2 Bluetooth Headsets Bowed From Plantronics
By Lisa Johnston -- TWICE, 12/3/2007
SANTA CRUZ, CALIF. — Described by Plantronics as the first mono-to-stereo convertible Bluetooth headset with AudioIQ DSP noise-reduction technology for MP3 mobile phones, the Voyager 855, features a convertible design and "immersive sound experience" for calls and music. It can be used with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones with stereo A2DP.
Features include a detachable stereo cable so consumers can tailor the wearing style to their preferences. The 15-gram Voyager 855's sound-isolating ear buds and convertible cable are engineered to provide crystal-clear wireless stereo sound when listening to digital music, as well as "complete binaural immersion in conversations," said Plantronics.
When attached, the stereo cable also enables wireless AVRCP remote control capabilities. Plantronics' stereo multipoint technology alerts users to incoming calls and allows easy switching between conversations and music.
It also comes with a slide-to-talk boom meant to provide convenient call control and improved audio performance. Sliding the boom open connects the caller; the extending boom also houses a voice tube to position the microphone closer to the mouth for directional voice reception. When the boom slides back, the call ends and/or the user's music selection resumes play.
The Voyager 855 features the company's AudioIQ technology — an adaptive digital signal processing (DSP) technology that is designed to automatically reduce background noise and adjust audio levels.
Talktime reaches seven hours, while listening time is six hours and standby time hits 160 hours. It has a $149 suggested retail and is currently available.
Plantronics also introduced the Voyager 815 mono Bluetooth headset, which features the same slide-to-talk design, tailor-fit ear buds and AudioIQ noise-reduction technology as the Voyager 855. It is designed for designed for users who need to their headset only for conversations. The Voyager 815 also features Plantronics' multipoint technology, which is designed to enable users to connect the headset with two Bluetooth-enabled devices and switch between one phone to another with the touch of a button.
The Voyager 815 provides up to seven hours talk time and 160 hours standby time. It retails for a suggested $129 and is available.
