The Poly Voyager 5200 Office and UC Series offer versatile connectivity to allow you to have professional-grade audio in any environment on any of your devices.
Pre-COVID, the Poly Voyager 5200 UC headset was my go-to whenever traveling. I remember standing outside a hotel near Logan International Airport, making a call with the Voyager 5200 and asking the person I was calling if they could hear the planes and traffic. They stated that they could only hear me.
Voyager 5200 UCVoyager 5200 Hero in Case Boom Up White
I strongly recommend purchasing through a Poly Authorized Reseller. Call One, Inc. is a Poly Platinum Partner with a team of subject matter experts who can help guide your team to the appropriate audio and video devices based on their work styles and workspace. Get the most out of your Poly devices with one convenient app to manage all your compatible devices. With the Poly Lens App, you can customize your devices to work the way you do. Keep software up to date, manage settings, and use the personal health and wellness reminders to keep you focused and energized all day long.
Whether you work in an office, at home, or anywhere in between, there is a Poly Voyager 5200 Office and UC Series model for you! Take a look at this breakdown of the different variants to include Microsoft Teams certified models!
Connectivity: Desk Phone + Mobile Wearing Style: Over-the-ear What’s in the Box: Voyager 5200 Headset + Voyager Office D Base + Telephone Interface Cable + Power Supply
Connectivity: Desk Phone + Computer + Mobile Wearing Style: Over-the-ear What’s in the Box: Voyager 5200 Headset + Voyager Office CD Base + USB-A Cable + Telephone Interface Cable + Power Supply Microsoft Teams Certified
Connectivity: Desk Phone + Computer + Mobile Wearing Style: Over-the-ear What’s in the Box: Voyager 5200 Headset + Voyager Office CD Base + USB-C Cable + Telephone Interface Cable + Power Supply Microsoft Teams Certified
Connectivity: Computer + Mobile Wearing Style: Over-the-ear What’s in the Box: Voyager 5200 Headset + USB-A Dongle + Charging Case + Small, Medium, and Large ear tips + USB to micro USB charge cable.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Poly-Voyager-5200-blog-twitter.jpg9001600Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2022-01-26 16:01:412022-01-31 10:08:24Poly Voyager 5200 Office and UC Series – Connectivity Options
Organizations choose wireless headsets for many reasons, including increasing productivity by allowing employees to be hands-free and mobile. Bluetooth and DECT are the most prevalent wireless technologies and operating frequencies in professional-grade headsets. Industries and organizations that share sensitive or private information over voice calls typically opt for DECT wireless headsets due to their increased security. Click here to see a complete list of professional-grade Bluetooth and DECT wireless headsets!
Depending on the brand and model, DECT Wireless Headsets usually include a base station that provides connectivity options to desk phones, computers, mobile devices, or combinations. These solutions typically use cables to connect to a desk phone, computer, and AC power. These were great pre-pandemic solutions as most worked in an office with most of their equipment fixed at a workstation.
The Challenge
The pandemic has shifted where and how people work. Hybrid and remote work models have increased dramatically. The benefits of DECT wireless headsets are substantial; however, their portability is not. It’s not practical to disconnect the cables, AC power, base, and headset to pack up and transport between work locations.
The Solutions
Fortunately, there are a few solutions.
Good
Use DECT Wireless headset as a corded USB audio device. Some DECT wireless headset models support using it as a corded USB headset. This is a good option that allows employees to use their existing equipment in the office and remote workspace with their laptops. While this is an excellent money-saving option, you lose the critical benefit of being wireless. If you have grown accustomed to a wireless headset and then need to go corded, there is a bit of a learning curve. When I’m testing corded headsets, I sometimes forget and try to get up and walk away and am quickly reminded I’m tethered to my laptop. The Jabra Engage 65 and 75 support this option. You can use the included Jabra USB-A Cable – 14201-26 or purchase a spare cable to keep at home.
