Bluetooth Headset Roundup

An anonymous reader writes "Here is an interesting comparison of four of today's best Bluetooth headsets. These devices are becoming increasing popular, both as a gadget and accessory, but despite how stylish they get, performance and comfort are still serious issues. Joe Selim takes a look at four very different products, two from Jabra and two from Plantronics, in order to make some sense of things."

Comments

Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Nefarious Wheel]

Commercial PIN pads used in EFTPOS transactions use Bluetooth too. While trying to get one certified recently I came up against a lot of anti-Bluetooth sentiment from the Security folk. Why does BT have such a bad name re security?

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Anonymous Coward]

Bluetooth doesn't let you choose your security method. Compare, say, 802.11g. If you don't like the security layer (WPA or WEP), you can always run your own layer of security on top of that (SSH or HTTPS or even go all the way and have a VPN running.) With Bluetooth, you don't have this option. It's Bluetooth's security or nothing. Can we trust Bluetooth's security? If it's unbreakable now, how about six months from now.

In a nutshell, I wouldn't use a bluetooth keyboard for this very reason.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[teh moges]

As well as the above comment, in general, if it's wireless, it is less secure. Yes, the security measures are extremely secure, but I know I would prefer a wired connection to handle my money any day.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Xenna]

That's because people can send you a Vcard with a funny message/picture if you've let your phone be visible. Some imaginative soul has named this 'bluejacking' and now suddenly everyone is scared to death of BT.

Of course, anything that requires real security would apply it's own encryption/identity management on top of BT, which makes this point moot.

X.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Frogbert]

I have to ask, why would you have a wireless connection between a keypad, that really need not be wireless. And a machine that, again need not be wireless. Its inviting two things:
1. Evesdropping
2. Some kid running off with your keypad.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Malor]

Security people don't like it because it's totally insecure.

Awhile ago, they'd figured out how to hijack the 'introduction' process between two devices, but it only worked during introduction, so it wasn't a terribly useful attack.

But then someone else discovered how to force a reintroduction at will. Between the two holes, Bluetooth has no security whatsoever, unless something pretty dramatic has changed in the last six months.

Be sure to read replies, as I've not been paying close attention to this. But as far as I know... don't send anything over Bluetooth you care about.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[islanduniverse]

Don't forget though, that Class II bluetooth (which is the most commonly used form) only has a range of 10m.

I think that's right anyway.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Malor]

That's with standard antennas. If you deploy an antenna with enough gain, and a loud enough signal, you could talk to a Bluetooth device from kilometers away.

Kilometers would be extremely expensive, but a few hundred meters should be doable with Pringles-can-level equipment.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Inda]

Bluejacking is not about sending vCards. I don't know much about it so I'm not going to give details. It is not about sending vCards.

Mod down or back this up with a link please.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[bernywork]

Pin number entry at tables in restaurants instead of making the person move to a register. As people start using cards and PINs more, not having the wires around makes things a heck of a lot simpler, especially in busy environments.

I know what you are getting at, but consider it this way by paraphrasing your comment:

Why use a wireless remote control for your TV when a wired one works just as well and you don't need to change the batteries? Plus it means your dog can't run off with it.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[plover]

A year ago Tom's Hardware ran this article describing how some guys built a "Bluetooth Sniper Rifle". It has over a mile of range, and cost only a few hundred dollars to build. Less if you build it without the gratuitous gun stock.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Peter La Casse]

Of course, anything that requires real security would apply it's own encryption/identity management on top of BT, which makes this point moot.

Like, say, talking on the phone?

Which of these headsets implement their own encryption/identity management on top of BT?

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[wongaboo]

Yea, I'm not sure I understand this. If someone were to force my wireless headset to pair with their device well then it wouldn't simultaneously be operating with my phone. I guess my question is: I understand that Bluetooth can be hacked trivially, allowing someone, for instance, to steal all the phone numbers in the Bluetooth enabled cell phone in my pocket, but can they listen to my call by intercepting the signal from my headset? Seems to me if they have to "pair" to steel then the answer is no. Am I wrong?

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Kieranishere]

Well that's not altogether true. Bluejacking is simply sending unsolicited messages to other BT enabled devices, this would typically be in the form of a vCard. While bluejacking is usually harmless; the advancements in mobile phones now allows for the transmission and execution of image, audio and other files. These devices are more suseptable to virus attacks and, indeed, devices can be taken over completely with the use of a trojan horse program.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Anonymous Coward]

So that's why this guy keeps following me around at 20 yards with a big radio dish! Thanks for warning me. ;)

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[ravi1]

I think, bluetooth itself is not very secure. You can easily catch up the information sent by any other person,if you have some good knowledge of bluetooth..
____________________________________
Conference Call

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Plunky]

I guess my question is: I understand that Bluetooth can be hacked trivially, allowing someone, for instance, to steal all the phone numbers in the Bluetooth enabled cell phone in my pocket

Well, dont forget that Bluetooth is the transport layer. All these things happen over other transport layers if the security is not good enough at each end. The major difference seems to be that when you buy a device with 'Bluetooth' its usually an unprogrammable device (phone, headset, ..) so you can't rework the configuration yourself, and some manufacturers just did it badly.

but can they listen to my call by intercepting the signal from my headset?

With available technology, not that I know of. The thing is, most consumer Bluetooth hardware is all on a chip and there is no known way to do things like place it in promisicuous mode in order to listen to other devices (as you can do with WiFi hardware). I'm not sure but I think that in order to conform to Bluetooth spec and be approved to use the Bluetooth name and logo you would not be able to produce hardware that could.

It may be possible for engineers who work at companies that develop bluetooth hardware to listen in on your phone call but they will have very expensive kit that does that. It may be possible to make a 2.4Ghz receiver and decode the packets yourself as I dont think that Bluetooth Headsets use encrypted links but that isnt going to be easy and its about as likely as people listening to digital cellular traffic I would think - does that happen?

Seems to me if they have to "pair" to steel then the answer is no. Am I wrong?

Seems to me that no, you are not wrong..

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[Malor]

If I understand correctly, someone with some technical chops can remotely point an antenna at your Bluetooth device in use, force a reintroduction (which would probably cause a brief interruption of service), and by eavesdropping that introduction, snoop on all subsequent traffic. It's apparently not even that hard to do.

I suggest, therefore, not typing critical passwords on Bluetooth keyboards, and not saying incriminating things on Bluetooth headsets.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[PReDiToR]

You're thinking of BlueSnarfing, not BlueJacking.

One is harmless, one is similar to the Paris Hilton scenario.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[geekoid]

If it is broadcast through the air, it can be intercepted.
Whether or not you can do anything with what you intercept is another issue.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[dichro]

Nonsense. Bluetooth security is specifically designed with low-power, low-CPU devices in mind. It isn't "secure" as people understand things in the Internet world, and it isn't intended to be. The BT specification explicitly states that applications that care about security should layer their own on top of the BT connection layer. You'd have exactly as much luck changing the encryption in a WiFi keyboard as you would in a BT one (ie, none whatsoever unless the manuacturers put in some buttons on the keyboard and driver support to do it), and your battery life would be reduced by two orders of magnitude or more.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[jeannie888]

I thought we're comparing BT headsets (comfort, usabling, clarity) not security? most people who use BT with their cell phone probably careless about security.

Re:Security and other Bluetooth bits

[jeannie888]

I thought this article was comparing Bluetooth headsets, is BT security relevant to this thread? .

Lt Uhura- is that you?

[AdmNaismith]

Of all the things to come to pass from the original Star Trek, I never in my wildest dreams figured we'd all look like Lt. Uhura with these things hanging out of our ears. Note to the general public- you look stupid with those things hanging out of your ears. Cel Phone conversations in public shall be considered an invitation to slap you upside the head.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[Eideewt]

I wish! I sure don't want one of the lame headsets they're turning out these days, but a Trek style earpiece would catch my eye.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[Tekzel]

Hope you have a little money, that way when you actually slap someone in the head for talking on their cell phone, they can sue your ridiculous ass and take it.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[dhanes]

Might look stupid, but as I'm on the road almost all day between clients, it sure allows me to realize how close the OTHER cell phone users are to crashing their cars...and yes, my i730 is voice-activated, so don't even have to look at it.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[PoconoPCDoctor]

I have yet to hear anyone say - "I'll put you though to Starfleet, Captain." Or, "All Hailing frequencies are open."

It's more like, "so I'm on the train now, and it's taking soooooo long, and I need to get my nails and hair done, that is sooooo bizarre, like I really think that, OMG - PONIES!

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[Maskull]

Agreed. I've always thought that Bluetooth headsets were a kind of Emperor's-new-clothes type thing: Everybody says they look cool, but deep down inside, we all know they just look stupid.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[eheldreth]

Speaking of all things trek, any one know when that phone that looks like a comunicator is comming out. I think it was from a company called sona or something like that.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[engwar]

I'm not sure when it's coming out but I hope they make it a decent quality phone. If you google for it and visit the site they sure focus a lot on the ringtones, wallpaper, Trek games and 'community' aspects of the phone.

Heck I just want a TOS-looking communicator that is a quality phone.

