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How to receive Audio Description

Summary: Different ways you can receive Audio Description on digital TV.

• How do I get digital TV?
• How much does Audio Description cost?
• How can I receive Audio Description?
• Download the Audio Description leaflet

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'When I show people Audio Description in action, I get so many questions about how to get it. If they have Sky or Virgin Media digital TV I tell them you've already got it, you just need to switch it on!'
Pete Atkin, AD Promotion Officer, RNIB

How do I get digital TV?

In order to watch programmes with Audio Description you must be able to receive digital TV. If you can receive more than five or six channels then you’re probably already digital.

If you do not already have digital TV, you will either need to convert it to digital using a set-top box or replace it with an Integrated Digital TV (IDTV). Not all set-top boxes and IDTVs can receive AD.

Buying AD-ready digital equipment can be a challenge. Shop assistants are often unaware of what AD is. It may help if you investigate equipment options and specific model numbers before going to a store and take these with you. Read our list of equipment for Audio Description to find out more.

How much does Audio Description cost?

Although AD itself is free, you may need to buy some equipment to receive it. Prices vary, so it’s worth shopping around to find the right equipment for you.

The Digital Switchover Help Scheme provides help and support for eligible people.

You will still need a TV license if you have digital TV. All children and adults who are registered blind receive a 50 per cent discount to their television license. Licences for people over 75 are free. Find out how to obtain a blind concession TV licence.

How can I receive Audio Description?

There are three main ways to receive AD.

Sky / Virgin Media

With Sky and Virgin Media, AD can be turned on and off using your remote control and on-screen menus. If you already have Sky or Virgin Media, then you can already receive AD! See instructions for turning on AD for Sky customers or Virgin Media customers.

Sky and Virgin Media both offer different packages for digital TV. With Sky you can pay a one-off installation cost with no monthly payments (Freesat) or you can pay a monthly subscription for more channels. Virgin Media offers digital TV with no additional monthly payments (Size M) when taken with its phone package, or you can pay a monthly subscription for more channels. No matter which of these packages you choose you will be able to access Audio Description at no additional cost.

To join either Sky or Virgin Media contact them directly or speak to your local electrical retailer.

• Sky - 08705 66 33 33
• Virgin Media - 0800 052 2525

Buy a Freeview digital box

This is a set-top box that gives you digital TV through your existing aerial. Only certain TVonics and Portset Freeview boxes can receive AD. Read our list of equipment for Audio Description to find out more.

Buy a Freeview Integrated Digital Television (IDTV)

An IDTV is a television with a built-in Freeview digital box. As with set-top digital boxes, not all IDTVs can receive AD. Those that can are certain Sony, Panasonic, Phillips and Toshiba sets. For a guide to IDTVs which can receive AD, visit the equipment page.

IDTVs with Audio Description can be bought from most major and independent electrical retailers.

Important: can you receive Freeview?

Before buying Freeview equipment, you should check whether you can receive it. Some areas of the UK cannot yet receive Freeview and five to 10 per cent of existing TV aerials cannot receive a digital signal and may need to be upgraded. Digital UK can advise on regional availability and registered installers in your area.

Download the Audio Description leaflet

Download your copy of our Audio Description for TV leaflet. It contains much of the information on these pages including types of equipment, how to receive AD and sources of help.

• Audio Description for TV (Word)
• Audio Description for TV (PDF)

You can also call the AD Helpline on 08456 01 01 81 to find out more.

Back to AD on TV home

Content author: audiodescription@rnib.org.uk

Last updated: 07/05/2008 13:13