Remote Learning, Distance Learning Solutions

UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work

Top 5 Picks for UC USB Speakerphones for Hybrid Work and Work from Home

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One thing we have all learned from countless hours of video meetings via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, and more is that audio is critical. Don’t get me wrong, great video resolution from a business webcam certainly enhances the overall experience. But, if you cannot hear or be heard, the productivity of the video meeting suffers.

Corded USB Headsets and Wireless Headsets certainly fit the bill when it comes to providing professional-grade audio quality. Those fortunate enough to have a dedicated workspace in their home or corporate office may find a personal USB Speakerphone to be extremely beneficial. They are a great primary or secondary audio device. As organizations develop device standards for hybrid and remote work, USB speakerphones should be included as options. USB Speakerphones offer these key features:

  • Always On – Every speakerphone listed in this blog has a USB cable that can be used to power the speakerphone when connected to a computer. No need to change batteries or use an additional AC power supply. Just plug into your computers USB port to start using.
  • Mute feature – When on a call, the mute button is your friend. These speakerphones have a prominent mute button that allows you to quickly mute to block out undesired noise from pets, children, lawn mowers, blenders, significant others or even a cough or sneeze from you!

I have tested several personal USB Speakerphones from these leading brands: Poly, Jabra, EPOS, Konftel, Yealink, and Yamaha UC. You can check out the multiple test videos in this Business Personal and Small Group Speakerphones Video Playlist.

Price

  • Poly Calisto 3200

Personal USB Speakerphones range in price from MSRP of $99.95 for a basic Poly Calisto 3200 all the way to $329 for the premium Jabra Speak 750 and $349 for the Yamaha UC YVC-330 that supports up to six people.

Connectivity

Beyond, USB-A or USB-C corded connectivity, some speakerphones offer USB Bluetooth dongles for wireless connectivity to your computer and Bluetooth and/or NFC pairing to your mobile device. Some include a 3.5mm jack and select models include a 3.5mm headset port.

The 3.5mm headset port is an ideal option for use cases that require the user to switch from public to private conversation by simply plugging in a 3.5mm headset. These models offer this feature:

  • Konftel Ego
  • Konftel Ego Conference phone
  • Konftel Ego
  • Yamaha YVC200

Models with Bluetooth and/or NFC are great for pairing your mobile device. This greatly improves the overall audio quality of voice calls and streaming music and media! Please note that not all Bluetooth models include a USB dongle for wireless connectivity to your computer.

Compatibility

Business-grade speakerphones are compatible with all major communications and collaboration platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, 8×8, and more.

Select models have met Microsoft Teams specification certification requirements. This peripheral certification program ensures USB devices like headsets, speakerphones, and webcams are plug and play and will work, to include call control with no extra configuration required. Some devices are Skype for Business certified with Teams upgrade. Newer devices will be Certified for Microsoft Teams and include a dedicated Teams button with LED indicator.

Full Duplex

Full duplex speakerphones allow a more natural conversation since both parties can transmit audio simultaneously. Most speakerphones support half-duplex where each party can transmit audio one at a time. Currently only select USB speakerphones have full-duplex audio.

  • USB Speakerphones Jabra Speak 750

My Top 5 Picks for USB Speakerphones 

For over a year, like many I have been working from home. As empty-nesters, my wife and I are fortunate to each have dedicated rooms in our house to use as offices. She is a Director of Human Resources and like me spends a lot of time on voice and video calls. My wife has long curly hair, so headsets are not her friend. She prefers to use a speakerphone. I spend most of my days on video calls or, filming videos for our YouTube Channel. Even back in our corporate HQ, I had a dedicated office so my set ups are similar minus the revolving door of people that would physically come in and out of my office. Now it is IM’s, texts, and impromptu video meetings. Because I test audio and video devices as part of my role, I have several devices always connected.  

Please note, no manufacturer is paying me, and I am not in any affiliate program. These are my picks based on my personal tests and preferences. 