Jabra USB-A Cable
Better
EPOS Impact SDW D1 USB DECT Dongle
USB DECT Dongles. This is not a new option. Poly (formerly Plantronics) introduced the D100 years ago with their Savi 400 Series. The latest, smaller D200 DECT Wireless Savi Adapter is available in USB-A, USB-C, and UC and Microsoft variants. The D200 DECT dongle will work with Poly Savi 8200 UC Series headsets. EPOS recently introduced the EPOS Impact SDW D1 USB DECT Dongle that works with the EPOS Impact SDW 5000 Series. It’s currently only available in USB-A. EPOS introduced three new SDW 5000 Series models designed for hybrid and remote work and include the SDW 5000 headset of choice, the dongle, charging cable, and carry case.
Complete setups at each location is the best solution; however, budgets may not support this option. A setup at each location is optimal and relieves the worry about transporting equipment to and fro and potentially forgetting an item or breaking something in transit. I am fortunate enough to have solid setups in my dedicated home and corporate office. I have monitors, docking stations, webcams, audio devices, and other peripherals, making it highly convenient for hybrid work. The only thing I haul is my laptop.
Audio is critical
Whichever solution you choose, audio is critical in business communication. Ensure your team members have high-quality, purpose-built audio solutions designed for UC and Collaboration platforms. Do not fall into the trap of ordering inexpensive audio devices to help check a box on your to-do list. Engage a subject matter expert who can walk you through the various solutions that align with your organization’s needs and budget.
Call One, Inc. is an authorized reseller of professional headsets by Jabra, Poly, EPOS, JPL, Logitech, Yealink, Cisco, Shokz, and more. How can we help?
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Call-One-blog-DECT-Dongle.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2022-01-11 17:11:262022-01-11 17:11:31USB DECT Dongles for Hybrid Work
I’m not a fan of defining a single thing as “best.” Daily I get asked, “What’s the best headset?” my response is, “What is the use case? What are you trying to do? What are you connecting to? What’s your budget?” What is best for your use case may not necessarily be best for someone else. One size does NOT fit all when it comes to headsets. There are many factors to consider, including:
Connectivity (desk phone, mobile phone, PC, Mac, a combination)
Compatibility with your voice, video, and collaboration platforms (i.e., Zoom, Microsoft, Cisco, 8×8, etc.)
Single or multiple work environments/locations
Personal preferences (wearing styles, corded, wireless, etc.)
Organizational restrictions (i.e., some companies restrict Bluetooth headsets)
Support – Leading brands can offer global support
Budget
I have over twenty years in this industry and test models from all the leading brands of professional headsets like Jabra, Poly, EPOS, and Logitech and less-established and up-and-coming brands like JPL, Yealink, AfterShokz, and everything in between. To help people and businesses make more informed purchasing decisions, we share headset mic performance videos via the Call One, Inc. YouTube Channel. Contact an authorized reseller if you would like to discuss headset options for your business.
Please note there are more categories available depending on your industry, work style, and workspace. I want to get across key points that one size does NOT fit all, and there is no “best” headset. Your individual or team members’ work style and workspace will determine which headset is best for them. If you need help, contact an authorized reseller like Call One, Inc., who has close to 35 years of experience and is a Nationally Certified Women’s Business Enterprise!
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Call-One-blog-best-UC-headsets3.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-12-06 14:02:592021-12-06 14:03:05Headsets with the best Noise Canceling Mics (For Now)
Regardless of the work model being implemented, video conferencing will be part of the equation. Over the past 17-18 months most of us have participated in a video call over Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, or some other video meeting platform. One thing we’ve learned is that it’s nice to have high-quality video but it’s more important to have great audio.
Audio is Critical in Video Calls
To have a productive video meeting, all participants need to be able to hear and be heard. In the early days of the pandemic, there was a massive shift to work from home. Once vaccines were introduced, businesses started developing plans to return to the office. Some leaders have made remote work permanent. While others have strong arguments for why employees need to be back in the office. And some are opting for a hybrid/flexible work model. As organizations navigate this topsy-turvy landscape, they need to focus on developing device standards that will work in the current and future environments.
