BIGmack

£139.00
Available for VAT relief
Product Code (SKU)
3478

The BIGmack is a simple yet powerful single-message communicator designed for users who need an easy-to-use device for communication or interactive activities. This versatile tool allows you to record speech, music, or any sound in just a few seconds, making it ideal for introducing users to sound recording technology. Whether you’re recording a repeated phrase from a story or a line from a song, the BIGmack enables users to play back the message at the right moment by simply pressing the large button.

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BIGmack: A Simple, Effective Communicator for Quick and Easy Messaging

The BIGmack is perfect for a variety of uses, including quick communication, storytelling, or even interactive play with toys and appliances. With its large, easy-to-press button, the BIGmack is ideal for individuals with limited dexterity or motor control, providing a simple way to engage in communication or play.

Key Features:

  • Large single-button design for easy activation and playback of recorded messages, ensuring quick and clear communication.
  • 2 minutes of recording time, offering ample space for storing messages, phrases, or sounds.
  • Adjustable volume control and an on/off switch, allowing for convenient and flexible use in various settings.
  • Toy/appliance jack and cable included, making the BIGmack an interactive tool for connecting with external toys or devices for play-based learning.
  • Comes with interchangeable tops in red, blue, yellow, and green, providing personalization options to suit the user’s preferences.
  • External switch jack for use with specialty switches, making the device accessible for users with more specific physical needs.

Powered by 1 x 9V battery (included), ensuring the device is ready to use straight out of the box.

Dimensions: 16cm x 4.5cm x 17cm, making it compact and easy to handle.

Our Matrix Maker Plus software is available for just £129 when purchased with any communication aid valued at £100 or more. This software allows users to create custom picture overlays that provide visual support for the recorded messages.

Please note: The BIGmack is a communicator and not a switch. For switch options, please refer to our Switches section to see our full range.

Quick Glance

We’ve created an easy comparison on how the BIGmack compares with the BIG Step-by-Step:

Feature BIGmack BIG Step-by-Step
Product Type Single-message communication device Sequential messaging communication device
Message Capacity 1 recorded message Multiple recorded messages in sequence
Recording Time Up to 2 minutes Up to 2 minutes total for all messages
Activation Surface Size 5-inch diameter 5-inch diameter
Switch Input Yes Yes
Switch Output Yes Yes
Usage Scenario Ideal for single-message communication Ideal for step-by-step instructions or storytelling
Dimensions 16cm x 4.5cm x 17cm 16cm x 4.5cm x 17cm

Technical Support

  • The manufacturer highly recommendeds using a disposable (non-rechargeable) alkaline 9V battery with this device. Alternative batteries may be comprised of materials that do not distribute power in a suitable manner, and when installed, some users may experience inconsistencies.
  • If you suspect there may be a fault with your device (e.g. if message recording or playback is inconsistent), please first try installing a new battery before contacting our Support team.
  • This device has a two year manufacturer's warranty. If any issues arise during this time, please contact  [email protected].

The BIGmack is a versatile communication device that enables individuals with disabilities to communicate with a single message at the press of a large, easy-to-activate button. Here are several engaging activities that can be done with the BIGmack, especially suited for educational and interactive settings:

1. Daily Greetings

  • Setup: Record a greeting like "Hello, how are you?" or "Good morning!"
  • Activity: Encourage users to greet classmates, family members, or caregivers by pressing the BIGmack at the start of each day, promoting social interaction and practicing communication.

2. Choice-Making

  • Setup: Record choices such as “I want more” or “I’m finished.”
  • Activity: Use the BIGmack during snack time, activities, or games, allowing users to make choices by pressing the button, which fosters independence and decision-making skills.

3. Requesting Assistance

  • Setup: Record phrases like "I need help, please" or "Can you come here?"
  • Activity: The BIGmack can act as a quick and effective way for users to request assistance, encouraging self-advocacy and independence.

4. Storytelling or Participating in Stories

  • Setup: Record a repetitive line from a book or story, such as “Run, run as fast as you can!” for The Gingerbread Man.
  • Activity: During group story time, users can press the BIGmack at key moments, actively participating in the storytelling, building literacy skills, and enhancing engagement.

5. Group Games and Activities

  • Setup: Record simple instructions or sounds, such as "Your turn!" or “Great job!”
  • Activity: The BIGmack can help users take part in group games, providing them with a way to communicate and interact with peers, making activities like board games or circle time inclusive.

6. Song Lyrics or Repetitive Phrases in Music

  • Setup: Record a line from a song, like “Old McDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O.”
  • Activity: Play interactive music sessions where the user presses the BIGmack to join in on familiar lyrics, enhancing rhythm, language development, and enjoyment in music.

7. Step-by-Step Instructions for Routines

  • Setup: Record each step of a routine, such as washing hands ("First, turn on the water" or "Now, use soap").
  • Activity: During daily routines, users can press the BIGmack to hear the next step, reinforcing routines, developing memory, and fostering independence.

8. Emotion Expression

  • Setup: Record a phrase like "I feel happy" or "I feel tired."
  • Activity: This allows users to express their emotions, helping build emotional literacy, communication, and self-awareness.

9. Sensory Exploration

  • Setup: Record sounds that align with sensory objects or activities, like "Soft" or “This feels bumpy.”
  • Activity: Pair the BIGmack with sensory play activities, where users press the button to describe textures or actions, enhancing vocabulary and sensory engagement.

10. Interactive Scavenger Hunt

  • Setup: Record clues like “Look for something red” or “Find something soft.”
  • Activity: Create a fun scavenger hunt where users follow audio cues to find items around the room, promoting physical activity, listening skills, and problem-solving.

The BIGmack is flexible enough to support social interaction, decision-making, communication, and independence in a variety of settings, making it an invaluable resource for classrooms, therapy, and home learning.