1. Jabra Speak 750 – This is my current default USB speakerphone. The audio quality is superb, and I love the kickstand feature which helps to reduce the footprint and direct the audio towards me. And, like the Jabra Speak 710, it has the Link button that allows you to wirelessly pair two Speak 750’s to cover a larger area. Check out this video comparing the Speak 710 and Speak 750! 

  • Poly Sync 20
  • Poly Sync 20 Plus UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work

2. Poly Sync 20 – I love the way this sounds when streaming music! In addition to the Jabra Speak 750, I have the Poly Sync 20 paired to my mobile device so I can play music in between video meetings and if I happen to get a mobile call, I use it for improved audio quality. As an added feature, I take advantage of the USB port to keep my mobile phone charged! Get a complete audio and video solution with the Poly Studio P5 Webcam with Poly Sync 20 for only $249.95! See and hear the Poly Sync 20 in action! Check out this video on the Poly Studio P5!   

  • Yealink CP700 and CP900 UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work
    CP 700
  • UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work

3. Yealink CP700 – This is the younger sibling of the Yealink CP900, but I must tell you, I’m a fan of the kickstand feature. The audio quality is very consistent throughout calls across multiple platforms and it is priced at MSRP of only $129! (currently on our website Yealink CP700 only $104.95!). Unlike the other models that provide a neoprene carry case, the Yealink CP700 and CP900 include a solid, sturdy carry case to provide greater protection as you travel back and forth between locations. Watch this Yealink CP700 vs CP900 Video! 

4. Yamaha UC YVC-200 (Black or White) – Yamaha UC solutions don’t get enough attention in my opinion and they have great sounding products. All speakerphones mentioned have a Microphone Mute button so the other party cannot hear anything you are saying. The YVC-200 also includes a Speaker Mute button. Let’s say I’m jamming out to some music via the YVC-200 and my wife comes in to ask me something, I can very quickly hit the speaker mute button to quickly stop the sound. You can also get complete audio and video solution including the YVC-200 with these bundles.  

5. Jabra Speak 510 – This rounds out my list. This is a solid performer that has been around since 2013. This speakerphone just works. Plug it in and start using it across all collaboration platforms. And would you believe I don’t have a video on this device? I have added to my list of videos to film. You cannot go wrong with the Jabra Speak 510.  

  • UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work
  • Jabra Speak 510 UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work
  • UC Speakerphones Hybrid Work

When it comes to audio devices, it is important to stick with leaders in this space who develop solutions that provide professional audio quality, are easy to set up and use, and are compatible across all business collaboration platforms. As an authorized partner and reseller, Call One, Inc. can help guide you to which audio and video devices are best for your organization and multiple use cases. Contact us to learn how we can help you do your business better!

Logitech Brio 4K Webcam

Logitech Brio 4K Webcam

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When it comes to business webcams, The Logitech Brio 4K Webcam is the standard by which all other webcam manufacturers aspire to develop and launch. From premium 4K quality to a whopping five times zoom feature and reasonable MSRP, this is the king webcams.

Don’t worry, the Brio is compatible and certified with all business video collaboration platforms to include Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, and Zoom. With integrated optical and infrared sensors, it also supports Windows Hello. What else is packed in this Logi webcam? Stick around for a link to our overview video of the Logitech Brio.

