Voyager Office headsets a new twist on office wireless
When we're in the office, most of us take calls on our desk phones, mobile phones, and various PC/Mac soft phones. We need our headset to easily support all of those connections. Plantronics, now Poly has answered this need with the new Voyager Office series.
“Open office floor plans require a certain amount of flexibility and mobility of employees,” said Tamara Lane, director of product marketing, at Poly. “To escape noise and distraction, you might duck into a huddle room for a call, take your next meeting in the lobby or join a meeting from someone else’s office which means you not only use a desk phone but a PC or Mac and your smartphone for collaboration. The Voyager Office Series delivers high-quality audio in a comfortable headset that performs in all of those scenarios.”
Wearing Styles
The Voyager 4200 Office Series offers an over-the-ear, hi-fi stereo and mono headband wearing style. The Voyager 5200 Office Series offers a sleek and discreet over the ear wearing style for those working on the go in and out of the office. Both the Voyager 4200 and Voyager 5200 Office Series come with the option of a one-way desk phone only or two-way desk phone and PC/Mac office base, in addition to a mobile phone. The headset connects directly to mobile phone via Bluetooth, so this is an office wireless headset you can use without the base, ANYWHERE! And, thanks to Bluetooth 5.0 with BLE, roaming range for these headsets is up to 300 feet (dependent upon environment), and talk time is up to 12 hours!
The Voyager 4200 and Voyager 5200 Office Series have a version available with a dedicated Microsoft Teams button, both on the base and the headset, to instantly invoke the Teams app. This instant access to the Teams app makes scheduling a meeting, starting a call, or checking the calendar easy. The Teams versions also provide audio and visual alerts when a Teams notification occurs. The Voyager Office Series headsets are also supported by Zoom and other UC platforms.
Amazon Alexa and Tile Built-In Support
The Voyager 4200 and 5200 Series headsets also feature Amazon Alexa Built-In and Tile integrations. Just tap-and-ask, and Alexa will respond so you can focus on your tasks at hand. Tile is integrated right into the headset which makes finding your Voyager headset easy – you can literally “ring” it.
Control Calls and Media from the Headset
It's easy to manage calls and media directly on these headsets. Features include: Call answer/ignore/end, redial, mute, volume + /-. Media controls are track forward/track back/pause/play.
Voyager Office headsets are available in both USB-A and USB-C variants. Here's the complete product listing.
“Open office floor plans require a certain amount of flexibility and mobility of employees,” said Tamara Lane, director of product marketing, at Poly. “To escape noise and distraction, you might duck into a huddle room for a call, take your next meeting in the lobby or join a meeting from someone else’s office which means you not only use a desk phone but a PC or Mac and your smartphone for collaboration. The Voyager Office Series delivers high-quality audio in a comfortable headset that performs in all of those scenarios.”
Wearing Styles
The Voyager 4200 Office Series offers an over-the-ear, hi-fi stereo and mono headband wearing style. The Voyager 5200 Office Series offers a sleek and discreet over the ear wearing style for those working on the go in and out of the office. Both the Voyager 4200 and Voyager 5200 Office Series come with the option of a one-way desk phone only or two-way desk phone and PC/Mac office base, in addition to a mobile phone. The headset connects directly to mobile phone via Bluetooth, so this is an office wireless headset you can use without the base, ANYWHERE! And, thanks to Bluetooth 5.0 with BLE, roaming range for these headsets is up to 300 feet (dependent upon environment), and talk time is up to 12 hours!
The Voyager 4200 and Voyager 5200 Office Series have a version available with a dedicated Microsoft Teams button, both on the base and the headset, to instantly invoke the Teams app. This instant access to the Teams app makes scheduling a meeting, starting a call, or checking the calendar easy. The Teams versions also provide audio and visual alerts when a Teams notification occurs. The Voyager Office Series headsets are also supported by Zoom and other UC platforms.
