Tag Archive for: ANC

Key Factors Large Enterprises Should Consider When Selecting a Headset Vendor

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Large enterprises rely on professional-grade headsets in today’s fast-paced business environment to ensure seamless communication and collaboration. Selecting the right headset vendor is crucial, as enterprises require durable, high-quality solutions that integrate with their existing infrastructure while providing exceptional support and value. Below are the key factors enterprises should consider when choosing a headset vendor.

1. Quality and Durability

Enterprises prioritize headsets that are built to last. Business professionals often wear headsets for extended periods, making durability a key consideration. High-quality materials, robust construction, and reliable performance ensure longevity and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

2. Compatibility with Office Systems

Large enterprises operate in mixed technology environments with diverse phone systems, computers, and collaboration platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet. Headsets must be universally compatible through direct USB connections, Bluetooth, DECT wireless, or proprietary connectivity solutions.

3. Call Quality and HD Voice

Crystal-clear audio is non-negotiable for enterprise communications. HD voice quality ensures both the speaker and listener can communicate effectively, reducing misunderstandings and enhancing overall call productivity. A headset with high-quality speakers and a noise-canceling microphone is essential for professional conversations.

4. Advanced Noise Cancellation

High-density office environments require headsets with superior noise cancellation. Whether it’s active noise cancellation (ANC) for the user or advanced microphone noise suppression for the caller, minimizing background distractions leads to better focus and clearer conversations.

5. Comfort for Extended Wear

Employees wear headsets for hours at a time, so comfort is a key factor. Adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and lightweight designs contribute to a more comfortable experience, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity.

6. Vendor Expertise and Industry Knowledge

Enterprises prefer vendors with deep expertise in business communication solutions. Vendors specializing in headsets can provide in-depth product recommendations tailored to enterprise needs. Call One, Inc. has been a trusted advisor since 1987, helping businesses find the right audio solutions based on real-world testing and experience.

Factors Enterprises Consider When Selecting Headset Vendor

7. Customer Support and After-Sales Service

Reliable technical support is crucial for large enterprises. Vendors should provide responsive pre-sales assistance, technical troubleshooting, and post-purchase support. Call One, Inc. specializes in after-sales service, ensuring businesses receive ongoing support beyond the initial purchase.

8. Warranty and Long-Term Service Plans

A strong warranty and dependable service options are essential for long-term investment. Enterprises should evaluate warranty coverage, replacement policies, and extended service agreements to maximize their headset investment.

Yealink BH70 Factors Enterprises Consider When Selecting Headset Vendor

9. Price vs. Value

While cost is a factor, enterprises should focus on total value rather than just the lowest price. A headset vendor should offer competitive pricing while ensuring high-quality performance, longevity, and comprehensive support.

10. Advanced Features and Customization

Enterprises often require specific features such as wireless connectivity, AI-powered voice isolation, multi-device pairing, and customizable settings to meet their unique needs. Vendors offering feature-rich headsets with flexible deployment options gain a competitive advantage.

Factors Enterprises Consider When Selecting Headset Vendor

11. Vendor Longevity and Stability

Long-standing vendors with a proven track record offer reassurance to enterprises. Call One, Inc. has been a trusted headset provider since 1987, demonstrating stability, reliability, and industry leadership.

12. Integration with Procurement Platforms

Enterprises often utilize procurement platforms like SAP Ariba, Coupa, and ServiceNow for streamlined purchasing and supplier management. Vendors that integrate seamlessly with these systems help simplify procurement, ensuring efficiency and compliance with corporate purchasing guidelines.

Call One, Inc. has a dedicated e-commerce team that supports integrations with procurement platforms, manages CIF and PunchOut catalogs, and develops custom buy sites to align with enterprise purchasing requirements. This ensures that large organizations can easily procure headsets and other communication solutions through their preferred platforms, reducing administrative complexity and improving overall procurement efficiency.

Factors Enterprises Consider When Selecting Headset Vendor

13. Strong Partnerships with Leading Brands

A vendor’s partnerships reflect its credibility and access to top-tier solutions. Call One, Inc. has long-standing relationships with leading global brands like Jabra, HP Poly, Logitech for Business, and EPOS while also working with emerging brands like Yealink, Shokz, JLab, and JPL to offer enterprises a broad selection of solutions tailored to their needs.

