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Do You Need a Loud Cell Phone or Something Else?
Many of us have trouble hearing on our cell phone at least occasionally. Perhaps you're someone who works in a noisy environment and can't hear those important calls. Of course the person you're talking to also can't hear above the din around you either.
Or maybe you're just someone who may have either a slight hearing loss or difficulty discriminating sounds over a cell phone.
Either way you need something to step up the volume a bit so that your cell phone acts like the communication device it's supposed to be. A loud cell phone might help but there are other options out there. We'll introduce you to a few of the things available here on this page.
The Options That Can Help You Hear Better on Your Cell Phone
Here are the three primary products that can help you out.At the basic end of the spectrum, a headset can move the sound closer to your ear, help to passively block out noise by getting a better seal around the ear, and provide some amplification. These devices are usually pretty affordable and will work with a variety of cell phone models. They do add a bit of complexity as they are more cumbersome than just carrying a cell phone.
These headsets don't actually amplifiy but they do actively work to cancel out background noise which interferes with call quality. You'll see a brief demonstration below. Some of these devices are wireless and a bit less cumbersome.
The options are somewhat limited and many of these phones aren't the typical full featured phone. However, if your calling needs are basic or you don't want to deal with the extra equipment, these might be perfect for you. The only drawback is that if the phone is louder, it's likely you may disturb others with calls made in public.
Amplified Headsets
Amplified headsets are a good option for many. These devices are often preferred over a loud cell phone not only because they allow more privacy but because they can be used with a wide variety of full featured, modern cell phones.When selecting these devices it's recommended you try them out first before buying. Make sure that the fit is comfortable and can be worn for extended periods of time. Make sure that the sound quality as well as volume is sufficient and that the volume control is easily accessible.
Some Basic Amplified Headsets
Plantronics MX505 Windsmart Boom Headset (Black and Gray)
Amazon Price: $24.29 (as of 07/11/2009) 
Noise Canceling Headsets
Noise canceling headsets can not only move the sound closer to your ear but actively work to eliminate intruding noise. They work best at eliminating low to mid-range frequency noises versus higher frequency sounds. Quality varies of course, but efficiency should be between 70% and 90%.Bluetooth/wireless devices offer comfort and freedom of movement but any device selected must be compatible with the cell phone you have; the jack must fit. Of course, if the jack isn't compatible, you can also check into the possibility of an adapter through the cell phone manufacturer.
Be sure the fit is comfortable and can be worn for extended periods of time. Always try before you buy! To learn more, see our Noise Canceling Headphones page.
Bluetooth and Noise Canceling Headsets
Sony DR BT10CX - Headset ( ear-bud ) - wireless - Bluetooth
Amazon Price: $80.00 (as of 07/11/2009)
Aliph Jawbone 2 Bluetooth Headset - Gold
Amazon Price: $79.97 (as of 07/11/2009)
Sony Ericsson Bluetooth Headset HBH-IV835, White
Amazon Price: $65.40 (as of 07/11/2009)
Motorola Bluetooth H710 Headset [Retail Packaging]
Amazon Price: $35.00 (as of 07/11/2009)
See the Bluetooth Jawbone in Action
Jawbone on ABC's Good Morning America at CES in Las Vegas
Becky Worley (technology contributor for ABC's Good Morning America and a blogger/columnist for Yahoo! Tech) reporting for ABC's Good Morning America today, Jan 8, 2007, demonstrating the Jawbone at the CES show in Las Vegas.
Runtime: 1:22
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5 Comments:
A Loud Cell Phone
Certainly, having a good volume control that's easy to operate can make a difference too so that's worth check out as well.
There are a several cell phones on the market which are designed specifically for those with mild hearing impairment. These phones however, are designed for simplicity in most cases and may not offer all of the features or sleek design many users want. For others, they may be a perfect solution. See them below.
A Few Options for a Loud Cell Phone
Clarity 50900 Unlocked Cell Phone--US Version with Warranty
Designed originally for seniors, the Clarity Life offers better than average call volume and easy to read font.
Amazon Price: Too low to display (as of 07/11/2009)
Take a Look at the ClarityLife C900 and Jitterbug
Other Pages That You May Be Interested in Reading
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Amplified Phones
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If you have a hearing impairment or know someone who does maybe you should consider an amplified phone to make communication easier and more effective. There are a number of models on the market with various features to aid those who have hearing lo...
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Cell Phones for the Hearing Impaired
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Cell phones can be problematic for those with a hearing impairment; with limited volume, poor seal around the ear that allows background noise to intrude, and transmissions that interfere with hearing aids. On this page you can discov...
Have You Found a Loud Cell Phone?
If you've used a cell phone that seems to offer louder call volume than most, share it with us here.
Let Us Know You Stopped By!
If you didn't find what you need, be sure to visit our home electronics store.
Introduction: Ed Yourdon.
The Options: William Hook.
This lens is also listed at LensMasterWorld.
