Jabra Direct Update

Jabra Direct Software and Evolve2 85 Firmware Updates!

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On December 17th, 2020 a Jabra Direct and software update was released that would drastically change the layout of their famed; Jabra Direct Software. Not only did they update their software, they went ahead and updated the hardware for their Evolve2 85 series to 1.3.8. What exactly did they change? Stick around and read this blog. Also, check out our latest video below covering this topic.

Update Notes

Jabra Evolve2 85

Details

  • Updated: improved performance of earcup microphones
  • Updated: improved handling of play/pause media
  • Updated: improved sidetone level and response
  • Updated: improved HearThrough level and response
  • Performance and stability improvements

Jabra Direct Software

Windows: 5.0.17635; macOS: 5.0.17635
Details

  • Updated: user experience is enhanced with new UI
  • Updated: added support for macOS 11.x/Big Sur* and Apple M1 Chip**
  • Fixed: during a firmware update the first option in the language list was not preselected
  • Performance and stability improvements

Jabra Direct Update
Pre Update Look
Jabra Direct Update
Post Update Look

After Research and Testing

For starters, the Jabra Direct Software took a complete over haul on the previous version. The layout, color, and aesthetic is much more user friendly and pleasing to the eye (see image above). Navigation and features have greatly improved, and yes, it’s 100% free! You can download the software here depending on your operating system: Jabra Direct Windows: 5.0.17635 or Jabra Direct macOS: 5.0.17635.

As for the Jabra Evolve2 85, the biggest claim was the microphone improvement. In our test we found that the difference between the pre update and post update was virtually non-existent. Otherwise, all other patches ( improved performance of earcup microphones, handling of play/pause media, improved sidetone level and response, HearThrough level response, and stability improvements) was noticeably better.

Want to hear for yourself? Check out our latest video below where we cover the new Jabra Direct and software update for the Evolve2 85 to the 1.3.8 update. Feel free to reach out to our reps with questions you may have regarding Jabra at 1-800-749-3160 or contact us for any additional questions. Thanks for reading!

Embrava header 2 social distancing

How Embrava Desk Sign helps with Office Hoteling

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Many companies are making the shift to modern agile work environments such as Office Hoteling to improve workplace productivity, collaboration and employee experience while reducing real estate and operating costs. When implementing these hybrid work environments, it’s critical to simplify the process of booking workspaces, locating staff, and analyzing desk usage data. With that said we’re proud to present the Embrava Desk Sign designed for the modern work Office.

So, What Exactly Is The Embrava Desk Sign?

  • Embrava Desk Sign
  • Embrava Desk Sign ending
  • Embrava Reserved
  • Embrava Cheked In

Social Distancing

Allows company/facility managers to disable and enable desks on demand so they can keep employees at a safe distance. Desks can be brought back online progressively with one-click once restrictions start to ease.

Awaiting Clean

You can no implement a desk cleaning protocol with the Embrava Desk Sign. Desks can be automatically disabled after employee use and easily enabled again once cleaned, and confirmed, by having the cleaner tap their badge on the device.

  • touchdown booths social distancing
  • huddle rooms social distancing

Contact Tracing

When enabled, the Desk Sign can capture who sat where and when. In the event an employee tests positive for COVID-19, our solution can help identify which workspaces were used by that employee and which colleagues may have come into contact with them so the appropriate actions can be undertaken. The Desk Sign will automatically display a users name and update your wayfinding/location services as soon as an employee checks into a workspace allowing users to easily find and identify each other as they move around an agile work environment.

In Conclusion

The Embrava Desk Sign is a simple to use, easy learning, business solution. It’s a safe way for your facility to return to office. Want to try it for you and your company? You can contact us to start a POC / pilot. If you want to learn more about this great solution, check out our most recent video below and head over to our YouTube Channel and subscribe for more videos like this. Thanks for tuning in!