The site gives me an impression that it's a way to sell add-ons to Trekkies.

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[PReDiToR]

The HTC Star Trek might be the phone you mean?
If it is, according to The Register, May 10th.

Assuming also that you're on this side of the pond =/

Re:Lt Uhura- is that you?

[toddmori]

but a Trek style earpiece would catch my eye.

take a look at the bluespoon

that is the closest you can get

Coral Cache

[meetmeonaholiday]

It appears to be down. Here's the coral cache:

http://www.xyzcomputing.com.nyud.net:8090/index.ph p?option=content&task=view&id=642

How much longer?

[superrcat]

When are these things going to be implantable?

Re:How much longer?

[no_mayl]

http://www.med.harvard.edu/publications/On_The_Bra in/Volume3/Number4/Cochlear.html

Upgrades tend to be painfull.

Re:How much longer?

[Anonymous Coward]

What, to drown out the voices in my head? Never!

Already out of style

[robogun]

A bunch of guys were wearing these in public a couple month ago, but not so much anymore it seems. I guess people are still not ready for something that makes you sound like a spaced out homeless man talking to himself.

Re:Already out of style

[imroy]

How is that any different to the wired "hands free" earpiece + mic sets that have been around 5+ years? What I'm interested in is the reduced exposure to RF radiation. Put the mobile/cell phone on the desk, on the passenger seat, in your bag/purse, or even just held in your hand (away from your head) and talk with one of these headsets. Although, BlueTooth is still RF. How much power does BlueTooth put out compared to GSM or CDMA?

Re:Already out of style

[Anonymous Coward]

Really? I've started seeing a few now that I've moved on to a university. Confuses the hell out of me when someone walking past me says out loud, "How's your mother doing?"

Re:Already out of style

[robogun]

Here in Calif, I haven't seen any in the last week or so, whereas last month all kinds of spacemen seemingly were walking around talking to themselves.

And now that I've responded to your AC comment, it kinda looks like I'm talking to myself unless threshold is set at 0 or less.

Re:Already out of style

[chord.wav]

Yeah, people looks at you like you have a cockroach in your ear...Maybe if they made them look like a brunette whispering in your ear. That would do...

Re:Already out of style

[Lurker187]

Doesn't Dr. Gaius have one of those? I like his, but it's too expensive.

Re:Already out of style

[Thaelon]

RF radiation fears are absurd.

See here where somebody(ies) editing the article tried to make it sound like there's some risk involved. But it - and this is the funny part - cites this which, if you read both articles, contradicts what the phone article just said.

I'll paraphrase: Cell phones emit radiation on a frequency incapble of cellular or subcellular damage (non-ionizing radiation). The only remaining possible electro-magnetic radiation damage possible is heat which requires vastly different frequencies, which cell phones do not produce.

Re:Already out of style

[imroy]

Are they really that absurd? IIRC, a recent long-term study found that people tended to develop brain tumours on the same side of their head that they used their mobile/cell phone on. And I don't care about what we *currently* know about RF radiation and how it *shouldn't* cause tumours. We still might discover that there is a cause, or maybe not. There seems to be a lot of anecdotal evidence that the phones cause brain tumours. I'm sure a lot of that is driven by the media and their desire to sell more ads (what they're really selling). But until someone can show that e.g it's a statistical coincidence, then the fear will remain. I don't want to run the risk of developing a life-threatening tumour just to use a phone.

Don't bother with your computer!

[coop535]

Seriously! They are uncomfortable, 'noise'y and it blows having to recharge batteries. If using with Wintel, the drivers suck: I hated having *all* the sound channel through the ear piece! That means that games would channel all its sound into my right ear with the person I'm talking to. meh!

Plantronics dsp 400.

It looks flimsy, but it isn't. It's lightweight, comfortable, and has volume / mute control in the cord. I love the idea of wireless, but sometimes you just can't let go of wires.

Re:Don't bother with your computer!

[sushibot]

I agree. I bought a Motorola Bluetooth headset a few months ago for about $80. I never could get used to it. The mic picked up a lot of background noise, the sound was poor, and I could not get used to it hanging on my ear. I use a Plantronics wired headset now (about $35 from Radio Shack). It's not as convenient, with a wire and all, but the sound and mic quality are great. -Greg

Re:Don't bother with your computer!

[jeannie888]

Have you tried the plantronics 590?

Motorola?

[Yonkeltron]

I looked at all of these models and my Motorola was more comfortable in addition to having better clarity. I would love to see some of the higher-end Motorola offerings thrown into the mix for comparison.

Re:Motorola?

[Lumpy]

I found the exact opposite. I bought the absolute cheapest plantronics I could get my hands on and it was much more comfortable than my motorola. I actually forget it is on at times. IT does not block any outside noise and it can get plenty loud as well as filter out all wind noise into the microphone (Driving in a convertable and talking on it the other person can not tell I have the top down at highway speeds except when a truck or a moron on a harley is next to the car.)

I have a drawer full of these bluetooth headsets from when I had to commute 170 miles a day for work (one way not round trip) and was trying to find something comfortable and loud enough to be useable during the entire commute. The cheapest plantronics at compusa won.

Although it's still not as comfortable as the wired headset that came with my really old nokia 3300. that was the worlds best headset ever designed.

Re:Motorola?

[Moofie]

My BT850 broke its solder joints at the charging jack after two days. The fangs on the charger wouldn't disengage, and the jack was damaged.

So, yeah, not gonna buy their gear again.

Re:Motorola?

[Anonymous Coward]

The Motorola 850 looks great and functions well when new but they WILL break on you. I should know, I'm on my third. OK, so one of them did get run over by a car, but the other two both broke off at the hinge to the flip-out boom. If you do go for this model, definately get the extended warranty.

150 usd for a headset?

[bubulubugoth]

And people are crying about the 600 usd for a PS3!

Wiiere the world is going?

Re:stylish?

[afaik_ianal]

Yep - that's the only thing stopping me from going out and getting one. I'm sure I'd find it extremely useful, but have an aversion to looking like a dickhead.

It's unfortunate that a few people who feel they need to advertise to the world that they're really important can ruin a technology for the rest of us :(.

headset in public?

[mikesd81]

I don't see to many headsets in public. Where it's relly important would be on docks or warehouses where you need to be able to talk in loud or echoing work places. There, does stylish really matter? I'd be more concerned on how much it hurts my ear after 12 hours a day. It also matters if you use while driving, since states a mandating hands-free kits.

Re:headset in public?

[monoqlith]

Could they do something about the "crazy person" headset wearing phenomenon? I can't count how many times I've walked down a city street thinking I was being followed by a schizophrenic talking to himself when it was actually a business executive wearing a headset talking to payroll, for instance. I know this isn't a fair portrait of schizophrenics, who are usually non-violent, but it's still creepy to have someone follow you who appears to have an imaginary friend.

I understand the hands-free necessity in cars - but is it necessary to wear a headset all the time? Are we getting too lazy to hold a phone up to our ears while walking? It may be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but it certainly clearly labels anyone talking on a phone as talking on a phone.

Re:headset in public?

[mikesd81]

Hey now, I have friends that *do* have imaginary friends

But I agree that in public it's disconcerting if not just plane rude. My original post was meant to not be in public. I have no problem having my cell phone glued to my ear walking down the sidewalk. I was making a point to the fact in a work enviroment comfort and durbaility is key.

Re:headset in public?

[Anonymous Coward]

These headsets aren't very useful in noisy environments, though. These are typically either just in the ear or over the ear sets and the volume on them just isn't sufficient to overcome a noisy environment. To say nothing of the microphone issues.

I have a Motorola bluetooth headset which I like a lot, but at least a couple of times a week somebody calls me while I'm walking down a busy downtown street and I can't hear a word they're saying over the passing cars and buses.

-Coach-

Re:headset in public?

[hackstraw]

Are we getting too lazy to hold a phone up to our ears while walking?

I talk almost exclusively via speakerphone because I like the flexibility to not have a phone plastered against my face and talking to my hand.

But I don't do this typically while walking down the street. What I want to know, is what are these people talking about all the time, and how do they pay for it (or at least justify paying for it)?

I live near a university campus, and about 2/3rds of the kids walking on campus have a phone plastered against their face. And I just don't know what in the world they are talking about, or how these people could function before these cellphones were invented.

I'm not saying that I'm antisocial, nor advocating it, but to me phones are merely a last resort of a method of communication, or at most a means of coordinating a face to face meeting. But having the need to be connected chronically and in realtime with horrible audio quality and reception fading in and out is not worth whatever could transpire over the course of the conversation.

Plus, unless people are more into phone conversations than I am, you can pretty much only talk with one person at a time.

Maybe I'm just out of the loop. I guess that chronic one-on-one conversation is here to stay, and when these kids get a job they will have to go outside and talk on their phone like a smoker needs to go outside for a smoke. I guess, minus the radiation and hearing loss, cellphones are healthier.

Re:headset in public?

[Moofie]

Why do you care whether I'm talking to myself? More to the point, why should I care what you think?

Fashion is slavery. Do as you will.

Re:headset in public?