  • Logitech Brio 4K Webcam
  • Logitech Brio
  • Logitech Brio 4K Webcam

Logitech Brio Features

  • Ultra HD 4K image sensor – Supports multiple resolutions, including 4K (Ultra HD) @ 30 fps, 1080p (Full HD) @ 30 or 60 fps and 720p (HD) @ 30, 60, or 90 fps to best support the quality offered by your application and monitor.
  • RightLight™ 3 with HDR – Look your best in any lighting environment, from low light to direct sunlight or high contrast.
  • Ultra-secure login with infrared sensor – Infrared technology supports facial recognition for advanced security with Windows Hello™ or other facial recognition software.
  • 5X digital zoom – Need a closer view of fine details? Zoom in and move around your scene with precision using Logitech or in-app controls.
  • Expansive field of view – Adjust your field of view from 90° to show more of your setting or include more people—or narrow the scope to 65° or 78° for more focused communication.
  • Razor-sharp optics with auto-focus – Enhance face-to-face collaboration. BRIO is the next best thing to physically being there. Advanced Logitech auto-focus lens technology delivers remarkable video quality with superb resolution, speed, fluidity, color balance, and detail.
  • Certified for Business – Business-grade certifications mean you can launch your next presentation or video meeting with complete confidence.
  • Omni-directional microphones – Two omni-directional microphones with noise cancellation provide business-class audio performance. Mics even work with Microsoft® Cortana®.
  • Multiple mounting options – Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best – LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop – by using the removable clip or embedded tripod thread. Clip is adjustable to fit a variety of screens.
  • Plug-and-play USB connectivity – Easily connects to PC, Mac® and Chrome™ devices with no additional software required.
  • Privacy shade – Switch to privacy mode in an instant with the privacy shade
  • Multiple connection types – Enjoy the flexibility of USB 2.0, 3.0 or Type C connections.
  • Custom carrying case – Take your show on the road. The custom carrying case features separate compartments for the camera and detachable clip/cable to conveniently transport BRIO wherever your travels take you.
Logitech Capture

All these features are great, but does it really look as good as they say? The simple answer is, yes!

Logitech Capture

Not only is the Logitech Brio 4K Webcam quality almost perfection, but the Logitech Capture software is the icing on top. Being able to adjust resolution, frames per second, color, saturation, and on and on, is a huge bonus. (see picture above) Want to see for yourself? Check out this video below where we showcase the software as well as the raw camera quality. If you have any question please feel free to comment on the video, or reach out to one of our reps.

Jabra Evolve2 30 | Outstanding Noise Canceling Headset

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In today’s work from anywhere landscape, the Jabra Evolve2 30 is engineered to keep you productive. The headset is lightweight, portable, reliable, and comfortable. With the Evolve2 30, your team can look forward to outstanding calls, superior audio, all-day comfort and noise isolation for instant concentration anywhere.

The Evolve2 30 series is available in USB-A or USB-C, with single or dual ear headband wearing styles and UC or Microsoft Teams variants. There’s an integrated Busylight that turns on automatically when you’re on a call, and you can turn it on manually to signal ‘do not disturb’ mode. But how well does the noise cancelling mic perform? Stick around until the end for a link to our review video.

  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series
  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series
  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series
  • Jabra Evolve2 30 Series


Jabra Evolve2 30 Features

  • Lightweight USB Business Headset available in UC and MS Teams Variants
  • Plug-and-play connectivity to your computer or mobile device via USB-A or USB-C
  • 2 built-in Microphones filters 12% more background conversation noise for clear, collaborative calls.
  • Integrated Busylight
  • 28mm Speakers for outstanding audio.
  • Future-proof tech that gets better with age thanks to an advanced digital chipset.
  • Noise Isolating Design
  • Reinforced Steel Headband Slider
  • Cable length – 1.5 m / 4.9 ft

Danny’s Opinion on the Jabra Evolve2 30 Series

I was thoroughly impressed with the latest addition to the Jabra Evolve2 Series of headsets and would recommend to anyone looking for a great value on a high-quality USB headset. The Jabra Evolve2 30 is great for use to work from anywhere including contact centers, work from home and in the office. Based on the low cost, light weight, comfort, strong audio performance, and compatibility across all major communications platforms, it’s a winner. The noise canceling mic performance of the Evolve2 30 was so impressive I will be creating another video comparing it to the older Evolve 30 II and new Evolve2 40. For now check out the video below to hear for yourselves how well it performed.

If you would like to discuss deploying Jabra Evolve2 30 in your business, contact center or home office, contact us!

Logitech C930e Business Webcam header

Logitech C930e Webcam

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The Logitech C930e Webcam is one of the five current Logitech Business Webcams models that includes the C505e, C920e, C925e, C930e & BRIO. The C930e falls into the “Better” category in this line up just behind the BRIO. This webcam is certified and compatible with all major video collaboration platforms to include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, RingCentral and more.

