Jennifer, here at our museum we too have looked into the option of audio
tours. Three companies we have researched are Antenna Audio, Acoustiguide
and Soundtrack. From the research done for our museum digital audio systems
seem to be the preferred format (as opposed to  analog). I have some charts
and figures from the research that was done for us, if you would like me to
pass that on to you just let me know. I would also recommend taking on the
role of a visitor and visiting some historic sites that offer such audio
tours, set up meetings with their staff to discuss the pros and cons of
their experiences etc. I can understand the situation with retention of
guides too. But, it is tricky weather the audio tour really fits the feel of
an historic home.

Let me know if I can be of any further help, or if you would like some of
the information I mentioned above.

Thanks...Sheri Levinsky

Sheri J. Levinsky, MAT
Director of Education & Programs
Decatur House Museum, NTHP
748 Jackson Place, NW
Washington, DC 20006
voice 202.842.0918 fax 202.842.0030
[log in to unmask]
www.decaturhouse.org


-----Original Message-----
From: Jennifer Lancaster [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2001 11:35 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: automated tours


Greetings!

The museum I work for is a historic home struggling to retain guides
and is considering a switch from docent-guided tours to self-guided
tours using automated devices.  I'm wondering if anyone could suggest
companies that offer these, particularly those of the personal,
hand-held variety. Also, any thoughts about making such a switch would
be appreciated.  You may reply off-list.  Thanks in advance!

Jennifer Lancaster

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