Classroom audio has been used by school districts around the country for over twenty years. More than fifty independent research projects have come to the same basic conclusion: classroom audio boosts academic achievement by simply allowing every student to clearly hear the spoken instruction.
Most of your questions will be answered in this section, however, should you come up with a novel inquiry or would like a more detailed explanation, contact Lightspeed by
e-mail or at 800-732-8999/503-684-5538.
General Information about Classroom Audio
What is Classroom audio?
What is “Sound-field”?
Who will benefit from classroom audio?
I have a loud teaching voice. Why would I need Classroom audio?
Where would I get some more information on studies about Classroom audio?
General Lightspeed Information
What is the Lightspeed difference?
How long has Lightspeed been in business?
What sets Lightspeed apart from its competitors?
Does Lightspeed attend trade shows?
How can the Lightspeed Classroom Audio Consultant help?
I need to make a presentation on Classroom Audio. Can Lightspeed help?
How do I get a 45-day demo?
What are some benefits to the 45-day evaluation program?
Technical/Service Questions
My equipment is not functioning properly. What should I do?
My equipment is damaged. Can it be repaired?
What is an “RA” number?
Can I get prepaid shipping labels from Lightspeed?
I am unhappy with my equipment. Can I return it?
I want a different microphone. Can I exchange mine?
The teacher next door is complaining that he/she hears my lesson. What should I do?
Can the TV/DVD player in my classroom be integrated with the classroom audio system?
Should I take any precautions when storing my system over the summer?
Are there on-site service contracts available?
General Installation Questions
Does my Classroom audio system need to be installed?
Who is going to install my system?
My system needs to be moved. What should I do?
Warranty Information
What is the warranty period for classroom systems and what does it cover?
What is the warranty period for the personal FM products and what does it cover?
My microphone was stolen. Is this covered under warranty?
Is physical damage covered under the Lightspeed warranties?
General Information on Infrared Technology
What is the difference between RF and IR wireless technologies?
Is there a limit to the number of systems I can have in my school?
Can IR work outside?
Product Information
What is a REDMIKE?
Why should I get an extra microphone?
Where should I position the REDMIKE for best results?
How often should I charge my microphone?
How do I connect a personal FM unit to my classroom system?
How many IR microphones can I operate simultaneously?
Why are there different speaker options?
What type of speaker should I choose?
How does the TCQ speaker work?
What is the effective coverage of a Classroom Audio System?
I need portable audio. What is my best option?
Does Lightspeed sell rechargeable batteries?
What is the life span of the rechargeable NiMH batteries?
Can I use alkaline batteries in my microphone?
What is the expected life span of a classroom audio system?
I have radio frequency (RF) based classroom systems. Can I upgrade to an infrared (IR) system?
Does Lightspeed have a product catalog?
Who will train me on the use of my system?
How much maintenance is involved?
Order Information
How do I order a Lightspeed system?
Can I get a quote on Lightspeed products and how long is the quote good for?
I’m planning on purchasing many systems. Is there a discount?
Does Lightspeed have grant information to help with purchasing systems?
Do I have to pay for shipping and handling?
Do I have to pay tax since the product is coming from Oregon?
Who is eligible for the education discount?
I need portable Audio. What is my best option?
General Information about Classroom Audio
Q. What is Classroom Audio?
A. A wireless microphone system with speakers that are installed in a classroom to amplify the teachers voice so that each child hears every word every time. The teacher’s and/or student’s voice is amplified to overcome background noise, poor room acoustics and mild hearing loss to make it easier for students to understand and concentrate on what the teacher and/or student is saying.
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Q. What is “Sound-Field”?
A. It is the field, or area, that is covered by amplified sound.
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Q. Who will benefit from classroom audio?
A. Everyone.
• Effects of high ambient noise levels are overcome
• 30% of children will hear their teacher significantly better
• Teacher absenteeism is reduced
• English Language Learners experience improved word recognition
• Academic test scores improve
• Children with learning disabilities benefit
• Attention and on-task times improve
• Classroom stress is lowered
• Behavior problems are reduced
• Fewer special education referrals
• Class interaction and participation increases
• Improvement in literacy achievement
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Q. I have a loud teaching voice. Why would I need Classroom Audio?