The C930e features dual integrated omnidirectional mics that capture audio clearly from up to 3.3ft / 1 meter away so conversations sound natural and clear. For loud environments, the Logitech Zone Wired or Zone Wireless Headsets and C930e webcam make an awesome video collaboration solution! 

Manage multiple Logitech personal collaboration devices* with Logi Tune. Available in desktop and mobile app versions, Logi Tune provides an elegantly intuitive dashboard for easy setup, control, and customization. Test your headset mic and sound, customize EQ, and adjust sidetone to hear your own voice at just the right volume. For webcams, control framing, adjust focus and choose a color preset to look your best. Logi Tune also makes firmware updates one-touch simple.

* Check for supported headsets and webcams

  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam
  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam
  • Logitech C930e Business Webcam

Download Logi Tune

Logitech C930e Business Webcam Features

  • HD 1080p video quality at 30 frames-per-second – Brings life-like HD video to conference calls, enabling expressions, non-verbal cues, and movements to be seen clearly.
  • Logitech RightLight 2 technology and autofocus – Webcam intelligently adjusts to improve visual quality in low light at multiple distances.
  • Wide field-of-view for business webcam – Enjoy an extended view – 90 degrees FOV – perfect for presenting using a whiteboard or doing demos.
  • 4X digital zoom in Full HD – 4X zoom at 1080p provides the highest level of detail for your calls, visuals, and presentations.
  • Professional-grade Certifications – Certified for Skype for Business, Cisco® compatible and enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program (LCP) members integrated experience with most business-grade video conferencing platforms.
  • Premium glass lens – Enjoy razor-sharp images even when showing documents up close, a whiteboard drawing or a product demo.
  • Convenient privacy shutter – Easy lens enclosure for added privacy and security. Plug-and-play USB connectivity Easily connects to a PC or Mac® with no additional software required
  • Multiple mounting options – Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best – LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop – by using the attached clip or the tripod embedded thread.

3-year limited hardware warranty

At only $129.99 the Logitech C930e is accessible for anyone looking to upgrade their video meetings to business-class. If you are a business and/or IT decision maker with mass deployment needs, contact us directly for support.

Check out the video below that provides and overview of the C930e, management settings available via LogiTune and includes video quality and mic tests!

Contact Center Headset Solutions

Contact Center Headset Solutions for 2021

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It’s been a year since the first stay-at-home orders were issued here in the US. I remember how incredibly easy it was for Call One, Inc. and our sister company Hello Direct to transition from in-office to working from home because we had invested in cloud platforms for our ERP/CRM and business communications and collaboration platforms. We’re looking at the best contact center headset solutions for 2021.

8x8 Contact Center Difference Between UCaaS CCaaS Contact Center Headset Solutions

Our businesses utilize 8×8 as our primary voice and UCaaS platform however, we also use Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, and other collaboration platforms to communicate with our customers, partners, and vendors. Our team has access to pretty much any headset they would like. Many of our team members are using the Poly Voyager Focus UC (MSRP $299.95, currently only $199.95). It was great in our open office environment, and it’s also a great solution in their home office environments. It provides ANC speakers, compatibility with all major business communications and collaboration platforms, wireless connectivity to their computer and mobile device, and up to 12 hours of talk time which is more than enough to cover an 8hr workday. Shop all Poly Voyager Focus Series Here!

For this blog I’m focused on Contact Center Headset Solutions that are available from the leading manufacturers: Poly (formerly Plantronics + Polycom), Jabra, EPOS, Cisco, and JPL.

Compatibility

Poly, Jabra and EPOS are the current leaders globally in the contact center headset solutions space for a reason. Poly has been in the call center/ contact center space since the 1960’s and Jabra is a subsidiary of the GN Group that’s been around for over 150 years. These leaders have deep relationships and integration with all leading contact center on-premise and cloud platforms like Avaya, Cisco, Genesys, NICE inContact, Amazon Connect, 8×8, Five9, talkdesk, twilio, and more!

