Starkey have launched the Eli Bluetooth hearing aid adaptor. Essentially, what this interesting device does is convert a standard hearing aid into a Bluetooth headset. Read on...
The technology works by using an adaptor shoe that clips onto the base of a hearing and uses it�s Direct Audio Input feature to send the sound straight to the hearing aid, cutting out other distracting sounds. The microphone is built into the device itself, removing the need for any connecting wires and whatnot. As for power, the device ships with a mains powered cradle, which charges the device when not in use. A standard charge gives you approximately 100 hours standby or 2.5 hours talk time.
Supported profiles are Headset and Handsfree only, which should make it universally compatible with any mobile phone (Sendo fans will pleased to see the X on the site�s list of tested phones).
Pricewise, it�s not cheap given that this type of technology is still relatively new and will only be needed by a comparatively small section of the hearing aid market. I wouldn�t expect this one to be available on the NHS anytime soon. For more info, pay a visit to www.elihearing.com
This product - Selecta BT - was launched in 2003:
http://www.comfortaudio.se/eng/index.htm
Related to the above, here's a Bluetooth headset for noisy industrial environments:
http://www.f2m.com.my/ProductInformation/F2M00HS01.htm
One unique feature with this headset is that you can pair two headsets with each other over more than 100 metres range.
martinharnevie wrote:This product - Selecta BT - was launched in 2003:http://www.comfortaudio.se/eng/index.htm
Not quite the same thing. The Eli is a DAI plug in adaptor whereas the Selecta BT is an FM system with a bluetooth section built in. I'll try to get hold of one of the Eli systems for review if anyone's interested (it's nice that my job and hobby are finally crossing paths : )
martinharnevie wrote:This product - Selecta BT - was launched in 2003:http://www.comfortaudio.se/eng/index.htm
Ah. I was simply passing on a news item from a normally reliable contributor (TB). Still, it was news to me, I'm sure it's of interest to someone.
8-)
Steve
Masamune wrote:Not quite the same thing. The Eli is a DAI plug in adaptor whereas the Selecta BT is an FM system with a bluetooth section built in.
The scope of the Selecta system is much wider. Yes it uses FM between the earpiece and the microphone (which can be a throat microphone for those who are also speech impaired). But the Bluetooth is used to enable communication over mobile phone.
Fair enough. I mainly get involved with hearing aids in my line of work and don't really see FM systems all that often. I prefer the idea of the Eli as it fits within the traditional (if slightly chunky) mould of a standard BTE Bluetooth Headset.