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THE EXECUTIVE LIFE
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HANDS FREE, CALLS WAITING

BY SARAH BROBERG

On the surface, it would seem wireless headsets represent the next chapter in cell phone technology. Small, light, convenient and cutting-edge – what is there not to like? Adherents praise the stylish look and comfort. Detractors, however, roll their eyes in disgust at the “goofy-looking devices.”

While the aesthetic value may be up for debate, headsets are unquestionably a hot item. Many headsets now come equipped with Bluetooth technology, which allows you to connect wirelessly with other Bluetooth-enabled devices within a short distance, such as a laptop, PDA or mobile phone.

There are currently over 150 different headset models equipped with Bluetooth technology. Such abundance, of course, makes choosing the right one more difficult. We recommend you test several types before settling on the one that’s right for you.

Bluetrek S2 (LE 265)
The Bluetrek S2 is one of the lightest headsets on the market – so light you’ll probably forget you’re even wearing it. The S2 has an adjustable and detachable ear loop, which allows the headset to be worn comfortably on either ear. And power users will be pleased to know you actually get more talk time (up to 10 hours) and standby time (up to 21 days) than with many higher-priced models.

So what’s the rub? The S2 supports only Bluetooth 1.1 specification, which may cause compatibility problems with some newer phones. If you’re still determined to own a Bluetrek, consider upgrading to the E2 model, which supports 1.2 specification. Bluetrek is one of the more popular brands, which may have as much to do with its sleek design as exacting standards.

Plantronics Explorer 320 (LE 350)

Sliding up the price scale, the Explorer 320 is ready-made for those who like stylish simplicity. The two-tone black/metallic design features a one-button control for all functions including call volume, answering or ending a call, voice-activated dialing, or last number redial.

Compared to the Bluetrek S2, the 320 is slightly heavier, has less talk time (8 hours) and less than half the number of standby hours (240). But the 320 does support Bluetooth 1.2 specification. While the headset has been reported as comfortable and the voice-activated dialing feature as accurate, there is occasional static. The durability of the plastic headset may be an issue for some hardcore users.

Jabra BT330 (LE 565)

The Jabra BT330 may be a bit bulky, but it does have great sound quality. It uses sound-absorbing material and a unidirectional microphone to reduce distortion and background noise, and channels sound directly into your ear, improving sound quality on both ends of the line.

The BT330 employs more sophisticated technology and represents a step-up from cheaper models, at least in terms of sound quality. At the same time, the BT330 weighs less or offers more hours of talk and standby time than many higher-priced models, making it a great bargain.

Sony Ericsson Akono HBH 660 (LE 750)

The HBH 660 has superior sound quality, utility and sophisticated styling and is one of the first wireless headsets to offer a built-in LCD display with caller ID. It has easy-to-use buttons for making, receiving or rejecting calls.

The SUV of headsets, the 660 is a behemoth, weighing in at 23 grams, nearly double the Bluetrek S2. The amount of talk time (5 hours) and standby (150) is not impressive, especially considering the price tag. Also, because the microphone is so sensitive it tends to pick up a lot of background noise, perhaps a problem for those stuck in Cairo traffic.

Jabra JX10 (LE 880)

The Jabra JX10 is one of the smallest headsets out there, measuring about 4cm in length and weighing just 8.5 grams. Its angular design is complemented by a silver body with black accents. The headset is renowned for its great sound quality with an automatic volume control feature that adjusts the sound level to the environment and reduces background noise. If price is not an issue, then the JX10 is an easy pick.

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