Poly Voyager Focus UC Contact Center Headset Solutions

Flexibility – Wearing Styles, Corded and Wireless

Headset Wearing Styles – Headsets are available in a variety of wearing styles to include: Single or Dual Ear Headband Style, Over the ear, Neckband (behind the neck) and Convertible options that include multiple wearing styles with a single sku (Headband, Over the ear, Neckband, other).

USB Corded Headsets – As many contact centers shift to cloud-based platforms, there has been an increased demand in USB corded headsets. Manufacturers have developed headsets with USB-A and USB-C connectivity as well as offer UC and Microsoft Teams certified models. Look at available corded USB headsets from Jabra, Poly, Logitech, Cisco, JPL, EPOS and Yealink here!

Dect vs Bluetooth

QD Corded Headsets – Headsets that terminate in a QD or Quick Disconnect (Easy Disconnect for EPOS Headsets) allow agents to change out interface cable to support connectivity to a desk phone, computer, dispatch console, turret and more. There is not a universal cable that allows you to connect a headset to all phones, computers, and consoles. An authorized headset vendor like Call One, Inc. can provide compatibility and help you choose the right interface option.

Wireless headsets today offer a ton of flexibility. They utilize DECT and/or Bluetooth to support multiple connectivity options and provide you freedom to move about your workspace.

The preferred wearing style for most contact center agents is single or dual-ear headband style like the new JPL Element TT3 Avant Monaural and Binaural options that have QD (Quick Disconnect) feature that allow agents to change out interface cable to support connectivity to a desk phone or computer.

Contact Center Headset Solutions
Jabra Engage 50 series

The Jabra Engage 50 series are headsets designed for the digital contact center. The Jabra Engage 50 features a powerful processing chip in the earcup that delivers advanced functionality including call analytic data. A unique, 3 microphone system with intelligent noise-cancelation filters our background noise and breathing sounds, giving callers a superior experience. For greater efficiency and call control, pair with the Jabra Engage Link. The call control unit accessory enables agents to adjust volume levels and mute, speed dial, answer and end calls, and update their status lights at the touch of a button. The control unit is easy to use and designed to stay in place.

Contact Center Headset Solutions Blackwire

The Poly Blackwire Series offer a broad range of solutions that include ANC speakers, USB-A, USB-C, and 3.5mm Connectivity options, UC and Microsoft Teams certified variants, and headset models that align with all budgets. From the entry-level Blackwire 3200 and 3300 Series all the way to the Poly Blackwire 8225 that includes Hybrid Active Noise Canceling (ANC) speakers and microphone that is Noise canceling with Acoustic Fence Technology and meets Microsoft Teams Open-Office certification levels. Check out this video below showcasing Poly Blackwire 8225 vs Barking Dog!

https://youtu.be/cr5ILr2HrhU

Pre-and Post-Sales Support

All leading headset manufacturers along with their authorized partners like Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct understand the challenges of the contact center. Together we can work to support Proof of Concept or Pilots that allow you to thoroughly evaluate headset solutions before you make a purchasing decision. Additionally, for those contact centers looking to deploy wireless headsets, select brands offer Wireless Density Surveys to determine which wireless headsets and how many you can deploy.

Call One, Inc. offers Agent in a Box service to help simplify deployment of headsets nationwide by including all the required components in one box. We can ship headsets to your contact center agents wherever they are (Business and/or Residential addresses in the US). Learn about how Agent in a Box helped one organization deploy thousands of EPOS SC230 & SC260 Headsets, CAVA31 phone cable and ED01 USB Adapters here!

  • How Agent in a Box Delivered
  • How Agent in a Box Delivered
  • How Agent in a Box Delivered

Warranty Service – Most Contact Center headsets include a 1-3 Year Warranty depending on brand and model. In-Warranty Service is available directly from the manufacturers.

