Choosing The Right Headset

You’re ready to buy a headset? This decision will now provide limitless payback in terms of comfort and productivity during the life of the product. No more crinkled neck or typing with one hand.

Choosing the right headset is important as making the decision to use one. Although finding a headset does not require an MBA, there is enough variation out there that one cannot just click and buy.

What to consider when buying a headset:

1. How it Fits. Over the head or over the ear? People to do not like things over their head and opt for the over the ear versions (If you are going to cover both ears, your choice is only over the head). Plug in or outside the ear options exist and comes down to personal choice. Plug in versions provide closer sound contact but may not be liked by the individual. Over the ear versions are also on average slightly higher in price then headband style.

2. Is Noise Cancelling Required? Headsets can cancel out background noise. Regular voice tube versions do not. You can also find regular Noise cancelling, or Ultra noise cancelling headsets. Ultra noise cancelling is used in EXTREMELY heavy noise environments and in some cases can actually reduce the user’s voice. Ultra noise cancelling headsets should only be ONLY used in EXTREMELY noisy areas. I usually suggest people buy noise cancelling headsets, as it is not a lot more money but provide flexible benefits. Voice tube’s also need to be replaced every 6 months as they get dirty thus there is a cost associated with that.


3. Choosing Between Monaural or Binaural Headsets? Monaural headsets cover one ear and binaural two ears. Binaural headsets are used in heavier noise areas or for people who may be hard of hearing, Binaural headsets are more expensive.

Monaural headsets cover one ear and allow users to keep one ear free to converse with other colleagues in the room and are effective in moderate noise environments.

4. Analog or VoIP connection? VoIP is not just referred to as PC or MAC use communications. More frequently known as Skype or Voice using chat systems. For this low costs consumer solutions exist. VoIP can also mean your company is based on an IP Internet Backbone for voice. Users with this system are recommended into a High Wideband width headset which can take advantage of the full decibel range of sound and will allow users to hear better. Analog headsets will still work, but will not produce the full spectrum of sound. In terms of price, they are similar so make sure you find out if you are analog or not.

5. Choosing A Connector? Once you’ve chosen your headset, you need to make sure you have the right connectors. Pro-series headsets do not come with end connectors to the phone because there are too many variations of phones or equipment in the marketplace. There are phones with built in amplifiers, have headset ports, or require other custom solutions. Getting the wrong type of connector will result in the headset not even working or burning the headset out during extended use. If this happens, the manufacturer will not support the warranty, so buying the proper product is important.

Connectors can vary with a lower priced cord, to a more expensive amplifier. Amplifiers can provide better sound control and is ultimately the best solution, but can be overkill in cases where built in amplifiers exist.

User with soft phones will require a headset with USB connections to the computer direct. These headsets are available in consumer or pro-series styles with the right adapters.

6. What About Wireless Headsets?

Wireless headsets can be more expensive but have come down in price and are being used more and more often. When comparing a wireless headset to say a wired headset with amplifier, the difference in price becomes minimal compared to the benefits a wired headset can provide.

The benefits of a wired system are tremendous. Wireless allows you to have two hands completely free without wires hanging around. Wireless headsets also allow you to be away from your desk and pick up the call.

Wireless headsets also have similar wearing options as wired and produce crystal clear sound. In fact, one would likely never know the user is on a wireless headset.

7. Headset Warranties – Pro-series headset warranties are usually two years if you go with a major manufacturer like Plantronics or GN Netcom. Wireless headsets usually run about a year as well as USB type headsets. Accessories usually also run about a year as well.

Researching the Internet for information is useful, but feel free to call the real experts. Visit www.telecomsuperstore.com for more help.