Version: 2008
Advanced Search
advertisement
advertisement

Featuring CNET Editor Nicole Lee

Bluetooth headsets Session has ended.

Missed this live event? No worries! Each Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon PT, we'll give you the chance to chat live with a CNET editor. We'll cover a new topic each week, from cell phones to TVs. Get those burning tech questions ready! Click here for the Ask the Editors Live event calendar.

Latest questions and answers

Q: noise cancelation

by cadong - 10/11/07 10:58 AM

what does noise cancelation mean and when a headset claims it has this feature what is the technology envolve?

A: How Noise Cancellation works

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:18 PM

Most Bluetooth headsets on the market don't really cancel noise as much as they reduce the noise. I'm unfortunately not too clear on the exact technology involved, but I think what happens is that the microphone on the headset picks up on the noise, finds the pattern, and then "reflects" back the noise so that it is canceled out.

UPDATE:

Here is beachdog67's take on how the noise cancellation technology works. Thanks beachdog67!

"Years ago, I worked for Bob Cohen, who invented the ClearCom headset (you see 'em used for communication in extreme noise environments -- helicopter cockpits, sporting event remote broadcasts, rock concerts, etc.).

Bob's solution used paired directional mics; one pointing at the user's mouth, the other 180 degrees away, coupled to a simple summing device that blocked all signal picked up by both mics, transmitting a "mix minus" signal that permitted ONLY the unique sound picked up by the voice mic.

I would assume the basic concept remains the same on any good quality Bluetooth set."

Q: Headset while using a Motorcycle Helmet

by webhog - 10/11/07 11:56 AM

Is there any Bluetooth headsets that you can recommend that are to be used when wearing a motorcycle helmet? I just ordered a Garmin Zumo 550 GPS which has Bluetooth capabilities (for audible directions, listening to MP3's & talking on cell phones). I can't see how one of those over-the-ear things could be comfortable with a full faced helmet.

A: Cardo Scala Rider to the rescue

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:17 PM

Luckily for you there is a Bluetooth headset made JUST for motorcycle helmets. It's called the Cardo Scala Rider, and it is specifically designed to fit inside a motorcycle helmet. The review we have is pretty old though, and since then, Cardo has released an FM version for listening to the radio, as well as a Teamset version for walkie-talkie purposes.

Q: Bluetooth for Iphone

by dbridle - 10/11/07 11:54 AM

I currently have an iphone and I was wondering if there are any bluetooth stereo headphones that are available for it? If not then do you see any that are going to be available in the future that will just plug into the speaker jack of the phone and transmit to bluetooth stereo headphones?

A: iPhone Bluetooth woes

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:12 PM

As I said in the previous reply, the current incarnation of the iPhone doesn't have A2DP/stereo Bluetooth built-in. I don't know if there'll be stereo Bluetooth adapters available for it, to be honest. I don't think there are any adapters that will just fit into the speaker jack. Sorry! Maybe Apple will come out with some kind of firmware upgrade to address this in the future.

Q: A2DP for iphone coming? icombi in the meantime

by kreisman99 - 10/11/07 11:54 AM

Nicole,

I notice you said that Macs don't currently support A2DP, but its coming with "leopard". The current iphone doesn't support it either. Have you any idea if and when it will?

In the meantime, I've heard that icombi makes an adaptor that turns the iphone into an A2DP unit. Does this work for music with the iphone, and will it also switch properly for telephone use?

Thank you.

A: iPhone and A2DP

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:10 PM

Unfortunately only the folks over at Cupertino really knows if there will ever be A2DP/stereo Bluetooth support for the iPhone. I do hope that they implement it in the next version though -- it only makes sense for such a music-focused phone to have stereo Bluetooth built-in.

I haven't heard about the iCombi to be honest with you. I will have to check it out and get back to you about that!

Q: stereo headphones, not headsets

by kreisman99 - 10/11/07 11:34 AM

I'm looking for a good set of BT headphones, with the highest quality available for music. I don't want an "in ear" but rather a full over the head or around the head type. It would be great if they had noise reduction as well. What would you recommend, and do you like the new Sony BT headphones.

A: Stereo headsets

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:09 PM

Time is running out for this Q&A, so I'll try to be brief! Here's a list of some of my favorite stereo Bluetooth headsets, which I hope helps you in your search. Out of all them though, I think the Plantronics Voyager 855 has the edge in terms of the audio quality, just because of its AudioIQ technology that reduces background noise.