Full Line of Accessories – Save money and Increase the life of your headset by replacing accessories like ear cushions, mic screens, voice tubes, wireless headset batteries, and more!

Wireless Headset Accessories

Corded Headset Accessories

Headset Management Software

 As Contact Centers shift to working remotely, a robust CCaaS solution like available from 8×8 is becoming critical, as well the ability to monitor and manage headsets remotely. Most IT leaders understand that you need more than the ability to push out software and firmware updates. Headset Management Software continues to evolve. Today, headset software from select partners allows you to monitor, manage and maintain your headsets. IT can help troubleshoot and fix issues remotely as well as manage deployment and inventory effectively. But there’s so much more! Contact Center customers can improve the customer experience by leveraging the power of analytics to influence business results with unique data captured directly from the headset. Please contact us to learn more about current headset management software.

Poly Lens

 Other Contact Center Services

Call One, Inc. can support contact centers of all sizes. Global Contact Centers may have additional services available directly through the manufacturers depending on size and global footprint. Contact us directly to see if you qualify!

Trade-In Programs – To help simplify the deployment of new headsets, trade-in programs are sometimes enabled to leverage existing headsets by assigning them a dollar amount and using that as a credit towards the purchase of new. Contact us to see if you qualify!

Eprocurement – Our in house Ecommerce team can integrate with your existing purchasing platforms and even help to develop and manage CIF and PunchOut catalogs to help simplify access to the headsets and full line of accessories you need. Contact us to learn more!

Budget Optimization Program – Call One, Inc. offers convenient monthly payment options for your contact center headset needs. We understand the value of positive cash flow and provide equipment financing options to help you make the most of your budget. Contact us to see if you qualify!

CCaaS Solutions – Call Center as a Service (CCaaS) solutions enable you to architect a customer experience that will leave your customers pleased and feeling good about interacting with your brand when they call. They enable a more dynamic business with on-demand scalability, global reach, and easy, out-of-the-box integrations into the widely used software that makes your business run. Contact us to learn which CCaaS provider is best for your Contact Center!

Conclusion

2021 marks 34 years of servicing customers. In the beginning we served primarily call centers and dispatch centers with Plantronics, GN Netcom, ACS and Unex headsets. Today, the contact center manages multiple channels of communications with customers that includes email, social media, chat, voice and increasingly, video. Our long term and very strong relationships with the leading brands and providers give us an additional layer of support when it comes to helping meet your contact center headset solutions needs. If you would like to learn how we can help your contact center, contact us today!

Logitech C925e Webcam

Logitech C925e Webcam

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The Logitech C925e Webcam is the “just right” choice when it comes to Logitech Business Webcams. It sits in between the basic and good models C505e/C920e and better and best models C930e/Brio. It’s compatible and certified with all popular applications like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, Google Meet and more! Before we get started on the review, lets look at the specs.

Features:

Logitech C925e MSRP: $99.99

  • HD 1080p video at up to 30 frames per second: Full HD 1080p 30 fps makes a vivid impression every time with true-to-life video calls.
  • Easy-to-use: Simple to set up and use, USB plug-and-play connection makes video meetings easy.
  • UVC H.264 encoding technology: Frees up PC bandwidth by putting video processing within the camera.
  • Convenient privacy shutter: Easy lens closure for added privacy and security.
  • 78° field of view: See more without having to reposition the camera or crop and zoom.
  • Logitech RightLight 2 technology and autofocus: Webcam intelligently adjusts to improve visual quality in low light and backlit situations at multiple distances.
  • Omni-directional dual stereo microphones: Designed to capture sound for clear communication in larger spaces like offices and small conference rooms.
  • Multiple mounting options: Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best — LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop — by using the attached clip or the tripod embedded thread.
  • Professional-grade certifications: Leading business certifications (Certified for Skype for Business, Optimized for Microsoft® Lync® 2013, Cisco Jabber® and WebEx® compatible2 ) and enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program (LCP) members1 ensure an integrated experience with most business-grade video conferencing platforms
  • Logitech C925e Webcam

Honest Review

When you can’t meet in person, this is the ideal webcam for solo use or small group use. The full 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second delivers true-to-life clarity, and in our professional opinion, it almost looks 4k.

