Abstract: An audio signal system is provided having, in one embodiment, a magnetostrictive core of varying shapes, sizes, and permeability. The core is wound with a wire, thereby forming an inductor for producing a magnetic field when current is passed through the wire. A speaker, or other audio output device, is positioned in parallel or series with the inductor. In operation, an audio signal is received and transmitted to the speaker or other audio output device, wherein a replication of the received signal is produced. An output of the magnetostrictive inductor couples with the replicated audio signal to modify and enhance the quality of the projected signal. In yet another embodiment, digital signal processing may be used to modify the received signal as well.

Abstract: An improved telephone handset for hearing-impaired persons. A passive device, in the form of an inductor wound about a highly magnetostrictive core, is connected with the speaker in the handset. The device has been found to improve intelligibility of speech delivered by the handset, when perceived by persons afflicted with certain types of hearing impairment.