[cant_get_a_good_nick]

The worst i saw was a guy wearing a Bluetooth handset while eating. He was talking to his friend at the table, talking on the phone, and slurping food at the same time. I think we'll see this more with Bluetooth because there are no cords to get tangled in food.

You can't legislate manners, people either have them or they don't.

Re:headset in public?

[Babbster]

I understand the hands-free necessity in cars - but is it necessary to wear a headset all the time? Are we getting too lazy to hold a phone up to our ears while walking? It may be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but it certainly clearly labels anyone talking on a phone as talking on a phone.

You haven't answered anyone else, so I'll ask you straight out: Why should I care that you know whether or not I'm talking on a phone? Further, why should I subject myself to what you yourself identify as discomfort in order to accommodate your neurosis?

It's one thing to get irritated by someone who's got a ringing cell phone and/or talking loud on the phone in a quiet restaurant or a movie theater. It seems like a pathology, however, when you're feeling uncomfortable because someone is using a cell phone with a headset while walking down the street.

I don't have a cell phone myself (I don't spend all that much time out and about and I'm reluctant to make myself available 24/7 in any case) but if I did I would never use it without a headset. I've been using headsets and speakerphones at home for years now and I hate when I have to hold a phone to my ear. I certainly wouldn't change that habit because someone on the street is so oversensitive that they can't deal with the idea of someone using technology to enhance their comfort.

Re:headset in public?

[bar-agent]

I think that most people are either bothered, annoyed, or creeped out when they run into someone else using a headset.

My friend was always talking with one of these. We'd be driving somewhere, and all of a sudden he starts talking in short sentences about I-don't-know-what. Apparently, he either made or received a call. And while he's doing that, he'll occasionally direct a question or comment my way. So I can't just ignore it.

Here's what it boils down to. Using a headset forces other people to pay attention to you. That's rude.

A voice is an "alert" signal. When someone speaks, you glance at them. That is instinctive. If they are looking at someone else, or someone else answers them, you can dismiss it. But if there isn't anyone else there, you get repeated "alert" signals every time they say something. It is bothersome.

Why do you think people who talk to themselves bother you? It's not because they're crazy. It is because there is no one else there. And with a headset, there is still no one else there. Sure, if you're on a headset yourself, you have an image of someone you're talking to. But no one else does, and you have to be considerate to them.

Re:headset in public?

[GunFodder]

You must not live in Nerdifornia, where it seems the major purpose of a wireless headset is to make you look like a remote controlled robot everywhere you go.

Re:headset in public?

[monoqlith]

Look, I can't *make* you do anything.

But imagine this scenario: You're walking home at night in New York City because you don't have a car and it's only a short distance anyway. There's someone walking five or ten yards behind you, chattering to themselves. It's dark. There's very few other people around. Do you feel safe?

If you don't feel outright freaked out, you are going to feel at least mildly uncomfortable.

Now, as someone who has been mugged in a city twice, I am well aware that there's a distinct possibility that someone following me in the dark could want to hurt me. If someone is talking to themselves, there is no reliable way to tell if they are a crazy person or not without looking back and engaging them in some respect.

It's not a neurosis if it's grounded in *reality.* Sometimes people talking to themselves in public makes me feel uncomfortable, because suddenly any predictive ability I have over their actions seems to go out the window - we've lost the common ground of "reality," and that's scary. If that's a neurosis, then 9 out of 10 people in our culture is thereby classified as neurotic and isn't mental illness - neurosis - defined by your abnormal behavior?

All I'm asking is for people to be considerate of the people around them. You don't want to be labeled a criminal, I don't want to label you one, but if you're following me closely talking to yourself, I'm bound to do so and that's perfectly reasonable unless I know for a fact that you're talking on a cell phone.

Moreover, what does it say about us that we need to have access to a phone at all times? Why do we need to have to contact another person - any person - at any minute? This wasn't the case ten years ago. You certainly don't have to subject yourself to discomfort to accomodate my "neurosis" - but the bigger issue is, you don't have to be talking on a cell phone either. I know we're in a new technological era where cell phones are becoming commonplace - they're a device we never knew we needed. Cell phone adoption is going to keep becoming more and more widespread as time goes on, and I can't do anything about that. Does that mean I have to like it? No.

Re:headset in public?

[monoqlith]

By "criminal" I meant "potential criminal."

Stereo headsets

[sonamchauhan]

Good to know the best of the mono headsets, but how come these stereo wraparound headsets+microphones aren't more popular?

Motorola Stereo Bluetooth headset

Generic Bluetooth Headset : Headphone MP3 Player FM Stereo Radio

Re:Stereo headsets

[Oscar_Wilde]

Probably because people usuallu buy these for chatting not for general listening.

People who want to use them with mobiles as well as with their computers generally don't want wrap around headsets.

Re:Stereo headsets

[Plunky]

Good to know the best of the mono headsets, but how come these stereo wraparound headsets+microphones aren't more popular?

Normally Bluetooth headsets use the Headset profile for transmission of audio data over low latency isochronous links and is mono only, but these boys are using the newer "Advanced Audio Distribution Protocol" (A2DP) which operates over rfcomm (emulated serial) links and is not well supported in cell phones as yet.

In fact, the first link you posted said that the only phone that supports it properly is only available in Asia, though I saw on Nokias website recently that a few of their newer models will be supporting it (eg 6125).

Re:Stereo headsets

[Anonymous Coward]

I thought it was illegal in some states to use a stereo headset while driving. Hence mono headsets being vastly more popular.

Anyone got a link to prove / disprove this?

As an aside, it seems like the hassle of wires would be insignificant compared to the hassle of having to recharge a cordless headset. Give me wires vs a dead battery - any day of the week.

Re:Stereo headsets

[grazzy]

Because they suck ass.

You can only use the stereo mode while not using the mic, and it's still suboptimal sound quality. And they're quite buggy.. Not a buy I would recommend anyone :p.

Google around for WIDCOMM + Motorola + HT820 and you'll find that half the net is full of people with problems with motorolas solution.

Re:Stereo headsets

[Bobsledboy]

This is definitely the case in Western Australia.

Re:Stereo headsets

[Tintivilus]

Normally Bluetooth headsets use the Headset profile for transmission...

That's not entirely accurate. Headsets can use either the headset profile or handsfree profile, with the latter being more featureful and much more commonly used on all but the most low-tier headsets. Both are routinely supported by cell phones.

While you're correct that A2DP is used for stereo audio, any A2DP headset that has a microphone will also support HFP, as A2DP is output-only. The Motorola HT820, for example, even supports pairing HFP and A2DP with separate devices. The headset will suspent A2DP when there's HFP activity, so your phone will automatically cut off music from your (say) iPod bluetooth adapter when a call comes in or you hit the voice dial key on the headset... so really, you only need A2DP support in your phone when you're actually using your phone as your music player.

If you are using your phone as your music player, A2DP support is spreading quickly through the media-optimized-cell-phone market. The first phones I've used with A2DP are the Motorola v3x, E1070, E770, and their variants, but more are coming to market all the time.

Re:Stereo headsets

[Anonymous Coward]

Have you look at the Plantronics 590ABT stereo headset? It will also work with your BT cell phone.

What about while wearing glasses?

[HockeyPuck]

Why doesn't someone review these headsets/earpieces while wearing glasses?

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[Michael Wardle]

I bought a Nokia NS-26W bluetooth headset about a month ago. It clips around the back of the ear rather than over the top. It's reasonably comforable when I'm wearing my sunglasses.

I paid $69 Australian from Organiser World. If you're in the US, you can get it from Amazon.com.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[patio11]

Because it always hurts like "#%"$#%"#.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[Anonymous Coward]

Oakley's got you covered - RAZRWIRE (what a catchy name, BTW, even if it has nothing to do with glasses or bluetooth) - check http://oakley.com/o/o2261d

Next you're going to tell me 'I was talking about _prescription_ eyeglasses'. So, trendy enuf to go Bluetooth, but not to go Lasik? Like, 'modern nerd'? Let me share a little secret with you - no Bluetooth headset is going to help you get a date with that cute redhead from Accounting, no matter how cool, if you don't drop first those 2-inch deep glasses ;)

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[Krazy Nemesis]

Not to be one of those nit-picking idiots out there, but some of us who wear glasses can't always get lasik due to medical conditions out of our control. In my case, for example, Dry Eye Syndrome.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[iamdrscience]

So, trendy enuf to go Bluetooth, but not to go Lasik?

Laser eye surgery is a rip-off. My friend went and all he got was better eyesight, not laser eyes.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[Tony Hoyle]

heh. You jest but it is a ripoff.

Lasik is minimum £800 (£400 per eye) for the no frills version. Plus there's the incumbent risk (around 5% of lasik surgery introduces complications making their eyesight worse, ranging from double vision to complete blindness - source: http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2001-06-28-las ik.htm, amongst others).

Glasses are dirt cheap and absolutely safe. If you don't like the look modern contact lenses are also dirt cheap and absolutely safe.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[myspys]

So, trendy enuf to go Bluetooth, but not to go Lasik?

OR trendy enuf to suffer from keratoconus which makes Lasik a non-option?