Amazon Alexa and Tile Built-In Support
The Voyager 4200 and 5200 Series headsets also feature Amazon Alexa Built-In and Tile integrations. Just tap-and-ask, and Alexa will respond so you can focus on your tasks at hand. Tile is integrated right into the headset which makes finding your Voyager headset easy – you can literally “ring” it.
Control Calls and Media from the Headset
It's easy to manage calls and media directly on these headsets. Features include: Call answer/ignore/end, redial, mute, volume + /-. Media controls are track forward/track back/pause/play.
Voyager Office headsets are available in both USB-A and USB-C variants. Here's the complete product listing.
Headset | Part Number | MSRP |
---|---|---|
Voyager 4210 1 way base | 212720-01 | $279.95 |
Voyager 4210 2 way base USB-A | 212730-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 4210 2 way base USB-C | 214591-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 4210 2 way base USB-A for Teams | 214002-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 4210 2 way base USB-C for Teams | 214601-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 4220 1 way base | 212721-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 4220 2 way base USB-A | 212731-01 | $319.95 |
Voyager 4220 2 way base USB-C | 214592-01 | $319.95 |
Voyager 4220 2 way base USB-A for Teams | 214003-01 | $319.95 |
Voyager 4220 2 way base USB-C for Teams | 214602-01 | $319.95 |
Voyager 5200 1 way base | 212722-01 | $279.95 |
Voyager 5200 2 way base USB-A | 212732-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 5200 2 way base USB-C | 214593-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 5200 2 way base USB-A for Teams | 214004-01 | $299.95 |
Voyager 5200 2 way base USB-C for Teams | 214603-01 | $299.95 |
Can't decide? Call our Headset Experts at 1-866-998-9991, or Chat us now!
Trade in old headsets for new money
Don't throw out your broken old headsets ... instead, turn your trash into cash and take advantage of the generous Trade-In Program from Jabra and VXi.
Here's how it works:
For each corded headset traded in, receive $10 on the purchase of a new Jabra corded headset. This is good for all purchases of corded Jabra headsets, excluding purchases of the UC Voice series, Biz 1500 series, or Evolve 20/30 headsets. Receive a $5 rebate toward purchase of VXi corded headsets.
For each wireless headset, get $20 toward the purchase of a new Jabra wireless headset. Purchase any wireless headset from the Pro 900 series, Motion Office, Evolve or Engage series. Receive a $10 rebate toward purchase of VXi Reveal Pro Office or V200 wireless headsets.
Once you purchase your new headsets, fill out the Claim Form and then send the number of headsets specified on the form to GN Netcom, the parent company of Jabra and VXi. This address is for all claims submitted in the United States:
GN Audio Service Center c/o Flex
6380 East Holmes Road
Memphis, TN 38141
Jabra will email you a copy of your completed Claim Form which must be included in the box with your trade-ins, as well as proof of purchase (invoice) for the new Jabra headsets. Jabra estimates that rebate checks are sent within 4-6 weeks upon receipt of all of the items above.
You might as well garner treasure from your trash in the form of rebates with Jabra and VXi's Trade-In Program. Are you ready to learn more about this fantastic offer? Contact our headset specialists at 1-866-998-9991. Don't wait! This offer ends December 31, 2020, and all claims must be submitted by January 15, 2021.
Here's how it works:
For each corded headset traded in, receive $10 on the purchase of a new Jabra corded headset. This is good for all purchases of corded Jabra headsets, excluding purchases of the UC Voice series, Biz 1500 series, or Evolve 20/30 headsets. Receive a $5 rebate toward purchase of VXi corded headsets.
For each wireless headset, get $20 toward the purchase of a new Jabra wireless headset. Purchase any wireless headset from the Pro 900 series, Motion Office, Evolve or Engage series. Receive a $10 rebate toward purchase of VXi Reveal Pro Office or V200 wireless headsets.
