10 Remarkable Benefits of Using the PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System

Hearing loss is a common challenge that many individuals face, and it can significantly impact their quality of life. For those with hearing impairments, communication in public spaces or in important one to one conversations can prove difficult.

However, technology has made great strides in addressing this issue, and one of the most noteworthy innovations in this regard is the PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System. The PL1/K1 Portable Induction Loop is well-suited for individual meetings or one-to-one conversations. These devices can be conveniently placed on a desk or counter such as reception, and easily transported to dedicated meeting or consultation rooms if required.

This device utilises electromagnetic induction to transmit audio signals directly to an individual’s hearing aid or cochlear implant, effectively limiting background noise and providing excellent sound quality.

With a coverage radius of 1.2 meters, it takes the form of a compact desktop unit that excels in facilitating excellent sound quality in one-on-one conversations.

In this article, we’ll explore the ten remarkable benefits of using the PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System.

1. Enhanced Sound Clarity:

The PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System is designed to transmit sound directly into hearing aids and cochlear implants, thus reducing background noise and distortion. With its integral high-performance microphone, by transmitting the speech sound directly into the ears, it enhances the intelligibility of spoken words.  This results in excellent sound clarity and quality, making it easier for individuals with hearing loss to engage in conversations and ensure they can access important communications.

2. Inclusivity:

In an increasingly diverse and inclusive world, accessibility is of paramount importance. The PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System helps promote inclusivity by ensuring that individuals with hearing impairments can fully participate in communication as easily as the non-hard of hearing. Being a fully portable unit, professionals such as midwives can easily take it with them in its robust carry case when visiting patients at their home or in clinics. As a desk top unit designed for individual conversations, it can also be used on receptions desks or till points in a wide number of industries.

3. Reduced Stigma:

Some people with hearing impairments may be hesitant to use visible assistive devices or ask if a hearing loop is available due to the stigma associated with hearing loss. The PL1/K1 system, however, is clearly visible as an available hearing loop and doesn’t require the user to ask to connect to it or wear or carry any conspicuous devices. This reduces the perceived stigma and encourages more people to benefit from the system.

4. User-Friendly Design:

The PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System is designed with the user in mind. It’s lightweight, portable, one button operation and ready to use in seconds, making it a practical solution for a variety of settings. Instructions on how to use the unit are clearly printed on the reverse meaning anyone covering a desk or reception area has instant access to this information without prior training being required.  It clearly shows the hearing loop sign on the front ensuring that individuals with hearing impairments know that a loop facility is available in this location. For added convenience, it includes a wall-mounting storage shelf for secure storage when not in use.

5. Practical System Features:

The unit boasts a number of useful features such as an additional microphone socket, in addition to the integral high-performance mic.  This allows the user to connect either a desk-top or clip-on mic, which will offer greater speech clarity in an environment with excessive echo due to poor acoustic levels, as can be found in some venues.  The battery is fully chargeable with an expected life of over 5 years and a user selectable auto shut off facility to help preserve this.  The unit can also be used as normal whilst charging and connection of the plug top charger will over-ride the timer function to ensure the unit remains operational at all times.

6. Available in a range of bundle options:

Hearing Loop offers the PL1/K1 in a range of bundle options available with a variety of useful accessories:

7. Cost-Effective Solution:

Compared to other assistive listening systems, the PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System is a cost-effective solution for both users and facility owners. It doesn’t require the purchase of additional receivers or transmitters, nor does it require a specialist to carry out any servicing or maintenance requirements.

8. Five Year Warranty:

With a 5 year warranty coming as standard with the PL1/K1, you can enjoy peace of mind with your purchase and be confident that it is covered for a long time to come should a fault arise.

9. Easy Integration:

The PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop is designed for use in various settings and situations where one-on-one conversations are necessary. With no installation required the unit is easily integrated into the space with zero impact on commercial activity.

Here are some potential places and scenarios where you can use a PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop:

1. Reception Areas: It can be used at reception desks in offices, clinics, or institutions, making it easier for individuals with hearing impairments to communicate with receptionists or staff.
2. Consultation Rooms: In healthcare facilities, legal offices, or other professional settings, the PL1/K1 can help improve communication during one-on-one consultations.
3. Treatment Rooms: When receiving medical treatment or therapy, patients can benefit from the clear sound delivery provided by the hearing loop.
4. Customer Service Desks: Customer service counters including banks, post offices or ticket booths, where you really need to hear what is being said. This device facilitates effective communication between staff and customers.
5. Till points: This device can easily be used at till points to enhance the communication between sales assistant and purchaser.
6. Educational Settings: In one-to-one tutoring sessions or parent meetings, the PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop can assist in understanding what the tutor or lecturer is discussing with them.
7. Libraries: At reference desks or information centres within libraries, the device can help library staff and patrons communicate more effectively.

The device is best suited for scenarios where a limited area needs to be covered, and it’s not designed for larger public spaces. The goal is to ensure that individuals with hearing impairments have improved access to clear, noise-free sound in one-to-one conversational situations where traditional audio communication may be challenging.

10. Compliance with Regulations:

Many countries and regions have established accessibility regulations such as the Disability Act in the UK, that require public spaces to provide assistive listening solutions for individuals with hearing impairments. Failure to provide ‘help with hearing’ is discrimination against the deaf or those with a hearing impairment and is therefore an infringement of those Standards.  The PL1/K1 system is compliant with these regulations, helping businesses and organisations meet legal requirements and provide equal access to all.

As we have seen, the PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System is an incredibly versatile and important item of technology that has the potential to significantly improve the lives of individuals with hearing impairments. Its remarkable benefits, including enhanced sound clarity, inclusivity, reduced perceived stigma, user-friendliness, practical system features, cost-effectiveness, five year warranty, easy integration and compliance with regulations, make it a compelling solution for both users and the facilities that serve them.

This technology not only breaks down communication barriers but also fosters a more inclusive and equitable society, where everyone can fully participate and engage in the world around them. The PL1/K1 Portable Hearing Loop System is more than just a piece of equipment; it’s a gateway to a world of sound, connection, and opportunity for those with hearing loss.

Contact Us

If you are interested in knowing more about the PL1/K1 hearing loop or would like to purchase this life improving device please don’t hesitate to get in touch.  We have a wealth of experience and knowledge about hearing devices and you can visit us in person, contact us by phone on 0114 235 7717 or contact us through our website Portable Induction Loops Archives – Hearing Loop and we will be more than happy to help.