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[clifyt]

Great question --

I've tried several devices and they ALL suck with glasses. As the other have mentioned, its just another reason to consider Lasik because you start to realize how much trouble one goes through each and every day with glasses. I'm in the category where I feel I'm blind without them (my sis has the same prescription as I do and seems to get by fine without wearing hers except for the driving test, so its probably not that bad, but bad enough for me).

But the last time I spent $150 on a blootoof eff'n earpiece that looked like it might be better with my glasses and turned out not to I serious put this back on the plate.

However, watching the last two episodes of 24, I've seen Dr. Terrorist With One Hand using his Jabra JX10 with glasses with ease. That and his glasses actually look pretty cool. Why are terrorists always the most fashionable, dammit. Its enough to move over to the dark side of the force...just so I can get a decent pair of glasses and a fricken earpiece that works.

But seriously, seeing it on the show last night, I actually jotted a note to see if this was a prop or an actual shipping product and ended up finding the same thing in the review this morning. It has a removable ear 'stabalizer' according to the article, and can work simple attached inside the ear. Looks pretty light weight. The reviewer claimed that his didn't stay firm without the stabilizer but that friends had no problem keeping it in rock solid 'banging their head'. I've got odd earholes and had to get custom pieces for my high end Shure earpieces -- well maybe not that odd, but as I like to record with these things as opposed to mouse-ear headphones (or speaker monitors) I fronted the ear doctor that cost as much as the ECs in the first place (cuts down on leakage and allows one to play back at a MUCH lower audible range with as much clarity -- folks that claim innerear headsets are damaging to the ears probably have shitty ones that are both right next to the eardrum AND are allowing everything else to pass in barely hindered requiring one to compensate by overloading the ear). So all in all, I'm wondering if these will work -- and if so, I wonder if I can get another earpiece manufactured if needed.

But all in all, the JX10s look like they are the best reviewed for those without glasses -- at least judging by the review and seem to be the prefered piece of all the fashional one armed surgeon blackops terrorists in fictional Los Angeles.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[GreenSwirl]

I feel for you folks with eye conditions that rule our laser surgery. I wore glasses from age 16 to 36, and my dry eyes ruled out contact lenses. Frankly, I looked like a dork with glasses, and my social life suffered for it.

In 2000, I spent my tax return on lasik and it was the smartest thing I've ever done. It is unbelievably liberating not to have the responsibility of carrying those glasses around, especially since I was always losing or breaking them. Waking up and being able to see the clock. Walking down city streets and being able to tell what people are wearing ten blocks away. Going to the beach and being able to check out the sights without getting raccoon eyes. Seeing the branches on trees atop mountains miles away. I still get a warm feeling of gratitude every time.

For a fraction of what so many girls would spend on implants, you can do something that will not only improve your appearance, attractiveness, and self-esteem, but will make you feel like a bit of a superhero.

If you are not a candidate, man that sucks, but otherwise, just do it.

*I have no interest or stake in any lasik or related company*

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[pelotudo]

Just mount the headset onto your glasses directly, that's what I do. Cardo Systems makes a great Bluetooth headset called the scala-500, it comes with many accessories including an "eyeglass clip" which can be used instead of an earloop. Definitely recommend it, plus it's a fraction of the price (~$40, $10 at Compusa.com after rebates right now) of most other headsets, including the ones reviewed in this article.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[AchilleTalon]

Since I am wearing hearing aids (the kind with back-ear amplifier) and glasses (not only sun glasses). I can say it is a matter of habit. It will take about 2 weeks or even more to eventually wear both without further noticing it. Since, I am wearing both all the day long for about 12 hours a day and even more, it was a little bit faster to be acustomed to it.

However, the glasses need not to have too thick branches and it must be well polished to avoid hurting your ears.

The only time I found very cumbersome to wear both things, is during a hot humid summer day. This makes me crazy! Not only everything slips on you ear, but water drops tend to form inside your ears too.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[flosofl]

I just got that same headset last week (Plantronics Discovery 640). This thing is great. The volume level is good, people say I sound clear. It is super light and fits snug into the ear (without the "stablizer"). Since I wear glasses, I have had a tough time finding a comfortable BT headset. The addition of a AAA "emergency" charger is great (2 full chages from a AAA battery). This is the winner.

Comfort and clarity aside, the number one feature for me is the ability to bond to two devices. I have my personal phone and my work phone (my personal phone is a replacement for land-line). This thing connects to both simultaneously. When either phone rings I simply press the button and it automatically answers the correct phone. I haven't tested the voice-dial with both active, but I'm guessing it will either try the last phone it used or just plain not work when actively connected to two phones.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[drinkypoo]

Pardon my use of different monetary units but if you pay cash you can frequently get it done for $300 per eye, VASTLY lower than you're estimating. Not having to deal with insurance companies is often a strong motivator.

Also, while there is danger, the actual occurrence of further injury during lasik is very low. On the other hand, it's pretty much certain that if you don't get it done, your vision will continue to degrade as you age...

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[Anonymous Coward]

so quick to stick your nose in the path of a geo-sat that you don't even time to read what you post a link to ... sad ...

guaran-damn-tee ya that we'll get faster dates with the 3-inch coke bottle lenses, the taped halves, missing earpiece and crack/dings in the lenses than you'll ever get!

With RAZRWIRE(TM), a hands-free link to your cellular phone is always at the ready, and there's no need to remove it between calls like a clumsy headset. The technology you need is part of something you're already wearing. RAZRWIRE(TM) is science wrapped in art that turns wireless mobility into fashion. Prescription-ready design lets you customize it with corrective lenses.

Re:What about while wearing glasses?

[hughk]

The Plantronics 640 will sit in your ear without the clip. The clip itself is so light-weight it doesn't interfere much with sunglasses/glasses.

Not hearing aid compatible

[Zerosu]

Too many companies go with in-the-ear type styles... these won't work with most hearing aids, thereby limiting their potential audience. Only one of the headsets shown has even the remotest potential of being useful to that demographic group, and I'm still not convinced.

Re:Not hearing aid compatible

[enitime]

"these won't work with most hearing aids, thereby limiting their potential audience."

Please. They're limiting their potential customer base to the 99% of the population who:

1. Don't have hearing aids.

and

2. Would use headsets.

Financial suicide, that is.

Re:Not hearing aid compatible

[Anonymous Coward]

http://elihearing.com/UnitedKingdomENG/Docs/Featur es1.htm

This is a neat little hearing aid accessory that can be attached to newer hearing aids that effectively turns your hearing aid into a BT headset.

Re:Liar

[meetmeonaholiday]

Haha. I like that language and you get a 2? Wow. Anyway, it was down when I checked but about 5 minutes later it was back up so I'm not lying, I was just too quick at posting the coral cache I suppose.

Not Bluetooth nor phone headset, so Off-Topic

[Anonymous Coward]

You don't appear to know what the article was about, since the device you linked can't be used with the Headset Profile of a Bluetooth mobile phone.

Re:Not Bluetooth nor phone headset, so Off-Topic

[coop535]

You don't appear to know what the article was about, since the device you linked can't be used with the Headset Profile of a Bluetooth mobile phone.

I know what I speak of. My wife and I play online games, and we like wireles devices. I did the research into what is involved to use these sweet looking devices with our machines (and usb->bluetooth adapters). As of last week, I've managed to find homes for our past flirtation with these things (2 sets of 2 bt headsets).

The real failure, of our flirtation, was mostly due to the bluetooth drivers and the way they configure the system to channel all sound. Microsoft did something *really* silly with their audio. The article links to a plantronic headset that got a "B", however, they did something quite special: they provided a solution for long term use with an aux battery. brilliant. But still, don't do it.

The linked product you refer to is what we both wear, and obviously does not support the headset profile, because... wait for it... it's a *USB* device. Basically, I've found that these bt devices are fantastic for cell phones, but they just aren't great for wearing all the time *or* using with your computer. It's a fact... and I'd like to save any fellow /.'ers from the same mistakes ($$) I made. However, that might be a huge leap of faith on my part for the reader [you] to connect the headline of my post against the subject of the article.

Re:Not Bluetooth nor phone headset, so Off-Topic

[AGMW]

and I'd like to save any fellow /.'ers from the same mistakes ($$) I made.

You've got my attention! Just yesterday I was googling to see if the cell phone BT headsets could be connected to a PC (presumably, via a BT USB device) as I'd rather like to use it for VOIP, and it just seems silly to have to buy another device for the PC. I think it might be what I want for playing Unreal too.

My googling efforts seemed to say that any BT USB device should enable me to connect my BT headset (Bluetrek 6217 from Orange) to my PC for VOIP and Unreal - well, for everything! Is this true?

I do like your thoughts on being able to split out just a "voice" channel to the earpiece though!

Slightly back on-topic, I tend to only use it when I'm in the car (handsfree!) or if I'm on a long conference call, as it really does make you look like a bit of a tool! The biggest bonus is that if I swap phones I don't need to buy another one! I sure wish the phone industry would standardise some other of their components too ... batteries and chargers would be a start!

