Well, as promised, Chameleon call center headsets are now online.
http://www.telephonemagic.com/call-center-headsets/ is the URL.
These headsets stand out because they blend in. They can be made to work with Plantronics M12 adapters as well as GN Netcom amplifiers because they use special compatibility cords below the quick disconnect that pretty much every corded headset has these days.
They also feature enhanced noise canceling microphones for exceptional call clarity.
Check them out today!
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Friday, October 20, 2006
Call Center Headsets
So I keep learning things here that I like to pass along, in the hopes some of you will find it useful.
I was talking with the manufacturer of the Chameleon phone headset about their products, which have been designed to provide call center managers with the best possible headset for the dollar.
Of all the headset manufacturers, I think Chameleon might have the smallest product line. That's because their philosophy is simple - there are only three main styles of headset people are going to wear, so we'll only offer them in those styles. Furthermore, the only kind of microphone that's any good is an enhanced noise canceling microphone, so that's all we're going to put on our headsets.
That means Chameleon currently offers three headsets for the call center market - a monaural headset, a binaural headset and a convertible monaural headset - all with enhanced noise canceling microphones.
Why the focus on the noise canceling mics? As they put it, the "voice tubes" found on competing models transmit sound from approximately a 10~15 foot radius. If you're using a voice tube, you're possibly going to transmit conversations from the agent next to you, or in an office environment, from somebody walking past your office or cubicle.
With a voice tube, there's no such thing as a "private" phone conversation due to the transmit of outside noise. Only a noise canceling microphone will do - and the more noise canceling available, the better.
Our Chameleon rep said that the competition's noise canceling microphones take out about 60% of background noise. The competition also offers "enhanced" or "ultra" noise canceling microphones on selected models - at a price premium of approximately $20. Chameleon builds in enhanced noise canceling microphones in all of their headsets, with no price premium. To me, that sounds like a good deal, especially in a call center where picking up other conversations is distracting and reduces the clarity of the agent's voice.
Another point about noise canceling microphones I noticed. Chameleon's mics are all on flexible booms to ensure proper positioning of the microphone. Many noise canceling microphones on competing headsets from Plantronics and GN Netcom have booms that can swivel, but don't get into an optimal position to capture your voice and nothing but your voice. If you have a fixed boom that's beside your mouth or in some cases, is short enough to be sort of beside your cheek, the noise canceling function can't be too good or it would hardly pick up your voice. That won't happen with Chameleon's mics which can be properly positioned just to the side of your mouth.
So, noise canceling is a big part of the Chameleon story. However, that's not all they've got going for them. Their warranty is pretty good as well - a 2 year warranty covering everything except abuse and intentional damage. If you return a product under warranty, you get a brand new headset with a FULL 2 year warranty on it as well. That's impressive. I'm also told their return rate of headsets for damage is under 2.5% over a 2 year period, so quality and durability are built in.
I've left out why these things are called Chameleon in the first place. If you're working with Plantronics or GN Netcom equipment in your call center and you want to replace headsets or amplifiers, you're stuck with the same manufacturer. Chameleon headsets blend into any phone system environment and any other headset. In other words, if you need to replace a headset, just order the Chameleon headset you want and an adapter cord, and it will work with a Plantronics or GN Netcom amplifier - or plug directly into your phone if you have a "direct connect" telephone. Same thing applies with amplifiers - use your Plantronics or GN Netcom headset with a Chameleon amplifier no problem.
So, you have a durable, quality headset with an enhanced noise canceling microphone that's great in call centers. Now, here's the biggest feature of them all - these headsets pay for themselves several times over in a call center environment. Here's how.
With a big speaker and an enhanced noise canceling microphone, you will significantly decrease the "noise" in the conversation so the agent and the caller can hear each other clearly. This has been demonstrated to increase call throughput - a super-huge important measure of efficiency in call centers. How does this make you money? Simple.
Let's assume you have a call center with 100 seats. With salaries, benefits, infrastructure costs etc., it probably costs around $28,000 to fill that seat with an agent. An increase in call throughput of 1% means you could theoretically do the job of 100 agents with only 99. OR, your 100 agents are doing the job of 101 agents. Either way, there's a $28,000 benefit to your call center's bottom line.
Chameleon headsets represent the best value you're going to find in a call center headset in my opinion. Frankly, they're a good addition to any phone you're going to use a headset on. They fit virtually all business phones (including AVAYA) and they have adapters for your cell phone. Because of their use of compatibility cables, you can have one headset do double or triple duty on your desk phone, cell phone and home phone or computer.
Chameleon headsets - coming soon to the Telephone Magic website. http://www.telephonemagic.com.