Once you purchase your new headsets, fill out the Claim Form and then send the number of headsets specified on the form to GN Netcom, the parent company of Jabra and VXi. This address is for all claims submitted in the United States:
GN Audio Service Center c/o Flex
6380 East Holmes Road
Memphis, TN 38141
Jabra will email you a copy of your completed Claim Form which must be included in the box with your trade-ins, as well as proof of purchase (invoice) for the new Jabra headsets. Jabra estimates that rebate checks are sent within 4-6 weeks upon receipt of all of the items above.
You might as well garner treasure from your trash in the form of rebates with Jabra and VXi's Trade-In Program. Are you ready to learn more about this fantastic offer? Contact our headset specialists at 1-866-998-9991. Don't wait! This offer ends December 31, 2020, and all claims must be submitted by January 15, 2021.
Sennheiser premium wireless headsets: An overview
Wireless headsets by Sennheiser offer iconic design, all-day comfort and legendary Sennheiser sound. They allow you to move around freely and stay connected so that you can keep working — wherever you are. And you can count on clear sound even in the busiest work environment, both in and out of the office. The 2-year warranty from Sennheiser is twice as long as competitor warranties on wireless headsets, giving you peace of mind.
You have options with Sennheiser wireless headsets. A few of the choices: mono or duo ear; noise-cancelling or ultra noise-cancelling microphones; a variety of wearing styles (over the head, behind the neck and over the ear); and various connection methods. If you're not sure exactly what you need, we're here to help! A few simple questions will narrow the choices and you will be using your wireless headset in no time flat!
SDW 5016 is the convertible model. In busy office environments, where you may be wearing your headset all day long, the flexibility of changing wearing style can enhance long-term comfort. The FlexFit wearing style system offers the choice between a headband, ear hook or neckband solution for the perfect customized fit. All three wearing styles are included in the box.
SDW 5036 and SDW 5066 are the mono and duo versions. The leatherette ear cushions adjust to the wearer; both side to side and up and down. The headband has a comfortable rubber piece at the top. Note: the SDW base station works with all SDW 5000 headsets.
To learn more about the SDW 5000 series, Sennheiser has provided additional resources on YouTube, with this SDW 5000 Series Playlist. These helpful videos include how to assemble and wear the various wearing styles; how to make and transfer calls, and and how to connect difference devices. Watch this video for a helpful overview of the SDW 5000 series:
The SDW 5015 (convertible), SDW 5035 (mono) and SDW 5065 (duo) from the new SDW 5000 series connect to both desk phones and PCs. If, after having one of these headsets for a while, you decide that you want enhanced connectivity to mobile, a Sennheiser USB dongle can be purchased.
SD Pro 1 ML is a single-ear headset. Switch between desk phone and PC with a simple touch on the base station. The extended wireless range allows for conversation in a radius up to 180 feet, and within line of sight, up to 590 feet away from the base.
SD Pro 2 ML headset is the duo ear model. The supple leatherette ear cushions and adjustable headband give this headset a premium fit and feel, and the flexible mic boom with ultra noise-cancelling can be adjusted for best proximity to the mouth for excellent sound quality.
SD Office ML has a FlexFit wearing style system with 3 wearing choices: headband, and earhook; a neckband is available for additional purchase. The fixed mic boom is noise-cancelling and filters out background noise.
The SD models let you answer and end calls, mute, and adjust the volume directly on these headsets. The headsets offer up to 8 hours talk time in wideband sound mode and 12 hours in narrowband mode. Proprietary technology includes HD Voice Clarity for natural wideband sound, and ActiveGard, hearing protection against acoustic shock. The headsets are interchangeable on the same base, to conference up to 4 headsets to the same base station!
MB Pro 1 and MB Pro 2 offer the stability of a headband, and a single Bluetooth connection to smartphones and tablets. A comfortable headband and soft leatherette ear cushions have a professional polish, and accomplish all the same tasks as the Presence - just with a different look. The office worker who makes most of their calls on their smartphones may appreciate the MB Pro 1 and MB Pro 2.