Re:Not Bluetooth nor phone headset, so Off-Topic

[mobby_6kl]

Looks like the standard MS drivers simply redirect all sound to the BT device, but I'm only saying this because of what others said about them. The WIDCOMM drivers I use let you connect a headset as a separate audio device, just like another sound card. This would usually let you choose the output device for each application, but some apps only use the default output and don't let you change it.

I'm myself pretty happy with the $20 Panasonic headset (BHX70A I'm not in India, but that's the best link I could find) I got during a promotion. It works well with both my ancient phone (T68i) and PC, where I use it mainly for Skype VOIP. It lasts slightly less then advertised, but not by much. It's also quite light and can be used while charging, although I have to move it to my left ear, otherwise the cord would be sticking vertically upward.

Jabra JX10

[FrodoTeeBagins]

I own a Treo 650 and even though it is a great phone there are very few BT headsets that work well with this phone. I have used both Jabra Headsets. The Jabra JX10 is the only one in which all features worked with my phone. Leightweight, Stylish, Great sound and clarity make this BT headset the best I have tried. At Best Buy it retails for 175 $. for a MUCH MUCH lowerprice check out treonauts.com. BTW Jabra has great customer service. The detachable earpiece for my headset broke. I emailed customer service and asked where I could buy more and they shipped me replacements free of charge. You can't beat that. GET THE JABRA JX10 You will not be dissapointed. P.S. Check out the tv show "24" all the bad guys use this one !!!

Re:Jabra JX10

[cheese-cube]

What are you like the Jabra poster boy or something? Sheesh.

Re:Jabra JX10

[King_TJ]

Thanks for the info, but what I've really been more interested in for my Treo 650 is a good Bluetooth hands-free car kit. I bought one of Motorola's units that clips onto the visor and cost about $99 at Best Buy. It has good clarity and volume, but the maddening thing is - it powers itself off after several minutes of sitting idle, even if a power adapter/charger is attached to it! If you want to drive around with the convenience of pressing a button on the device to take an incoming call, the device should be able to stay on as long as you're in the car!

Especially considering the Treo's ability to play MP3 music, I thought the wired stereo headset designed for it made the most sense....

Re:Jabra JX10

[orpheus2000]

Thank you! I've been wondering which BT headset to get because my Moto HS850 that I had before I got the Treo sucks for volume. Can't hear a thing. I'll try to look for the X10.

Re:Liar

[Umbral Blot]

I apologize then

Re:Liar

[meetmeonaholiday]

Apology accepted and much appreciated.

Re:Uhura had a plantronics?

[mikesd81]

I thought she had that salt shaker thing sticking out of her ear?

Re:stylish?

[spacecowboy420]

A---Men

.

Bluetooth headset for PC?

[mungeh]

Does anyone know if these exist?

Re:Bluetooth headset for PC?

[bcullman]

Sure. As long as your pc has a bluetooth radio (either built in, or using a bluetooth dongle) just about any bluetooth headset will work. Bluetooth is a standard, like USB. the differce is a) it's wireless, and b) while it can be used with a PC, it does not require a pc.

Re:Bluetooth headset for PC?

[RenderSeven]

I have it working on my laptop, with the intent of using Dragon to dictate documentation during a long commute. Thats another 10 billable consulting hours per week!

Pretty complete support info is over at Skype forumes http://forum.skype.com/viewtopic.php?t=10822 and http://forum.skype.com/viewtopic.php?t=14646

I dont know how current the info is, but in a nutshell you need to use the Toshiba stack software instead of Windows default stack to make it work correctly. Lucky for me, Dell laptops come standard with Toshiba stack pre-installed.

If you have a Dell and need the Bluetooth card, you can get them through service parts for about half the cost of buying it pre-installed or buying it through their accessories department (makes you wonder about their pricing structure). This applies to the Inspiron 6000 anyway.

I used a cheap eBay no-name headset. It didnt put out enough volume, either transmit or receive, to work well with Dragon, so I donated it to a client. It works great with his phone, but leaves me shopping for a new headset. Based on the FA I'll try the JX10 and see how the noise suppression works with voice recognition.

Re:Bluetooth headset for PC?

[Anonymous Coward]

Well, as 2 pople have pointed out, you just need a bluetooth dongle that supports the Handsfree Profile (just about every single one out there does), and any standard BT headset now works with your computer. HOWEVER, this is only good for things like VOIP where a mono audio/mic set up is ok.

If you are like me and wanted to get some gaming on and be able to use some sorta VOIP (ingame/outgame) at the same time, well you are outa luck my friend. A2DP (the profile that suports streaming of decent qualety stero sound) does not suport a Mic (the headsets with A2DP often have a mic, but tat is so that you can switch between A2DP and Handsfree by pairing the headset to 2 devices). It is a posibility that BT 2.0 with EDR will bring about a new profile that will suport this. However for that to work there will need to be demand for this, that I don't honestly see happening any time soon unless gamers start realy getting into the handsfree world.

Sound Quality

[sinfree]

In general I've gotten so tired of hearing people sound like they were talking in a barrel when I tried using a headset that I stick to the speaker phone option on my cell phone for hands free use if possible. I find the quality to be much better and easier to understand.

Startlingly functional

[virgil_disgr4ce]

Something that continually impresses me is the prevalance of these devices among drivers and deliverers in New York. It's kind of amazing to see these near-future quasi-cybernetic earpieces worn by all sorts of very different people.

I think it's an excellent example of the fact that functionality and sheer usefulness will make or break any technology, and furthermore, that even the most "far-out" technology can and will be embraced by all walks of life if it fills a genuinely useful function. Some might see these devices and assume only the geeks or early adopters would give them any attention, but all over Queens and Brooklyn I see car service drivers with them, bicycling delivery guys, etc..

Re:Startlingly functional

[vmxeo]

Something that continually impresses me is the prevalance of these devices among drivers and deliverers in New York.

I'm sure the the law requiring drivers to use a hands-free headset when talking on thier cellphone and driving may have some bearing on that... :)

..But yeah, I see people everywhere driving, biking, and walking around the city with thier headsets on too. If you don't mind wearing a wireless headset while driving, you probably won't mind using it everywhere else. I just bought the Plantronics Voyager 510 for a decent price (~$45), so I guess I'll be of of those people now too.

Now if the city would only distrubute wireless headsets to all the crazy homeles guys who stand around and talk to themselves...

PSTN-bluetooth phone

[MoogMan]

As we're on the subject, does anyone know of a bluetooth headset and base station that works with a standard PSTN phone?

Basically at work I need to answer the phone, but a lot of the time I'm not at my desk.

The problem is, it needs to actually lift the reciever. I've come across one such product, but it doesn't look all that good. Does anyone else know of this?

Re:PSTN-bluetooth phone

[CaptainTux]

I believe Jabra makes an adapter that allows you to use a standard BT headset with any PSTN phone. Hit there site for details. Maybe eBay

Re:PSTN-bluetooth phone

[EEPROMS]

yes I knows of a few. GN Netcom 9120 wiht handset lifter http://www.gnnetcom.com/AU/EN/MainMenu/Products/Wi reless+Solutions/All+Wireless+Solutions.htm Plantronics 510S with a HL10 lifter or the Plantronics CS60 with a HL10 Lifter http://www.plantronics.com.au/australia/aus/?_requ estid=411318

Re:PSTN-bluetooth phone

[Kagami001]

Unless you need Bluetooth specifically (as in, you want to use it with a mobile phone in addition to the base station) then I'd tend to recommend forgetting about Bluetooth and using a traditional encrypted digital wireless headset. They generally have longer range, better battery life, and aren't susceptible to Bluetooth's security issues (as mentioned in the early comments to this story). They also usually have handset lifters, as you mentioned.

For example, the Plantronics CS-50

Don't buy it directly from Plantronics, though. It's far less expensive to get it from a separate store, like Buy.com or somewhere.
(Strangely enough, at the moment at buy.com, buying the CS50 + the handset lifter separately is $10 less than the two bundled together.)

I haven't used the PSTN version or handset lifter, but I've had a CS50 USB, the USB-connection version of this same model, for about a year now and been very happy with it for VOIP.

Plantronics certainly isn't the only manufacturer for headsets like this, though, so you may want to Google around for a bit and see what looks good.

Re:PSTN-bluetooth phone

[EEPROMS]

yes I knows of a few.

1. GN Netcom 9120with a handset lifter

2. Plantronics 510S with a HL10 lifter

3.Plantronics CS60 with a HL10 Lifter

Sometimes in this age of high technology the best tool is a rock

Re:PSTN-bluetooth phone

[smtelegadis]

One of the devices in the review the Plantronics Voyager 510 Headset has a base station option that will allow it to be used with an analog line. There is even a Hand set lifter to answer the phone wirelessly. It's not cheap MSRP 250USD. The headset alone runs ~45-75USD so there is a bit of a disparity Contrary to the review I favor this headset the best, but thats another post.

avoid driving with the blue flashing LED

[rapiddescent]

for anyone who drives a lot the UK with headsets - I can heartily recommend that you don't get the ones with the pulsing blue LED's. At night, whilst at a rather brisk pace on the motorway, the LED flashes blue which will every now and then reflect off the (right hand in the UK) drivers window which will look not unlike the blue flashing lights of a police car in your wingmirror. nearly crapped myself the first time this happened. rd

Re:avoid driving with the blue flashing LED

[aug24]

Consider wearing on left ear?