Conclusion

By evaluating these key factors, large enterprises can select a headset vendor that meets their current needs and provides ongoing support, reliability, and long-term value.

As a trusted advisor for professional audio and video solutions, Call One, Inc. helps enterprises navigate the vast landscape of headset options to ensure they invest in the right technology for seamless communication and collaboration.

📞 Want to learn more? Contact Call One, Inc. today to find the right headset solutions for your enterprise.

What’s the Best Headset? It Depends on YOUR Needs

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A question I’m frequently asked is, “What’s the best headset?” My answer is always the same: “It depends.” There’s no universal “best” headset because what’s best for one person or organization may not work for another. Factors like use case, compatibility, personal preferences, environment, and budget all play a role in determining the right headset.

Why There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Headset

At Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct, we’ve been in the professional headset industry since 1987, and one key lesson we’ve learned is that every client’s needs are unique. While there are many factors we consider when recommending the right headset, here are some of the most common ones we evaluate:

Use Case

What is the role of the headset user? Different roles have different environments, workflows, communications, and collaboration requirements. Below are examples of various roles. A Contact Center Agent’s headset needs will differ vastly from those of a Graphic Designer, and a Field Technician requires a mobile solution and is typically on multiple customer sites compared to a desk-centric role like an Administrative Assistant.

  • Frontline/Customer-Facing Roles, e.g., Contact Center Agent, Sales Associate, Field Technician, Healthcare Support
  • Knowledge Workers e.g. Data Analyst, Software Engineer, Financial Analyst, Marketing Specialist, Writer/Editor
  • Management/Leadership, e.g. Project Manager, Operations Manager, Executive
  • Skilled Trades, e.g. Electrician, Plumber, Carpenter, Mechanic
  • Service and Support, e.g. Administrative Assistant, Security Guard, Janitor/Custodian
  • Creative and Arts, e.g., Graphic Designer, Online Instructor/Teacher, Video Editor, Game Designer

Does the user need mobility or a desk-based solution? Some roles require mobility in their office or are on the go and require wireless headsets, while some roles are desk-centric, and most or all of their work is done from a dedicated workspace or workstation where a corded headset is sufficient.

Call-centric role or occasional user? Call-centric roles require lightweight, comfortable headsets with high-quality noise-canceling microphones and speakers that provide clear audio for extended periods. The headsets should also be durable, and features like quick disconnect and call controls would be beneficial. For the occasional user, comfort is nice but less critical. A standard microphone with decent audio quality is usually sufficient. The occasional user may prefer versatility like Bluetooth to pair with their mobile phones to listen to music, audiobooks, or podcasts.

Compatibility & Connectivity

  • What devices will the headset connect to? (e.g., desk phones, computers (Windows/Mac), mobile phones, or a combination) Connectivity is a key factor in determining what headset options are available. Today, there are simple USB corded headsets and multi-connectivity headsets that support connectivity to a desk phone, computer, and mobile device.
  • Which collaboration platforms are being used? Most organizations today use multiple platforms as part of their daily communications needs, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, Webex, RingCentral, and more.

Personal Preferences

  • What wearing style is preferred? (e.g., over-ear, on-ear, earbuds, stereo or mono options)
  • How important are comfort, portability, and aesthetics?

Required Features

  • Is Teams Certification or UC compatibility a priority?
  • Does the user need ANC (Active Noise Canceling) speakers for better focus?
  • Is security a priority? Does your company have a “No Bluetooth” policy?

Environment

  • Where will the headset be used? Today, people can work from anywhere, including corporate offices, home offices, coffee shops, airport terminals, hotel lobbies, data centers, city streets, and more. Your environment can help determine which headset is best.
  • Do you have a hybrid workforce that needs a headset that will work with devices in the office and can also be used in their home office or other locations?

Budget

What is the price range? Headsets range from budget-friendly options to premium solutions, and they can cost from $40 to $500+.

