How is PROXY different from other neck speakers?
You may have seen other products that use the same form factor as BeHear PROXY. However, although the industrial design is the same, the electronics inside, feature set, and audio performance are different.
PROXY supports the following features which are non-existent in the generic products with the same form factor:
- ListenThroughTM for ambient sound transparency during music playback, keeping you safe and alert
- SonicVibranceTM which enriches the stereo listening experience during music playback
- EasyListenTM which slows down speech during phone calls for improved intelligibility
- Alango’s personal hearing technology for ambient sound amplification
In addition, PROXY uses Alango’s proprietary DSP software for remote voice communication (mobile phone calls) with significant improvement of sound quality compared to standard solutions used in generic products. This is especially important for phone conversations heard through loudspeakers.
What is the difference between SMARTO and ACCESS?
Both products include Alango’s field-proven hearing enhancement technologies and are supported by the W&H BeHear smartphone app.
Here are the main differences between BeHear SMARTO and BeHear ACCESS:
- SMARTO provides 70dB hearing boost; ACCESS “only” 42dB
- SMARTO attaches to an “over the ear” or “in-ear” headset; ACCESS is a self-contained in-ear headset
- SMARTO has an extremely simple interface from the device itself; ACCESS incudes advanced features that require the use of the W&H BeHear smartphone app
- SMARTO can connect to one Bluetooth device at a time (TV or cell phone, for example); ACCESS can connect to two devices simultaneously
- SMARTO rechargeable battery provides up to 48 hours of hearing amplification; ACCESS rechargeable battery provides up to 13 hours in hearing mode
Bottom line:
BeHear SMARTO was designed for people who need a powerful hearing boost with simple controls. BeHear ACCESS is for the more sophisticated user; it looks and functions just like a wireless Bluetooth headset.
What is the difference between BeHear NOW and BeHear ACCESS?
Both BeHear NOW and BeHear ACCESS:
- look and function like a Bluetooth® stereo headset
- include fully customizable hearing amplification and noise reduction for live conversations, mobile phone calls, music play, and ambient sounds
- clarify speech (and if needed during mobile phone calls, slow it down!)
- enhance music
In addition, BeHear ACCESS:
- includes two telecoil receivers to deliver optimal sound in locations outfitted with induction loop technology.
- has large, tactile buttons for easier operation (especially if dexterity is an issue).
- comes with a magnetized charging cradle, as opposed to a direct USB cable which attaches to the neckband (also a usability issue).
- includes sound directionality with three options: narrow, wide, and omni.*
- allows users to reduce the perceived echo effect of their own voice.*
- provides support for unilateral hearing (both CROS and BiCROS).*
- is more expensive.
* Starting with units sold in June 2021