I was talking with the manufacturer of the Chameleon phone headset about their products, which have been designed to provide call center managers with the best possible headset for the dollar.
Of all the headset manufacturers, I think Chameleon might have the smallest product line. That's because their philosophy is simple - there are only three main styles of headset people are going to wear, so we'll only offer them in those styles. Furthermore, the only kind of microphone that's any good is an enhanced noise canceling microphone, so that's all we're going to put on our headsets.
That means Chameleon currently offers three headsets for the call center market - a monaural headset, a binaural headset and a convertible monaural headset - all with enhanced noise canceling microphones.
Why the focus on the noise canceling mics? As they put it, the "voice tubes" found on competing models transmit sound from approximately a 10~15 foot radius. If you're using a voice tube, you're possibly going to transmit conversations from the agent next to you, or in an office environment, from somebody walking past your office or cubicle.
With a voice tube, there's no such thing as a "private" phone conversation due to the transmit of outside noise. Only a noise canceling microphone will do - and the more noise canceling available, the better.
Our Chameleon rep said that the competition's noise canceling microphones take out about 60% of background noise. The competition also offers "enhanced" or "ultra" noise canceling microphones on selected models - at a price premium of approximately $20. Chameleon builds in enhanced noise canceling microphones in all of their headsets, with no price premium. To me, that sounds like a good deal, especially in a call center where picking up other conversations is distracting and reduces the clarity of the agent's voice.
Another point about noise canceling microphones I noticed. Chameleon's mics are all on flexible booms to ensure proper positioning of the microphone. Many noise canceling microphones on competing headsets from Plantronics and GN Netcom have booms that can swivel, but don't get into an optimal position to capture your voice and nothing but your voice. If you have a fixed boom that's beside your mouth or in some cases, is short enough to be sort of beside your cheek, the noise canceling function can't be too good or it would hardly pick up your voice. That won't happen with Chameleon's mics which can be properly positioned just to the side of your mouth.
So, noise canceling is a big part of the Chameleon story. However, that's not all they've got going for them. Their warranty is pretty good as well - a 2 year warranty covering everything except abuse and intentional damage. If you return a product under warranty, you get a brand new headset with a FULL 2 year warranty on it as well. That's impressive. I'm also told their return rate of headsets for damage is under 2.5% over a 2 year period, so quality and durability are built in.
I've left out why these things are called Chameleon in the first place. If you're working with Plantronics or GN Netcom equipment in your call center and you want to replace headsets or amplifiers, you're stuck with the same manufacturer. Chameleon headsets blend into any phone system environment and any other headset. In other words, if you need to replace a headset, just order the Chameleon headset you want and an adapter cord, and it will work with a Plantronics or GN Netcom amplifier - or plug directly into your phone if you have a "direct connect" telephone. Same thing applies with amplifiers - use your Plantronics or GN Netcom headset with a Chameleon amplifier no problem.
So, you have a durable, quality headset with an enhanced noise canceling microphone that's great in call centers. Now, here's the biggest feature of them all - these headsets pay for themselves several times over in a call center environment. Here's how.
With a big speaker and an enhanced noise canceling microphone, you will significantly decrease the "noise" in the conversation so the agent and the caller can hear each other clearly. This has been demonstrated to increase call throughput - a super-huge important measure of efficiency in call centers. How does this make you money? Simple.
Let's assume you have a call center with 100 seats. With salaries, benefits, infrastructure costs etc., it probably costs around $28,000 to fill that seat with an agent. An increase in call throughput of 1% means you could theoretically do the job of 100 agents with only 99. OR, your 100 agents are doing the job of 101 agents. Either way, there's a $28,000 benefit to your call center's bottom line.
Chameleon headsets represent the best value you're going to find in a call center headset in my opinion. Frankly, they're a good addition to any phone you're going to use a headset on. They fit virtually all business phones (including AVAYA) and they have adapters for your cell phone. Because of their use of compatibility cables, you can have one headset do double or triple duty on your desk phone, cell phone and home phone or computer.
Chameleon headsets - coming soon to the Telephone Magic website. http://www.telephonemagic.com.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Multi-Line Long Range Cordless Phones
We get a lot of people asking about multi-line long range cordless phones. The Nortel T7406 is commonly used on Nortel Norstar systems, but its range is sometimes limited by environmental factors (like concrete walls and the like). The Avaya TransTalk 9040 is a good model, but it is increasingly hard to find and is only available refurbished. So what's left?
