While stethoscope models in the market today have much more improvement in sound sensitivity and application than the early models, they all have one thing in common – a need for an external amplifier to hear faint or distant sounds. The good news is that there are now stethoscopes with an integrated amplifier that can be used without an external one.

What is an amplifier in a stethoscope?

An amplifier in a stethoscope is a device that increases the strength of sound signals. It does this by converting electrical energy into acoustical energy, making faint or distant sounds louder and easier to hear.

Stethoscopes have an in-built amplifier that can be used without an external amplifier. These are critical for pediatric and geriatric patients, as well as for cardiology and other areas where low sound levels are common.

Amplification multiples of up to 20x have been achieved with in-built amplifiers, making even the faintest of sounds audible.

An amplified stethoscope is a tool employed by hearing-impaired medical professionals and students in the medical field. It’s an Assistive Listening Device (ALD) that allows doctors to hear sounds from their patient’s hearts, lungs, and other bodily systems when needed.

Benefits of an amplifier in a stethoscope

Improves sound sensitivity:

An amplifier in a stethoscope has many benefits, the most important of which is that it allows the user to hear faint or distant sounds more clearly. This is especially beneficial in situations where low sound levels are common, such as in pediatrics and cardiology. Additionally, an amplifier can also help to reduce background noise, making it easier to focus on the sound being amplified.

Some of the other benefits of an amplifier in a stethoscope include:

Improved sound quality :

An amplifier can help to improve the quality of sound by making it clearer and easier to hear. This is especially beneficial in situations where background noise is present.

Increased volume :

An amplifier can also help to increase the volume of sound, making it easier to hear faint or distant sounds.

Reduced background noise:

One of the most beneficial aspects of an amplifier is that it can help to reduce background noise, making it easier to focus on the sound being amplified.

Improved patient comfort – An amplifier can also help to improve patient comfort by reducing the need for them to strain to hear faint or distant sounds.

Types of amplifier in a stethoscope

There are two main types of amplifier in a stethoscope: digital and analog.

Digital amplifiers are the most common type of amplifier in a stethoscope. They work by converting the sound waves into digital signals, which are then amplified and outputted as sound.

Analog amplifiers, on the other hand, work by directly amplifying the sound waves. This results in a more natural sound, but it can also introduce more noise into the signal.

The ability of electronic stethoscopes to amplify sounds, on average, up to 50 times greater than acoustic ones is a significant advantage. This might improve the accuracy of a diagnosis.

Which type of amplifier is best?

There is no single answer to this question as it depends on the specific needs of the user. For example, digital amplifiers are more common in stethoscopes because they tend to provide a clearer sound. However, analog amplifiers can be beneficial in situations where a more natural sound is desired.

Some of the other factors that should be considered when choosing an amplifier include the type of stethoscope being used, the environment in which it will be used, and the budget.

Stethoscope Accessories to amplify sounds:

There are a number of stethoscope accessories that can be used to amplify sounds, including:

Stethophone:

A stethophone is a small, handheld amplifier that can be placed on the chestpiece of a stethoscope. It amplifies sound by up to 20 times and is ideal for use in situations where low sound levels are common.

Acoustic coupler:

An acoustic coupler is a small device that fits onto the chestpiece of a stethoscope. It amplifies sound by up to 10 times and is ideal for use in situations where background noise is present.

Stethophone amplifier:

A stethophone amplifier is a larger, handheld amplifier that can be placed on the chestpiece of a stethoscope. It amplifies sound by up to 50 times and is ideal for use in situations where low sound levels are common.

Stereo-to-Mono Adapter:

A stereo-to-mono adapter is a small device that can be used to connect a stethoscope with an amplifier. It allows the user to hear both channels of sound in a stereo signal, which can be helpful in situations where low sound levels are common. It costs about $6.

Specialist Adult Diaphragm

The Specialist Adult Diaphragm for Stethoscope Amplification is a stainless steel diaphragm that provides 50% greater sound sensitivity than other diaphragms. It also provides a more comfortable feel, allowing the listener to use the split finger technique. The Specialist Adult Diaphragm is supplied standard on all E-Scope models. This one is more expensive going for $60.

Special Pediatric Bell

The Special Pediatric Bell is designed to amplify the sound of auscultation for pediatric patients and smaller adult patients. The bell has been designed with a stainless steel diaphragm that provides 60% greater sound sensitivity than a traditional bell. It also has a heavier, more comfortable feel and allows the listener to use the split-finger technique. A similar one for adults’ costs $60 as well.