HTH!

J.

Re:avoid driving with the blue flashing LED

[Yer Mom]

As ever, duct tape is your friend...

Re:avoid driving with the blue flashing LED

[wideangle]

Ditto. Manufacturers need to know blue LEDs are not cool, they're annoying:

http://led.linear1.org/wired-magazine-blue-led-bac klash/
http://martybugs.net/articles/bling.cgi

Why would you want one?

[Flying pig]

Nokia LPS-4 works perfectly with my hearing aid, and no big lump hanging off my ear.

Alternative Bluetooth headsets and security

[Mother_Wireless]

Hi,

I have used a couple of Southwing's headsets, the best one being the SH305, and I can tell you it's the most comfortable one I have tried. Besides, it's the one that supports most handset models, as they follow the Flash-based firmware model, meaning their software is V2.4, each revision adding fixes and support for new phone models. Firmware cannot be updated by the user however. Most manufacturers burn a ROM mask onto the Bluetooth chip with their firmware, but this means that making changes is anti-economical (around $100k for a new mask!).

As for security, the reason it has a bad name is that it has been very poorly implemented by some vendors (some very first-rate) and caused a lot of hubbub. Yes, it was possible to snarf the phonebook off a Nokia 6310i, but Nokia learned the lesson - security is much tighter nowadays...you can't cure (L)user stupidity however. If they say 'yes' when they receive some unknown file over OBEX or FTP, and install it...well.

Cheers,

Mother

Killer app

[mwvdlee]

So, are wireless headsets supposed to be Bluetooth's killer application?
I rarely see anything else using Bluetooth and if that's all there is...

Re:Killer app

[Anonymous Coward]

So, are wireless headsets supposed to be Bluetooth's killer application?

You must not use a Mac. Bluetooth is kickass on the Mac.

For me the killer app was syncing my contacts and calendar with my phone without needing some stupid proprietary ($$$) cable.
Or using my phone as a modem without needing some stupid proprietary ($$$) cable.
Or sending/receiving SMS from my computer, and seeing incoming call notifications on it.
Or moving photos/ringtones/etc to/from the phone without having to pay fees to the carrier or needing some stupid proprietary ($$$) cable.

Re:Killer app

[Anonymous Coward]

Well...
- Connecting your Cellphone or PDA to your pc (for surfing or syncronisation).
- There are quite a few BlueTooth based GPS devices out there, I use one with my Ipaq so that TomTom can know where I am.
- I got a BlueTooth mouse for my laptop, since it has BT integrated, I don't need that wireless mouse dongle.
- On top of my wishlist, a bluetooth keyboard for said Ipaq. (Either the "original" one from HP, or Frogpad, haven't quite made up my mind there yet.)
- There are BT based printers.
- And someone should make a BT web cam.

Re:Killer app

[Tweekster]

I think the most interesting and useful application is a combination of: bluetooth headset while driving, and the new head units in cars. Factor models are starting to come with this feature and aftermarket models have been available.

Basically it mutes, or sets the volume 1/10 of the power whenever a call comes in.
Most aftermarket models have had a wired in version ATT for a while but that obviousely involved wiring a cradle to the deck. Not nearly as useful as just having a phone be able to signal the device wirelessly to cut the power and then be able to answer with the headset.

Handsfree, and incrediblyless distracting because A: you no longer have to keep an eye on the phone while listening to music, B: no longer have to hold the phone.
good combo for being a safer driver and still be reachable.

Why Pay 150? $40-50 Is More Like It.

[DryBaboon]

Bluetooth headsets are pretty popular in China, and Chinavasion are selling bluetooth headsets like hotcakes to international markets because of the very low production costs.

Re:Why Pay 150? $40-50 Is More Like It.

[Ohreally_factor]

OK, Mr. Chinavasion, let me ask you. . . .do any companies in China manufacture Bluetooth motorcycle helmets? China manufactures more motorcycles and scooters than any other nation, so I'm hoping that sooner rather than later I will be able to find an inexpensive yet quality bluetooth helmet. The BT helmets I'm researched in the US are extremely expensive. US DOT certification (Dept. of Transportation) would be nice, too. Something under $300 would fit the bill. Current prices are in the $1000 range.

Where the problem really lies.

[hackwrench]

Seems to me that the problem lies with you and not the executive. Who told you what a crazy person was "supposed" to be like. Headsets have been out for how long? That's how long society has had to decide that they were "rude". Doesn't seem like enough time to me. Nobody knows what respect is, but they all want it!

Stereo

[gatzke]

I have a Treo 650 and love it. I just wish someone could get wireless stereo and mic functionality working.

Bluetooth current versions apparently have crappy bandwidth and can't handle decent stereo, so it will be years for BT to handle this simple request.

There are wireless options for ipod (just headphones really) but to really get the use out of a convergence device, you need a mic as well.

Someone out there must be working on this, but I have not found it...

Re:Stereo

[clonmult]

Bluetooth has an audio distribution profile (A2DP), which apparently supports higher quality stereo audio. There are a few products on the market that support it, obviously there will be more with time.

Bluetooth can have semi-decent bandwidth, but I haven't listened to any of these units to comment.

Re:Stereo

[gatzke]

Thanks to the crappy BT implementation on my Treo, I doubt I will be able to use this without an upgrade.

Even the new Treo probably has limitations on this.

There should be a BT independant way of getting stero and mic wireless to my earhole, just plug a little BT box in my Treo and go. I could use it on a ipod or home stereo if I wanted, no BT headaches...

Re:Stereo

[drinkypoo]

Actually, I've seen it. It was in a vending machine in las vegas next to ipod nano and ipod shuffle, and a $50 cellphone charger set I bought (charges damn near all phones still in common use, and pretty much everything new.) It was a set of stereo headphones and a bluetooth transmitter that plugs into a stereo mini jack. It was $100...

Bluespoon AX2

[JakiChan]

The Bluespoon headsets have been the masters of battery life and sound quality for years, but have been really expensive. Their budget headsets (first the AX and now the AX2) however are great as well. It has a USB charging socket. That means that while at home I plug it in to the wall charger that came with it and on the road I just pack a USB cable. I love that for travel. It has a replaceable watch-battery sized LiIon battery. Replaceable is good. Finally, it can be pared with up to 8 devices. Whatever device it talked to last will be the one it talks to when you hit the button. So I can have a nice Skype call on my Mac with it and then if I originate a phone call from my phone the headset is then pointed at the phone.

I'm not saying that now this is the only headset with these features, but that feature set combined with the Bluespoon rep and the $70 price tag has made me a happy camper. So if you're comparing I suggest you take a look.

Re:Bluespoon AX2

[Qwavel]

I see from the reviews that, though it supports USB recharing, it uses a proprietary cable. I've seen others (the Motorola H500?) that can use any mini USB cable to recharge. That would be much nicer.

I'm not completely clear on this multi-pairing thing. I have the same issue as you - I want to use the same headset with my phone and my computer. I think most headsets, including my logitech, are able to remember multiple pairings. The issue is whether they can be simultaneously paired with multiple devices and then just work with the one that is active. It is my understanding that the Plantronics Discovery 640 has this feature and that it is called 'multipoint'.

Re:Bluespoon AX2

[kurowski]

i've been a bluespoon user for years- first the AX and now the AX2. while they've worked great with all my Nokia phones, i just switched to an LG CU320 and if i use the bluespoon with it, people on the other end experience intolerable echo. so, YMMV.

I want one headset with two phones

[weave]

I have to carry two phones with me -- work and personal. My Motorola bluetooth headset can be paired with both, but only connected to one at a time.

What I'd love is to wear one headset and keep both phones in my backpack or suit pocket (depending on the day) and no matter what phone gets a call, it'll ring inside the headset and I can answer it.

I read that entire article and was hoping that feature would be covered, but alas, except for some specialized setup with some certain type of office phone, nothing. :-(

Re:I want one headset with two phones

[rjstanford]

You may want to check out this post earlier in the thread -- it looks like it does what you're wanting.

Re:I want one headset with two phones

[Anonymous Coward]

You must be the same Weave from Mobog.com.

My Wife has the same problem with her phones and headset.

I grew up in Lancaster, PA. I used to spend a lot of time in DE, but now I live in CA. I enjoy your photos.

-Matt
bikes2work@gmail.com

SIG

[WebfishUK]

Lets face it, most guys wear these cause they wanna look like Captain Scarlett!

Re:SIG

[pandrijeczko]

I'm always reminded of the Borg whenever I see someone with one of those things in their ear.

A couple of my "rotund" workmates have them also and whenever they walk past my desk wearing them, I invariably shout out "Your dinner will be assimilated!"

I'm looking forward to Dr Who this coming Saturday also - from the BBC trailer I've seen, there's lots of people walking around with Bluetooth-type earpieces in their ears and since it's also a Cyberman story (hoorah!), I'm sure there'll be more material for a few Dr Who quips next week!