There are long range cordless phones specially designed for use in office buildings. EnGenius and Voyager long range phones will both cover up to 12 stories in an office building and up to 6 miles in open areas. Again, keep in mind that environmental factors will affect the range you get. Expect to use an external antenna if you want the longest range from these models.
The EnGenius Durafon 4X system is the only multi-line long range cordless phone system. It does have its limitations though.
First of all, there is no way we know to have the Durafon 4X pick up MULTIPLE lines in a PBX environment. I spoke to EnGenius support about this issue today and they didn't have an answer as to how it could work. They said it MIGHT work in a Nortel environment, but it's not something they've tested.
If you're in a NON-PBX environment, you'll have more luck. Your lines would go directly into the base of the Durafon 4X (up to 4 lines). Then, if you're on the phone and a call comes in on another line, the Durafon 4X base will send a signal to the handset causing it to beep twice and print a message on the LCD display. Unfortunately, you can't take three calls at once on a single handset.
There are other business cordless phone options available, but the ones we've seen so far are quite expensive and require repeaters throughout the area you want to cover. As updates come in, I'll try to keep things posted.
There are long range cordless phones specially designed for use in office buildings. EnGenius and Voyager long range phones will both cover up to 12 stories in an office building and up to 6 miles in open areas. Again, keep in mind that environmental factors will affect the range you get. Expect to use an external antenna if you want the longest range from these models.
The EnGenius Durafon 4X system is the only multi-line long range cordless phone system. It does have its limitations though.
First of all, there is no way we know to have the Durafon 4X pick up MULTIPLE lines in a PBX environment. I spoke to EnGenius support about this issue today and they didn't have an answer as to how it could work. They said it MIGHT work in a Nortel environment, but it's not something they've tested.
If you're in a NON-PBX environment, you'll have more luck. Your lines would go directly into the base of the Durafon 4X (up to 4 lines). Then, if you're on the phone and a call comes in on another line, the Durafon 4X base will send a signal to the handset causing it to beep twice and print a message on the LCD display. Unfortunately, you can't take three calls at once on a single handset.
There are other business cordless phone options available, but the ones we've seen so far are quite expensive and require repeaters throughout the area you want to cover. As updates come in, I'll try to keep things posted.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Ocean's 13 Movie "Supporting Role" played by Telephone Magic Scitec Hotel Phones
One of the fun things around the office is hearing who sold what to who.
Recently, Dorothy was contacted by the set people for the new Ocean's 13 movie who wanted Scitec hotel phones to dress their sets. The phones were shipped and are hopefully in filming now. I hope they remember their lines...
That's cool, for us anyway!
Telephone Magic has sold to all kinds of companies - governments, military agencies, police, fire, ambulance services, Fortune 500 and thousands of other companies but it's neat to hear that phones we sell might wind up in what to us is a high-profile role. Hey - if one of our phones is pressed against George Clooney's ear for a few moments in the film, that'll be great. Okay, it wouldn't be so bad to be seen being used by Brad Pitt or Matt Damon either. Do they have enough star-power in this film?
Unfortunately, Julia Roberts or Catherine Zeta-Jones won't be gracing the screen this time. Oh to be a phone pressed against one of those ladies' ears...
...ahem...
Anyway, if you're looking for wholesale hotel phones, keep Telephone Magic on your mind!
Recently, Dorothy was contacted by the set people for the new Ocean's 13 movie who wanted Scitec hotel phones to dress their sets. The phones were shipped and are hopefully in filming now. I hope they remember their lines...
That's cool, for us anyway!
Telephone Magic has sold to all kinds of companies - governments, military agencies, police, fire, ambulance services, Fortune 500 and thousands of other companies but it's neat to hear that phones we sell might wind up in what to us is a high-profile role. Hey - if one of our phones is pressed against George Clooney's ear for a few moments in the film, that'll be great. Okay, it wouldn't be so bad to be seen being used by Brad Pitt or Matt Damon either. Do they have enough star-power in this film?
Unfortunately, Julia Roberts or Catherine Zeta-Jones won't be gracing the screen this time. Oh to be a phone pressed against one of those ladies' ears...
...ahem...
Anyway, if you're looking for wholesale hotel phones, keep Telephone Magic on your mind!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Unbundling the Bundled CS70
The new Plantronics CS70 wireless headset is the newest wireless headset to hit the market. I was really happy when this came out because it was ONLY offered as a bundle with the HL10 handset lifter. Frankly, if you're going to buy a cordless headset, you're missing the best part of having one if you don't get the lifter to go with it. What's the point of having a cordless headset if you can't answer the phone when you're away from your desk?
But then again, what if you're upgrading and already have a handset lifter?