Reviews of Top Stethoscopes with Amplifiers:

ADC Adscope 658 Electronic Amplified Stethoscope

ADC described their 658 model of the Amplified stethoscope as a game changer that will amplify even the lowest of sounds up to 18 times so that you can hear what you could have missed with a traditional acoustic instrument.

With an eight-step volume control and last-setting memory, it’s easy to find the perfect sound level for any patient. The multifunction button also controls the frequency mode (bell or diaphragm) and the volume (eight levels), making it easy to find the perfect sound for any situation. The rechargeable Li-ion battery provides up to 20 hours of continuous use on a full charge, making it perfect for long shifts. The high-impact thermoplastic resin housing is durable and resists scratches and stains.

It’s a traditional style cardiology headset with bilumen tubing and stainless-steel binaurals. The contact-activated microphone filters higher-frequency background noises that typically interfere with auscultation, then amplifies heart and lung sound up to 18X. The backlit LCD display powers down automatically if not in use. Two-year warranty on electronics (chest piece), lifetime warranty on tubing.

Pros:

-8-step volume control

-Last setting memory

-Multifunction button

-Rechargeable battery

-Durable housing

Cons:

-May be too sensitive for some users

-Noisy in environments with a lot of background noise

Bottom line:

The ADC Adscope 658 is a great choice for anyone with hearing impairment looking for an amplified stethoscope. It has many features that make it a versatile and user-friendly tool, such as the 8-step volume control and the last setting memory. The rechargeable battery is also a great feature, as it allows for long shifts. However, the sensitivity of the microphone may be too much for some users and it can be noisy in environments with a lot of background noise.

Eko Core attachment:

The Eko Core attachment is the world’s first automated murmur detector for stethoscopes. It provides up to 40x amplification and active noise cancellation for clear, accurate auscultation.

The Eko Core is compatible with most adult and pediatric stethoscopes and can be paired with the Eko App for wireless listening. It also has analog and amplified listening modes for use with any stethoscope. The Eko Core is telehealth ready, making it perfect for remote consultations.

Image showing amplification of heart murmurs by Eko Core Adapter
Image showing amplification of heart murmurs by Eko Core Adapter

E-Scope II Belt Model

The E-Scope II Belt Model is a belt clip amplifier that is up to 50dB louder than acoustic stethoscopes and operates on one AAA battery (included). It has an auto shut-off feature to preserve battery life and filters for heart and breath sounds. It also includes a belt clip, output jack for headphones, and an assortment of bells and diaphragms. It has a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Steth-O-Mate for Littmann Stethoscopes

These are amplifier adapters that can be used with Littmann 3100 and Littman 3200. If you wear a CIC or ITC hearing aid and use a Littmann stethoscope, then Steth-O-Mate is the perfect accessory for you! These soft, silicone inserts fit snugly over the stethoscope’s eartips and accommodate most hearing aids. Each package contains one pair of inserts.

Steth-O-Mate for Littmann Stethoscope Adapters make it easier for doctors and other medical professionals who wear hearing aids to use a stethoscope. Available in two sizes, these adapters fit snugly on top of your stethoscope’s eartips, allowing you to hear patients’ heartbeats clearly. Made of durable plastic, these adapters are easy to clean and keep in good condition.

FAQs

Q: What is the best stethoscope with amplifier?

A: The ADC Adscope 658 is a great choice for anyone with hearing impairment looking for an amplified stethoscope. It has many features that make it a versatile and user-friendly tool, such as the 8-step volume control and the last setting memory. The rechargeable battery is also a great feature, as it allows for long shifts. However, the sensitivity of the microphone may be too much for some users and it can be noisy in environments with a lot of background noise.

Q: How do I use a stethoscope with amplifier?

A: First, you need to find an adapter that fits your hearing aid. Then, you need to put the adapter on your hearing aid. After that, you can put the stethoscope’s eartips in your ears and start using it!

Q: What are the benefits of using a stethoscope with amplifier?

A: There are many benefits of using a stethoscope with amplifier. One benefit is that it can help you hear better. Another benefit is that it can help you communicate better with patients. Lastly, it can help you save time by amplifying heart and lung sounds.