Q: best bluetooth headset for driving?

by pkvpkv - 10/11/07 11:25 AM

I will be using my headset while driving. I have read reviews at CNET and see that the jawbone gets highest marks.

Does the noise canceling really work?
Would you receommend this over the planatronics you recommend in your "DEPENDS!" answer?

A: Driving

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:04 PM

Almost all Bluetooth headsets will work fine while driving. I do agree that the Jawbone has amazing sound quality, and the noise canceling really works! The reason I suggested the Plantronics Voyager 855 earlier is that it's a little cheaper, with the ability to be stereo as well as mono. But if your priority is sound quality above all else, then the Jawbone is an excellent choice. I do have to caution you though, that a lot of people have complained that the Jawbone doesn't "fit" right. So in that sense, the Plantronics might be better. Either way though, I would definitely look into trying it on before purchasing. Or at least make sure the store has a good return policy!

Q: Motorola H700 Bluetooth Headset

by Savvy Sonny - 10/11/07 11:25 AM

Nicole,

I was recently looking into buying the Motorola H700 Bluetooth Headset. I like the foldable mike and it falls within my price range. I saw your review on it and and I am still skeptical. Is it comfortable when you put it on? Can you fold the mic when it is on your ear? How is the quality of the calls when using it? I want a bluetooth that I can user for the long term? Would you recomend me buying this for my first bluetooth?

Thanks!

A: Motorola H700

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 12:02 PM

When I tested it at the time, it was pretty comfortable, and sound quality was great. I think you can fold the mic when it is on your ear, but it probably isn't too comfortable when doing so.

However, that review was over a year ago, and there have been a lot of improvements since then. If you want an affordable and good headset, I would recommend the Cardo Scala 700, which is only around $50 and has excellent performance.

Q: Cardo s2 great

by jagged59 - 10/11/07 11:23 AM

just to say i love BT technology and I'm sold on the cardo s2 which works well with my samsung blk jack, stereo sound, AD2S ? i believe it's called, I can ff/rev/pause and hold all on the right ear peice. It looks cool nd it's very comfy for me, does'nt look nerdy, the wires just get in the way, and it's at a very reasonable price, I got mine for less than $70.00 and i love it.

A: Yes it is

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:48 AM

That's not really a question, jagged59, but I agree with you!

Q: Best headsets for hard of hearing

by Cathy Keys - 10/11/07 11:20 AM

I am young but wear hearing aids (slight hearing loss). The problem I have had with Bluetooth headsets in the past is that even at their loudest volume I still can't hear the caller well if I am not wearing the hearing aids and they don't work well when wearing them. 2 questions: 1) are there any Bluetooth headsets which you can volume up pretty high and 2) are there any headsets that you can use when wearing hearing aids?

A: Headsets for hearing loss

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:49 AM

Yes there is a headset for those that are hard of hearing, but it's not cheap. The SoundID SoundFlavors Bluetooth headset is specifically made for people like you who have hearing loss. They have a variety of ear tips for deeper fit, plus a design that allows for the use of hearing aids. The SoundID also has different listening "modes" depending on your preferred volume. If you wish not to spend as much money, the SoundID SM100 is pretty good too, but it doesn't fit those with hearing aids.

Q: Stereo/Phonecall Combo Bluetooth?

by sarafrans - 10/11/07 11:19 AM

Is there a bluetooth headset that combines ability to listen through music on your "music-capable phone", as well as takes calls? I'd prefer one that is just like a normal one-ear bluetooth, but also transmits music. I'm not requiring GREAT AUDIO SOUND, just the ability to casually hear some tunes as I'm doing whatever. I tried the Motorola S9 headphones, but they were too big to carry around and too difficult to get on in time for a call, and my hair got in the way, plus weren't too comfortable.

A: Stereo Bluetooth headsets

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:47 AM

Yes, you are in luck! There are plenty of stereo Bluetooth headsets out there that will work with those music-capable phones. The phone will have to have support for stereo Bluetooth, or what is known as the A2DP profile, before it will work of course.

We do actually like the Motorola S9, but as you said, it's a little big. I would suggest a few alternatives for you: Both the Plantronics Voyager 855 and the Jabra BT8010 are "convertible" Bluetooth headsets that can convert from mono to stereo and vice versa. Plus they're both on the small side, so they're easy to carry around. Another option is the Plantronics Pulsar 260 , which has all the controls on a pendant that hangs around your neck, making the controls easier to access.

