A leader in developing DSP applications for human communication.

SpeechEasy

How they work

Based on a well-documented phenomenon.

SpeechEasy fluency devices are based on a natural phenomenon called the "choral effect." The "choral effect" occurs when people who stutter speak or sing in unison with others and their stutter is dramatically reduced or even eliminated. This "choral effect" has been well documented for decades; however it is only recently that scientists have been able to re-create it in a small, wearable device that can used in everyday life.

SpeechEasy devices are worn similar to a hearing aid.

However, unlike hearing aids, rather than amplify sound, SpeechEasy devices use a system of Altered Auditory Feedback (AAF) to recreate and optimize the choral effect. What this means is that when someone wears a SpeechEasy device and speaks, their words are digitally replayed in their ear with a very slight delay and frequency modification. As a result, the brain perceives that it is speaking in unison with another person. This perception of 'speaking in unison' creates the "choral effect", thus reducing or even eliminating the stuttering.

Our technology

Contributing to SpeechEasy's popularity among people who stutter and healthcare professionals, is the consistently high customer satisfaction rate made possible through SpeechEasy's unparalleled technology. Following are details on some of SpeechEasy's unique features:

Greatest range of custom programmability.

Our devices feature the greatest range of auditory customization. The Delayed Auditory Feedback, or audio delay, can be lengthened or shortened as needed. The Frequency Altered Feedback, or pitch, can be raised or lowered as well. These changes allow each SpeechEasy device to be programmed to best meet your specific needs and produce the best possible results.

Adjustable to your environment.

SpeechEasy devices can be programmed with multiple operational settings for use in different types of speaking environments. For example, one setting may be perfect for normal speaking, while another may work better for public speaking. These can be determined during the initial evaluation and fine tuned during the final fitting of the device.

SpeechEasy devices also feature an external volume control that allows you to adjust for various situations. This can be particularly useful in noisy environments such as restaurants, sporting events, factories, school yards, etc.

SpeechEasy devices use "smart" technology to reduce background noise and interference.

SpeechEasy devices contain highly advanced technology that is designed to distinguish and clarify the user's voice by filtering out secondary sounds such as other voices and background noise. The end result is greater performance and listening comfort.

In technical terms, this is accomplished though two pieces of technology called INAS (Intelligent Noise Attenuation Strategy) and EVAT (Effective Voice Activation Technology). INAS accentuates the frequency range where speech-like sounds are normally found and reduces the frequency range of those associated with noise. EVAT is used to determine the strength and distance of sound waves. Closer, stronger sound waves are used to activate the device, while weaker ones are muted.

The smallest, most comfortable fluency devices made.

SpeechEasy offers three highly ergonomic models to choose from: behind the ear, in the canal and completely in the canal. The latter is the smallest, most discreet fluency device made and our most popular style. All three models are custom fit to your ear canal to ensure a perfect fit.

The only upgradeable operating system.

SpeechEasy's unique digital technology allows you to take advantage of advances in software updates as they are created in the future. This means that rather than purchasing a whole new model you can simply upgrade the operating system on the existing device. This can represent significant savings over the purchase of a new model.

In addition, all SpeechEasy models come with one free "re-shell" due to changes in the size of the ear canal. This is especially useful for children who may grow out of Their device and for people who gain or lose a significant amount of weight. In these situations, using a new impression of the user's ear, we can insert the existing hardware into a new custom-fit shell.