With low MSRP, simple plug and play, integrated microphone, and crisp video quality, Logitech knocked it out of the park with this webcam. You truly get what you pay for! Interested in seeing more? Fee free to reach out to us for more info on the C925e. If you would like to purchase the Logitech C925e, you can order it online here. We have a full video where test and overview the Logitech C925e Webcam. Check it out below:

Poly Studio P15 | Overview

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The Poly Studio P15 is a personal video bar that includes 4K camera, integrated privacy shutter, speakers, multi-microphone array and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports and several nice features like Noise BlockAI and Acoustic Fence. We’ve been using the Poly Studio P15 for a week across multiple video platforms to include Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

We have been really impressed with the performance across the board. In this blog/video we cover the connections, USB-C to USB-C cable length, Mounting options, and Poly Lens Desktop App Controls and Settings. Stick around until the end for a link to our showcase video.

  • Poly Studio P15 Left
  • Poly Studio Series P15

What are the Studio P15 Specs?

Features

MSRP: $599.99

  • Personal Video bar
  • Look and sound your best on video calls with one sleek device
  • Easy fits atop your display, or tripod mount for flexibility
  • Robust cloud management using Poly Lens
  • Robust cloud management using Poly Lens
  • Certified for Zoom and Microsoft Teams
  • Includes mounting clamp that attaches to a standard 1/4-20 tripod screw thread on the bottom of the device
  • 4K Resolution
  • NoiseBlockAI
  • Cable Length: 4 feet 3 inches
  • 1x USB 3.0 Type-C port (with USB 2.0 compatibility)
  • 2x USB 2.0 Type-A ports

In Conclusion:

In our professional opinion, the Poly Studio P15 is a great value at only $599 MSRP. You get exceptional video and audio quality. It’s compatible across all major business collaboration platforms to include Zoom and Microsoft Teams. And, features like AcousticFence, NoiseBlockAI, Auto-Framing, and two additional USB Ports make this a great option for any business professional. If you’d like to learn more or get a quote, contact us.

Jabra Evolve2 85 Definitive Mic Test | Boom Up or Down?

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On our YouTube channel, we have several videos featuring the Jabra Evolve2 85 however, viewers have asked for definitive mic up and mic down test to settle once and for all which sounds best. Additionally, we’re asked if there is difference if paired via Jabra Link 380 dongle or directly via Bluetooth to laptop. We test that as well! Stick around until the end for a link.

Features

Evolve2 85 Comes in MS and UC Variants: MS – $449.99 UC – $449.99

  • Stereo Binaural Headset with USB-C dongle
  • Digital hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
  • Up to 37 hours battery life
  • Over-the-ear wearing style
  • 10-microphone technology
  • Microsoft Teams Version
  • Jabra Evolve2 85 Comparing The Best Headsets
  • Jabra Evolve2 85 Mic Test
  • Zoom Recommended Hardware Jabra Evolve2 85

We set out to create instant quiet, anywhere. The result is a world-class professional headset with cutting-edge digital hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), powered by our most advanced digital chipset ever, and designed for incredible noise isolation; just put it on for instant immersion in your thoughts. It’s time to change the game. Welcome to the new standard.

Our Thoughts

After testing the Evolve2 85 with connection to the wireless dongle (boom mic up and down) Danny Hayasaka’s professional opinion is the following:

“My vote is mic down, connected to the USB dongle.”

Short and sweet and to the point, Danny!