As far as I'm concerned, wearing a Bluetooth headset is like a mornonic dwarf - "it's not big and it's not clever!"

I bought the plantronics 640

[doubledoh]

I bought the plantronics 640 for my dad about 6 weeks ago. My dad is in a wheelchair, so I've been trying to sell him on a bluetooth headset for the past two years. He was afraid that he'd look like one of those self-important a-holes that rolls around like a handycapped version of Gordon Gekko. I assured him that the 640 was the smallest and most inconspicuous bluetooth headset that I could find and it wouldn't make him look like like a cyborg salesman. He finally agreed to give it a go.

Here are the results: He loves it. The wind noise that alot of other internet reviews spoke of doesn't seem to be a problem for my dad...and he drives with all his windows down (no A/C). The headset itself is so light it practically floats. I couldn't believe that there was a battery inside of the headset...I was looking for a battery case opening for 5 minutes before I realized that the battery was built in...it's that light. You can pair the device up to two things simutaneously if you want (ex: your computer and your cell phone), though my dad has no need for that. His only complaints: you do need to charge it up every night if you talk often. If you talk really often, you should bring the portable pocket charger (which is still quite convenient).

I personally have no need for a bluetooth headset myself, but if I did, I would definately get this thing because it's tiny, it's light, it's inconspicuous (well, as inconspicuous as you can get until Jack Bauer starts endorsing his magical in-ear CTU issued earpieces), and plantronics obviously knows what they're doing. This is definately a headset for mobile users though. If you yap on the phone all day at work or home, you need a headset that has longer lasting batteries.

Re:I bought the plantronics 640

[jeannie888]

There is now a new Plantronics 645. If you like the 640, you'll like the 645 even more!

Current facts

[way2trivial]

Nice.. quote an article from 5 years ago, concerning a technology that was 10 years old then, and 15 years old now..

I don't know the "ANSWER"

[way2trivial]

but I know one has a radio designed to reach a couple of miles
and one has a radio designed to reach a couple of feet.

The wonderful more than you can believe it!

[Shoten]

Man, I had to go to my 419 spam archive to remind myself how to read awful english. This review is a little cryptic at times:

The PEBL comes standard with "ObeyMoto" the universal voice recognition, and this means dialing by numbers or name is a breeze. This combo really does mean you can ditch the phone into the recesses of your pants or satchel and not really the phone.

Good review other than that, although it would have been nice to see more than two companies represented.

VOIP

[metroplex]

Interesting article. I'm experimenting right now with a bluetooth adapter for my G3 tower with OsX Tiger installed and I was wondering if any of those bluetooth headsets would work with a VOIP program such as skype on my computer. Are these made especially for cellphones or are they supposed to be universal? The article doesn't seem to mention it. I'd be glad to know before buying one of those.

Re:VOIP

[Anonymous Coward]

I think it should work. If I remember correctly in OS X 10.3 you could use bluetooth headsets for specific applications like iChat, and in 10.4 the support was extended to a system level so it works almost like a plugged-in speaker and microphone set.

There is nothing special from the perspective of the headset -- it will just see a device it's paired to (your computer) and a duplex audio stream.

Re:VOIP

[pelotudo]

Cardo Systems announced the scala-500 VoIP at the CTIA Wireless show this year. Looks like it comes with Voice Command software, so you can call Skype contacts and do stuff like redial or minimize Skype while up to 30 feet from your computer. of course, it'll still work with your phone too. http://cardowireless.com/scala500voip/

Re:VOIP

[Moofie]

My Disco 640 works great with my Powerbook. All you have to do is pair it. Never played with Skype, but I'd imagine you just choose which sound I/O you want to use in the application, similar to iChat.

I would guess that most BT headsets work just fine. I was chuckling at the posters in earlier threads who were having difficulty figuring out which bluetooth stack made their Windows PC work correctly. Guess what, guys...

So they _claim_ these units aren't the problem?

[smchris]

When produce departments introduced misting in the 80s, we were in a city where the dominant chain advertising apparently thought a toothless old guy was an authentic symbol for a "real" produce manager. I will aways remember their catch phrase, "We misssst our veg't'blesssss to keep dem fresssssh!" How appealing.

In other words, aside from how cool you look walking down the street wearing it, I would suggest leaving a message to yourself with any headset to see what impression you leave. Honestly, some messages on our standalone machine are just an indecipherable cascade of white noise. I would think it was ram rot except for the occasional clear (and obviously land line?) call.

Not even close to a "roundup"

[mmmbeer]

So four devices from two manufacturers constitues a roundup now? Motorola isn't even represented despite being a major player in the market. The devices also cost 2-3x more than the bluetooth headsets everyone I know has.

If you're looking for a bluetooth headset, don't use this roundup at all, since there are plenty of great headsets which cost less than half the ones reviewed.

Re:Not even close to a "roundup"

[Moofie]

What a helpful and informative opinion you have. "Don't buy these, get something cheaper!"

Thank you so much for your insight. Do you have a newsletter to which I could subscribe?

Re:Not even close to a "roundup"

[mmmbeer]

Well if I was going to give you my opinion on every headset on the market, I would have entitled my post "Bluetooth Headset Roundup". :)

I was simply pointing out that this article shouldn't be considered aa good sampling of bluetooth headsets, and that most are cheaper. I can't say much more than that other than I own a Motorola HS820, it cost $35, it works great.

Re:Not even close to a "roundup"

[Moofie]

Uh huh. My Moto BT850 died the first time I tried to recharge it. The solder joint that attaches the charging jack to the board broke, because the charging cable's fangs wouldn't disengage.

The Discovery 640, as I've mentioned other places in this thread, is a great piece of hardware. I wish I did sell them.

While you're there...

[IainMH]

While you're out buying your blue-tooth headset, don't forget your white trainers (sneakers), Burberry baseball cap and fake designer tracksuit.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chav

Yeah, but...

[supersocialist]

That's awfully expensive when the Anycom HS-777 costs $40 including shipping and works just fine with my 650.

I bought my headset at the dollar store

[TitsNbeer]

My headset only cost $1 and is way better than thoose annoying bluetooth things.

I have to physically pulg it in and stick it in my ear to use it, but at least I dont have this monstrosity raditing blue light from my ear. And you know what I've never had problems with signal loss or snooping either.

Jabra BT250v distance

[elyobelyob]

I've got one of these, and with my SE W800i in my pocket I get terrible breakup. I have to take my phone out of my pocket and hold it with a line of sight .. Pile of rubbish.

Re:Jabra BT250v distance

[Anonymous Coward]

You broke up with your headset?

Some of us like our night vision.

[Cyno01]

n/t

BT, Music, Cell calls...I got two words for you:

[drumt]

Bluetake iPhono

call me santa

[BigChiefMunkey]

Actually, you can do this already - with one of the products in TFA, actually. (Tho I don't think I saw them mention it)

The Plantronics 640 (the in-the-ear one) does exactly what you want it to do. I've tried it with a couple phones, myself. And it rings with your phone's ring. (assuming your phone supports that - the RZR doesn't, but others do) If your phones do, then you could set each to ring with a different tone and know which phone is ringing, etc.

Good luck,

-bw

Re:call me santa

[Moofie]

They did mention it, and it does work great. I've got a Disco 640, and it's one of the coolest pieces of hardware evar.

I think the guy must have been high when he only gave the 640 a "B". The makeup kit o' goodies is just awesome, and I got mine for $80 on Amazon.

Re:call me santa

[BigChiefMunkey]

That's actually good to hear (that you think it should have been an 'A'.)

My overall experience with the 640 is 'B'-worthy, but I have a buddy that absolutely *loves* his.

Pros? Small, light, no loop around the ear (I hate that), battery life is reasonable for it being so small/light, relatively comfortable, and I travel a lot so I dig the little "james bond" case.

Cons? The multi button is terrible. It 'sticks' down and doesn't 'click' well. But more importantly, I sometimes have a *lot* of static in mine. Even if the phone is in my pocket. I have one of those folder-boom-style motorolas (hs810) and also the nokia hs-11w. Both of those are admittedly larger, but zero static at all. I can leave my phone on the charger and go across my house or outside to the porch without a problem.

I got it dirty cheap ('bout 40 bucks) in january. Not bad at that price, but I'd be pissed if I paid 120 or whatever they retail for.

Back to the point - it is odd that you (and my good buddy) have such a high opinion of them. Maybe both of mine (I exchanged it once) have just been bad eggs. At the same time, I'm glad somebody's works better than mine. *(:=

Also an important point - the cons haven't stopped me from using it. It is *far* more comfortable to wear than my other two. Even with better reception, they're collecting dust on my desk at home.

-bw

I'm still waiting....

[nblender]

I want a bootoof headset that will display incoming caller-id info on the inside of my glasses with a green laser.

"Do not stare into laser with remaining eye"

BT headsets + computer needs headset profile

[coop535]

My googling efforts seemed to say that any BT USB device should enable me to connect my BT headset (Bluetrek 6217 from Orange) to my PC for VOIP and Unreal - well, for everything! Is this true?

