Introducing Auracast: a new way to hear more clearly at the Corn Exchange Newbury

We’re always looking for ways to make our customers' experience at the Corn Exchange Newbury more accessible and enjoyable.

Following feedback from our audiences and our own operational reviews, we know that sound quality can sometimes be a barrier for customers who are D/deaf or hard of hearing. While we already have an induction loop system in our main auditorium, we know that it doesn’t always provide the consistent, clear listening experience that everyone needs.

That’s why, thanks to a grant from the Theatres Trust's Small Grants Programme (supported by The Linbury Trust) we have been able to introduce a new Auracast assistive listening system in our auditorium, alongside our existing induction loop.

What is Auracast?

Auracast is a new type of wireless audio technology that uses low-energy Bluetooth to broadcast sound directly to compatible devices, with virtually no delay.

If you have an Auracast-compatible device, such as a smartphone, wireless headphones, hearing aids or cochlear implants, you can connect directly to our broadcast and listen to the performance through your own device.

Auracast is still a relatively new technology, so not every device is compatible yet. If you’re hoping to use your own device, we recommend checking with the manufacturer beforehand to see whether it supports Auracast. You may also need to download your device’s companion app before your visit.

Look out for the Auracast logo on your device or in its settings to help identify whether it is compatible.

How does it work at the Corn Exchange?

When you arrive and enter the auditorium, your compatible device or its companion app will either automatically detect our Auracast broadcasts or ask you to scan for them.

You’ll see two audio broadcasts available to choose from.

Room sound gives you the natural acoustic sound of the auditorium, including audience reactions such as cheering, laughter and applause.

Sound desk feed provides a more direct feed from our sound desk, giving you a clearer and more focused listening experience with less background distraction.

You can choose whichever option works best for you.

The system can be used anywhere in the auditorium, so you don’t need to sit in a particular seat to access it.

Please note that the Auracast broadcast is only available inside the auditorium and cannot be accessed elsewhere in the Corn Exchange building.

What if my device isn't Auracast compatible?

Don't worry, you can still use the new system.

We have four Auracast receivers available to borrow from the Box Office. One receiver is needed per person. Please ask at the Box Office when you arrive if you would like to use one or email boxoffice@cornexchangenew.co.uk before your visit.

The receivers can be used with wired headphones, including your own if you prefer, or with a personal induction neck-loop. The neck-loop can be used with hearing aids that have a T-Coil function.

This means you can benefit from the new system even if your personal phone, hearing aids or headphones don't yet support Auracast.

Aurcast is also compatible with cochlear implant users.

Why have we introduced it?

Our existing induction loop remains available, but we know from customer feedback that it doesn't work equally well for everyone.

Loop systems rely on a compatible T-Coil and can sometimes be affected by interference from electrical and lighting equipment. Coverage can also vary depending on where you are sitting in the auditorium.

Auracast gives us another way to provide assistive listening and, importantly, gives you more choice and control over how you listen.

We hope this will make it easier for more customers to enjoy performances in a way that works for them.

Our team is here to help

We know that new technology can sometimes feel daunting, but the system is designed to be straightforward to use.

Our Front of House Supervisors have been trained on the Auracast receivers and can help if you need assistance when you arrive.

If you're planning to use your own device, we recommend checking its Auracast compatible and downloading any necessary companion app before your visit. This will help you get connected more easily when you arrive.

We’re really pleased to be able to introduce this new technology and to continue improving accessibility at the Corn Exchange Newbury. Most importantly, this development comes directly from listening to our audiences and responding to what our customers have told us they need.

We hope Auracast gives more people the choice, independence and confidence to enjoy live performance in a way that works best for them.