When I originally wrote about my intention to review a bunch of hands free Bluetooth options, I mentioned that I had no experience with Bluetooth headsets. I suppose I should have clarified that while I’ve never used a headset, I do regularly use the handsfree Bluetooth system in a good number of the press cars I review. While they all operate a little differently, the fact that I’m comfortable using the Bluetooth function of my Blackberry Tour makes learning each device much easier.
The first test unit to arrive was the Plantronics Voyager PRO. This is a high tech looking little device with microphone screens that look like machined stainless steel. the packaging promises a comfortable, reliable device. Sound is enhanced by a system called AudioQ Noise Canceling that uses a dual mic system to cancel out background and even wind noise.
The box comes with the headset, a charger that plugs into the wall, a User Guide and a quick start card.
Using the quick start card, I had the Voyager PRO paired with my BB in about 30 seconds. Very impressive that it should be that easy. To figure out how to answer the phone, I delved into the User Guide to find out that a quick tap on a button at the side of the earpiece is all it takes to answer a call or hang up. There are many other things that button can do, but I don’t do anything other than call and hang up, so I didn’t read any further!
I was a bit concerned that it would be uncomfortable due to the large wrap around portion of the headset. I needn’t have been. The Voyager PRO is very lightweight and the body is made of soft silicone, along with the earbud. The large portion to the rear is actually designed to counter balance the speaking boom. That boom is adjustable for height to ensure your voice comes across crystal clear. Both Mrs. G and I have used the VP and find it so comfortable that one forgets it is on one’s ear.
I’ve worked with guys who have their Bluetooth headset on all the time and have found that often they sounded garbled. Not so when you are on the receiving end of a Voyager PRO call, it sounds like the person is right inside your phone. Likewise, the speaker on the unit sounds fabulous.
I had my doubts about being mandated to use a hands free device, as most of the ones I’ve used in cars can be somewhat limiting. Close the windows & sunroof, turn off the stereo and share your conversation with your passengers. Beginning the test with the Plantronics Voyager PRO was a great introduction to headsets. This is a unit that I can see myself using on a daily basis and would easily recommend to anyone who is looking for their first handsfree device.
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How am I supposed to be able to get hold of you if you have that thing stuck in your ear. Now pick up that baked bean can on the end of the string so that I can talk to you
Seriously though, I’m really interested in what you’ve got to say on this, only I’ve just purchased two hands free devices, and neither one will work with my wife’s phone. It’s an older Samsung unit and it has Bluetooth, yet it still won’t pair up with these new rear view mirror contraptions.
I hope to hear that they have improved voice quality/clarity. If there is one thing that erks me it’s getting a call from someone and there is lots of road noise, crowd noise or it sounds like I’m on speaker phone.