Logitech Zone

Logitech Zone | Wireless & Wired Headsets | A Noise Canceling Mic Comparison

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Logitech made some updates to their Zone Wireless and Wired headsets. In our latest post, we tell you about them and include mic and wireless range tests! Some key improvements made include: Zone Wired/Wireless are now Microsoft Teams Certified and include dedicated Microsoft Teams button (was Skype for Business certified before). Zone Wireless also has USB-A to USB-C dongle adapter in the box. The Zone Wireless Charging port is now upgraded from micro-USB to USB-C connectivity. Logitech has also now made it easier to change earpads for the Zone Wireless.

Logitech Zone Wired

  • Logitech Zone Wired

Features

  • Open Office-certified : Noise-canceling dual mic technology that accurately suppresses distracting sounds as close as 60 cm away
  • Premium audio drivers: Generously-sized 40mm drivers deliver full-bodied bass, crisp higher frequencies and incredibly low distortion
  • Plug-and-play reliability: In-line controls keep call and music functions handy as USB-C and USB-A adapter (included adapter is USB-A male to USB-C female) ensuring plug-and-play compatibility.

Logitech Zone Wireless

  • Logitech Zone
  • Logitech Zone
  • Logitech Zone
  • Logitech Zone
  • Logitech Zone

Features

  • Wireless Bluetooth headset designed to control your acoustic environment and get stuff done in open workspaces
  • Open workspaces are great for collaboration, but not so great when the conversations around you make it hard to concentrate. With active noise cancellation that substantially reduces unwanted ambient sound, a Zone Wireless headset can help you focus on the task at hand and get more stuff done. Think of it as a personal portal to acoustic serenity amidst a sea of otherwise distracting noise. Same workspace, but with a sound experience that you control.
  • Treat yourself to immersive sound when listening to music. Logitech audio engineers have been fine-tuning headset audio for decades, and the results are amazingly clear as you experience your playlist with Zone Wireless. When it’s time for a phone chat or conference call, the noise-canceling mic ensures that your voice is heard on the other end of a call—not the noise around you. Of course, the sound quality of your meetings is equally amazing.

Performance

When Comparing these two headsets, there is a clear audio difference between the Zone Wired and Zone Wireless. The Logitech Zone Wired (currently) has an MSRP of $129, and surprising, has a much better sound than the $229 Zone Wireless. Want to see how they compare? Check out the video:

Poly Sync vs Konftel Ego

12 Days of Call One | Day 10 | Poly Sync 20 vs Konftel Ego

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The Poly Sync 20 and Konftel Ego both have MSRP of $169. Both are compatible with all major UC platforms to include Microsoft Teams. In this overview, we go over similarities, differences, and unique features of each. We also do a mic pickup range test and a new thing we want to start including with Speakerphone videos, we do our best to allow you to hear speaker audio quality of each. Take a look and listen, which would you choose for your use case?

POLY SYNC

Features

  • Enjoy remarkable sound from meetings to music
  • Reduce echo and noise so everyone hears you clearly
  • Slim and portable – take it with you anywhere
  • It goes as long as you do with up to 20 hours of battery life

GRAB THE PERFECT SPEAKERPHONE FOR MEETINGS AND MUSIC, WHEREVER YOUR DAY TAKES YOU

Let’s face it: the audio on your laptop and smartphone aren’t great. Sound like the professional you are with Poly Sync 20 USB/Bluetooth smart speakerphone—for remarkable audio anywhere. The Poly Sync 20 is Zoom certified for a seamless Zoom communication experience.

  • Poly Sync 20 teams
  • Poly Sync 20 Plus Teams
  • Poly Sync 20

KEEP THE FOCUS ON YOUR VOICE WITH MULTI-MICROPHONES THAT TRACK THE TALKER, NOT THE NOISE.

Focus on what’s being said and help keep echo and noise out of the meeting with the smart multi-microphone array. You and your remote participants sound amazing with the high-performance speaker.

PROGRAM YOUR FAVORITE FUNCTION SO IT WORKS WITH A SINGLE TOUCH.

