Infrared hearing systems (IR systems) provide a secure and effective assistive listening solution as a strong alternative to traditional induction loop systems. These systems transmit audio via invisible infrared light from a modulator/radiator to wireless receivers worn by users. Because infrared light cannot pass through walls or solid objects, the signal remains completely private and contained within the room — making infrared assistive listening systems perfect for environments where confidentiality is essential.
Our range includes a variety of infrared transmitters, modulators, high-power radiators (including expansion units for larger coverage), and compatible IR receivers such as stethoset and neckloop styles worn by the user. Multi-channel options allow simultaneous interpretation or different audio feeds, while complete classroom kits combine transmitters, receivers, and microphones for quick setup.
These commercial infrared hearing systems excel in courtrooms, council chambers, and corporate boardrooms for private meetings. They are equally popular in lecture theatres, conference centres, places of worship, museums, historic buildings (where traditional cabling and wiring is restricted or prohibited), and training rooms.
Infrared systems also work well alongside PA systems for clear voice reinforcement without electromagnetic interference issues common in some environments.
With no perimeter loop cable required, installation is often simpler and more cost-effective than induction loops. Receivers are rechargeable and easy to distribute, offering excellent sound quality with minimal background noise.
Whether you need a small-room solution or a powerful multi-radiator setup for larger venues, our infrared systems deliver reliable, high-clarity assistive listening while supporting accessibility standards. Browse our full range of professional IR equipment today and enhance your venue’s inclusive communication capabilities.
Please don't hesitate to contact us for further information and advice on infrared hearing systems.
It sends audio as invisible infrared light from a radiator to a receiver the user wears. They are ideal for courtrooms, council chambers & boardrooms where confidentiality is important and can also be used in lecture theatres, museums and places of worship use it where a hearing loop may be unsuitable.
A loop uses wire to create a magnetic field and works with a hearing-aid T-coil. Infrared stays in the room because light does not pass through walls, but any receivers need a line of sight to the radiator. No loop cable is required.
When the sound must not spill into the next room, when metal in the building would kill a loop, or when historic or protected construction cannot take loop cable. Courtrooms and confidential meetings are the usual cases. A loop is simpler where most users have T-coils and spill does not matter.
A stethoset or headphone receiver does not — anyone can wear it. A neck-loop receiver only works if the hearing aid has a T-coil. Without a T-coil, specify headphones, not a neck loop.
Yes. Two-channel and four-channel systems can carry interpretation or a second feed, such as a translated speech alongside the floor language. The receiver must match the transmitter brand and channel count.
A small radiator may cover a meeting room. Larger rooms need a high-power radiator or extra slave radiators, and the light must reach the seats. Pillars, deep balconies and bright sunlight reduce coverage. Quote coverage only after a site survey, not from a single datasheet figure.
Strong infrared from sunlight or some lighting can swamp the signal, especially near windows. Indoor rooms with controlled light are the safe case. Receivers also need a clear path to the radiator — a coat over the sensor, or a pillar in the way, will drop the audio.
They are rechargeable and issued at the door or from a dock. You need enough receivers for the peak audience, a charger, and a routine to collect them. A transmitter alone is not a system.
Commercial Audio Solutions stocks IR transmitters, radiators and receivers from brands such as Listen Technologies, Williams AV, Sennheiser and TOA. Call 01663 767888 or email sales@commercialaudiosolutions.com with the room size, whether you need privacy, and if users have T-coils or need headphones.
