Plantronics CS55 Wireless Headset, The Real Goods

Most online reviews talk about specifications and other non relevant issues, but for most users, they just want to know that it works, is reliable and does it do what they need, fancy features aside.

I have used a wide range of wireless headsets from the leaders Plantronics and GN Netcom and have found the CS55 to be a reliable performer.

When using the Plantronics CS55 desk version, users should experience clear and consistent sound on both sides of the call. Talk time is at 10 hours so users should never run out of battery life.

As for comfort, the CS55 is ideally deployed among larger groups, as it can be worn over the head or ear. This allows users to choose the wearing style they prefer.

In my view, for someone wanting a headband style that is light and not in a very heavy noise environment, the CS55 is ideal. For those who want to wear it over the ear, you might want to try the Plantronics CS70N as the loop style can be a little "floppy".

However, those that use the CS55 in this manner, usually don't complain too much. The unit is easy to set up and runs through the handset of the existing phone, no tech support needed.

The Plantronics CS55 works with just about any desk phone, but compatibility should be checked. The main issue is when a lifter is required. The lifter option allows users to pick up a call when they are not at their desk. The lifter attaches to the phone and when a call comes in it hears it ringing. It then sends a beep to the headset unit and if the user decides to click on the ear piece, it picks up the call.

Without a lifter, the user must hear the call from the phone ring direct, go back tot he phone, lift the handset and then click on the ear piece to get on the call.

In my opinion, even if the user is not always away from the desk, it is a nice option to have as users can just click on their ear piece and start dialing or answering and over thousands of calls during its lifetime it certainly adds up and is well worth the extra money.

Actual real range of the CS55 is 60-100ft despite the fact Plantronics claims it is 300ft. If you need more, the CS55 is not for you. You might want to consider the Plantronics CS50 to help solve the range issue.

Life expectancy of these is 2-5 years depending on how heavy you use them. Another nice part about this is the battery can be replaced, in some wireless models you cannot do this resulting in a much larger future expense.

For most people, the review above should be enough for you to get a great idea about what the Plantronics CS55 can do for you. For the more technically minded, call!

To purchase the Plantronics CS55 or see more specifications click here.

GN Netcom 9350e Wireless Headset Review

I have personally used the GN 9350e for over a month and will tell you what I think from an actual users standpoint, not a reviewer who tries it for a day and moves on to the next gadget.

The 9350e is a unique wireless headset in that it works for both a PC and a desk phone. With today's needs, it becomes increasingly useful to have a headset that can do both without costing twice the price.

It switches easily between the PC and desk phone at the click of a button. At times when I was using it for audio on a PC and the desk phone rang, I could just click on the desk phone button and the lifter would automatically lift and answer the call, which is an added bonus over the competing Plantronics units.

The range of 300ft provides a comforting freedom to move away from the base and still be able to answer the phone.

The GN 9350e can be worn over the head or ear, I tried the ear style and found it a bit tight for my liking, but everyone is different.

Overall, it is a reliable headset, with good range and sound clarity. Although a bit more expensive then single use headsets, the extra money can be justified by future reliance on the Internet as a form of communication.

To purchase a headset please visit www.telecomsuperstore.com or if you are in Canada visit www.headsetplus.ca