A Guide to the Hearing Aid T (Telecoil) Setting - How to Use Loops for Clearer Sound

Amalee

• 4 min read
person and their dog waiting in a building reception area with a induction loop sign visible on the reception desk

If you use hearing aids, you've probably spotted a setting labelled T or Loop on your devices. This is the telecoil setting - a small but powerful feature that's been around for years.

Some people think of it as "old-fashioned" compared to modern Bluetooth or wireless connections, but the truth is, the T programme is still one of the most effective ways to get crystal-clear sound in all kinds of environments. It can cut through background noise, make public announcements easier to hear, and give you direct access to sound from TVs, phones, computers, and even in-flight entertainment systems.

In this guide, we'll explain:

  • What the T setting does and how it works
  • Where you can use it
  • Our top product recommendations for getting the most out of it
  • How cochlear implant and BAHA users can also benefit

What is the T Setting on a Hearing Aid?

When you switch your hearing aids to the T setting, you're activating a tiny receiver inside the aid that can pick up sound from an induction loop system. This delivers the sound directly to your hearing aids - often blocking out background noise completely so you can focus on what you want to hear.

Some users may have the option of 'T-M'; that's T with the hearing aid microphone, so you can hear what's going on around you as well as what's being streamed via the loop programme.

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Speak to your audiologist for help deciding which feature is best for your needs, and for help switching the setting on (it's not always activated by default!)

Where You'll Find Loop Systems

Loop systems come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, but they all work in the same way - sending sound directly to your hearing aids when you're on the T setting.

Here are the main types:

Public Loops - For Clearer Sound in Busy Places

Public loops are often installed in:

  • Theatres and cinemas
  • Churches and large halls
  • Conference centres
  • Service counters in banks, advice centres, and shops

Look out for the loop symbol to know when one is available.

Product Pick: Lion Intelligent Hearing Aid Loop Indicator Sign >> – If you're responsible for a venue with a loop system - this sign clearly shows when a public loop system is active so visitors know they can use their T setting with confidence.

Connevans induction loop installed sign
This image shows the international loop symbol which indicates a loop system is in place

Domestic Room Loops - For TV and Home Audio

Room loops are perfect for living rooms or shared spaces. They send TV or music audio directly to all hearing aids in the loop area, so everyone can enjoy clear sound without turning up the volume.

Product Pick: Sarabec LA240 TV Loop Amplifier >> – Crisp, clear sound from your TV to your hearing aids without disturbing others.

Personal Neckloops - Sound Straight to You

Personal neckloops are worn around your neck and deliver sound only to your hearing aids - ideal for private listening.

You can use them for:

...and lots more!

Top Product Picks:

Phonak Roger Clip-On Microphone Transmitter & NeckLoop Bundle>> - a versatile bit of kit that can be used for various listening situations.

Geemarc CL iLoop+ >> – Lightweight and portable for on-the-go use.

Man wearing green polo shirt with the Phonak Roger Neckloop around his neck

TV Listening via Loop - Hear Every Word Clearly

Loop-compatible TV listening systems are designed to deliver clear dialogue straight to your hearing aids, making it easier to follow speech without increasing the volume for everyone else.

Top Product Picks:

ETTA Neckloop TV Listener >> – Quick to set up for instant improvement in TV clarity.

Sonumaxx NX PR TV Listening System >> – High-quality sound with multiple listening options.

Hearing Aid Compatible Telephones - Make Calls Easier to Follow

Many amplified telephones are Hearing Aid Compatible (HAC), which means they contain a small loop in the handset so you can use your T programme for clearer speech.

Top Product Picks:

Geemarc CL100 Amplified Telephone >> – Simple, dependable, and clear.

Swissvoice Xtra 2355 Cordless Telephone >> – Cordless convenience with amplified clarity.

Using the T Setting with Cochlear Implants & BAHAs

Just like conventional hearing aids, most cochlear implants and bone anchored hearing aids (BAHAs) can use loop systems - sometimes with the help of an extra plug-in telecoil.

Once you have your processor, your clinic will supply essential spares, but you can also purchase accessories to customise and protect your device.

Explore Accessories & Spares:

Our Final Tip - Make Sure Your T Setting Is Activated

Not all hearing aids have the T programme switched on by default. If you’re unsure, ask your audiologist - it’s a small step that could make a big difference to your listening experience.

Why We Love the T Programme

While Bluetooth and other wireless technologies are great, the telecoil remains a reliable, interference-free way to connect directly to sound sources in both public and private settings. It’s discreet, effective, and widely supported - making it one of the most versatile tools in your hearing aid’s toolkit.

If you’re ready to explore products that make the most of this feature, you can browse our full range of Hearing Aid Accessories here >>