Not all USB->BT adapters are equal! You have to get an adapter that supports the headset profile. I used a dlink DBT122. Some adapters support only the mic or headphone profile, and that won't get you far. Your average salesman in the store won't know and likely sell you the wrong adapter (stores usually stock the cheapest of the breed).

Otherwise, yes. Use it with your cellphone. Use it with Skype. Use it with teamspeak. Walk around the house and answer incoming voip calls with it. I mean, if you already have the device, I say go for it. If not, I still suggest using a wired headset... it just works better.

The article reviews BT headsets, and most people believe that these suckers are for cellphones only and thus we should restrict this conversation to cellphone usage only. I don't consider it off-topic to discuss these devices and their use with computers ~ this is slashdot!! Another post recently added something I didn't know: there are better drivers ~ but then the applications are next up the chain to screw things up (by now allowing the user to specify the sound device).

Re:BT headsets + computer needs headset profile

[AGMW]

Well I know this is quite an old story now, but I went ahead and purchased a Bluetooth USB Adaptor. I picked up one of the Belkin USB Adapter and whilst it does see my mobile phone, it doesn't allow my bluetooth headset to connect.

It would appear that I am unable to purchase anything even vaguely technical without it simply failing to work. I cannot remember the last time I purchased something and it just worked first time, straight out of the box!

If anyone wants to test any new piece of hardware or software, just send it to me and I will find some way to make it not work!

I am, as usual, really disappointed, because the technology offered so much and has (as usual) delivered so little (well, delivered nothing actually!).

It can get put away with the pile of other things I have purchased that don't work!

Re:BT headsets + computer needs headset profile

[coop535]

I'm sorry you're dissapointed. Marketroids intentionally do a horrible job explaining what the usb->bluetooth adapter actually supports. Your belkin adapter doesn't support the headset profile. You likely are able to synch contact info or something. I avoided this trap with luck (and an internet terminal at the store) so don't feel bad!

I did try to steer everyone away from using this stuff with computers though. The computer industry is completely overlooked when it comes to bluetooth headsets. Besides, they botched the implementation on Wintel so you're not missing much... which is sad. If you're dead set on trying again, the GP has a link to an adapter that I know works... where to get it? dunno.

Logitech BT headsets

[Qwavel]

I believe that Logitech has 2 fairly similar headsets. Both work well in windy conditions, but the more expensive one emphasizes this more in its marketing. I bought the cheaper one a year ago (it is now widely available for ~CDN$60) and have been satisfied with it. Herer is my mini review of it.

Logitech Mobile Freedom Bluetooth Headset

PROS:

- On the whole the sound quality is quite good, even in windy conditions.

- The fit/comfort is very good. I wear it on my right ear, but it works on either.

CONS:

- The range is good, and yet often the sound quality degrades quite a bit over a VERY short distance, eg. putting the phone in my pocket as opposed to holding it near my head.

- I get a lot of crackling noise at work where we have tons of WiFi. This is probably because the phone doesn't support BT 1.2, so it's not the headset's fault.

- The online support is poor. There is nothing at the logitech web site. I was looking for an online (or downloadable) manual of some sort. There is none.

- As with most other BT headsets, recharging is painful. The phone comes with 1 proprietary recharger. Next time I will only buy a headset that can be charged with a generic usb cable.

- The indicator light is confusing since they use one light/button for everything. I'd like to turn it off sometimes - to stop the periodic blue flash - but I have no idea how to.

CONCLUSION:

The things I've listed as PROS are the important things: sound and comfort. Never-the-less, if I lost this headset, I would replace it with one that can be charged with a generic usb cable.

Re:Logitech BT headsets

[steevo.com]

- The online support is poor. There is nothing at the logitech web site. I was looking for an online (or downloadable) manual of some sort. There is none.

Try http://logitech-en-amr.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/logite ch_en_amr.cfg/php/enduser/fattach_get.php?p_sid=lL vOW37i&p_tbl=9&p_id=2880&p_created=1125077672&p_ol h=0

Re:Logitech BT headsets

[Qwavel]

Ah, great thanks.

(When I got the headset a year ago there was nothing - I e-mailed tech support and they confirmed this.)

Re:Logitech BT headsets

[TattleTale1975]

I believe that there is a patch you can apply to stop the LED from blinking.
I am however, unable to locate it right now.
Sorry.

Noise Cancelling is king - the review is lacking

[naisan]

There are much better bluetooth headset reviews out there.

One of the most major things about any headset is noise cancellation. If you only talk with your headset in quiet environments, then this review is a decent one.

If you ever talk in you car, this review is totally off in its conclusions.

I recently bought all of te headsets in this review, + 4 more, and took them home, took them for a drive in my car, and called my computer and recorded the sound incoming and subjectively rated the speaker.

This totaly turned the tables on the review.

I had the Jabra bt800 winning in quiet environments, but when I placed calls in noisy environments, the jabra bt800 ate itself: th same noise-cancelling software that was so good in quiet environments clips your outgoing voice in noisy areas so every second syllable disappears.

The winner in my test was one of the cheapest: the Plantronics voyager 510. It looks a bit wonky, but for intance in my car test, transmitted car noise when I first placed the call, then after I started to speak, the outgoing noise from the car disappeared throughout the rest of the recording, with just my clearly audible voice present.

The Jabra bt800 is unusable in a noisy environment for outgoing voice quality. You're much better off with a BT250 from jabra.

The sad thing is that companies like Shure or jabra don't make a bluetoth boom-mike solution (there's a guy on the web making these himself out of parts from a shure and a nextlink headset http://www.barjohn.com/Custom_AX2.htm ), because with a boom close to the mouth and another mic close to the ear you can do very good noise cancellation indeed.

Basically, don't trust any bluetooth headset reviews that don't test in a really noisy environment, and there are good reviews out there that have sound files you can play to hear for yourself.

Bottom line: this review's winner is a loser in my car.

Did you see the size of that thing??

[freaker_TuC]

It's huge .. I've got the HDW-3: Wireless Headset ; also on the same page as that NS26-W ; it looks not only more stylish but it's almost half as small ...

I only got 1 problem with it; my headset disconnects suddenly from my 6310i (when phones still where workhourses without too much gadgets) ; unable to find the headset again. The headset switches off every time together while searching.

Batterylife is annoying too; 14hrs standby if lucky and not connected.

Re:Did you see the size of that thing??

[Michael Wardle]

The HDW-3 product page doesn't giv dimensions, so it's hard to tell. Do you know how long it is?

The HS26-W is 2.6 inches long, which means it only extends about an inch past your ear. They all hav to extend slightly past your ear (towards your mouth) so that the microphone can pick up your speech. I think this one's quite a good compromise between a long headset arm and poor sound quality.

A rather thin round-up

[Z00L00K]

and I was missing my favourite: Peltor!

Really good for a noisy environment - just put them on and you can run any fan you like in your PC! :->

Who Amazon.com thinks wears bluetooth headsets

[mopower70]

I hate these things. Of all the obnoxious, pretentious accessories to one of the most obnoxious pretentious pieces of technology ever invented, bluetooth headsets are the worst. I was therefore a little shocked when Amazon.com recommended that I might like one. Luckily, Amazon has this nifty little feature that lets you see why they made a recommendation, and lets you edit the triggers to refine future suggestions.

To set this up, earlier in the day I was reading a Fazed article about Amazon's new "personal care products" lines. One of the items they had under "personal care" was the Doc Johnson fist-shaped dildo. Hardy-har... Amazon's selling fisting aids.

Later in the day, I went back to Amazon to do some Christmas shopping, and there's this recommendation to purchase a Motorola HS805 Bluetooth headset. I've never bought anything related to a cel phone on Amazon so I couldn't figure out why it would make this suggestion. I clicked on the "Why was I recommended this?" link, and up pops this window http://www.juric.org/images/who_buys_borgsets.JPG.

To this day, I can't look at anyone wearing one of those things without bursting out laughing.

Re:Noise Cancelling is king - the review is lackin

[donovansmith]

Out of the few headsets I've tried, the Plantronics Voyager 510 also seems to be about the best in noisy environments. I can talk on it while riding a noisy bus and the other person won't even know it most of the time, and can walk around outside without much wind noise. Not to mention the other person doesn't even know I'm using a headset. The range is simply awesome, too. For $80, this is about the best headset out there.

Just buy a Verizon Phone

[bogie]

Then you don't have to worry, because the assholes at Verizon disabled 99% of Bluetooth functionality in every phone they sell. Thank God for leaked firmware.

iMuffs

[marleyboy]

Has anyone taken a good look at the iMuffs?

http://www.wi-gear.com/products/imuffs/

I love the idea, and they'd work perfectly with my iPod.

Hats

[Presidential]

My biggest problem with Bluetooth isn't the appearance factor. It is that the claimed 10 meter range is severely reduced when I wear my tin-foil hat with the headset...

Driving.

[cduffy]

A stereo headset can't be used to communicate with one's phone when driving. At least in my state, it's illegal to wear an audio device covering both ears while operating a motor vehicle; and I can't see it being good practice anywhere.

will these work?

[Anonymous Coward]

does anyone know if these phones will work with my motorola l6?