop.

The advantage with bluetooth neckloop is it should work with any phone with Bluetooth capability. So you can choose the type of phone you want with bluetooth capability. But it consumes a lot of battery power.

Wired Neck Loop
I am using CLA7v2 Powered Neck Loop. It comes with 5 interchangeable, color-coded adapter cables. It is compatible with iPhone, cell phones (with 2.5mm or 3.5mm jack connector). I understand it is also compatible with cordless phones, audio devices such as iPod, MP3 and DVD players, and assistive listening devices that use a neck loop. It has an independent volume control with amplification up to 30db. I have no problem connecting to my Nokia E71 with the 2.5mm mono audio jack. If you are using other brand or model, you should try before buying. Alternatively you can purchase an appropriate adapter.
The calls are loud and clear. You can use it comfortably under most situations. You can adjust the volume to suit your hearing needs (30db is loud).
For bilateral (like me), you will enjoy the clear and loud sound with both hearings.

Similarly, you can enjoy stereo music from your ipod or radio. There is a stereo cable supplied with the device. The device has a convenient switch which you can off when not in use. It operates on 2 AAA batteries and can last as long as 2 weeks.

Cons (Ooops):
The size is quite big (looks like a big pendent, oval shape, abt 35mm x 70mm) and a bit of weight with 2 batteries.