Employees need the right technology to stay connected. The challenge is one size does not fit all. Business and IT leaders need to consider a day in the life of the employees in their various roles and work environments. Today team members can join video calls from a dedicated office, an area in their home, a third space, or from pretty much anywhere. Whether or not they turn their video on, they will need to be able to hear what’s being said. And if they speak, they need to be heard by all participants.
Since the start of the pandemic, I’ve been in countless video meetings, mobile calls, listen-only webinars, and online training sessions. Audio has been the most critical part. Even with great video, poor audio quality or no audio can stop a meeting dead in its tracks. It’s critical to have great audio.
What about different work environments? Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct, Inc. have team members working from our Headquarters in Cape Canaveral, FL, and remotely in different cities and states. We have open office environments, private offices, home environments, small to large meeting rooms, and an operations and warehouse facility. Audio and video device needs will be different depending on the team members’ roles and workspace. It’s not practical to use a speakerphone in an open office or noisy warehouse. First, we’ll take a look at desktop video options, and then we’ll discuss audio devices.
Desktop Video
There are multiple options available when it comes to desktop video and webcams. In my blog, Webcams for Business – What to consider I share a list of things to consider when choosing a webcam: Compatibility with Operating System, Supported Video Platforms, Windows Hello Face Support, Video Resolution, Field of View and Auto-Framing, Autofocus and Auto-light correction, Built-in Microphones, Privacy Shutter, Mounting Options, USB Type Connectivity, and Cable length, Additional USB Ports, All-in-One Video Bars, Device Management, Warranty, and Price. On our YouTube channel, we have a playlist dedicated to Webcams / Video Collaboration Solutions. These videos allow you to learn more about the webcams and see them in action. We also have side-by-side comparison videos.
Speakerphones are great audio devices for team members who work in a private or home office space where their audio will not distract others. Most personal speakerphones are excellent for travel as they are small and portable. Some models include Bluetooth which allows you to pair with a mobile device. This is great for streaming music or having an ad-hoc small group conference call with others. Speakerphones can be connected to a computer via USB-A or USB-C. There are wireless options that provide flexibility as to where you position the speakerphone from the computer. Zoom and Microsoft Teams certified speakerphones are available. Take a look at these USB Speakerphone options available from Poly, Jabra, EPOS, Konftel, Yamaha UC, Yealink, and ClearOne. In our Business Personal and Small Group Speakerphones video playlist, we put these speakerphones to the test and share their features and audio quality performance.
At the beginning of the pandemic, we experienced a lot of panic-buying from customers of all sizes and industries as they transitioned from in-office to work from home. Many used “freemium” collaboration apps on their computers and there was a mad dash for any USB headset they could get their hands on. We now have over a year and a half of experience and lessons learned under our belt. What we learned is that our team members need better when it comes to headsets. Business and IT leaders need to understand team members communicate and collaborate in different ways based on their work styles and workspaces. Having the right headset fosters better communication, collaboration, and improves productivity. When team members can hear and be heard when in a voice or video call, work just flows. The first step is to identify what they are connecting their headsets to. Is it a desk phone? Which brand and model? Is it a computer? What softphone or UC platforms are being used? Do they need Zoom or Microsoft Teams certified headsets? Is it a mobile device? Does it support Bluetooth or a 3.5mm plug? Do they need to connect to a combination of those three devices?
When I was able to travel and go on customer sites, it wasn’t uncommon to walk by a cubicle and see multiple headsets. When I inquired why they had so many headsets, the response often was, “This headset is for my desk phone. This headset is for my computer. And this is the headset I brought from home to pair with my mobile phone.”
With so many team members working remotely, what are they using? Has it been tested? Is it compatible or certified with the platforms and applications your business is using? How do you know? This conversation can wait for another video and blog I’m working on. We’ll cover device management software and why it’s important for your business.