Q: For use indoors

by darcey007 - 10/11/07 11:09 AM

I'm not too concerned about noise reduction as I want a stereo bluetooth headset for indoor use: answering business Skype calls on my MacBook Pro laptop and chatting with friends via video (Skype or iChat) while cooking. And maybe watching DVDs while my better half is asleep. I will NOT be using it with a cell phone, only a laptop.

Is there anything I should be looking for (other than comfort and sound quality) for using with a laptop? And which headsets do you recommend that do not involve sticking something in your ear canal?

A: Stereo Bluetooth on a Mac

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:38 AM

Before I go ahead and suggest a good Bluetooth headset for you, I do have to warn you that the current incarnation of Macs do not have support for stereo Bluetooth, or what is known as A2DP Bluetooth. This means that while you can pair and use mono Bluetooth headsets with your Mac, using a stereo Bluetooth headset may not work. However, the upcoming OS X version, Leopard, will have support for A2DP Bluetooth. So if you went and upgraded to Leopard, stereo Bluetooth headsets should work with your Mac.
<p>
Now, as for the right headsets to use. There are a number of good stereo Bluetooth headsets out there, and I would definitely say comfort and sound quality are at the top of the list. In that sense, the headset choices for laptops versus cell phones shouldn't be too different. My personal favorite is the Cardo S-2, since it feels like a "normal" pair of headphones.

Q: Plantronics 665a

by sarafrans - 10/11/07 11:04 AM

I have the Plantronics 665a with "AudioIQ", I'd love it if it had more of a deep in-ear attachment instead of the soft-gel...I always find myself holding my ear/pushing it deeper so I can hear better when I am in a not-quiet environment. Are there universal ear attachments that one can buy, or do you know of a bluetooth that has great sound, no ear hook, and a deep-ear attachment? : )

A: Deep-ear attachments

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:31 AM

I don't know if there are companies that sell universal ear attachments, but you might try contacting Plantronics to see if they offer alternative earbud covers for better fit.
<p>
There are quite a few headsets out there that don't require ear hooks with great sound, but "deep-ear" fit may be subjective. Both the Plantronics Voyager 855 and the SoundID SM100 don't require ear hooks and offer amazing sound quality, with pretty good fit in the ear. However, if you want a "deeper" fit, the SoundID would be good. Another option would be the Samsung WEP500, which also offers a pretty secure fit.
<p>
As you can see, there are quite a few options out there! I've only given a few recommendations here. Hope you find the one you want!

Q: Bluetooth advice.

by Savvy Sonny - 10/11/07 11:02 AM

I am in need of a bluetooth. There are so many to choose from. Do you have a recomendation? I need a quality bluetooth!

A: Depends!

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:20 AM

Believe me, nobody realizes the wide array of Bluetooth headsets out there more than I do! I've probably seen a hundred or so since I started working here.

Here's what I would recommend: First and foremost you have to decide on your budget. Once you figure out the price range, you can then decide on the style you want -- do you want a headset that really fits inside the ear, or would you prefer something a little looser? Do you plan on wearing the headset all day long, or just in the car? The best way to decide would be to just go in a store and try the headset out for yourself, as "fit" and "comfort" are very subjective.

If you're willing to pay over $100, I generally like the Plantronics headsets. I really like the Plantronics Voyager 855 that can convert from mono to stereo. For a cheaper alternative at around $60, I like the Cardo S640 since you can choose to clip it on your shirt when not in use.

In general though, I'd check out our list of Bluetooth headset reviews for more options. Take your time in deciding! Hope that helps.

Q: noise cancelation

by cadong - 10/11/07 10:58 AM

what does noise cancelation mean and when a headset claims it has this feature what is the technology envolve?

A: Noise cancellation versus Noise reduction

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 11:06 AM

Most Bluetooth headsets on the market don't really cancel noise as much as they reduce the noise. I'm unfortunately not too clear on the exact technology involved, but I think what happens is that the microphone on the headset picks up on the noise, finds the pattern, and then "reflects" back the noise so that it is canceled out.