A. A classroom audio system will evenly disperse the teacher’s voice throughout the classroom so that every student can hear all the components of speech as accurately as possible. A loud voice does not mean that consonants are louder. It is impossible for a person to make consonants louder and consonants are key to speech intelligibility. An Audio system amplifies the parts of speech that give intelligibility and make it easier for students to understand and concentrate on what the teacher is saying.
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Q. Where would I get some more information on studies about Classroom Audio?
A. Many studies can be downloaded from our website. We have a large library of studies that have been done and we would be happy to send you as many copies as you need.
General Lightspeed Information
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Q. What is the Lightspeed difference?
A. Lightspeed is an audio engineering company specializing in infrared products, classroom audio systems, personal FM systems and portable sound systems. Our products are designed to deliver optimum speech intelligibility—providing crystal-clear sound to students regardless of the listening environment.
Not all classroom audio companies are the same. Lightspeed Technologies combines an unflinching dedication to quality and superior performance with top-notch customer service.
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Q. How long has Lightspeed been in business?
A. Lightspeed started in 1990 as a manufacturer of professional wireless FM systems. In 1994, we expanded to include a line of high-quality classroom Audio systems and making a strong commitment to improve the learning potential of all students.
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Q. What sets Lightspeed apart from its competitors?
A. Lightspeed’s reputation for product innovation, quality, outstanding service – including the longest warranty (five years) in the industry, is unmatched. Lightspeed was the first company to offer NXT bent-wave speaker technology with a “Picture Speaker”. We revolutionized the industry in 2001 with the introduction of our infrared “LightMic” transmitter. This transmitter has no cumbersome belt pack or microphone wire to wear—it’s completely wireless! And our team of sales representatives are highly qualified, knowledgeable professionals, whose ultimate goals are quality customer service and dedication to the improvement of learning for all children.
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Q. Does Lightspeed attend trade shows?
A. Yes, we attend over 100 local, regional and national trade shows. Please call for information on a particular show or conference that you will be attending.
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Q. How can the Lightspeed Classroom Audio Consultant help?
A. The Classroom Audio Consultant is available for presentations, recommending appropriate system and configuration, in-service training.
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Q. I need to make a presentation on Classroom Audio. Can Lightspeed help?
A. The local Classroom Audio Consultant can help you with this. Also, we would be happy to put together some information packets that can be handed out at the presentation.
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Q. How do I get a 45-day demo?
A. Every demo goes through your local Classroom Audio Consultant (CAC). We will be happy to go over with you the type of system you would like to demo and forward that information to the CAC. The CAC will then contact you to finalize your demo request. There is no cost obligation on your part. If you decide not to purchase the demo equipment, Lightspeed will even provide prepaid shipping labels to have the product returned to us.
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Q. What are some benefits to the 45-day evaluation program?
A. The evaluation program provides schools with an opportunity to experience the benefits of classroom sudio at no cost or obligation. Lightspeed covers the cost of shipping the system to the school and if you decide not to purchase, we also cover the return shipping.
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Technical/Service Questions
Q. My equipment is not functioning properly. What should I do?
A. Review the troubleshooting section of the owner’s manual. If the problem persists, call the Lightspeed service department to further troubleshoot the problem. If the technician determines that the product needs to be returned for service, he will issue a return authorization number (RA#) to track the repair. Repair by other than Lightspeed or its authorized service agencies will void the warranty.
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Q. My equipment is damaged. Can it be repaired?
A. Yes in many instances. Please contact the Lightspeed service department to determine the most cost effective course of action.
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Q. What is an “RA” number?
A. RA stands for Return Authorization. This number is used to track items that have been returned for repair.
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Q. Can I get prepaid shipping labels from Lightspeed?
A. Lightspeed provides prepaid shipping labels for demo returns or if a purchased item needs to be advance replaced due to damage in shipment or out of box failure.
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Q. I am unhappy with my equipment. Can I return it?
A. You may return the equipment within 30 days of the invoice and receive a full refund of the purchase price. After 30 days, there is a minimum 15% restocking fee.
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Q. I want a different microphone. Can I exchange mine?
A. You may exchange a microphone of equal price within the first 30 days at no extra charge.
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Q. The teacher next door is complaining that he/she hears my lesson. What should I do?
