Ktell was designed for use in psychiatric "intensive care rooms" (ICRs) as part of a research project conducted by the amenhotep group.

By providing this music interface, patients are helped through episodes of psychological crisis in a challenging environment, and care-givers are supported in their professional practice. In so doing, amenhotep has developed a way to empower patients through control over their sound environment.
See also:
Tutorial on the music listening device
Music listening research
Play list

Preserving autonomy

When patients are placed in ICRs, they can take charge of their music listening and have some control over their environment. The use of the music listening device has a real impact on the experience of patients in ICRs.

Four emotional dimensions

Joyful activation

Joyful, lively, catchy, dancey, sometimes cheeky, playful and sparkling music.

Nostalgia

Memory-evoking, melancholic, sentimental, dreamy music.

Calm

Relaxed, serene, peaceful, meditative, contemplative music.

Tension

Restless, jumpy, awe-inspiring, worrying, dark music.

The music selection has been thought out to provide four emotional themes, and patients can freely choose from among them according to their current state of mind. Their lyric-free nature allows for a more open and intimate interpretation of the sounds. To cater to the broad range of patients, there are a variety of styles, including classical, jazz, folk and film music.

Dialogue

The device opens up the possibility of engaging in a dialogue around music. Its use has a real impact on the experience of patients in ICRs.

Safety

The music player complies with the strict safety regulations of acute psychiatric wards. Care-givers can also adjust the volume and deactivate the device if necessary.

Design

The unit is ergonomic and aesthetic and sits flush in the wall of the room.