A programmable button puts your favorite function at your fingertips—play/pause music, last-number redial and voice assistant—it’s up to you. What’s the status of a call? You’ll know even from a distance by the highly visible light bar.

KONFTEL EGO

Despite its size, the Ego delivers crystal-clear sound thanks to Konftel’s unique OmniSound audio technology. It’s ideal for a meeting with a couple colleagues in one of your smaller conference rooms or in a hotel room when you are away from the office.

Features

  • Small and portable
  • Compatible with Skype for Business
  • Meeting size: up to 6 people
  • OmniSound® with HD audio
  • LCD screen
  • Konftel Ego Conference phone
  • Konftel Ego
  • Konftel Ego
  • Konftel Ego

The Konftel Ego works seamlessly with Skype for Business, Cisco Jabber, Avaya Communicator and other conferencing tools. The Ego has a headset port, and the built-in battery gives you the option of completely cordless use. A smart and clear LCD screen on the Konftel Ego makes it easy to see which function is active. LEDs also light up on the side in different colors to indicate the function. In short, the Konftel Ego gives you full and effortless control. The Konftel Ego also received a Red Dot Award for “Excellent product design” in early 2016!

See how both the Poly Sync 20 and Konftel Ego preform in a head to head test! What are your thoughts? If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us: 1-800-749-3160 or contact us here.

Jabra Biz 2400 II

12 Days of Call One | Day 9 | Jabra Biz 2400 II

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The Jabra Biz 2400 II has a superior noise-cancelling microphone that helps eliminate background noise to give a better customer experience. In this post, we discuss the multiple BIZ 2400 II variants available to support connectivity to desk phone or computer. And of course, we test how well the NC mic performs!

Features

  • Breath-resistant microphone with noise cancellation
  • Reinforced cord and programmable buttons for USB variant
  • 40% lighter than competitors, soft pouch leatherette ear cushions, headphone padding and 360° flexible spin boom arm
  • Category best quality and the lightest in its class

The Jabra Biz 2400 was developed with one goal in mind: to be the world’s best corded contact center headset, delivering both best in class noise cancellation and acoustic shock protection, as well as the industry’s only unbreakable 360 swiveling boom and Kevlar-reinforced cord. Available in a variety of wearing styles.

The world’s best contact center headset

Jabra’s Biz 2400 was designed with one goal in mind: to be the world’s best corded contact center headset. Ultra Noise Canceling microphones ensure in-the-room call clarity. Hand-made Neodymium speakers deliver the maximum frequency response – from narrow band to IP wideband telephony and multimedia. Kevlar reinforced cords, gold plated contacts, and an unbreakable FreeSpin™ boom ensure it stands up to the most demanding environments.

  • Jabra Biz 2400 II

Make sure your customer only hears one agent at a time

How your agents sound to your customers impacts how your brand is perceived – so giving your agents the tools to make them and your brand look good is smart business. Jabra’s Biz 2400 is designed to deliver best-in-class audio performance, no matter how loud your contact center is. Ultra Noise Canceling microphones filter out ambient noise so only your agent’s voice comes through. The flexible boom tip ensures ideal microphone placement. And PeakStop™ technology ensures loud sounds are clipped off before they can hurt your agents’ ears. The result is crystal clear conversations – and a great customer experience.

Built to keep working – no matter how much punishment it takes

The Jabra Biz 2400 II is built to keep working, no matter what your office throws at it. Only the Biz 2400 has features like Kevlar reinforced cords, gold plated contacts, and an unbreakable FreeSpin boom that ensure it can stand up to the most demanding environments.

