Zvox is a brand known for incredible surround sound systems, wireless headphones, and other high-quality listening devices. They've made splashes in the audio world since 2003 and gained recognition in 2004 for creating one of the best sound bars of their time.
But, is Zvox a good brand for people who have trouble hearing? What sets them apart from other companies in the world of audio?
Below, we're going to cover everything you should know about Zvox products, who could benefit from trying them, and how Zvox compares with its competitors.
What Sets Zvox Apart?
Zvox uses AccuVoice hearing aid technology in many of its products. This patent-pending technology uses an advanced processor to lift the voices out of soundtracks to make them more clear without increasing the volume. With AccuVoice, it’s easier than ever to decipher the dialogue from background noise on movies and TV shows.
The Hollywood film industry often produces noise for sound effects rather than clarity. And if you’ve ever blasted your volume to understand the characters of a Netflix show, you know how frustrating that can be.
Thankfully, Zvox set out to fix this issue. Their AccuVoice feature uses algorithms to lift voices out of sound for a crystal-clear listening experience — without you needing to turn the volume up to extreme levels. All in all, AccuVoice is what gives many Zvox products their edge over other run-of-the-mill TV sound systems.
Zvox Product Options
Whether you’re looking for surround sound systems, noise-canceling headphones, or something else, Zvox provides options that may be worth your while.
Below, you can find an overview of different Zvox products and discover more about their audio-enhancing features.
AccuVoice TV Speakers
Zvox’s AccuVoice TV speakers emphasize clarity and voice in audio. Even at low volumes, these speakers can lift vocal sounds from the rest of the soundtrack.
In particular, the AV157 TV Speaker uses SuperVoice technology to boost clarity and enhance dialogue even more than Zvox’s other speakers. So, for people who have significant trouble hearing their TVs, this model is an excellent choice.
Sound Bar Home Theater Systems
Sound bars were one of Zvox’s early successes because they blew other speaker systems out of the water at the time. The listening experience of most flat-screen TV sets isn’t exactly spectacular, and that's why Zvox sound bars remain popular — even now.
If sudden, loud commercials have ever startled you, Zvox sound bars have a fix for that. These devices use output leveling to ensure volume stays smooth, so you don’t have to deal with any alarming changes when something else comes on the TV.
All of Zvox’s sound bars come with AccuVoice and built-in subwoofers for the best TV listening experience. They also come with Toslink inputs and analog (RCA jack) inputs to connect with digital TVs and analog TVs. These options make it easy to connect your new sound bar to Samsung or Vizio smart TVs (or just about any other brand you own).
SoundBase Home Theater Systems
Sound bases are a little different than sound bars because they’re wide, deep, and flat in design. Most people place their TVs on top of these devices for the best experience (although you’ll need to make sure your TV has a base of 27 inches or less.)
Zvox’s sound bases use PhaseCue virtual-surround processing for audio output that sounds like it’s coming from every direction. Overall, this technology makes for an incredible sound quality and TV watching experience.
Zvox Wireless Headphones
Zvox’s AV50 Noise Cancelling Headphones also use AccuVoice technology to cancel outside noise and enhance the sound of voices from TV shows or movies with clarity.
This set of wireless headphones uses Bluetooth connectivity to link to compatible devices, but you can also use a headphone jack if you prefer. Their noise-canceling abilities set them apart from cheaper earbuds because they smoothly drown out background sounds like wind or other noise. They also:
- Are lightweight and comfortable to wear
- Allow you to make hands-free phone calls
- Come with a convenient carrying case
All in all, this wireless headset’s advanced technology makes it a worthy option for any use, even as TV headphones for the hearing impaired.
Zvox VoiceBuds Hearing Aids
Because Zvox has so much history in audio technology, they took things a step further and created VoiceBud hearing aids. VoiceBuds are FDA-registered Class I hearing aids and are excellent to use as hearing amplifiers in noisy environments.
The Zvox VoiceBuds are available for $299 or $399 per hearing aid — depending on whether or not you want a rechargeable set. And for that price, they provide some handy features.
These include:
- Dual microphone system to help you filter out the noises you don’t want to hear (and focus on the ones you do)
- Behind-the-ear (BTE) design for maximum comfort
- Six different dome sizes so you can choose the perfect size for your ears
- Four adjustable hearing settings, including normal, noisy, automobile, and outdoors
- A smartphone app where you can adjust and monitor volume control, bass, treble, listening modes, and battery life
If you’re searching for a better alternative to Zvox that offers more audiological care and support, MDHearingAid is a great choice, featuring similar technology at comparable prices. Most importantly, they come with the support of licensed audiologists and hearing aid specialists to help you with hearing aid selection, fitting, and any support questions.
Who Could Benefit From Zvox Products?
Anyone who likes to kick back and relax in their home theater would have a fantastic experience using Zvox products.
However, this brand’s TV listening devices are especially useful for people who have mild to moderate hearing impairments. Zvox’s sound bars, sound bases, and TV speakers are practically made for this because of their hearing aid technology.
Overall, Zvox products are great for anyone who has difficulty making out distinct words in a crowded space. And their wireless TV headphones are perfect if you have trouble picking up voices or hear too much background noise while watching videos.
How Do Competitors Match Up?
Zvox is the original creator of the AccuVoice feature. Nowadays, many audio companies try to keep up with Zvox’s technology — but no one uses the same AccuVoice system they do.
So, when it comes to innovation, this small company packs a lot of originality.
Other tech companies such as Samsung, Sony, and LG offer similar TV speaker system technology, even though they weren’t the first to do so. However, these brands provide sound bars, speakers, and headphones of comparable quality at competitive prices.
All in all, Zvox is a leader in the world of audio and uses a specific technology that no other brands possess. While their AccuVoice feature is not the only of its kind anymore, their products may still be worth a try. All Zvox products come with a one-year limited parts and labor warranty in the U.S. and Canada.
Beyond that, many of their products come with a home trial period — so you don’t need to commit if it ends up not working for you.
Consider Trying Zvox Products
It’s no doubt that high-quality sound systems, earphones, and hearing aids can change the quality of life for those who are hard of hearing. Many people with hearing loss don’t realize what they’re missing out on until they get their hands on assistive listening devices. And for that reason, Zvox may be worth a try.
Their sound bars, sound bases, and TV speakers are great for sharpening what you hear on TV, thanks to integrated hearing aid technology. Beyond that, their headsets may serve as a helpful pair of TV headphones for the hearing impaired.
If you feel like your hearing isn’t as good as it used to be, it may be time to check on your ear health. FreeHearingTest.org offers a free phone hearing screening test that only takes about five minutes to complete.
Beyond that, you can try out MDHearingAid’s free online hearing test. All you’ll need is a few minutes and a set of headphones. Your test results can help you discover if you should seek more help when it comes to your hearing.
Alicia Schultz
Freelance Writer
Alicia Schultz is a Minnesota-based freelance health writer, coffee-lover, and wellness enthusiast. Much of her work is geared toward spreading knowledge that can positively impact the world. When she’s not writing, you can find her in the gym, hanging out with her family, or exploring somewhere new with her dog, Bonzo.