If you have questions please feel free to reach out to us. Also, if you’re interested to see how this headset preforms, check out our YouTube video where we test different Evolve2 85 scenarios:

What EPOS is Seeing in This New Normal

What EPOS is Seeing in This New Normal? | Interview With Scott Houston

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Danny Hayasaka, Sr Director of Marketing and Emerging Technology of Call One, Inc. and Hello Direct had a virtual Q&A with Scott Houston, Field Engineer with EPOS to learn what they’re seeing in this new normal. What questions did we ask? Here’s a list

1. In regard to peripherals, what changes has EPOS seen from users when it comes to headsets and speakerphones?

2. How are organizations managing these assets for remote users? Does EPOS offer a solution?

3. What technologies does EPOS utilize in their solutions that make them a good fit for Contact Centers?

Scott answered the first question( In regard to peripherals, what changes has EPOS seen from users when it comes to headsets and speakerphones?) with the following:

“What we’ve seen before, you know, pre-pandemic and everything that’s happening. You’re in your office space, and you’re kind of just handed a headset.

But now with so many working from home and utilizing so many of the features that are out there for these devices, it’s just having a quality product to deliver that message.”

For the second question (How are organizations managing these assets for remote users? Does EPOS offer a solution?) He states:

“There was such a focus for so many enterprises on how do we keep our workers and and the information and, everything that they’re doing secure, right?

“But also what’s been changing is the UC landscape as a whole, right? Changes coming from Microsoft people switching from, island mode into teams only and now with the removal of Skype for business.”

And finally, the last question, (What technologies does EPOS utilize in their solutions that make them a good fit for Contact Centers?) here is what Houston had to say;

“So that’s where our offering for it is called EPOS manager. There you have a cloud service where your admin can go in and have visibility of everyone who has kind of the client version on their machines at home.

“It’s not just EPOS devices. So you can see what your people are using out there, which will help you with, you know, troubleshooting calls and keep the burden of support tickets to a minimum.”

Thanks for tuning in! We want to thank Scott Houston for joining us on this Q&A with Danny Hayasaka. If you want to watch the full interview to see what EPOS is seeing in this new normal, check it out below:

Poly Studio P5 Overview header

Poly Studio P5 Overview | How Does it Perform?

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The Poly Studio P5 webcam is part of a broad Poly Studio P Series portfolio of personal video conferencing devices. In this blog/video, we provide an overview of the P5 webcam, pricing, management via Poly Lens Desktop and finally we test the video and audio quality to include a side by side between built-in laptop camera and Poly Studio P5.

The P Series

With the Studio P Series, make the most of video calls wherever you’re working. The Poly Studio P Series personal video devices ensure you always look and sound your best. High-performance cameras compensate for lighting imbalances, while Poly’s premium audio is fine-tuned to help you focus and eliminate distractions. IT gains robust cloud management and troubleshooting of every device from anywhere.

  • Poly Solutions
  • Poly Studio P5
  • Poly Studio P5 Poly Studio P5 Overview

What does the Poly Studio P5 feature?

  • Precision-tuned webcam
  • Status LED on the camera
  • Built in USB Port for connecting to a Poly headset
  • Always look professional with exceptional camera optics that are optimized for video conferencing
  • Make sure you’re heard clearly with a built-in directional microphone that focuses on your voice, not the noise around you
  • Enhance security and privacy, and ensure you are in control of when you are on camera with the integrated privacy shutter
  • Poly Lens cloud management gives IT powerful tools to manage and track devices from anywhere

Poly Studio P5

The Poly Studio P5 webcam ensures you look your best on video calls at home, in the office, or wherever you’re working. Exceptional camera optics are fine-tuned so you always come across clearly with a professional-quality image. Brilliant colors and automatic low light compensation deliver excellent video quality no matter where you need to take a call. The directional microphone focuses on your voice and not the noise around you. An integrated privacy shutter keeps you in control of when you are on camera for enhanced security and privacy. For IT, Poly Lens cloud management provides robust tools to manage and track devices from anywhere.

  • Exceptional camera optics
  • Automatic low-light compensation
  • Built-in directional microphone
  • Integrated privacy shutter
  • USB connection to wireless headset adapter

Take a look below at our video review of the Poly Studio P5 below and subscribe to our Youtube channel for similar videos. If you have any additional questions regarding the Studio P5, feel free to contact us.