TV Listening Device Buyer's Checklist: What to Look For

With so many TV listening devices on the market, it's hard to know what actually matters. This checklist covers the essential features to compare when shopping, plus what to avoid.

Sound Quality Checklist

Voice/Dialogue Clarity

• Does it specifically enhance speech frequencies?
• Does it have dialogue enhancement or voice clarity technology?
• Can you adjust tone/treble to fine-tune for your hearing?

Why it matters: Simple amplification makes everything louder. True dialogue enhancement makes speech clearer without cranking up explosions and music.

Volume Range

• Is the maximum volume sufficient for your needs?
• Can you adjust it precisely, or are there just a few preset levels?
• Is there a minimum volume that's still too loud?

Why it matters: You need enough range to find your sweet spot, whatever that is.

Audio Delay/Sync

• Does the audio stay synchronized with the video?
• Is there noticeable lag between lip movements and sound?

Why it matters: Audio that's out of sync with video is distracting and can cause headaches.

Comfort Checklist

Weight

• How heavy is the device?
• Will it be comfortable for 2-3+ hour viewing sessions?

Why it matters: Canadians watch an average of 4+ hours of TV daily. Comfort for extended use isn't optional.

Fit

• Does it fit securely without being tight?
• Is it adjustable for different head/ear sizes?
• Does it work with glasses if you wear them?

Why it matters: A device that's uncomfortable or falls off won't get used.

Ear Coverage

• Over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear?
• Does the style work for your preferences?
• Is it breathable for long sessions?

Why it matters: Everyone has different comfort preferences. Know what works for you.

Battery & Charging

Battery Life

• How many hours on a full charge?
• Is that enough for your typical viewing sessions?
• What happens when the battery dies mid-show?

What to look for: At least 15-20 hours is reasonable. More is better.

Charging Method

• Is it easy to charge?
• Does it come with a charging dock/station?
• Can you charge while using it?

Why it matters: A device that's always dead because charging is inconvenient is useless.

Battery Type

• Rechargeable (built-in) or replaceable batteries?
• If replaceable, what type and are they easy to find?

Why it matters: Rechargeable is more convenient; replaceable means no charging downtime.

Setup & Usability

Installation Complexity

• Does it require connecting cables to your TV?
• Is there a transmitter that needs setup?
• Can it work with your TV's existing audio output?

Why it matters: Complex setup is a barrier, especially for seniors or non-technical users.

Daily Use Simplicity

• Can you turn it on and adjust volume easily?
• Are controls intuitive or do you need the manual every time?
• Are buttons/dials large enough to operate without looking?

Why it matters: If it's not simple to use daily, it will collect dust.

Multiple TVs

• Can you move it between TVs easily?
• Do you need additional transmitters for each TV?

Why it matters: If you watch in multiple rooms, you need to know the limitations.

Compatibility

TV Type

• Does it work with your TV's audio output (optical, RCA, 3.5mm, Bluetooth)?
• Does it work with soundbars if you have one?
• Does it work with streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV)?

Why it matters: Make sure it actually works with your setup before buying.

Hearing Aid Compatibility

• Can it be used with hearing aids?
• Does it have a telecoil option?
• Is there an option without earpiece for hearing aid users?

Why it matters: If you wear hearing aids, compatibility is essential.

Isolation vs. Awareness

Room Awareness

• Can you still hear people in the room when using it?
• Can you have a conversation without removing it?
• Will you hear the doorbell, phone, or someone calling your name?

Why it matters: Complete isolation is great for solo watching but problematic when others are home.

Sound Leakage

• Does sound leak out and disturb others nearby?
• Is it quiet enough for use while a partner sleeps in the same room?

Why it matters: If your device disturbs others, it defeats part of the purpose.

Warranty & Support

Return Policy

• What's the return window? (30 days minimum is standard)
• Is the return process easy or complicated?
• Are there restocking fees?

Why it matters: You can't know if a device works for you without trying it at home.

Warranty

• How long is the warranty?
• What does it cover (defects, accidental damage, battery degradation)?
• Is warranty service handled in Canada or do you ship internationally?

Why it matters: These devices get daily use. You want protection if something goes wrong.

Customer Support

• Is support available in Canada?
• Can you reach someone by phone, or only email?
• What are the support hours?

Why it matters: When you have an issue, you want help from someone who can actually help.

Price Considerations

Total Cost

• What's the device price?
• Are there additional costs (extra transmitters, replacement ear tips, batteries)?
• What's the shipping cost to Canada?

Why it matters: Compare total cost, not just sticker price.

Value Assessment

• Does the price match the features offered?
• Are you paying for features you won't use?
• Is a cheaper option missing something essential?

Why it matters: The cheapest option isn't always the best value; neither is the most expensive.

The TVListener Checklist

Here's how TVListener stacks up:

• Voice clarity technology for enhanced dialogue
• Comfortable for extended viewing
• Simple setup, no technical expertise required
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Canadian customer support
• Free shipping across Canada

Use this checklist to compare any device you're considering. The right choice depends on your specific needs, but now you know what questions to ask.