Fear not - Plantronics has announced that the CS70 will now be offered UNBUNDLED. So you can feel free to upgrade from your old CS10 wireless headset to the new CS70 without having to purchase an additional handset lifter.
So, what are you waiting for? Upgrade today!
But then again, what if you're upgrading and already have a handset lifter?
Fear not - Plantronics has announced that the CS70 will now be offered UNBUNDLED. So you can feel free to upgrade from your old CS10 wireless headset to the new CS70 without having to purchase an additional handset lifter.
So, what are you waiting for? Upgrade today!
Friday, July 21, 2006
Plantronics wireless headsets
In case anyone was wondering, the new Plantronics CS70 wireless headset is out. This is a great little model that surpasses the CS50 in style, if not in function.
If you're going to get the CS70 or any other wireless headset, get the HL10 handset lifter. Frankly, if you're going to buy a cordless headset, you're missing the best part of having one if you don't get the lifter to go with it. What's the point of having a cordless headset if you can't answer the phone when you're away from your desk?
The CS70 uses DECT 6.0 wireless technology (1.9 GHz) to improve clarity and reduce the risk of interference with other wireless devices.
Telephone Magic is selling the CS70 for the incredibly low price of $289 US, including the HL10 handset lifter. Check it out today!
If you're going to get the CS70 or any other wireless headset, get the HL10 handset lifter. Frankly, if you're going to buy a cordless headset, you're missing the best part of having one if you don't get the lifter to go with it. What's the point of having a cordless headset if you can't answer the phone when you're away from your desk?
The CS70 uses DECT 6.0 wireless technology (1.9 GHz) to improve clarity and reduce the risk of interference with other wireless devices.
Telephone Magic is selling the CS70 for the incredibly low price of $289 US, including the HL10 handset lifter. Check it out today!
Teledex Cordless Phones moving to DECT
Teledex has discontinued their line of analog cordless hotel phones, making way for a their new DECT wireless models.
DECT is a "new" wireless standard. New to North America - it's been around in Europe for a while. However, it promises to have less interference with other wireless devices so it's a good thing to have in a high density hotel.
The new phones operate at either 1.9 GHz (North America) or 1.8 GHz (Most European Countries) and will be available starting in September or October 2006.
Stay tuned for more updates!
DECT is a "new" wireless standard. New to North America - it's been around in Europe for a while. However, it promises to have less interference with other wireless devices so it's a good thing to have in a high density hotel.
The new phones operate at either 1.9 GHz (North America) or 1.8 GHz (Most European Countries) and will be available starting in September or October 2006.
Stay tuned for more updates!
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
More conference phone battery woes
On the heels of Polycom's problems with the SoundStation 2W battery comes a similar issue with ClearOne.
Here's the link:
http://www.clearone.com/docs/press_releases/PR_020206_Battery_Packs.pdf
Here's the problem:
Rechargeable Battery Packs Sold with MAX Wireless Conference Phones Recalled for Burn Hazard
These battery packs can short circuit, causing them to overheat and melt the protective plastic covering, posing a burn hazard to consumers.
The battery is included as a power source for the MAX Wireless Conference Phone Models 910-158-001 and 910-158-070. The model number can be located on the product ID label placed on the underside of the MAX Wireless Conference Phone Pod. The phone is black, six-sided and has a domed speaker in the center. “ClearOne Max” is written on the top of the phone. The recalled battery pack is green. The battery pack is located in the battery compartment on the underside of the MAX phone pod. The recall involves the TWD rechargeable nickel metal hydride battery pack with model number TH-AA2200. The battery pack’s model number “TH-AA2200,” “TWD NI-MH Battery,” and “7.2v AA2200mAH” are printed on the side of the battery. The battery pack is also sold separately.
Consumers should stop using these phones with recalled battery packs immediately and contact ClearOne Communications for a free replacement battery pack.
For additional information, contact ClearOne Communications at (800) 283-5936 select Option# 5 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. MST or visit the firm’s web site at www.clearone.com.
So, when this happened with Polycom's SoundStation 2W, we recommended the ClearOne Max Wireless. I suppose now that Clearone's having these problems with the MAX, we can always recommend the Konftel 60W wireless conference unit...
Here's the link:
http://www.clearone.com/docs/press_releases/PR_020206_Battery_Packs.pdf
Here's the problem:
Rechargeable Battery Packs Sold with MAX Wireless Conference Phones Recalled for Burn Hazard
These battery packs can short circuit, causing them to overheat and melt the protective plastic covering, posing a burn hazard to consumers.