The MB (Mobile Business) Pro series is the first to offer Room Experience technology, which reduces listener fatigue by giving all-day headset users the impression they are having a conversation with a person in the same room. This realistic sound provides a more natural and comfortable listening experience with less stress in noisy environments.
To focus on work, and not on distracting background noises, the MB 660 MS has large ear cups with Active Noise Cancelling. By constantly monitoring the background environment for noise, Sennheiser’s NoiseGard hybrid adaptive ANC technology seamlessly adjusts the level of noise reduction in your headset. This unique technology enables you to take control of your sound environment, so you can have a productive, disruption-free workspace. While there is no microphone boom, the MB 660s offer triple digital mics with Advanced Own Voice Detecting, WindSafe and Speak Focus technology for clear conversation. A hard-sided carry case is included for easy travel.
MB 360 UC also has a boomless mic design, with two digital noise-canceling microphones. ANC reduces background noise to increase focus on your work. The MB 360 UC has a unique robust, foldable headband design and soft-sided pouch for storage and travel.
While this may seem overwhelming, with a few basic questions, we are able to narrow down the best Sennheiser wireless headset for the environment and user profile. Give us a call and we can assist you in your decision-making at 1-866-998-9991!
Check out this snapshot overview of Sennheiser wireless products, below:
You have options with Sennheiser wireless headsets. A few of the choices: mono or duo ear; noise-cancelling or ultra noise-cancelling microphones; a variety of wearing styles (over the head, behind the neck and over the ear); and various connection methods. If you're not sure exactly what you need, we're here to help! A few simple questions will narrow the choices and you will be using your wireless headset in no time flat!
Connect to: Desk Phone, PC, Mobile Phone and Tablet
SDW 5016, SDW 5036 and SDW 5066 offer the convenience of triple connectivity. This is a new capability from Sennheiser, which is now offered thanks to the SDW 5000 series, a truly future-proof, flexible, and collaborative experience. High density wideband mode ensures high quality sound that accomodates high density work environments. Busylights on the headsets, fast charging (50% battery in 30 minutes), and up to 590 feet range (dependent upon environment) are just some of the reasons to take a look at the SDW 5000 series. They are certified for Microsoft, and optimized for major UC platforms. Pioneering voice detection technology and the two-microphone system give exceptional sound and voice clarity. Manage calls from the base station or the headset. Enhanced security features keep conversations confidential: 128 bit encryption and Sennheiser Protected Pairing ensures that sensitive data stays secure. The entire SDW 5000 series is DECT-security certified.SDW 5016 is the convertible model. In busy office environments, where you may be wearing your headset all day long, the flexibility of changing wearing style can enhance long-term comfort. The FlexFit wearing style system offers the choice between a headband, ear hook or neckband solution for the perfect customized fit. All three wearing styles are included in the box.
SDW 5036 and SDW 5066 are the mono and duo versions. The leatherette ear cushions adjust to the wearer; both side to side and up and down. The headband has a comfortable rubber piece at the top. Note: the SDW base station works with all SDW 5000 headsets.
To learn more about the SDW 5000 series, Sennheiser has provided additional resources on YouTube, with this SDW 5000 Series Playlist. These helpful videos include how to assemble and wear the various wearing styles; how to make and transfer calls, and and how to connect difference devices. Watch this video for a helpful overview of the SDW 5000 series:
Connect to: Desk Phone and PC
There are several great choices in this business office category: SD Pro 1 ML, SD Pro 2 ML, SD Office ML, SDW 5015, SDW 5035, and SDW 5065.The SDW 5015 (convertible), SDW 5035 (mono) and SDW 5065 (duo) from the new SDW 5000 series connect to both desk phones and PCs. If, after having one of these headsets for a while, you decide that you want enhanced connectivity to mobile, a Sennheiser USB dongle can be purchased.
