We just finished the Basque Country Tour and I wanted to share my experience using the Whisper device with my hearing aids for truly wire-free listening enjoyment. I had an AirFly Bluetooth transmitter (AKA dongle) for in-flight use with my AirPods prior to getting fitted for hearing aids 2+ years ago. Since the dongle fits into the Whisper 3.5 mm jack, I plugged it in and then paired my (Phonak) hearing aids to the dongle. Once they’re paired, you can listen to the guide talking without wires. Pro tip: disconnect the Bluetooth from any other devices first before you pair. I was able to put the Whisper device in my pocket, rather than hanging it around my neck. Another plus!
Posted by
California
540 posts
Thank you for this! No hearing aids here but I didn’t think before your post to bring my AirFly to Auschwitz so I can use my regular airbuds during guided tour.
Posted by
Michigan
618 posts
I've been using an Airfly for several years, just with my earbuds - no hearing aids (yet!). So glad they worked for you! I've been recommending them, especially to friends with hearing aids. I love using them with the "Whispers" - eliminates so many wires, and I've always hated the weight of the transmitter around my neck.
Posted by
Northern Minnesota
1060 posts
Thank you for this. Will be taking our 4th RS tour in the fall, but our first trip with hearing aids for one of us.
You can get a duo Airfly and only use one Whisper for the two of you. There is a little delay in the audio so you don't want to stand too close to the guide.
Posted by
OP
Seattle
419 posts
I even “practiced” at home using an older iPad that had a 3.5 mm jack to make sure I could pair my hearing aids “on the run.” Forgetting to unpair them with my phone periodically was the only stumbling block.
Posted by
63 posts
That’s actually a smart setup lol. Neck hanging tour devices get annoying fast after a few hours. Wireless hearing aid pairing sounds way more comfortable for long tours.
Posted by
OP
Seattle
419 posts
I'm waiting for the day they go to Bluetooth devices, both for the tours and for the entertainment systems on planes. I know some airlines have already done the latter, just not Delta on the international flights (yet).
Posted by
1879 posts
After reading about your success, I passed the info on to my husband. After buying the AirFly Bluetooth transmitter, he discovered that is wasn't compatible with his hearing aids. His hearing aids have low energy blue tooth. So, he had to go to Costco to get a software update, then needed to download the Auracast app and purchase an Avantree Voyager HA low energy blue tooth.
He's all set for our upcoming RS tour. Thanks!