The battery is included as a power source for the MAX Wireless Conference Phone Models 910-158-001 and 910-158-070. The model number can be located on the product ID label placed on the underside of the MAX Wireless Conference Phone Pod. The phone is black, six-sided and has a domed speaker in the center. “ClearOne Max” is written on the top of the phone. The recalled battery pack is green. The battery pack is located in the battery compartment on the underside of the MAX phone pod. The recall involves the TWD rechargeable nickel metal hydride battery pack with model number TH-AA2200. The battery pack’s model number “TH-AA2200,” “TWD NI-MH Battery,” and “7.2v AA2200mAH” are printed on the side of the battery. The battery pack is also sold separately.
Consumers should stop using these phones with recalled battery packs immediately and contact ClearOne Communications for a free replacement battery pack.
For additional information, contact ClearOne Communications at (800) 283-5936 select Option# 5 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. MST or visit the firm’s web site at www.clearone.com.
So, when this happened with Polycom's SoundStation 2W, we recommended the ClearOne Max Wireless. I suppose now that Clearone's having these problems with the MAX, we can always recommend the Konftel 60W wireless conference unit...
Thursday, March 09, 2006
This just heard from the folks at Skype...
Plantronics today announced its Internet-optimized Voyager 510 Bluetooth headset solution featuring a plug-and-play USB Bluetooth voice adapter. “Skype for Business coupled with our new Bluetooth headset is the ultimate tool for small businesses,” commented Philip Vanhoutte, EMEA Managing Director, Plantronics. “You no longer need to carry a multitude of devices. Our Voyager 510 Bluetooth headset solution is multipoint, allowing customers to switch seamlessly between mobile phone and Internet calls.”
I checked the Plantronics website and didn't see anything about this Internet-Optimized headset, although I did find this:
"Plantronics today announced two new Bluetooth® headsets, the Plantronics Discovery™ 645 and Voyager 510 with WindSmart®, that incorporate new technologies for excellent audio clarity during conversations. The Voyager 510 is the first Bluetooth headset on the market to include both a noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in windy environments. The Discovery 645 includes a digital signal processing (DSP) chip to actively reduce background noise when talking."
Very interesting. Two companies, talking about the same product, but in different ways.
I'll await clarification from Plantronics on these products. No information is available on their website as of yet.
For information on the Plantronics Voyager 510, you can always visit the Telephone Magic website.
GN Netcom makes a similar product - the GN 6210 wireless headset. It too features the ability to go between your mobile headset and your desk phone.
Gotta love all this convergence...
I checked the Plantronics website and didn't see anything about this Internet-Optimized headset, although I did find this:
"Plantronics today announced two new Bluetooth® headsets, the Plantronics Discovery™ 645 and Voyager 510 with WindSmart®, that incorporate new technologies for excellent audio clarity during conversations. The Voyager 510 is the first Bluetooth headset on the market to include both a noise-canceling microphone and wind-reduction technology for brilliant sound in windy environments. The Discovery 645 includes a digital signal processing (DSP) chip to actively reduce background noise when talking."
Very interesting. Two companies, talking about the same product, but in different ways.
I'll await clarification from Plantronics on these products. No information is available on their website as of yet.
For information on the Plantronics Voyager 510, you can always visit the Telephone Magic website.
GN Netcom makes a similar product - the GN 6210 wireless headset. It too features the ability to go between your mobile headset and your desk phone.
Gotta love all this convergence...
A Military Misconception Cleared Up
A buddy of mine who works with the military told me that no wireless telecom devices are allowed to be used by military personnel.
I found this a little hard to believe, so when Yves Dupuis from GN Netcom dropped in for a chat, I asked him about this. He said they sell lots of GN 9120 wireless headsets to the military.
He also mentioned that government workers (and others interested in privacy) usually opt for the GN 9120 because the 2.4 GHz frequency that the GN 9120 operates is inherently more secure than the 900 MHz frequency range. The GN 9120 also uses digital encryption to further protect the transmission between the base and headset.
I got to put the 9120 through its paces today. Installation was a snap - even without Yves helping. If you have installation problems, you can also call the 1-888-GNN-9120 support line for live assistance - quite handy.
Range was pretty good - I walked to the corner store which is about 200 feet from our office. It was a little windy and I had the SoundTube model, so the noise from the wind was picked up, but I'm sure that wouldn't have happened with the noise-canceling microphone model.
Sound quality on the receiving end was good, according to my office-mate who was helping me test the unit.
All things considered, the GN 9120 is a pretty slick little unit. No headset wires, cool looking base unit, built-in headset-in-use indicator on the base AND headset. Nice.
I guess another bonus - they're a little less expensive than the CS50 as well.
GN Netcom's also got some really cool stuff on the horizon, so you'll be hearing more about it soon.