SD Pro 1 ML is a single-ear headset. Switch between desk phone and PC with a simple touch on the base station. The extended wireless range allows for conversation in a radius up to 180 feet, and within line of sight, up to 590 feet away from the base.
SD Pro 2 ML headset is the duo ear model. The supple leatherette ear cushions and adjustable headband give this headset a premium fit and feel, and the flexible mic boom with ultra noise-cancelling can be adjusted for best proximity to the mouth for excellent sound quality.
SD Office ML has a FlexFit wearing style system with 3 wearing choices: headband, and earhook; a neckband is available for additional purchase. The fixed mic boom is noise-cancelling and filters out background noise.
The SD models let you answer and end calls, mute, and adjust the volume directly on these headsets. The headsets offer up to 8 hours talk time in wideband sound mode and 12 hours in narrowband mode. Proprietary technology includes HD Voice Clarity for natural wideband sound, and ActiveGard, hearing protection against acoustic shock. The headsets are interchangeable on the same base, to conference up to 4 headsets to the same base station!
Connect to: Smartphone and Tablet
The Presence Grey Business is a traditional Bluetooth headset, with incredible noise-cancelling. Callers won't know you're in the middle of a busy conference hall. We tested the excellent noise-cancelling of the Presence in a busy conference expo hall!MB Pro 1 and MB Pro 2 offer the stability of a headband, and a single Bluetooth connection to smartphones and tablets. A comfortable headband and soft leatherette ear cushions have a professional polish, and accomplish all the same tasks as the Presence - just with a different look. The office worker who makes most of their calls on their smartphones may appreciate the MB Pro 1 and MB Pro 2.
The MB (Mobile Business) Pro series is the first to offer Room Experience technology, which reduces listener fatigue by giving all-day headset users the impression they are having a conversation with a person in the same room. This realistic sound provides a more natural and comfortable listening experience with less stress in noisy environments.
Connect to: Smartphone, Tablet and PC
For those who need the Bluetooth connection and a USB connection to PC, there are plenty of choices in this category. The MB Pro 1 UC ML and MB Pro 2 UC ML versions are a traditional headband style. If you prefer the smaller profile of the Presence, the Presence Grey UC is what you need.To focus on work, and not on distracting background noises, the MB 660 MS has large ear cups with Active Noise Cancelling. By constantly monitoring the background environment for noise, Sennheiser’s NoiseGard hybrid adaptive ANC technology seamlessly adjusts the level of noise reduction in your headset. This unique technology enables you to take control of your sound environment, so you can have a productive, disruption-free workspace. While there is no microphone boom, the MB 660s offer triple digital mics with Advanced Own Voice Detecting, WindSafe and Speak Focus technology for clear conversation. A hard-sided carry case is included for easy travel.
MB 360 UC also has a boomless mic design, with two digital noise-canceling microphones. ANC reduces background noise to increase focus on your work. The MB 360 UC has a unique robust, foldable headband design and soft-sided pouch for storage and travel.
Connect to: PC
Out of the box, the D 10 headsets come with over-the-head and ear hook wearing styles; a behind-the-neck band is available as an additional purchase. These headsets feature a built-in ringer with a choice of three ringtones and adjustable ring volume. Noise-canceling microphones and fast recharging: up to 50% of the battery in 20 minutes, also make these headsets a good choice for a single connection headset. Connect to PC-only with the D 10 USB ML.Connect to: Desk Phone
The D 10 Phone headset offers the same features as its USB variant, listed above, and connects to desk phones only.While this may seem overwhelming, with a few basic questions, we are able to narrow down the best Sennheiser wireless headset for the environment and user profile. Give us a call and we can assist you in your decision-making at 1-866-998-9991!