Comfort means productivity

A comfortable agent is a productive agent – so being able to personalize the headset you’re supposed to be wearing all day is critical. This means the Jabra Biz 2400’s attention to comfort is an important productivity tool. Features like soft ear cushions, a fully adjustable headband, and a variety of wearing styles allow agents to fit the Biz 2400 to their unique wearing style – which means it stays on their heads longer. Check out our video where we take a deep dive into this product!

webcams for business

VDO 360 3SEE | All-In-One Camera! | 12 Days of Call One | Day 8

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Meet the 3SEE. VDO360 presents the latest addition to the SEE family. 4K video, 90-degree FOV, far field audio, and speakers as well! A single USB cable is all you need.

The Specs

4K Video

Get seen with affordable, high definition 4k video, no matter where you are.

USB 3.0 PLUG AND PLAY

Plug-and-play capability makes the VDO360 3SEE easy to use. When you need to look and sound your best, this is the webcam you want. Work smarter. Communicate better.

ONE YEAR WARRANTY

The 3SEE Comes standard with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty

Camera, Lens Parameters

  • Imaging sensor: 1/3.2 inch CMOS 
  • Effective pixels: Approx. 8 million 
  • Video format: MJPEG, YuY2 
  • Focal length: Pf=2.8mm
  • Minimum illumination: 0.5 Lux 
  • White balance: Auto
  • Focus Mode: Fixed
  • Image color: 24 bit 
  • Backlight compensation: Supports 
  • Picture adjustment: Brightness, chroma, saturation, contrast, sharpness 
  • Field of view (horizontal): 90° 

Interface Parameters 

  • Video interface: Type C 
  • Video Compression Format: USB 3 
  • Power interface: 5 VDC 

Mic Parameters 

  • Array quantity: 4 
  • Arrangement: Linear 
  • Sampling frequency 16KHz / 48KHz 
  • Sensitivity: -29dBFs 
  • Far field pickup distance: 0-8 meters 
  • Horizontal angle: 180° 
  • SNR 65.5 db
  • Mode: Full duplex 

Speaker Parameters 

  • Quantity: 2 
  • Power: 2W x 2
  • Impedance: 4Ω 
  • Size: 27mm *16.5mmH

Take a look at this chart comparing other VD0360 solutions:

1SEE2SEE3SEE
ImageVDO360 1SEEVDO360 VDOS4M 2SEEVDO360 Webcam
SKUVDO1CVDOS4MVDOSMS
MSRP$75$139$299
MicsNo44
SpeakerNoNo2
MagnificationFixedFixedFixed
Special FeaturePassthrough USB port on rear of camera for data. Use headsets, USB thumb drives, wireless mouse dongles, even when the camera is off. Solid billet aluminum construction.Great video with a far-field mic array that picks up your voice from up to eight meters away.All-in-one solution. Has 4k video, the same four-speaker array as the 2SEE, and stereo sound. Connects via USB C for power and data.
Great ForWFH, Distance Education, Call CentersWFH, Distance Education, TeachersWFH, New Normal collaboration spaces at the office, Streaming
BUY NOWBUY NOWBUY NOW
  • VDO360 SEEME
  • VDO360

The VDO360 3SEE puts out an outstanding 4K picture. In terms of audio, it receives the same ranking. This camera is truly an all-in-one solution, built and priced properly. If you want to learn more about this product check out our YouTube video below where we overview, test, and share our opinions on the VDO360 3SEE camera: Feel free to reach out with any question Via YouTube, Social Media, or directly to our call center: 1-800-749-3160 or contact us here

Logitech B525 vs c505e

12 Days of Call One | Day Six | Logitech B525 vs c505e

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The Logitech B525 Fold and Go camera is End of Life (EOL) and being replaced by the new Logitech C505e webcam. The new webcam comes in at an MSRP of $54.99 and works with Windows, Mac, or Chrome based computer via USB-A and with common calling applications such as Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Google Meet and Voice, Zoom, Cisco Jabber and others. In the video below we show video and mic audio quality between B525 and C505e.

B525

Logitech B525 vs C505e

If you’re looking for something on-the-go, Logitech B525 HD Webcam makes it easy to meet face-to- face, wherever you are. The convenient design lets you pack the camera and take it with you. Just attach it to your device and begin your meeting.