Headset Connectivity
Today headsets support single and multi-connectivity. Here is a list of connectivity combinations headsets can support today:
Desk Phone Only
Computer Only
Computer + Mobile
Desk Phone + Computer
Desk Phone + Mobile
Desk Phone + Computer + Mobile
What connectivity do your team members need? Need help? Call One, Inc. can help you identify the right headsets based on connectivity, work environment, and use case. Contact us!
Wireless Headsets
Wireless headsets increase productivity by providing team members the ability to roam away from their workstations. They can answer and end calls right from their headset. This is beneficial in any environment. Those working from home will find being wireless especially beneficial. Wireless headsets allow you to get up and refill your coffee, tend to your children or pets, start a load of laundry, get a snack, get your deliveries, and more! There are multiple wireless operating frequencies in use today however, DECT and Bluetooth are the most prevalent when it comes to headsets. Which is best for your environment? If you need to go further, DECT headsets claim to offer a longer wireless range compared to Bluetooth headsets. Bluetooth headsets can pair to mobile phones which allows you to take calls on the go beyond your office or workspace. Poly Savi 8200 Office and Jabra Engage 65/75 Wireless headsets can easily be converted into hybrid work options. Take a look at this video to learn how!
Because work is being done from a variety of environments, employees no longer have immediate physical access to replacement units. I strongly recommend having a secondary/backup audio device wherever they are working. A corded USB headset is a good backup. A good choice would be a USB headset model that does not require software/firmware updates so employees have a truly plug-and-play experience should their primary audio device quit working. The JPL Commander-1, Commander-2, 400-USB Monaural, and 400-USB-Binaural are great inexpensive options as primary or backup headsets.
Make Informed Purchasing Decisions
We created our YouTube Channel to help you make more informed purchasing decisions by testing business-grade audio and video solutions in real-world environments. Check out some of our more popular video playlists:
In the new normal of work from anywhere, hybrid meetings with a mix of in-person and remote participants will be prevalent. Video is awesome however, audio is critical. It’s important to have an audio device that allows the user to hear and be heard. The audio device should align with the individual team member’s work style and workspace. Since 1987, Call One, Inc. has been helping people do their business better. We are authorized resellers of Poly, Jabra, EPOS, Logitech, Cisco, JPL, Yealink, Konftel, and more. We help mid-to-large enterprise customers select the right audio and video devices for their team members. If you would like help, contact us.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Call-One-Blog-Audio-Hybrid-Work.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-08-27 15:18:302021-08-27 15:18:39Video is great, Audio is Critical for Hybrid Work, Office Work, Work from Home
If your team members use a computer (softphone) and mobile devices in both locations, here is a list of my top picks for UC Bluetooth Headsets for Hybrid Work, Work from Home, or Work from Anywhere. All models listed are compatible and/or certified with all major business communications and collaboration platforms to include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco and more. All these headsets will pair to your mobile device via Bluetooth and your computer via included USB dongle. Check out this video below on Why you need a USB dongle:
UC Bluetooth Headsets with ANC Speakers
Based off my personal tests and our YouTube Channel viewer comments and feedback, here are my top picks based off overall audio quality, compatibility, ease of use, comfort, & portability. In no specific order:
Jabra Evolve 75 Series This has been a solid performer since it was introduced. This is a unit I recommend often if you are looking for ANC headset with strong NC mic. It offers up to 18hr talk time but if you forget to charge, it can be used as a corded USB headset while you recharge! Plus, it includes a nice sturdy carry case with a slot for the Link 370 USB dongle so you can transport easily between home and office. Check out this Evolve 75 Mic Test Video from my Home Office!
Logitech Zone Wireless Yes, Logitech makes business-grade headsets and they have done a really good job at developing their Zone series of headsets. They include both USB-A and USB-C connectivity options in the same box. You get up to 14hrs of talk time with ANC on and you can get a complete desktop audio and video solution with their Pro Personal Video Collaboration Kit that includes the Logitech Zone Wireless and Brio 4K Webcam!
