Auracast™ – Assistive Listening System Architecture

Harnessing the power of Auracast™ for a dedicated assistive listening system would require the development of purpose-built ALS equipment incorporating the standards and specifications for Auracast™ broadcast audio as administered and licensed by the Bluetooth SIG.  Additionally, to truly qualify as an ALS platform, an Auracast™ assistive listening system should meet ADA and international compliance requirements.

If you are new to Auracast™broadcast audio, our previous articles on the subject provide a solid foundation. 

So how would Auracast™-based assistive listening work?  In practice, we’d connect a clear, intelligible audio source to an Auracast™ transmitter which, in turn, would broadcast the audio directly to an unlimited number of Auracast™ receivers.  As we know (and this is the true elegance of the technology) personal Auracast™ compatible wireless devices, such as headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, even cochlear implants would receive Auracast™ signals directly.  But what about those without a personal Auracast™-enabled device?  We would need, and want, to offer access and inclusivity for all potential users.  And, of course, ADA compliance requires assistive listening systems include specific equipment components:

• Transmitter
• Receivers (quantity based on seating capacity)
• Neck loops (quantity based on seating capacity)
• Public Notification Signage (that assistive listening is available)

So, an Auracast™ ALS would need to be more than just a transmitter.  To function as an assistive listening system, in addition to a transmitter, we’ll need dedicated Auracast™ receivers with associated hearing accessories (e.g. neck loops, headsets, earbuds) and compliance signage. 

Ultimately, an Auracast™ assistive listening system would offer the same functional elements and connectivity available in other wireless ALS platforms (RF, IR, WiFi).

Up to this point, I’ve described the potential of an Auracast™-based assistive listening system in the future tense.   Well, let’s bring it into the here and now.  As you may know, Listen Technologies and Ampetronic have partnered to create a single, mighty source of magical audio solutions.   That partnership has produced a pioneering collaborative innovation… meet Auri™.

Auri™ is the first Auracast™ broadcast audio-based solution for assistive listening. Powered by Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, Auri™ offers all the components and accesssories to deliver a complete Auracast™ assistive listening solution for use anywhere an installed assistive listening system is required or desired. 

Auri™ delivers the many benefits of Auracast™ technology – optimized audio quality, ultra-low latency, and reduced power consumption resulting in extended battery life – while supporting open or encrypted mono, or stereo audio. But we didn’t stop there. Auri™ includes many other advanced features such as networked managed transmitters, multi-language support, and a complete line of accessories. Oh . . and this being Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, Auri™ meets global accessibility requirements. 

Let’s take a look at the Auri™ product line-up!