Plantronics HW251 & HW261 Wideband Headsets:

Problem: Our company has been ordering the H251 & H261 headsets for several years and we are very happy with them.  When I went on line to reorder some headsets I noticed that they have been discontinued.   The HW251 & HW261 look like the same thing; what is the difference?

Solution: The H251 & H261 have been very popular headsets over a number of years.  However, Plantronics is always looking to improve on a good thing, so they have updated the SupraPlus to the HW251 and the HW261.  The “W” in the newer models stands for Wideband Frequency.  When a headset has wideband capability it provides cutting edge VoIP technologies, featuring wideband receivers to deliver improved speech clarity and life-like fidelity.  Your conversations will have fewer listening errors, fewer repeats and less listener fatigue.  This new and improved technology is also compatible with older phone systems that have standard band environments and also the newest phone systems with wideband capability.  You will find the style is exactly the same as the older H251 & H261, and the newer units are still compatible with all of the Plantronics amplifiers and bottom cords.

If you have any questions regarding what type of headsets would be best for your phones and business environment, call Headsets Direct and speak with one of our technical support specialists.  At Headsets Direct we aren’t interested in selling you something you don’t need, we are interested in making you a happy, repeat customer. We provide full technical support on every headset we sell, and we carry all the accessories and replacement parts for any headset you purchase from us.  Our 60 day money-back guarantee is proof of our belief in customer satisfaction.

Dictation Headsets that are corded and wireless:

There are so many headsets to choose from that will connect to a computer that can be used with dictation software, however not all of them will give you the best quality.  And a lot of computer software can be a little finicky on the quality that it wants to hear, customers that are using Dragon Naturally Speaking can even do a test which will tell them the quality ranking of the headset microphone… It lets you know if you are up to par.  Some customers prefer corded and some like the wireless headsets such as the Plantronics CS50-USB, which is a great wireless computer headset.  Typically when using headsets on regular office telephones, the wireless headsets will sound just as good as the corded, and actually the wireless headsets are so good now that your callers usually can’t even tell that you are on a headset at all.  But when it comes to making recordings or using dictation software on computers, this isn’t always the case.

If you do a side by side comparison with a wireless headset and a good commercial grade corded solution such as the Plantronics DA60 USB adapter and HW251 headset, you will notice that the corded solution does sound better.  If you use one of the inexpensive computer headsets, you may not notice as much of a difference between the wireless and corded.  You can also use the Plantronics DA45 USB adapter with any Plantronics H-series headset, but the DA60 has DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology.  DSP technology usually makes the microphone quality a little better and clearer, for instance in a side by side comparison, you may notice the “white noise” (shhhh… sound) in the background whereas you don’t typically hear that with the DSP because it really just focuses in on your voice.  And also since dictation headsets are normally done in a predominantly quiet setting such as a private office, the Plantronics headsets with the voice tubes will pick up your voice better than the headsets that have a noise canceling microphone.  So if you are not working in a noisy environment, there is no need to have a headset with a noise canceling microphone.  And remember that a noise canceling headset is looking to block out background noise going on around you, but if your voice is the only thing that it hears, it may muffle your voice and wouldn’t be as clear as a voice tube model.

So if you want the absolute best sound quality for your Dragon Naturally Speaking or other dictation software, the Plantronics DA60 USB adapter along with an H-series headset such as the Plantronics HW251 is a great combination.

Problem: My boss has decided to purchase headsets so we can be more productive, better able to multitask, and hopefully avoid neck, shoulder and back problems from cradling our telephone handsets while trying to use the computer.  However there are so many different headset styles and we have 6 employees to try to please!  What do you suggest?

Solution: Choices, choices, choices . . . sometimes it’s difficult to make the right decision.  When you are trying to purchase headsets for a number of people and you would like to please everyone, the safest way may be to order convertible headsets.  So what exactly is a convertible headset?   It is a headset that can be worn multiple ways.  It comes with both a headband and an ear loop, which means your employees can choose which style is most comfortable for them.  A third wearing option is to order an accessory neckband which is worn behind the head.

Plantronics has several convertible corded headsets to choose from.  The S12 is a consumer grade headset & amplifier system designed for budget conscious companies, or individuals working from home.  Consumer grade headsets are good quality, affordable and they are complete plug and play systems.