These considerations are just a starting point. Our team dives deeper into each client’s unique requirements to recommend the ideal solution for their specific situation. With the right guidance, you can find a headset that truly fits your needs.

What’s the Best Headset

My Top Picks for 2024 by Category

Best Noise-Canceling Microphone

For environments with heavy background noise, a great microphone can make all the difference. Here are my top picks for 2024:

  • EPOS Impact 1000 Series
  • EPOS Impact 800 Series

Want to hear how these headsets perform? Check out our YouTube Headset Mic Test Playlist to listen to real-world mic tests across multiple environments, including noisy open offices and even on the road.

Best ANC Speakers

For immersive sound quality, these headsets deliver in 2024:

Jabra Evolve2 85 Review What’s the Best Headset

Headphone Style

  • Jabra Evolve2 85
  • HP Poly Voyager Surround 80 UC
  • EPOS Adapt 660
  • Yealink BH76 Plus

Earbuds

  • Jabra Evolve2 Buds
  • HP Poly Voyager Free 60 UC

On-Ear Style

  • Logitech Zone Wireless 2
  • Jabra Evolve2 75
  • HP Poly Voyager Focus 2
  • EPOS Impact 1000 Series
What’s the Best Headset

While ANC can reduce background noise for a better listening experience, no headset I’ve tested blocks 100% of background sound. For a deeper understanding of ANC technology and its limitations, check out my blog Understanding ANC Technology in Professional-Grade Headsets.

Longest Talk Time

If you need a headset that works as long as you do, here are the top picks for longest talk time in 2024:

  • Yealink BH76: Up to 35 hours
  • Yealink BH70: Up to 35 hours
  • Jabra Evolve2 65: Up to 35 hours (with busylight off)

Longest Wireless Range

For users needing mobility across large spaces, these headsets deliver the longest wireless range of up to 180 m / 590 ft in an open area and up to 55 m / 180 ft in a typical office environment:

  • EPOS Impact D, SD, and 5000 Series
  • HP Poly Savi 7400 and 8400 Series

Most Budget-Friendly

Here are the best options for value in 2024:

  • Logitech H570e (Mono): $39.99
  • Logitech Zone 305 (Teams version, native Bluetooth): $69.99
  • Logitech Zone 305 UC: $99.99 (with dongle)
Poly Solutions What’s the Best Headset

Six Key Considerations Beyond the Headset Model

Choosing the right headset model is important, but there are other factors businesses must consider to ensure they’re making an informed and sustainable investment. For a deeper dive into these considerations—like support and warranty, service and management, total cost of ownership, and sustainability—check out my blog:
➡️ Beyond the Headset: Key Considerations for Businesses

Stay Tuned for 2025’s Top Picks!

I’m currently testing new headsets that will debut in 2025, so stay tuned for updates! If you want to be the first to learn about these new products, follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to our YouTube channel for exclusive demos, tests, and comparisons.

Takeaways: Don’t Go It Alone

Choosing the right headset can be challenging, especially with so many variables to consider. That’s why organizations like Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct are here to help.

  • Call One, Inc. specializes in supporting large enterprises and understanding the challenges of managing thousands of employees across various environments.
  • Hello Direct focuses on small businesses, offering expert guidance for organizations without dedicated IT resources.
What’s the Best Headset

Professional-grade headsets are designed for business use and are certified for Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and other major platforms. Whether your priority is mic performance, ANC speakers, or value, it’s important to consult experts.

Need help identifying the best headset for your organization? Contact us today.

Understanding ANC Technology in Professional-Grade Headsets: Jabra, Poly, Yealink, EPOS, and Logitech

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ANC Headsets Business Collaboration

ANC Headsets for Business Collaboration

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Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology in business headsets became increasingly popular during the global pandemic as the multitude of traditional in-office workers transitioned to work from home. The home environment introduced sources of noise not often found in offices like doorbells, barking dogs, blenders, and screaming children. Today organizations are making plans that will include the return to the office, remote work, or hybrid work.  

In addition to having a strong noise-canceling microphone, headset wearers have found they want to suppress the background noise they hear so they can focus on their work.  

