The 10 Best Voice Amplifiers
Editor's Notes
September 30, 2020:
Among the few changes we made to this ranking, we upgraded the Maono AU-C01 to the Maono AU-C03, which lacks its predecessors LCD readout, but has much more comprehensive and intuitive controls for both speaking needs and music playback. We also added the Gigaphone G100, which bests the rest of the category in just about every aspect, most notably in power, where it reaches 30 watts.
It is important to note, however, that that Gigaphone model isn't wireless. In our opinion, wireless connectivity shouldn't be a deal breaker unless you're combining your speaking duties with some activity that requires the completely unencumbered use of your arms. It's also true that most people prefer to wear these speakers in one way or another, whether it be around their neck as is possible with the Shidu M800 Wireless, or clipped to their belt or waistband. The only problem with this is that if you turn your back on your audience, say, to write on a whiteboard, you will no longer be facing them. For this reason, a wireless option like the WinBridge S92 might be the best choice for a variety of teachers.
July 30, 2019:
A few of the items on our previous list had to be removed due to issues around their availability, most notably the Maono AU-C03 and the Hisonic HS388. We did find some great replacements for those older models, however, the most exciting of which landed in our number one spot. That's the Shidu Portable 18-Watt, which is a rugged, waterproof option that you can take with you just about anywhere. It's particularly good for tour guides who might get caught in the rain. It also happens to boast a wireless connection between its headset microphone and speaker unit, all combining to make it one of the loudest, most versatile selections on the market. On the flip side, our list's biggest loser can be none other than the WinBridge WB711, whose wireless pairing issues sent it all the way down to number ten.
For Whom Are Voice Amplifiers Best?
For those who can speak clearly but have a low-volume speaking voice, voice amplifiers are the perfect solution.
Voice amplifiers eliminate the need for shouting and reduce the strain on the larynx and esophageal muscles. Anyone who needs simple amplification on a regular basis will benefit from a voice amplifier.
In the lecture hall, one professor speaks to dozens of students. If that professor is soft-spoken, the constant strain on the vocal chords can cause long-term damage to the larynx. The flow of the class may also be interrupted, as students in the back of the hall ask for phrases or specific points to be repeated for clarity. The use of a voice amplifier allows for continuity in the classroom. All points can be heard with ease, which means more congruent learning among all students. The professor enjoys limited strain to the vocal chords, allowing for multiple lectures to be given in a single day with ease.
Speakers can benefit from using an amplifier when talking to large groups or in noisy areas. Without vocal amplification, the only solution is to raise their voice to a shout, which can come off as aggressive. A voice amplifier allows for a speaker's point to be communicated easily, while keeping their voice from being raised to an antagonistic level. This also increases the audiences reception to the points made, as listeners respond much better to a speaker who is not shouting at them.
For those who can speak clearly but have a low-volume speaking voice, voice amplifiers are the perfect solution. For these people, speaking can be fatiguing, requiring frequent stops as listeners ask for things to be repeated. This may also cause a reduction in personal space, as listeners must get as close as possible to hear what is being said. The use of a voice amplifier is very practical here, allowing for the voice to be brought up to an understandable level with ease.
Shouting Damages The Vocal Chords
The vocal chords are small folds in the muscles which make up the larynx. A child learning how to speak is actually learning how to control and stretch these larynx muscles. When silent, the vocal chords remain separate. When creating any audible noise, they are drawn close together, much like the opening in a balloon when it is pulled tight as air is released to create a sound.
If the vocal chords are given rest, they usually heal within a day or two.
It is easy to see how the vocal chords sustain damage from shouting. After a long sporting event, the voice is likely to be hoarse, while the throat feels itchy and sore. This is due to local inflammation of the muscles used to control the vocal chords. The effects are generally temporary. If the vocal chords are given rest, they usually heal within a day or two.
The effects of screaming, shouting, or straining the voice to create more volume are especially apparent over time. If someone consistently strains the vocal chords on a daily basis, more serious problems can appear. The vocal chords of these people can become permanently damaged, and frequently develop swellings or nodules, often known as vocal chord nodules. These nodules are soft tissue growths which appear on each vocal chord. If the vocal abuse continues, the nodules can become harder and stiffer. Vocal nodules can cause a variety of symptoms including a rough voice, neck pain, and a decreased singing range.
There are preventative measures which can be taken to avoid vocal chord nodules. Just as the muscles are stretched before running, the vocal chords should be stretched before intense use. Drinking warm liquids helps to bring blood to the vocal chords, gently relaxing contracted muscles. Singers often warm up the voice by going through gentle singing techniques, and voice actors make a series of sounds designed to stretch and relax the vocal chords. Resting the voice between heavy uses can help avoid permanent damage, as well. To avoid straining the voice at all, consider the use of a voice amplifier.
Features And Benefits Of Voice Amplifiers
The use of a voice amplifier is associated with many benefits. Each individual model also offers its own special features.
Some voice amplifiers are best-suited for use in travel settings, such as guiding a tour. These models offer small sizes, convenient carrying cases, and small battery packs. They usually offer less amplification than larger models, and are therefore only ideal for small groups.
Voice amplifiers can provide a range of benefits depending on the user and the situation.
Larger models offer a better range of sound, some up to 7,000 square feet. Some models offer ports for auxiliary, USB and even SD input, allowing for simultaneous speech and musical playback.
Voice amplifiers can provide a range of benefits depending on the user and the situation. For people with quiet speaking voices, a vocal amplifier provides a confidence boost, allowing them to let their voices be heard. It can allow for public speeches from people who would otherwise not speak due to a lack of vocal projection. Even if the speaker has no problem with projecting their voice to large crowds, a voice amplifier helps them reduce strain. There is no need to shout or strain to be heard, which translates to little downtime between speeches.
The use of a voice amplifier also bridges the gap for those who are hard of hearing. Rather than miss important parts of speeches or lectures, voice amplifiers ensure these people hear every word.