I found this a little hard to believe, so when Yves Dupuis from GN Netcom dropped in for a chat, I asked him about this. He said they sell lots of GN 9120 wireless headsets to the military.
He also mentioned that government workers (and others interested in privacy) usually opt for the GN 9120 because the 2.4 GHz frequency that the GN 9120 operates is inherently more secure than the 900 MHz frequency range. The GN 9120 also uses digital encryption to further protect the transmission between the base and headset.
I got to put the 9120 through its paces today. Installation was a snap - even without Yves helping. If you have installation problems, you can also call the 1-888-GNN-9120 support line for live assistance - quite handy.
Range was pretty good - I walked to the corner store which is about 200 feet from our office. It was a little windy and I had the SoundTube model, so the noise from the wind was picked up, but I'm sure that wouldn't have happened with the noise-canceling microphone model.
Sound quality on the receiving end was good, according to my office-mate who was helping me test the unit.
All things considered, the GN 9120 is a pretty slick little unit. No headset wires, cool looking base unit, built-in headset-in-use indicator on the base AND headset. Nice.
I guess another bonus - they're a little less expensive than the CS50 as well.
GN Netcom's also got some really cool stuff on the horizon, so you'll be hearing more about it soon.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Polycom SoundStation 2W Battery Recall
Following up from my post earlier this month, Polycom's SoundStation 2W batteries are being recalled.
You can remove the battery and continue using the conference phone with the AC adapter.
For details on how to do this, and for other information on the recall, here's the URL:
http://www.polycom.com/resource_center/1,,pw-13752,FF.html
Here's the link to the FAQ:
http://www.polycom.com/resource_center/0,,pw-13753,FF.html?trackID=13753
Here's the link to the US Consumer Safety Protection Commission's document (PDF):
http://eknowledge.polycom.com/media/SoundStation2W/polycom%20phone%20battery2-14-06.pdf
You can remove the battery and continue using the conference phone with the AC adapter.
For details on how to do this, and for other information on the recall, here's the URL:
http://www.polycom.com/resource_center/1,,pw-13752,FF.html
Here's the link to the FAQ:
http://www.polycom.com/resource_center/0,,pw-13753,FF.html?trackID=13753
Here's the link to the US Consumer Safety Protection Commission's document (PDF):
http://eknowledge.polycom.com/media/SoundStation2W/polycom%20phone%20battery2-14-06.pdf
Polycom VTX 1000 - Full Spectrum Conference Phone
Trying to keep up with the myriad of products available for the telecom consumer is challenging at best. I'm trying to figure out how I missed out on this product though.
I've been party to the occasional conference call and haven't been really impressed with the hardware used. The voice quality wasn't always what I expected. Sometimes it was tinny, sometimes distorted, sometimes far away depending on where the speaker was positioned on the other end of the call.
Makes me wish we were using Polycom VTX 1000 Conference Phones back then. These models are designed to be able to pick up speakers up to 20 feet away from the microphones and offer full-spectrum sound. This is kind of neat - because full-spectrum sound refers to the hearing frequency range of us humans. The Polycom VTX 1000 can reproduce frequencies from the bottom to the top of the human hearing range, resulting in fuller, richer sound reproduction. Polycom says it's like having the other person in the room with you.
I can't vouch for that, but it sounds like a really great idea. I can't wait to get my hands on one. I know we've sold a bunch of them lately. That's probably because there's a $100 rebate on them from Polycom. So, buy one from us and you'll get a cheque from Polycom for $100. The special lasts until March 31 and applies to the Polycom VTX 1000 and the SoundStation 2 EX.
I've been party to the occasional conference call and haven't been really impressed with the hardware used. The voice quality wasn't always what I expected. Sometimes it was tinny, sometimes distorted, sometimes far away depending on where the speaker was positioned on the other end of the call.
Makes me wish we were using Polycom VTX 1000 Conference Phones back then. These models are designed to be able to pick up speakers up to 20 feet away from the microphones and offer full-spectrum sound. This is kind of neat - because full-spectrum sound refers to the hearing frequency range of us humans. The Polycom VTX 1000 can reproduce frequencies from the bottom to the top of the human hearing range, resulting in fuller, richer sound reproduction. Polycom says it's like having the other person in the room with you.
I can't vouch for that, but it sounds like a really great idea. I can't wait to get my hands on one. I know we've sold a bunch of them lately. That's probably because there's a $100 rebate on them from Polycom. So, buy one from us and you'll get a cheque from Polycom for $100. The special lasts until March 31 and applies to the Polycom VTX 1000 and the SoundStation 2 EX.