With a 720p HD video captured at 30 frames per second, the B525 HD Webcam delivers clear, crisp video, even in low light conditions. The autofocus feature maintains a distinctive sharpness as close as 10cm.

C505e

Logitech B525 vs C505e

The Logitech C505e provides a 60° diagonal FOV (field of view), a fixed focus lens, HD 720p/30fps, automatic light adjustment features, and one omnidirectional mic, supporting clear conversations up to 3 meters away.

The extended USB-A cable and provides a wide range of mounting alternatives. Secure it on a screen—or mount it up to 7 ft from your computer.

C505e works with most popular video applications, including Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Google Voice and Meet, Zoom and others to ensure compatibility and seamless integration in the workplace.

The Showdown

While testing these two webcams, the Logitech B525 and c505e, and to clarify that the Logitech B525 is End of Life (EOL), we were shocked with the outcome. Upon closer inspection, the B525 puts out a much better image and sound then it’s successor. Want to see for yourself? Check out the full breakdown below:

Yealink CP 700 and CP 900

12 Days of Call One | Day Five | Yealink CP700 vs CP900

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Yealink offers portable USB/Bluetooth speakerphones for personal use, small groups and on the go. Speakerphones are a great addition to your collaboration devices tool kit along with a great headset. The Yealink CP700 and CP900 support all major VoIP and UC platforms like Avaya, Broadsoft, Counterpath, Google, Microsoft, Vonage, and Zoom. With portable design in mind, the CP700 speakerphones have a lightweight design and are small and compact enough to carry in a laptop bag or backpack. (A travel case is also included.)

The Yealink CP900 is designed with six directional microphones positioned around the base, which pick up sound from any direction in 360 degrees, so participants do not need to huddle round the speakerphone while speaking, enabling them to converse naturally in an immersive, flexible setting. Both models include a dedicated Microsoft Teams button. Not only can they be used for voice and video calls, but you can also stream media like your favorite music! Which Yealink Speakerphone is best for you and your work environment?

  • Yealink CP700 and CP900
    CP 700
  • Yealink CP700 and CP900
    CP 900

The Specs

CP700

  • The Yealink CP700 is a portable, personal speakerphone that offers plug-and-play connectivity; plug into your PC, tablet and smartphone via Bluetooth wireless pairing or USB wired connection.
  • The CP700 packs Yealink HD voice quality, with two omnidirectional microphones and Yealink audio algorithms for an elaborate speakerphone experience and 360-degree voice pickup ability.
  • With high-quality echo cancellation, you can keep yourself focused on video conferencing and virtual meetings, without the hassle of feedback.
  • For calls on the go, the Yealink CP700 provides up to 10-hour talk time and premium battery life, as well as call controls accessible on the device directly.
  • The speakerphone also comes with a protective zipper bag, so you can carry it back and forth from working from home to the office.

CP900

  • Premium HD Voice for calls and music
  • 360-degree microphone pickup range of 6.5ft distance
  • Six-microphone beam-forming array for full-duplex performance
  • USB or Bluetooth connectivity for notebooks, smartphones and tablets
  • Portable design
  • Compatible with T53, T53W, T54W and T57W phones if running V85 firmware
  • USB connectivity

So, between the two, which speakerphone performs better? Check out our video where we test, overview, and share our opinions on the Yealink CP700 and CP900. Enjoy!

Jabra Evolve 80

12 Days of Call One | Day 4 | Jabra Evolve 80

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Today we’re revisiting the Jabra Evolve 80. We covered the Evolve 80 MS variant back in 2014 when it first launched. As part of Jabra’s Meet the Professionals line of solutions, the Evolve 80 is a great headset for the desk worker. For instance, someone who needs no interruptions and desires freedom to focus. As more people are working remotely or transitioning to hybrid work or remote learning; blocking out background noise to concentrate and focus is something more and more people are starting to realize is becoming a necessity or need in an optimal work environment.