For companies interested in higher quality and more durable units, we have two commercial grade headset models to choose from.  The H141 is the most popular and you can order it with a voice tube or with the noise cancelling microphone (H141N).  The second option is the H171 and it also comes with either a voice tube or a noise cancelling microphone (H171N).  The H171 has a unique headband that comes with two temple pads, one on each side, rather than the typical headband that has a temple pad on one side and an ear cushion on the opposite side.  Please note that with all of our commercial grade headsets you will also need to order either an amplifier or a bottom cable so that you can plug into your phone.

Today’s wireless headsets provide crystal clear communication and the ability to answer and end your calls when you are away from your desk! Plantronics manufactures two wireless headsets which are convertible, the CS55 and the Savi WO100.  The CS55 is the most popular headset we carry! Not only is It convertible, it also offers excellent clarity and tone quality.    The Savi W0100 plugs into your computer through the USB port and also plugs into your office phone.  This convertible unit allows you to switch back and forth between your phone and using VOIP software on your computer with just the push of a button.

Headsets Direct can help you find the right choice for you and your employees.  We offer a 60 day satisfaction guarantee, so if you need to exchange a unit for a different model, we will be happy to do that for you.  If you prefer a refund on your purchase price( less the shipping) we will be happy to accommodate your wishes.  At Headsets Direct our technicians are trained to ask the right questions to find out what your specific needs are, and to provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your company.

If you need a headset for your cell phone and office desk phone, the Plantronics 510S Bluetooth headset may be your answer.

Problem: I am looking for one headset that will work with both my Bluetooth cell phone and my office desk phone. Is there such a thing?

Solution: The Plantronics 510S Bluetooth Headset will work with your office phone and your Bluetooth device, such as a Bluetooth cell phone. This system will answer either phone that is ringing but it will not allow you to switch back and forth between the two phones without ending the current call you are on first. At the office you will use your charging base to charge the headset. The Plantronics 510S Bluetooth headset also comes with an AC charger for charging the 510 headset at home or you can pick up different charging adapters for the 510 headset. The headset folds up for quick and easy storage. There is also a carrying case for the headset for when you want to tuck it away in your pocket or purse. The case is sold separately for $14.95. Headsets Direct carries all the 510S accessories if you find yourself needing anything else. The base of the Plantronics 510S Bluetooth headset will also let you link a different Bluetooth to it, so you are not limited to the 510 headset. It is very unique this way. Just keep in mind; you can only have 2 devises linked to the base at any one time. The Plantronics 510S is a Bluetooth device, so you will only have 33’ distance from the office phone or your cell phone. The unit gives you 6 hrs of talk time throughout your day. It comes with a one year warranty.

Problem: I have a few wireless Plantronics CS70N and CS70 bases but the headsets are no longer working. Is there a replacement battery for the headsets or a replacement headset for the CS70? If you offer a replacement for either of these, how much do they cost?

Solution: Unfortunately, Plantronics chose not to use a replaceable battery in either of the CS70 or CS70N headsets. So after the life of the battery dies, the headset is no longer of any use to you. I know it seems like a waste but that is the way Plantronics designed the headsets.

Plantronics no longer manufactures the CS70 or a replacement headset for that system but you can use the replacement headset for the Plantronics CS70N, part number 27910-01, on your CS70.  This is a noise canceling headset; it will get rid of a big percentage of your back ground noise, unlike the CS70 headset which is a voice tube model. It is the same wearing style that you use with the CS70.

The Plantronics CS70N replacement headset sells for $179. Headset Directs offers a 60 day money back guarantee on all the Plantronics wireless replacement headsets. Just remember that you will need to pair your replacement headset to the CS70 base.  Our web page offers instructions and pictures on how to pair the base and headset. If you think the price on the replacement headset is too expensive, you can purchase a new CS70N starting at $240. If you need additional help, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 800-914-7996.

Practical Headset for a Plantronics Practica T50?

