Plantronics introduced a new member to their Calisto speakerphone family. The Calisto 7200 UC.
Like other new solutions Plantronics is producing, there aren’t “Microsoft” and “UC” variants. The Plantronics Calisto 7200 is certified for Skype for Business. Built for UC applications and softphones from Avaya, Cisco, Skype and others.
I’ve been using the Plantronics Calisto 7200 Speakerphone for several weeks now. It’s much better than the Calisto P610 and P620 in terms of audio quality for voice calls and streaming music.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/calisto-7200-5.jpg700700Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2018-08-07 15:23:142019-04-11 12:24:09Calisto 7200 USB and Bluetooth Premium Speakerphone
In Part I of this series we discussed who the top headset manufacturers are and why. In Part II we covered why it’s important to choose an Authorized Partner. Now…let’s get into it. How do you choose the right headsets for your organization?
Back in the day, it was so simple; Plug Prong or Multipurpose Amp, single ear, dual ear or convertible wearing style headset. That’s it.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/How-do-you-choose-the-right-headsets-for-your-organization-Part-3.jpg5121024Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2018-07-30 15:52:182020-04-23 11:19:04How do you choose the right headsets for your organization? Part III
In Part I of this series I listed reasons why Plantronics, Jabra and Sennheiser are currently the leaders in the headset space.
Now I want to focus on choosing the right partner/vendor/reseller. Every headset brand/model is available via the interwebz. If you are looking for one or two headsets and don’t value service or support, take a chance online.
If you value your role and want to do what’s best for your company keep reading.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/How-do-you-choose-the-right-headsets-for-your-organization-Part-2.jpg424636Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2018-07-13 15:50:522020-04-23 11:18:43How do you choose the right headsets for your organization? Part II
Having been in this industry for over 19 years I’ve had the opportunity to see the evolution of headsets. Some dismiss headsets as commodities however they are becoming increasingly critical to an organizations business processes and their overall business communications and collaboration strategies.
The headset is how your company’s voice is transmitted to the world. In addition to customers and partners, clear communications are also important internally amongst peers and colleagues. More emphasis should be placed on selecting the right headset if listening to your customers and being able to be heard clearly matters to you and your business.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/How-do-you-choose-the-right-headsets-for-your-organization-Part-I-2.png7501500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2018-07-09 15:46:122019-07-24 11:27:17How do you choose the right headsets for your organization? Part I
The Blue Commander is a high-speed USB 2.0 direct plug-in professional office headset designed to work with office desk phones and any USB device. This headset is ideal for professional office and contact center users, providing better posture and flexibility throughout the day.
Single earpiece allowing users to confer with colleagues
Left / right ear side compatible
60mm Smooth leatherette ear cushion
Supplied with high-speed USB 2.0 connector
270° adjustable microphone boom
Noise-canceling microphone
Lightweight Headset, ~ 54g
Sure-fit fully adjustable headband
Acoustic shock protection
24-month repair or replacement warranty
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/JPL-Blue-Commander-2.png7501500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2018-06-12 16:19:052019-03-04 17:49:52JPL Blue Commander
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Why-Logitech-for-Video-Conferencing.jpg6571500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2018-04-24 21:43:562021-03-18 12:50:13Why Logitech for Video Conferencing?
Noise is a major distraction in open offices today. It becomes extremely challenging for employees to focus on their work. Plus co-worker interruption causes a decrease in productivity as it takes an average of 23 minutes to get back on task.
How many times throughout the day are you interrupted or distracted?
One simple solution is to use an Active Noise Canceling (ANC) headset that helps reduce or completely block out background noise (if streaming audio/music).
There are different options from multiple manufacturers. All brands offer ANC headsets that are certified/optimized/compatible with all major UC platforms like Cisco, Microsoft, Avaya, 8×8, RingCentral, and more!
Each brand puts their own spin on the various models from SmartSensor technology to integrated BusyLight to Boom-less mic options. They also have corded USB variants as well as completely wireless headsets.
Asset Management is becoming increasingly more important. Jabra, Plantronics and Sennheiser all offer Enterprise Headset Management software.
Speak with Call One, Inc. Account Executive to help you identify which model is best for your use case!
These ANC headsets are all USB models. If you would like to use on your “desk phone”, Plantronics models can be connected to desk phone via the MDA 220.
Multiple connectivity options: Bluetooth 4.2, NFC, Audio cable with answer/end button (2.5 mm and 3.5 mm jack plugs), USB cable with micro-USB connector, BT800 USB dongle
Battery life: Up to 30 hours
Standby time: Up to 15 days
Range: Up to 82ft
2 Year Warranty
Sound Effect modes (via free Captunes App): Club, Movie, Speech, Director – User defined)
Nice hard cover carry case for portability
Audio quality when streaming music or watching movies via mobile device is awesome!