Check out this snapshot overview of Sennheiser wireless products, below:
Suggested replacements for the discontinued Jabra Motion series
Jabra announced that its Motion and Motion Office Bluetooth headsets have been discontinued. The unique wearing style has gained a loyal following of users — the combination of over and around the ear, along with the ear piece that fits directly in the ear, ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Connecting to mobile phones, tablets, and PCs, the UC+ models are for mobile professionals working mainly outside of the office. The Motion Office variants offer triple connectivity: mobile, PC, and desk phone for working at your desk.
Jabra Evolve 65e and Evolve 75e are neckband with earbud styles; they are similar in design and function; however, the 75e offers the additional feature of Active Noise Canceling. The neckband vibrates on incoming phone calls, so you're aware of calls even if the ear buds aren't in your ears. Wear one ear bud to keep an ear on the surrounding environment; wear both for increased concentration. Both of these headsets are available in Microsoft-certified versions: Evolve 65e MS and Evolve 75e MS. MSRP for the Evolve 65e is $210, and $272 for Evolve 75e.
If you prefer the ear bud wearing style, without wires, Jabra Evolve 65t is a great option. It connects to mobile phones, and to computers with the included Link 370 USB dongle. The four-microphone technology ensures clear conversations; get up to five hours' battery on a single charge (15 hours with the included pocket-friendly charging case). There are multiple fitting options to provide a snug in-ear fit that seals out sound, for Passive Noise Cancellation to help you focus. And, it's Voice Assistant enabled (Siri, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa), allowing you to do a variety of tasks hands-free. The Microsoft-certified version can be found here: Evolve 65t MS. MSRP is $346.
To connect any of these headsets to a desk phone, purchase the Jabra Link 950 (MSRP: $157) and Power Supply (MSRP: $16). Triple connectivity will then be achieved with this additional audio switcher box.
Connecting to mobile phones, tablets, and PCs, the UC+ models are for mobile professionals working mainly outside of the office. The Motion Office variants offer triple connectivity: mobile, PC, and desk phone for working at your desk.
We have a limited supply of the Motion headsets. Once they're gone, we recommend these Bluetooth headsets as comparable replacements:
Jabra Stealth UC is a small headset with an included USB dongle for connection to PCs, in addition to mobile phones/tablets. The in-ear design is discreet, lightweight, and comfortable enough to wear all day. The Stealth incorporates the breakthrough microPOWER battery technology which allows for a significantly smaller design, longer talk time and a better comfort experience. The Stealth is also available in a Certified for Microsoft version: Stealth MS. MSRP is $158.Jabra Evolve 65e and Evolve 75e are neckband with earbud styles; they are similar in design and function; however, the 75e offers the additional feature of Active Noise Canceling. The neckband vibrates on incoming phone calls, so you're aware of calls even if the ear buds aren't in your ears. Wear one ear bud to keep an ear on the surrounding environment; wear both for increased concentration. Both of these headsets are available in Microsoft-certified versions: Evolve 65e MS and Evolve 75e MS. MSRP for the Evolve 65e is $210, and $272 for Evolve 75e.
If you prefer the ear bud wearing style, without wires, Jabra Evolve 65t is a great option. It connects to mobile phones, and to computers with the included Link 370 USB dongle. The four-microphone technology ensures clear conversations; get up to five hours' battery on a single charge (15 hours with the included pocket-friendly charging case). There are multiple fitting options to provide a snug in-ear fit that seals out sound, for Passive Noise Cancellation to help you focus. And, it's Voice Assistant enabled (Siri, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa), allowing you to do a variety of tasks hands-free. The Microsoft-certified version can be found here: Evolve 65t MS. MSRP is $346.
To connect any of these headsets to a desk phone, purchase the Jabra Link 950 (MSRP: $157) and Power Supply (MSRP: $16). Triple connectivity will then be achieved with this additional audio switcher box.
Contact us at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us with any questions you have about Jabra Bluetooth headsets!