A: Welcome!

by Nicole Lee - 10/11/07 10:55 AM

Hi! I'm Nicole Lee, associate editor for mobile reviews at CNET.com, and I'm ready to answer your questions about accessories for your cell phone, especially Bluetooth headsets. Fire away!

Incoming questions

Noise Cancellation
Hi Nichole,

You said:
[quote]I'm unfortunately not too clear on the exact technology involved, but I think what happens is that the microphone on the headset picks up on the noise, finds the pattern, and then "reflects" back the noise so that it is canceled out.[/quote]

Years ago, I worked for Bob Cohen, who invented the ClearCom headset (you see 'em used for communication in extreme noise environments -- helicopter cockpits, sporting event remote broadcasts, rock concerts, etc.).

Bob's solution used paired directional mics; one pointing at the user's mouth, the other 180 degrees away, coupled to a simple summing device that blocked all signal picked up by both mics, transmitting a "mix minus" signal that permitted ONLY the unique sound picked up by the voice mic.

I would assume the basic concept remains the same on any good quality Bluetooth set.
by beachdog67 - 10/11/07 12:08 PM
Hi
Nicole,
I have a t-mobile dash. I want to back up my entire phone is there any software which will do that preferableover usb or bluetooth. also i have two bluetooth profiles I want to be able to seamlessly switch between my gps and my headset is it possible
by subrash - 10/11/07 12:01 PM
clip-style BT
Are there a lot of BT headset which has the BT electronics away from the ear (like the Cardo S-640)?
by lesagep - 10/11/07 11:58 AM
Headset while using a Motorcycle Helmet
Is there any Bluetooth headsets that you can recommend that are to be used when wearing a motorcycle helmet? I just ordered a Garmin Zumo 550 GPS which has Bluetooth capabilities (for audible directions, listening to MP3's & talking on cell phones). I can't see how one of those over-the-ear things could be comfortable with a full faced helmet.
by webhog - 10/11/07 11:56 AM
Bluetooth for Iphone
I currently have an iphone and I was wondering if there are any bluetooth stereo headphones that are available for it? If not then do you see any that are going to be available in the future that will just plug into the speaker jack of the phone and transmit to bluetooth stereo headphones?
by dbridle - 10/11/07 11:54 AM
A2DP for iphone coming? icombi in the meantime
Nicole,

I notice you said that Macs don't currently support A2DP, but its coming with "leopard". The current iphone doesn't support it either. Have you any idea if and when it will?

In the meantime, I've heard that icombi makes an adaptor that turns the iphone into an A2DP unit. Does this work for music with the iphone, and will it also switch properly for telephone use?

Thank you.
by kreisman99 - 10/11/07 11:54 AM
For Michael too: try this link
For the slide show:
http://crave.cnet.com/4335-1_105-6592173.html

Does that work for you?

-Lee
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 10/11/07 11:52 AM
Article problem
Hello,

My RSS just pointed me to an article on Crave about all the new motorola models. That article contains a link to a slideshow of the new phones, but the link isn't working -- it points to a page titled: "null".

The article is here:
http://crave.cnet.com/8300-1_105-1-0.html?categoryId=1006&tag=category
by Michael too - 10/11/07 11:47 AM
stereo headphones, not headsets
I'm looking for a good set of BT headphones, with the highest quality available for music. I don't want an "in ear" but rather a full over the head or around the head type. It would be great if they had noise reduction as well. What would you recommend, and do you like the new Sony BT headphones.
by kreisman99 - 10/11/07 11:34 AM
best bluetooth headset for driving?
I will be using my headset while driving. I have read reviews at CNET and see that the jawbone gets highest marks.

Does the noise canceling really work?
Would you receommend this over the planatronics you recommend in your "DEPENDS!" answer?
by pkvpkv - 10/11/07 11:25 AM
Motorola H700 Bluetooth Headset
Nicole,

I was recently looking into buying the Motorola H700 Bluetooth Headset. I like the foldable mike and it falls within my price range. I saw your review on it and and I am still skeptical. Is it comfortable when you put it on? Can you fold the mic when it is on your ear? How is the quality of the calls when using it? I want a bluetooth that I can user for the long term? Would you recomend me buying this for my first bluetooth?

Thanks!
by Savvy Sonny - 10/11/07 11:25 AM
Note to Urenna in regards to Sony Cyber-shot DSC T200
Hi Urenna,

This Ask the Editors Live event topic is on Bluetooth headsets and cell phone accessories.