First, let me start off by saying that Plantronics does not recommend using any headsets on the Practica units other than the one that came with it.  However, since the Plantronics Practica A100, T100 and T50 units are discontinued, what are you supposed to do if your base still works great but you just need a replacement headset?   Well you could of course purchase a brand new complete system such as the Plantronics S11 or the Plantronics S12 which is like the Practica A100 that works with most single and multiline phones, or the Plantronics T10 which is a single line telephone like the Practica T50 and T100.  These systems can range from around $88.95 to $129.95 in price.

Now these are all really good systems, but it may seem kinda silly to throw the whole thing away just because the headset stopped working.  And that is usually the case, the headsets wear out (maybe because of the thin cord) but the bases are durable and last a long time.  So that being said, we have yet another option for you other than buying a complete new system…  This would be the Plantronics S11 replacement headset (model# 65388-02), which is around $29.95, considerably less than buying a complete new system.  The Plantronics S11 replacement headset is just a simple headband (over the head) headset that has a noise canceling microphone and covers one ear.  I have sold the Plantronics S11 replacement headset to several customers that still have the Plantronics Practica bases but were unable to find a replacement headset.  And so far, these have worked out very well.  Not to mention, a very budget friendly practical solution for the Plantronics Practicas.

Using a Plantronics Wireless Headsets in Tech Support Center.

Problem:

I have been tasked to obtain Plantronics wireless headsets to test in our network tech support center. This is what I need the wireless headsets to accomplish:

1. Noise cancelling microphones
2. Great sound quality on both sides
3. Good battery life (at least ten hours)
4. Changeable batteries (after life of battery has died)
5. Remote answer and hang up from the headset

Solution: Headsets Direct carries three Plantronics wireless systems that will meet your requirements: all three will give you up to 10 hours of talk time. They all have noise cancelling microphones. The wireless systems provide you with multiple volume adjustments on the charging base and on the headset for great sound quality on both sides. The batteries can be replaced for $39.95 (there are instructions on our webpage to help you change out the batteries if needed).

The CS55 (our most popular Plantronics wireless headset) price starts at $225. This unit comes with a headband and different size ear loops, so you have two different wearing styles to choose from. The CS351N is a true headband model, one ear is covered and the headband cannot be changed out. It is a heaver headband than the CS55’s. The ear cushion is a little larger than the CS55’s to block out more noise. This unit starts at $240. The CS361N is a dual ear headset; both ears are covered for that noisy environment you may be in. This unit starts at $254. All three of these systems come with a one year warranty.

For remote answering and hanging up from the Plantronics wireless headset you will need an HL10 handset lifter which sells for $68. This device will work on most office phones.

Plantronics headsets for Nortel T7316 phone.

Problem:

I am looking for a Plantronics headset for my desk model T7316 phone from Nortel networks. What I need is a headset where I can hear my own voice so I know how loud I am speaking. Either corded or wireless and the more sound blocking from outside noise would be great. I need a range of prices, if possible.

Solution:

Headsets Direct has a great selection of Plantronics corded headsets and wireless units that are compatible with your Nortel T7316 phone that will certainly help you. If you would like a corded setup, you will need to start with an A10 cord (66268-02), which sells for $44.95. Any of our H-series headsets will work with this A10 cord. One of the headsets I highly recommend is the Plantronics HW291N selling for $103. This unit has a high-frequency wideband that will ensure crystal clear calls. It has an ultra-lightweight design and leatherette ear cushions. You will only have one ear covered (so you can hear your own voice), this headset has a noise canceling microphone for loud background noises (will get rid of about 75% of the noise). The HW291N has an extendible boom for placement of the microphone for better clarity. Price wise, on the lower end, you might want to look at an H251N which sells for $76.50, one ear covered, adjustable boom but not extendible. It ships with foam ear cushions.

You can use any of the Plantronics wireless headsets with the HL10 handset lifter on your phone. Our most popular unit is the CS55 which sells for $225. This unit has what Plantronics calls a convertible headset, you will receive ear loops (3 different sizes) and a light weight headband for your choice of wearing styles. It is noise canceling. The CS55 gives you 300′ of distance and 10 hours of talk time. The HL10 handset lifter sells for $68 which will give you remote answering when away from your phone. You might want to look at the CS351N; this is a true headband style headset. The headband is not detachable like the CS55 unit and it weighs a little more. It is also noise canceling with 300′ distance and 10 hrs of talk time. Sells for $240.