The Evolve 80 features ANC (active noise cancelling) and a busy light for fewer interruptions plus what Jabra calls, ‘passive noise cancellation’, with the help of large over-ear cups eliminating high-frequency noise, such as human voices; coworkers or kids shouting in the background, the excellent passive noise cancellation, helps to dull the sounds of noisy colleagues thanks to specially-designed ear cushions.

  • Jabra Evolve 80
  • Jabra Evolve 80
  • Jabra Evolve 80

Work is becoming less of a place you go to and more of a thing you do. If you’re someone who’s a remote worker or learning from home, can you relate? As more companies encourage their employees to work from home or from the road, demand for solutions that support this new form of working is higher than ever. At home, on the road or in the office, it is important to have reliable ways to connect, collaborate and communicate with others. The Jabra Evolve 80 is UC-certified and compatible with all leading Unified Communications platforms including Cisco, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and 8×8. The Evolve 80 is engineered to keep you versatile and connected. Furthermore, with flexible connectivity, you can choose between USB-A, USB-C or 3.5mm jack.

With easy call control, you can answer calls, mute your microphone and turn the volume up and down, without having to open your UC platform, or interrupt your work flow. This helps you stay productive, even when you’ve got a lot on your plate. Evolve 80 has professional-grade microphones and a boom arm for precision voice transmission, so your calls always sound crystal-clear, even when you’re sitting in the middle of a busy office. Take a look below at our mic test and overview of the Evolve 80 as we go more in-depth and subscribe to our Youtube channel for similar videos like these.

VDO 360 SEEME

12 Days of Call One | Day Three VDO 360 SEEME – $50 Webcam

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VDO360 presents an Enterprise-grade personal webcam. Optimized for laptop use, the VDO 360 SEEME connects via USB2.0 with no drivers needed- Easy to use, simply plug it in for a full 1080p webcam with the great audio you have come to expect from VDO360.

Deep Dive

  • 2 million pixels
  • Mic Distance: 40mm
  • Image area: 5.85mm × 3.27mm
  • OS Support: WinXP/Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10 / Linux with UVC（above linux-2.6.26)
  • MAC-OS X 10.4.8 or later / WinCE with UVC / Android 4.0 or above with UVC
  • Field of view: 75°(W)
  • Power: USB 5V

Performance

We have covered a few VDO products in the past, but nothing quite as interesting as this one. The VDO 360 SEEME puts out a surprisingly good 1080p picture, and a strong microphone pickup. With  a sampling rate of 16KHz/48KHz and a Resolution: 1920*1080@30fps / 1280*720@30fps / 640*480*30fps, the $50 price tag is well worth it. Compared to webcams in the same price range, the blows all competition out of the water. Take a look at this graph (Comparing other VDO360 products)

SEEME1SEE2SEE
IMAGEVDO 360 SEEMEVDO360 VDOS4M 2SEE
SKUVDOCMEVDO1CVDOS4M
MSRP$50$75$139
Mics2No4
SpeakerNoNoNo
MagnificationFixedFixedFixed
Special featureBudget minded, great video and audioPassthrough USB port on rear of camera for data. Use headsets, USB thumb drives, wireless mouse dongles, even when the camera is off. Solid billet aluminum construction.Great video with a far-field mic array that picks up your voice from up to eight meters away.
Great forWFH, Distance Education, Students, general useWFH, Distance Education, Call CentersWFH, Distance Education, Teachers
BUY NOWBUY NOWBUY NOW

Compared to the 2See, the only thing you get is two extra microphones and an $89 price difference. You can almost get two VDO 360 SEEME webcams at that price! On the other hand, the 2see is used for much different use cases, therefore quality, FOV, and range will be a little bit better. However, for the average WFH employee, distance education student, and other general users, this is the webcam to go with.

Overall, we were blown away with the VDO 360 SEEME. Checkout the video below and see for yourself. If you like the video, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up, share, and subscribe! Feel free to leave a comment or suggest a new products for us to cover.