USB headsets vs. 3.5mm headsets
Sound quality is crucial when making calls and streaming multimedia. We always want to use the best headset for each environment, connection type, and personal wearing preference. We assume that "all headsets are created equal," but that is not the case. Recently, we heard the statement: "Jack connections work more reliably than USB ones" when used with PCs; in fact, USB headsets offer more benefits and better sound quality, as well as reliability. We recommend USB headsets over 3.5mm headsets when connecting to computers, and here's why:
Jack connections, or 3.5mm connectors, are pin-shaped plugs that can support stereo sound and microphones, depending on the number of separate connector rings on the plug or jack. The 3.5mm jack has been a standard feature across numerous devices, especially portable ones, such as the transistor radio, Walkman, and most recently, different makes and models of smartphones. They can also be used with computers that have the 3.5mm jack plug. The 3.5mm uses the device's sound processing system, such as a computer's sound card, for analog sound.
USB headsets bypass your computer's sound card and use their own sound processing system, for better sound quality than 3.5mm headsets. USB headsets benefit from digital-to-analog processing outside of the computer. USB processes digital sound from your device and runs it through its sound system that filters out the audio and removes ambient noise, resulting in much cleaner sounds. For rich wideband audio, and to hear more highs and lows, USB connection is typically preferred. USB provides a lifelike audio experience, compared with 3.5mm headsets.
Another great feature found in USB headsets: in-line call controllers, for ease of call management. Buttons for answer/end, volume, and mute are standards for the control units.
USB headsets can be continually updated, thanks to the free firmware updates offered by each brand, such as Jabra Direct for all Jabra USB devices. And, with cloud-based software management programs that support all main operating systems (some free, others available at scaling costs), global inventory, mass deployments, call analytics, agile maintenance and more can be achieved at the click of a button from an IT administrator. Jabra Xpress is one of these global software management software packages.
The Jabra Evolve 40 headset pictured throughout this post offers both 3.5mm and USB connections. It is a versatile headset for both in the office, and on the go. We always recommend the use of the USB connection when using the Evolve 40 with a PC. The Jabra Eolve 40 is available in both standard USB and USB-C options.
Source: USB vs Analog Headsets, azcentral.
Jack connections, or 3.5mm connectors, are pin-shaped plugs that can support stereo sound and microphones, depending on the number of separate connector rings on the plug or jack. The 3.5mm jack has been a standard feature across numerous devices, especially portable ones, such as the transistor radio, Walkman, and most recently, different makes and models of smartphones. They can also be used with computers that have the 3.5mm jack plug. The 3.5mm uses the device's sound processing system, such as a computer's sound card, for analog sound.
USB headsets bypass your computer's sound card and use their own sound processing system, for better sound quality than 3.5mm headsets. USB headsets benefit from digital-to-analog processing outside of the computer. USB processes digital sound from your device and runs it through its sound system that filters out the audio and removes ambient noise, resulting in much cleaner sounds. For rich wideband audio, and to hear more highs and lows, USB connection is typically preferred. USB provides a lifelike audio experience, compared with 3.5mm headsets.
Another great feature found in USB headsets: in-line call controllers, for ease of call management. Buttons for answer/end, volume, and mute are standards for the control units.
USB headsets can be continually updated, thanks to the free firmware updates offered by each brand, such as Jabra Direct for all Jabra USB devices. And, with cloud-based software management programs that support all main operating systems (some free, others available at scaling costs), global inventory, mass deployments, call analytics, agile maintenance and more can be achieved at the click of a button from an IT administrator. Jabra Xpress is one of these global software management software packages.
The Jabra Evolve 40 headset pictured throughout this post offers both 3.5mm and USB connections. It is a versatile headset for both in the office, and on the go. We always recommend the use of the USB connection when using the Evolve 40 with a PC. The Jabra Eolve 40 is available in both standard USB and USB-C options.
Our Headset Experts are ready to help you find the best headset for your environment. Give us a call at 1-866-998-9991 or Chat us now!
Source: USB vs Analog Headsets, azcentral.