For Digital camera questions please give our Digital cameras forum a try and post your question there.

Here's the link:
http://forums.cnet.com/5204-7593_102-0.html?forumID=58

Thanks!
-Lee
CNET Community
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 10/11/07 11:25 AM
Cardo s2 great
just to say i love BT technology and I'm sold on the cardo s2 which works well with my samsung blk jack, stereo sound, AD2S ? i believe it's called, I can ff/rev/pause and hold all on the right ear peice. It looks cool nd it's very comfy for me, does'nt look nerdy, the wires just get in the way, and it's at a very reasonable price, I got mine for less than $70.00 and i love it.
by jagged59 - 10/11/07 11:23 AM
Sony Cyber-shot DSC T200
How do you rate this new product and how does it compare to the T100 model?
by Urenna - 10/11/07 11:22 AM
Lotus Notes
I have Lotus Notes email at work and want to get a new cell phone to be able to get my email and internet while out of the office. I called Lotus Support and they indicated I had to have an "Enterprise Server" and true wireless synchronizing, etc.

Is there a simpler software I can install on the cell phone to be able to get to my Notes email? Also what type phone is compatible with Lotus Notes.
by lizardlou - 10/11/07 11:21 AM
Best headsets for hard of hearing
I am young but wear hearing aids (slight hearing loss). The problem I have had with Bluetooth headsets in the past is that even at their loudest volume I still can't hear the caller well if I am not wearing the hearing aids and they don't work well when wearing them. 2 questions: 1) are there any Bluetooth headsets which you can volume up pretty high and 2) are there any headsets that you can use when wearing hearing aids?
by Cathy Keys - 10/11/07 11:20 AM
Stereo/Phonecall Combo Bluetooth?
Is there a bluetooth headset that combines ability to listen through music on your "music-capable phone", as well as takes calls? I'd prefer one that is just like a normal one-ear bluetooth, but also transmits music. I'm not requiring GREAT AUDIO SOUND, just the ability to casually hear some tunes as I'm doing whatever. I tried the Motorola S9 headphones, but they were too big to carry around and too difficult to get on in time for a call, and my hair got in the way, plus weren't too comfortable.
by sarafrans - 10/11/07 11:19 AM
For use indoors
I'm not too concerned about noise reduction as I want a stereo bluetooth headset for indoor use: answering business Skype calls on my MacBook Pro laptop and chatting with friends via video (Skype or iChat) while cooking. And maybe watching DVDs while my better half is asleep. I will NOT be using it with a cell phone, only a laptop.

Is there anything I should be looking for (other than comfort and sound quality) for using with a laptop? And which headsets do you recommend that do not involve sticking something in your ear canal?
by darcey007 - 10/11/07 11:09 AM
Plantronics 665a
I have the Plantronics 665a with "AudioIQ", I'd love it if it had more of a deep in-ear attachment instead of the soft-gel...I always find myself holding my ear/pushing it deeper so I can hear better when I am in a not-quiet environment. Are there universal ear attachments that one can buy, or do you know of a bluetooth that has great sound, no ear hook, and a deep-ear attachment? : )
by sarafrans - 10/11/07 11:04 AM
Bluetooth advice.
I am in need of a bluetooth. There are so many to choose from. Do you have a recomendation? I need a quality bluetooth!
by Savvy Sonny - 10/11/07 11:02 AM
noise cancelation
what does noise cancelation mean and when a headset claims it has this feature what is the technology envolve?
by cadong - 10/11/07 10:58 AM
Nicole Lee, CNET mobile reviews editor live!
Ask the Editors Live: Bluetooth headsets and cell phone accessories

Got questions about Bluetooth headsets? Well, you've come to the right place.

Our next upcoming Ask the Editors Live chat begins at 11 a.m. Pacific Time (2 p.m. Eastern), Thursday, October 11. Our host will be associate editor for CNET's mobile reviews, Nicole Lee, who will be here to answer your questions about cell phone accessories, especially Bluetooth headsets. So if you are in need of some buying advice or just simply have a question on a specific cell phone accessory you have in mind, Nicole is the person to ask!

So get your Bluetooth headset and cell phone accessory questions ready for Nicole and don't miss out on this live chat event!

Click here for upcoming Ask the Editors Live events and past transcripts of events.
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 10/3/07 11:29 AM