Monday, February 13, 2006
For the first time - pricing!
Well, this is a huge development in the history of Telephone Magic's website.
You see, because our prices fluctuate often - sometimes daily - and depend on the volume of product purchased, management felt that it wouldn't be in our customers' best interest to post a single fixed price on the website.
However, I've bugged them for a while and am pleased to announce the introduction of pricing on the website. It's a first - and I'm pretty proud of it.
We're doing a test in the phone headset section as a trial to see how it goes. In other words, does adding pricing make it easier for people to make a decision about buying from us? Does it reduce the friction in the purchasing process? Or does it encourage tire-kicking?
I don't know the results yet, but prices are here at least.
The biggest difference though is we have stated a maximum price. In other words, the price shown on the website is the most you would pay if you ordered a single unit. If you were to order more than one headset, or combine it with a telephone purchase, the price would likely drop a bit. That's why it's only a maximum price.
That way, we can still offer the best prices possible to our customers while making sure we don't overcharge for items that we get special manufacturer pricing on.
What a deal! I hope you visit what we consider one of the Internet's leading telecommunications product websites today. Thanks!
Visit www.TelephoneMagic.com for all your business telecom requirements.
You see, because our prices fluctuate often - sometimes daily - and depend on the volume of product purchased, management felt that it wouldn't be in our customers' best interest to post a single fixed price on the website.
However, I've bugged them for a while and am pleased to announce the introduction of pricing on the website. It's a first - and I'm pretty proud of it.
We're doing a test in the phone headset section as a trial to see how it goes. In other words, does adding pricing make it easier for people to make a decision about buying from us? Does it reduce the friction in the purchasing process? Or does it encourage tire-kicking?
I don't know the results yet, but prices are here at least.
The biggest difference though is we have stated a maximum price. In other words, the price shown on the website is the most you would pay if you ordered a single unit. If you were to order more than one headset, or combine it with a telephone purchase, the price would likely drop a bit. That's why it's only a maximum price.
That way, we can still offer the best prices possible to our customers while making sure we don't overcharge for items that we get special manufacturer pricing on.
What a deal! I hope you visit what we consider one of the Internet's leading telecommunications product websites today. Thanks!
Visit www.TelephoneMagic.com for all your business telecom requirements.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Polycom SoundStation 2W Shipments on Hold
Polycom has announced that for the present time, shipments of the popular SoundStation 2W wireless conference phone are on hold due to a potential issue with battery safety.
This situation only affects the SoundStation 2W as other Polycom products use a different battery pack.
If you HAVE a SoundStation 2W, you can still use it safely if you remove the battery and use the AC adapter instead.
Keep the battery and store it in a safe place. Polycom will be issuing further instructions soon. They say their next information update on this situation will be no later than February 10, 2006.
Telephone Magic carries other wireless conference phone options from ClearOne (ClearOne Max & ClearOne MaxAttach).
This situation only affects the SoundStation 2W as other Polycom products use a different battery pack.
If you HAVE a SoundStation 2W, you can still use it safely if you remove the battery and use the AC adapter instead.
Keep the battery and store it in a safe place. Polycom will be issuing further instructions soon. They say their next information update on this situation will be no later than February 10, 2006.
Telephone Magic carries other wireless conference phone options from ClearOne (ClearOne Max & ClearOne MaxAttach).
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Konftel Conference Phones - SoundStation Replacement!
Konftel is a European manufacturer of conference phones. They've got a very innovative line of quality conference phones and Telephone Magic is pleased to be featuring them now.
The Konftel KT100 model is a model designed to fill the void left when Polycom discontinued the SoundStation conference phone. Good looking and reasonably priced, this is a solid performer that you should consider when looking to acquire a new or replacement conference phone.
Other Konftel models feature Bluetooth connectivity to computers, cellphones etc. giving them unparalleled flexibility in connection options. Check out the Konftel line of conference phones on TelephoneMagic.com today!
The Konftel KT100 model is a model designed to fill the void left when Polycom discontinued the SoundStation conference phone. Good looking and reasonably priced, this is a solid performer that you should consider when looking to acquire a new or replacement conference phone.
Other Konftel models feature Bluetooth connectivity to computers, cellphones etc. giving them unparalleled flexibility in connection options. Check out the Konftel line of conference phones on TelephoneMagic.com today!
TalkSwitch Unveils New Phone
The TalkSwitch VoIP-capable PBX is a great unit for small businesses as well as companies with multiple locations looking to cut down on long distance costs.
TalkSwitch has just released their much-awaited TS600 business phone - a great model which will look great on any executive's desk. Even "the Donald's".