A. Often, the volume of the classroom Audio system is turned up too high. The volume should be at a level that is heard well by the students and not necessarily the teacher. Sometimes in-ceiling speakers need to be shielded in order to prevent ‘bleeding over’ of sound from one classroom to another. Lightspeed offers a speaker enclosure to address this issue.
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Q. Can the TV/DVD player in my classroom be integrated with the classroom audio system?
A. Yes, anything that you want to have amplified through the system speakers can be integrated. If the audio output is available, a simple patch cable can connect the TV/DVD to the system via AUX input on the back of the amplifier.
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Q. Should I take any precautions when storing my system over the summer?
A. The only precautions that are necessary are to fully charge the batteries, and then make sure the transmitter and receiver are unplugged from the power source.
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Q. Are there on-site service contracts available?
A. If there is an installation provider in your area, on-site service may be purchased from that provider.
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General Installation Questions
Q. Does my Classroom Audio system need to be installed?
A. In most cases, yes. Each system is complete with everything needed to install and operate the system. The type of speaker choice will determine the difficulty in installation. Lightspeed’s service department is available to answer any questions regarding the installation. Depending on your location, we have a list of certified installers that may be available to install your system.
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Q. Who is going to install my system?
A. You can work with the Listening Enhancement Consultant in your area to determine the best installation solution.
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Q. My system needs to be moved. What should I do?
A. Lightspeed’s service department is available to answer any questions regarding the re-installation. Depending on your location, we have a list of certified installers that may be available to move your system to a different room.
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Warranty Information
Q. What is the warranty period for classroom systems and what does it cover?
A. The main system components (amplifier, speakers, microphones, power supply) have a limited warranty of five years from the date of purchase. The accessories (rechargeable batteries, external cables & wires) have a limited warranty of one year. Warranty does not extend to finish, appearance items or malfunctions due to abuse or operation other than specified conditions; nor does it extend to incidental or consequential damages.
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Q. What is the warranty period for the personal FM products and what does it cover?
A. The personal FM products have a two-year limited warranty on all components against malfunctions due to defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not extend to finish, appearance items, or malfunctions due to abuse or operation other than specified conditions, nor does it extend to incidental or consequential damages.
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Q. My microphone was stolen. Is this covered under warranty?
A. No. The warranty covers malfunction due to materials and workmanship.
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Q. Is physical damage covered under the Lightspeed warranties?
A. The warranty does not apply to incidental or consequential damages.
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General Information on Infrared Technology
Q. What is the difference between RF and IR wireless technologies?
A. RF (radio frequency) technology uses radio waves to transmit the audio signal. These are susceptible to RF interference. IR (infrared) technology uses infrared light to carry the audio signal thus keeping the signal in the room and eliminating RF interference.
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Q. Is there a limit to the number of systems I can have in my school?
A. With FM technology, there is a limit depending on local interference and the number of systems desired. With IR technology, as long as the classrooms are enclosed, there is no limit to the number of systems you can have on one campus.
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Q. Can IR work outside?
A. No. Large open-air spaces overwhelm the IR signal. The reflective nature of this technology is ideal for standard classroom audio.
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Product Information
Q. What is a REDMIKE?
A. The “REDMIKE” is an integrated microphone transmitter, which clips to a lavaliere cord around the neck. There are no wires or belt-pack to wear.
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Q. Why should I get an extra microphone?
A. An extra microphone can be used for team teaching. It can also be a powerful tool to help students gain confidence when presenting or reading aloud. Also, it is very helpful for students to hear their fellow classmates as they make their presentations.
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Q. Where should I position the REDMIKE for best results?
A. It should be worn around the neck with the top of the microphone positioned at the collarbone.
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Q. How often should I charge my microphone?
A. A microphone that is being used regularly needs to be charged every night.
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Q. How do I connect a personal FM unit to my classroom system?
A. The personal FM transmitter is patched with a cord from the mic jack to the mixed audio auxiliary output on the back of the classroom amplifier. This will then transmit the signal to the personal FM receiver that the student is wearing or has on the desktop.
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Q. How many IR microphones can I operate simultaneously?
A. Each classroom audio system has two frequencies so that two microphones can be used simultaneously. Lightspeed also offers an additional piggy-back system with two additional frequencies that will enable the simultaneous use of four microphones in a room.
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Q. Why are there different speaker options?