Some headsets offer Passive Noise Reduction and some offer Active Noise Canceling (ANC). ANC is the stronger of the two. However, not all ANC speakers function the same. According to Jabra’s blog “ANC headsets aren’t all the same: The three types of ANC”, the three types of ANC are feedforward, feedback, and hybrid. The hybrid approach works best but costs the most. Jabra also states aside from the ANC technology itself, there’s a matter of how the headset is designed.  

Compatible with Business Collaboration Platforms 

ANC headsets used for business, need to be compatible or certified with the collaboration platforms being used like Microsoft, Zoom, Cisco, Genesys, AWS, 8×8, RingCentral, and more. Leading headset manufacturers will often include a USB dongle to be used with their ANC Bluetooth headsets. Our customers and YouTube viewers frequently ask, “Why do I need a USB dongle?” With the help of our partners, we provide reasons in this blog: “Why Do I Need a USB Dongle vs Pairing the Headset Directly to a Computer?” The primary reasons to use the dongle are compatibility, connection stability, and call control (answer/end, mute, volume up/down) from the headset vs using your mouse.  

Microsoft Teams certified models will work with no extra configuration required and offer call control with Microsoft Teams and Skype for Business. The dedicated Teams button and LED indicator light will provide user notification of events and alerts from the Teams client: Meeting starting, voicemail, or missed call. You can also activate the Teams client or respond to notification with a press of the button i.e. to join a meeting.  

Wearing Styles 

Today there are multiple headset wearing styles that include ANC technology to support the wide range of personal preferences. Some folks prefer having both ears completely enveloped by the speakers. Others prefer the more discreet earbud-wearing style. And, some wearers prefer a headset with a boomless mic.  

DECT Wireless ANC Headsets 

  • Savi 8220 Headset Side View
  • Wireless Headsets Poly Savi 8220
  • Savi 8220 Headset Rear View

The majority of headsets that offer ANC speakers are Bluetooth. If you require a DECT wireless headset with ANC speakers, the Poly Savi 8220 stereo models are a great option. The Poly Savi 8220 are available in Office and UC variants. The Savi 8220 Office series support connectivity to desk phone, computer, and mobile device. The Savi 8220 UC includes the D200 DECT Dongle for computer-only connectivity. The D200 is available in USB-A UC, USB-A Microsoft, USB-C UC, and USB-C Microsoft. I’m not aware of another business-grade DECT headset with ANC.   

Corded ANC Headsets 

Contact Center Headset Solutions Blackwire ANC Headsets Business Collaboration

The Poly Blackwire 8225 Series are corded USB headsets available in USB-A, USB-C, and Microsoft Teams variants. Not only do you get ANC speakers, but you also get Poly’s Acoustic Fence technology built into the microphone so the people you’re speaking with don’t hear the noise around you. If you prefer a boomless mic corded USB option, take a look at the Poly Blackwire 7225 Series. If you prefer to have your ears completely enveloped, the Jabra Evolve 80 Series may be a good choice for you. The Jabra Evolve 80 offers USB-A connectivity as well 3.5mm for select mobile devices. They are available in UC and Microsoft variants. 

Bluetooth ANC Headsets with Boomless Mic 

Bose 700 UC ANC Headsets Business Collaboration

In October 2020, we released a video comparing four heavy hitters in the Bluetooth ANC headsets with boomless mic space. It included the Bose 700 UC, EPOS Adapt 660 UC, Jabra Evolve2 85, and Poly Voyager 8200 UC. Watch the video! Bose vs EPOS vs Jabra vs Poly | Which Headphones Sounds the Best? Other available options are the Cisco 730 available in Platinum or Carbon Black. EPOS also has lower-cost options with their EPOS Adapt 560, EPOS Adapt 563 (for mobile only), and EPOS Adapt 360 models in black or white. 

  • ADAPT-360

In-Ear Behind the Neck ANC Headsets 

  • Bluetooth Headsets Hybrid Work
  • Bluetooth Headsets Hybrid Work

For folks looking for a sleeker form factor, you have these behind the neck options: Jabra Evolve 75e UC or Microsoft variant, Poly Voyager 6200 UC with USB-A or USB-C dongle, and EPOS Adapt 460T.  