Have a look today at the innovative TalkSwitch system. It's packed with features and very reasonably priced.
EnGenius Updates
For those of who've been considering an EnGenius long range cordless phone, just wanted to let you know the SN-920 and EP-490 long range phones have been discontinued and replaced by the DuraFon 1X and DuraFon 4X models, respectively.
Yes, somewhat old news, but we get a lot of requests for the SN-920 and EP-490 so obviously people are still looking for them.
Have a look at our revised long range cordless phone page for information on these new EnGenius models.
Yes, somewhat old news, but we get a lot of requests for the SN-920 and EP-490 so obviously people are still looking for them.
Have a look at our revised long range cordless phone page for information on these new EnGenius models.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Nortel Re-Brands the CallPilot 100 & 150 (yawn...)
In case you missed it (like 99% of the rest of the world), Nortel Networks re-branded their popular CallPilot Voicemail systems. This re-branding took place on May 1, 2005 and was widely missed by pretty much everyone.
There have been no changes to the product, its functionality, looks or anything else like that. Just the name.
Are you ready for the big change? Here it is:
CallPilot 100 is now Nortel Messaging 100
CallPilot 150 is now Nortel Messaging 150
Very exciting changes that we thought we'd mention.
Of course, to keep things interesting, Nortel Networks has another CallPilot product, which is a unified messaging solution for large enterprise systems and has NOTHING TO DO with the Nortel Integrated Communications System platforms.
In case you're wondering, we still call these products by the "CallPilot" moniker as it's still the way the rest of the world knows them.
There have been no changes to the product, its functionality, looks or anything else like that. Just the name.
Are you ready for the big change? Here it is:
CallPilot 100 is now Nortel Messaging 100
CallPilot 150 is now Nortel Messaging 150
Very exciting changes that we thought we'd mention.
Of course, to keep things interesting, Nortel Networks has another CallPilot product, which is a unified messaging solution for large enterprise systems and has NOTHING TO DO with the Nortel Integrated Communications System platforms.
In case you're wondering, we still call these products by the "CallPilot" moniker as it's still the way the rest of the world knows them.
Mitel Ensemble Voice Mail Replacement
For those of you who have been using Mitel phone systems, this might apply to you.
The Mitel SX-50, SX-200 and SX-2000 phone systems often use the Mitel Ensemble Voicemail system. However, the Ensemble hasn't been produced for quite a while and is virutally impossible to find, despite the fact that it's very good voicemail system. Actually, that's probably why it's so hard to find - everyone's still using it!
The Ensemble has been replaced by the DuVoice DV4 or DV2000 series unified messaging solution which has the power to consolidate your voicemail, fax and e-mail communications and send them all to e-mail.
The DV4 is scalable to 8 ports and the DV2000 is scalable to 48 ports for enterprise applications. These systems build on the strengths of the Ensemble voicemail system and are worth a serious look if you're in the market for voicemail solutions.
The DV4 and DV2000 can integrate with most any phone system, including those from Avaya, Nortel, Mitel and Vodavi.
For more information, call us or visit the website. Thanks!
The Mitel SX-50, SX-200 and SX-2000 phone systems often use the Mitel Ensemble Voicemail system. However, the Ensemble hasn't been produced for quite a while and is virutally impossible to find, despite the fact that it's very good voicemail system. Actually, that's probably why it's so hard to find - everyone's still using it!
The Ensemble has been replaced by the DuVoice DV4 or DV2000 series unified messaging solution which has the power to consolidate your voicemail, fax and e-mail communications and send them all to e-mail.
The DV4 is scalable to 8 ports and the DV2000 is scalable to 48 ports for enterprise applications. These systems build on the strengths of the Ensemble voicemail system and are worth a serious look if you're in the market for voicemail solutions.
The DV4 and DV2000 can integrate with most any phone system, including those from Avaya, Nortel, Mitel and Vodavi.
For more information, call us or visit the website. Thanks!
Nortel M7310 BLF Issues
The M7310 Busy Lamp Field (BLF) module is a great tool. However, Nortel M7310 users need to be aware that the BLF module doesn't work on all generations of ICS software.
The BLF module only works on KSU software versions 6.0 and LOWER. It will NOT work on versions 6.1 or 7.0.
This problem is also evident on older M7310 phones (1st generation), where adjusting the contrast on the BLF will only show 4 levels of adjustment versus the NINE levels of adjustment that are available on newer phones.
If your Nortel ICS phone system uses software revision 6.1 or 7.0, you'll need a T7316 phone and a KIM CAP module instead of the M7310 and a BLF module.
Thought you'd all like to know.
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