How to Hear the TV More Clearly Without Turning Up the Volume

Few things cause more friction at home than the television volume. One person has it low, another cannot follow the dialogue, and the remote becomes a tug of war. The good news is there are several simple ways to make TV speech clearer without turning everything up.

1. Turn on subtitles

It sounds obvious, but subtitles take the pressure off your ears and let you relax into the programme. Most televisions and streaming apps turn them on in a couple of taps.

2. Use your TV's dialogue or speech mode

Many modern televisions have a sound setting called Clear Voice, Dialogue or Speech. It lifts voices above background music and effects, which are often the real culprits when dialogue gets lost.

3. Add a soundbar

Flat-screen televisions have small, downward-facing speakers. A simple soundbar projects sound towards you and makes speech noticeably clearer, even at a lower overall volume.

4. Cut the background noise

Close the window, pause the dishwasher, and reduce competing sounds in the room. Background noise makes your brain work harder to pick out speech.

5. Sit a little closer and face the screen

Sound weakens with distance, and seeing a presenter's face genuinely helps your brain fill in words. A better seat can make a real difference.

6. Try a personal sound amplifier

If you would rather keep the volume where everyone else is comfortable, a personal sound amplifier gives you the extra clarity without touching the television at all. You hear the dialogue more clearly while the rest of the room stays happy.

HearWithUs is a discreet, rechargeable in-canal sound amplifier designed to make everyday sounds, including television dialogue, easier to catch, for £159 a pair with a 30-day money-back promise.

HearWithUs sound amplifiers are personal sound amplification products for everyday listening. They are not medical devices and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or correct any hearing condition. If you have concerns about your hearing, please consult a qualified professional.