Poly Voyager Focus UC Series This is a very popular headset for a reason. It’s a very comfortable headset with up to 12 hours of talk time and Smart Sensor technology. Smart Sensors detect whether you are the wearing the headset. Sensors are located in the headset body and speaker housing and enable you to do things like answer a call by simply putting on headset and Pause streaming media by removing the headset and resume your media by putting your headset back on. Look at the Poly Voyager Focus UC in action from my home office in this video!
If you are looking for a discreet UC Bluetooth headset, here are some you may want to consider.
Poly Voyager 5200 UC Back when I was traveling, this was my go-to headset. With six layers of Poly’s WindSmart technology it’s great for use in the office and on-the-go between locations. I remember one night I was out on a busy street near Logan Airport calling my wife and I asked her if she heard all the noise, and she said, “What noise?”. There trucks, cars, people, and planes landing and taking off and she didn’t hear it. Watch this extreme mic test we did in front of running garbage truck! You get up to 7hrs of talk time, however with the Voyager 5200 Charge Case and docking stand, you get up to 14 extra hours!
EPOS Adapt Presence Grey UC This headset allows you to wear in-the-ear or over-the-ear with a padded earhook. It also includes a small sturdy carry case that holds headset, charging cable, and additional eartips. You get up to 10hrs narrowband and 8hrs wideband of talk time. Check out this video featuring the EPOS Adapt Presence Grey UC so you can hear for yourselves how well it performs!
If you are looking for a no-frills, get the job done, UC Bluetooth headsets starting at $159.95 USD, look at these options available in single or dual ear headband wearing styles from Poly and Jabra. Both series support corded USB mode if you forget to charge headset or are experiencing Bluetooth density problems. To help keep you productive and uninterrupted, both offer online indicator/busy lights to show you are in a call. Carry cases are included with all models to make it easy to transport between locations.
If you would like to learn more about Hybrid Work audio and video devices for your team members, contact us directly Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm ET at 1-800-749-3160 or fill out this form! Don’t forget to ask about our Agent in a Box Service that can help simplify deployments by shipping all the components your employees in need in a single box right to their doorstep anywhere in the US, business, or residential addresses!
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Call-One-hybrid-work-3a.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-03-29 16:42:122021-03-29 16:42:18My Top Picks for UC Bluetooth Headsets for Hybrid Work or Work from Anywhere
The Yealink UC Workstation and WH66 as well as WH67 will redefine your workspace. This device features a DECT Wireless Headset, Speakerphone, Qi Wireless Mobile Phone Charger, 4-inch touch screen, Built-in USB Hub (two additional USB ports), connectivity to PC and Mobile Devices, compatible with all major communications platforms to include Zoom and Microsoft Teams. This device has a ton of features to support a variety of use cases for work from home, open offices, and independent offices. Plus, it has great NC mic performance and wireless range for ultimate flexibility.
So, what’s it like?
All-in-one UC Workstation
The Yealink UC Workstation is more than a single base, it eases the management of business communication demands and other USB devices. It also delivers great flexibility with a set of integrated features to facilitate your daily routine. It is professional, collaborative, and available.
Wireless Freedom & All Day Power
No matter when and where your conversation begins, the Yealink WH66 can always catch up your steps. With up to 160m wireless range and 14 hours talk time, it is suitable for users’ daily communication needs. In addition, the product supports high density installation in the open office, which allows up to 200 users (Europe) enjoy the wireless communication at the same time.
One For All Devices Management
The Yealink USB Connect is available for the management of multiple Yealink USB devices, including headsets, speakerphones, and webcams. All the settings can be done through Yealink USB Connect, for example, the setting of the basic and premium function of WH66, which is convenient and efficient for daily use.
Our Experience with the work station
Here at Call One, we are loving this new Yealink UC Workstation and WH66. When it comes to conferencing, mobile use, and headset range, this might be the top dog in Q1 and Q2 of 2021. There is so much to cover on this new product, so stay tuned for more blogs and videos. Check out our latest where we breakdown this new product:
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Yealink-workstation.jpg8001422Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-28 10:11:162021-01-28 10:12:07New Yealink UC Workstation and WH66