What’s bad?
On/Off done by folding speakers flat
I wasn’t a fan of the touch sensors, I like prominent buttons but that’s me
Noise is a major distraction in open offices today. It becomes extremely challenging for employees to focus on their work. Plus co-worker interruption causes a decrease in productivity as it takes an average of 23 minutes to get back on task.
How many times throughout the day are you interrupted or distracted?
One simple solution is to use an Active Noise Canceling (ANC) headset that helps reduce or completely block out background noise (especially if streaming music).
There are different options from multiple manufacturers. All brands offer ANC headsets that are certified/optimized/compatible with all major UC platforms like Cisco, Microsoft & Avaya.
Each brand puts their own spin on the various models from SmartSensor technology to integrated BusyLight to Boom-less mic options. They also have corded USB variants as well as completely wireless headsets.
Speak with Call One, Inc. Account Executive to help you identify which model is best for your use case!
These ANC headsets are all USB models. If you would like to use on your “desk phone”, Plantronics models can be connected to desk phone via the MDA 220.
Let’s take a closer look at the individual models
Plantronics ANC Headsets:
Blackwire 725 Corded USB Headset
Variants:
202580-01 Blackwire 725, Standard
202581-01 Blackwire 725, Microsoft
What’s good?
Active Noise Canceling
Plantronics Smart Sensor Technology
Hi-Fi Stereo
Very comfortable
Portable – durable carrying case included
Connect to Desk Phone and PC via MDA 220
What’s bad?
Doesn’t support Bluetooth
Plantronics Voyager Focus UC Wireless Headset
Variants:
PLT-202652-01-006 Plantronics B825 Voyager Focus UC Bluetooth Headset with Stand
PLT-202652-02-006 Plantronics B825-M Voyager Focus UC Lync Bluetooth Headset with Stand
PLT-202652-03-006 Plantronics B825 Voyager Focus UC Bluetooth Headset (No Stand)
PLT-202652-04-006 Plantronics B825-M Voyager Focus UC Lync Bluetooth Headset (No Stand)
What’s good?
Active Noise Canceling
Plantronics Smart Sensor Technology
Hi-Fi Stereo
Very comfortable
Talk Time: Up to 12 hours (10 ANC on)
Listening Time: Up to 15 hours (12 ANC on)
Roaming Range: Up to 150 feet with adaptive power (with Class 1 supported devices)
Carrying case for portability
PC/Laptop connectivity
Connectivity to Desk Phone/PC via MDA 220
What’s bad?
No cable connectivity option (i.e. in flight connectivity option, or USB cable connectivity)
Plantronics Voyager 8200 UC
Variants
PLT-208769-01-006 Plantronics 8200 UC Black Bluetooth Headset
PLT-208769-02 Plantronics 8200 UC White Bluetooth Headset
What’s good?
Dual Mode Active Noise Canceling
Plantronics Smart Sensor Technology
Boomless Mic
Mobile and PC/Laptop connectivity
Connectivity to Desk Phone/PC via MDA 220
Listen Time: Up to 24 hours
Talk Time: Up to 20 hours
Standby Time: Up to 1 month
Roaming Range: Up to 98 feet
5mm audio cable connectivity
Carrying pouch for portability
What’s bad?
5mm audio cable listen only
No USB cable connectivity
Jabra ANC Headsets:
Jabra Evolve 80 UC and Microsoft variants
Variants:
JBR-7899-823-109-003 Jabra EVOLVE 80 MS USB Stereo Headset with ANC
JBR-7899-829-209-001 Jabra EVOLVE 80 UC USB Stereo Headset with ANC
What’s good?
Active Noise Canceling
USB and 3.5mm corded connectivity
Busy Light (can be manually activated)
Microphone boom arm can be integrated into the headband when not on a call or simply listening to music
Microphone mute on boom arm
Soft pouch included for portability
Listen in feature
What’s bad?
Doesn’t support Bluetooth
Hefty price tag
Jabra Evolve 75 UC & Microsoft variants with or without stand
Variants
JBR-7599-832-109-002 Jabra Evolve 75 MS Bundle including Link 370
JBR-7599-832-199-002 Jabra Evolve 75 MS Bundle with Charging Stand
JBR-7599-838-109-002 Jabra Evolve 75 Stereo UC Bundle including Link 370
JBR-7599-838-199-002 Jabra Evolve 75 UC Bundle with Charging Stand
What’s good?