A. Not all classrooms are the same. We have several options available to accommodate each classroom acoustical environment.
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Q. What type of speaker should I choose?
A. Lightspeed offers several types of speakers to meet many different room sizes and acoustic needs. The room dimensions and ceiling height will determine which speaker will provide optimum performance.
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Q. How does the TCQ speaker work?
A. This combination flat panel and cone speaker is designed to saturate the room with sound. The flat-panel speaker is different from a conventional cone type-speaker, which is very directional. If you think of a person using a bullhorn, this is a good example of the cone-type speaker. As the person turns with the bullhorn, so does the audio signal. The TCQ speaker disperses sound with random sound vectors from the surface of the speaker in nearly a 180° radius saturating the room with sound and creating an even sound pressure level (SPL). Lightspeed's unique cross-over technology allows us to also incorporate a cone speaker for the full range of sound that today's multimedia classrooms need. A single TCQ speaker covers the entire classroom.
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Q. What is the effective coverage of a Classroom Audio System?
A. The coverage for a Lightspeed Classroom Audio System will depend upon speaker choice. Typically, a system covers 1200 to1600 square feet.
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Q. I need portable Audio. What is my best option?
A. Lightspeed has two options for portable Audio. For regular classroom use, many teachers prefer to use the 705iR. This system uses the same LightMic transmitter that is used with the infrared classroom Audio systems. This unit will cover up to 1200 square feet and must be used indoors. If you need to amplify a room that is larger, has cathedral ceilings, has multiple large windows or if you need to use the system outdoors, Lightspeed has the Delta PA portable system. This FM system is frequency agile and has 16 UHF frequencies to choose from, reducing interference issues.
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Q. Does Lightspeed sell rechargeable batteries?
A. Yes, with a one-year warranty.
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Q. What is the life span of the rechargeable NiMH batteries?
A. These batteries with proper care can last up to three years.
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Q. Can I use alkaline batteries in my microphone?
A. Yes, but these batteries CAN NOT be charged as charging them will cause damage that is not covered under warranty.
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Q. What is the expected life span of a classroom audio system?
A. With proper maintenance, a classroom audio system should last approximately 10+ years.
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Q. I have radio frequency (RF) based classroom systems. Can I upgrade to an infrared (IR) system?
A. Yes. You can add an infrared microphone system to your RF system. This allows you to keep your existing amplifier and speakers and add only the IR wireless microphone component.
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Q. Does Lightspeed have a product catalog?
A. We have information packets available for download from our website or we can mail them if you prefer.
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Q. Who will train me on the use of my system?
A. The system comes with an operating manual, but the local Classroom Audio Consultant in your area may be available for in-service training.
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Q. How much maintenance is involved?
A. The Pendant mic and Handheld batteries need to be charged nightly.
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Order Information
Q. How do I order a Lightspeed system?
A. You can purchase equipment with a credit card or at net 30 with credit approval. School districts and schools may purchase with a purchase order.
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Q. Can I get a quote on Lightspeed products and how long is the quote good for?
A. We would be happy to provide you with a quote. Each quote is valid for 60 days.
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Q. I’m planning on purchasing many systems. Is there a discount?
A. Multi-system discounts are available. The discount will depend upon the number of systems being purchased.
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Q. Does Lightspeed have grant information to help with purchasing systems?
A. Yes. We have a document that describes several different grants and we can either mail or email you a copy.
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Q. Do I have to pay for shipping and handling?
A. Yes, for new equipment. If you are purchasing a demo system, then there is no charge for freight.
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Q. Do I have to pay tax since the product is coming from Oregon?
A. Yes, in states where it applies.
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Q. Who is eligible for the education discount?
A. School Districts, Schools, Educators, ESD’s (support organizations), PTO groups, clinical audiologists.
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Q. I need portable audio. What is my best option?
A. Lightspeed has two options for portable Audio. For regular classroom use, many teachers prefer to use the 705iR. This system uses the same LightMic transmitter that is used with the infrared classroom Audio systems. This unit will cover up to 1200 square feet and must be used indoors. If you need to amplify a room that is larger, has cathedral ceilings, has multiple large windows or if you need to use the system outdoors, Lightspeed has the Delta PA portable audio system. This FM system is frequency agile and has 16 UHF frequencies to choose from, reducing interference issues.
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