  • Voyager 6200 UC Black
  • EPOS Adapt 460T

What to look for in ANC Headsets 

I test a lot of headsets. Typically I’m testing the microphones to see how well they perform in real-world environments. Take a look at this Headset Mic Test Video Playlist on our YouTube Channel. Plus, I use headsets daily for communicating and collaborating with colleagues, customers, and partners. I’ve used them in the office, on the road, in airplanes, and from my home office. Here are the variables and factors I considered when selecting my top ANC headset picks for business collaboration:  

  • Connectivity – I need connectivity to a computer and mobile device.   
  • Compatibility – Headset needs to be compatible with 8×8, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, Google Meet, and more. 
  • Battery Life / Talk Time / Listen Time – Whenever I’m not writing blogs or filming videos, I’m in voice and video calls or streaming music. The headset should support 6hrs+ of talk/listen time. If I get back to traveling, I’ll need even longer battery life. 
  • NC mic performance – Hybrid work means working from anywhere. The microphone needs to suppress background noise from multiple noise sources so the party on the other end can hear you.  
  • ANC speaker performance – The key point of ANC headsets is to help you block out distracting background noises so you can focus and be more productive.  
  • Flexibility to use as a wireless or corded USB device – On the off chance, you forget to charge your headset, having the ability to use it as a corded USB device is a great feature. Not all headsets support this option.  
  • Comfort – Anyone who has worn headsets for extended periods knows how important comfort is.  
  • Overall performance – Your headset is a primary collaboration tool that will be used daily. It must perform consistently every day. To ensure optimal performance, be sure to keep your headset firmware updated via the appropriate headset software or app.  

Danny Hayasaka’s Top ANC Headset picks are:  

These two headsets have been solid performers. The Poly Voyager Focus 2 is newer but it very quickly became a favorite based on all the above factors. The Jabra Evolve 75 has been a long-time favorite of mine. Take a look at this Voyager Focus 2 vs Evolve 75 comparison video.  

POLY Solutions ANC Headsets Business Collaboration
  • Jabra Evolve75 Evolve2 65
  • Jabra Evolve75 Evolve2 65 Bluetooth Headsets Hybrid Work ANC Headsets Business Collaboration
  • Jabra Evolve75 Evolve2 65 ANC Headsets Business Collaboration

Which headsets have the best ANC?  

  • Bose 700 UC Comparing The Best Headsets ANC Headsets Business Collaboration
  • Bose 700 UC ANC Headsets Business Collaboration
  • Bose 700 UC ANC Headsets Business Collaboration
ADAPT 660 Lifestyle ANC Headsets Business Collaboration

Conclusion 

ANC headsets are a great option for Hybrid Work which translates to Work from Anywhere. The need to block out distractions so you can focus on work or enjoy streaming music can be satisfied with a  headset with good ANC speakers.  We have created a page that lists all the current ANC Headsets by Brand (Poly, Cisco, EPOS | Sennheiser, Jabra, & Logitech). If you would like guidance or need mass deployment support regarding ANC Headsets for Business Collaboration, contact us! We are more than happy to help you do your business better!

Sennheiser MB 360 Banner

What’s the difference between ANC and NC?

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Every day I hear customers requesting “ANC” or “NC” headsets. Some know the difference however many don’t. It’s kind of like “Bluetooth”. To some, “Bluetooth” simply means “wireless”. Whether it’s DECT, 2.4Ghz, 900Mhz is irrelevant to them. They want a “Bluetooth (Wireless)” headset. For this blog, I’m talking about headsets for professional use by Poly (formerly Plantronics), Jabra & Sennheiser.

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Plantronics Savi 8220 DECT

Plantronics Savi 8220 – DECT Wireless Headset with ANC

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Plantronics has added the Savi 8200 Series to their lineup, including a DECT wireless headset with active noise cancelling.

This solution is recommended for the connected executive, office collaborator and contact center supervisor who need to collaborate across multiple communication platforms (desk phone, softphone and mobile phone). They need a single headset system to seamlessly manage calls with the added flexibility to roam more freely in the enterprise office or contact center, focus in noisy environments with active noise canceling (ANC) and maintain the best audio on both sides of the call.

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