Active Noise Canceling
Dual Bluetooth connectivity to Mobile and PC/Laptop
USB Cable connectivity supports both receive/transmit and charges at same time
Up to 15hrs battery life
Hi-Fi Audio
Boom arm can be clipped to headband when not in use (also acts as mute switch when boom arm up)
Listen-In button
Integrated Busy Light
First Skype for Business certified headset meeting the requirements for Open Office and Outdoor
What’s bad?
Boom can only be on right side
Sennheiser ANC Headset
Sennheiser MB 660 UC and Microsoft variants
Variants
SEN-507092-006 Sennheiser MB 660 UC
SEN-507093-006 Sennheiser MB 660 UC MS
What’s good?
Dual mode Active Noise Canceling
Boomless mic
Multiple connectivity options: Bluetooth 4.2, NFC, Audio cable with answer/end button (2.5 mm and 3.5 mm jack plugs), USB cable with micro-USB connector, BT800 USB dongle
Battery life: Up to 30 hours
Standby time: Up to 15 days
Range: Up to 82ft
2 Year Warranty
Sound Effect modes (via free Captunes App): Club, Movie, Speech, Director – User defined)
Finally got my hands on a couple of Jabra Speak 710 speakerphones. When it comes to portable USB/Bluetooth speakerphones, the Speak 710 has the best audio quality I’ve experienced.
Before I get ahead of myself, let’s go through the process.
What’s in the box? Jabra Speak 710 with a hardwired USB cable and integrated folding table stand, Link 370 USB Dongle, carry case, Quick Start Guide
Jabra Speak 710 Features:
Immersive sound for calls and music
Intuitive plug and play connectivity – connect to a laptop, smartphone and tablet via USB or Bluetooth®
Lightweight design, protective travel pouch, and 15 hours of battery life (3hrs to fully charge)
Flexible and scalable for small and large meetings
Interact with your voice assistant with the one-touch Smart button
Certified for Avaya, Cisco, and Skype for Business for a plug-and-play experience
Set Up and Use: For any Jabra US device, I strongly recommend downloading the FREE Jabra Direct software of individual use or Jabra Xpress for mass deployment.
Set up is a breeze. You have two options for connecting Jabra Speak 710 to PC/Laptop:
Connect to PC via USB Cable (USB cable hardwired to Speak 710 and has nice cord management system)
Connect to PC via Bluetooth (Link 370 USB dongle)
To connect Speak 710 to Bluetooth mobile device, hold the Bluetooth button for 2 seconds and follow the voice-guided instructions to pair to your smartphone.
Speak 710 controls:
Power on/off
Answer call
End call
Volume Up
Volume Down
Mute
Bluetooth
Battery status
Smart button
By default, the Smart button will activate your smartphone’s voice assistant (Siri®, Google Now™, Cortana™). However, if you would prefer the Smart button to instead speed dial a phone number on your Smartphone or PC, this can be configured using Jabra Direct.
Link Button
To temporarily link the audio between two Jabra Speak 710s, press the Link button on both speakerphones when they are within 2m/6ft. The Link button will only be visible when two Jabra Speak 710’s are within 2m/6ft.
To unlink the speakerphones, press the Link button on one of the speakerphones.
NOTE If two Bluetooth devices are connected to the Jabra Speak 710, the last connected Bluetooth device will be replaced by the temporary link.
The Jabra Speak 710 is a premium, portable speakerphone for business leaders and C-level executives that ensures amazing sound for conference calls and music – anytime, anywhere.
I have two Speak 710’s linked together so the audio experience is absolutely fantastic for calls and music!!!
Here are some use cases:
Small meeting room: 1-6 participants in the meeting room (place Speak 710 in the middle of the table)
Large Meeting room: Up to 12 participants (Link two Speak 710’s and place at either end of the table)
At your desk (Private office/home office): It’s recommended to put Speak 710 in an upright position using the integrated table stand.
Stereo media: if you are presenting or viewing stereo multimedia, two Jabra Speak 710’s can be positioned on either side of a projector or display for automatic stereo sound.
To help you keep track of tiny Link 370 USB dongle, there’s a slot on the underside of Speak 710 so you can store for travel. Let’s say you forget dongle or forgot to charge…that’s okay, fortunately, there is a hardwired USB cable you can always use. The table stand is also a nice feature.
The Speak 710 is for those who need better audio quality for voice calls and streaming media. Additionally, the look of the Speak 710 is very nice compared to Speak 510.
I’ve tested all the business-grade portable USB/Bluetooth speakerphones from the major manufacturers and hands down, the Speak 710 provides the best audio quality.