Logitech H530 Headset (USB)

255 Reviews

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	Price: $44.40
	Price: $59.99
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Pros: Inexpensive, Great sound quality, Comfortable to wear, On-ear controls
Cons: Could use more bass

The Logitech H530 allows you to experience exceptional voice quality and clarity for less than the asking price of other headsets. Its 31 mm laser tuned drivers together with Skype's super wideband audio deliver superb audio performance without any distortion. Although it is intended for internet calls, it also features 3 audio modes which offer optimized sound and make it ideal for playing games, listening to music and watching movies. This full-featured headset remains comfortable to wear even during long sessions. Its headband and ear cups are both well padded. Unlike other headsets, the Logitech H530 boasts of a longer, more durable cord, a rotating boom for added convenience and on-ear audio controls for quick adjustments. It even has a mute function and an indicator light which saves you from guessing when it is muted. Logitech's H530 eliminates ambient noise and ensures crystal clear conversations with its noise-canceling microphone. It may not produce deep, thumping bass but it is armed with a SoundSwitch equalizer for rich dynamics and balanced sound. In terms of installation, it works well with both PC and Mac systems. Thanks to its Plug n' play functionality, you can skip the time consuming process and move on to what's really important. Bottomline, if you want a high quality headset and you are on a budget, then the Logitech H530is the way to go.

Plantronics CS50-USB - Wireless VoIP Headset (Over-the-ear, Over-the-head)

67 Reviews

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	Price: $141.99
Recorders.com	Price: $199.95
	Price: $148.13
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Pros: Wireless, great range, Plantronics' PerSonoCall software, noise canceling microphone
Cons: Expensive

The Plantronics CS50-USB VoIP Earset is mainly designed for office use, but it can be used at home as well. It connects directly to your computer via the USB port. Once it's connected, you can walk around as you talk without the hassle of wires. It has an incredible range of 200 ft, so you have plenty of freedom while talking. For convenience and comfort it can be worn over the ear or over the head. The earset features Plantronics' PerSonoCall software, which allows for answering or ending a call with one touch and remote ring detection. It delivers clear sound and echo reduction. The noise canceling microphone conveniently reduces any surrounding noises for unobstructed conversations. One down side is the earset is expensive, but it does come with a one year warranty.

Logitech H555 Headset - Stereo (Behind-the-neck - Binaural - Semi-open - USB)

63 Reviews

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	Price: $42.79
	Price: $65.99
	Price: $75.00
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Pros: Lightweight, Excellent sound quality, Plug-and-play, Includes a soft case
Cons: Not ideal for small heads, No optional earpads

The Logitech H555 is perfect for those who want to have interference-free conversations with family and friends. You don't have to waste your time loading drivers since it is totally plug-and-play. With Skype's Super wideband audio, you'll be able to enjoy premium sound quality even when you have a slow connection. There are also in-line audio controls integrated into the cord which allow you to easily mute the microphone and adjust volume levels. Being versatile and noise-canceling, this headset can be used for a great number of purposes. In addition to voice and conference calls, you can also use it for enjoying digital audio as well as playing games. It effectively creates a sound barrier for clearer Internet calls and it enhances overall sound quality. In terms of comfort, the behind-the-head design ensures a lightweight yet comfortable fit. The flexible microphone enables you to rotate it when doing other tasks such as watching movies or listening to music. On a side note, you can't buy optional ear pads in case it gets worn out and although it can be adjusted to fit different head sizes, it may not be ideal for those with smaller heads. It would've also been nice if its wireless so that you can move freely without having to worry about cords. With the Logitech H555, you get more than what you bargained for. It is versatile and incredibly easy to set-up. Its sound quality is superb considering its price and it is widely compatible with Windows and Mac OS. People who travel a lot would be delighted to know that it folds flat for convenient traveling. You can even tuck it away using the supplied case for safekeeping.

Behringer Podcastudio USB

16 Reviews

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	Price: $99.97
	Price: $129.99
	Price: $129.99
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Pros: Great basic package for podcasts and other recordings, Comes with USB connection, mixer, headphones and mic, Has recording and editing software
Cons: Software may be limited for beginners

Everything you need to kickstart your own recording studio in the comfort of your home is in the Behringer PODCASTUDIO USB Bundle. This complete starter kit, a virtual studio in a box, creates podcasts and other recordings with near-studio audio quality. The Behringer PODCASTUDIO is composed of four main components: the UCA200 USB audio interface, a 2 in/2 out audio interface that serves as the main connection hub of this recording set via a USB connection to your computer; a Behringer XENYX 502 Mixer powered by a +48 V phantom powered Mic preamp that delivers low-noise and high headroom sound, and a combination of HPM100 headphones and an XM8500 vocal microphone with a table mic stand with high sensitivity, wide frequency response, and high dynamic range. To complete the Behringer PODCASTUDIO package, you also get a software suite that is made up of the KRISTAL Audio Engine DAW software, a multi-track recorder, audio sequencer and mixer, along with various podcasting-related programs like Audacity, Podifier, or Podnova that is compatible with Windows and Mac operating environments. For a basic package, the Behringer PODCASTUDIO USB Bundle delivers the goods quite well. It provides a nice way of starting out if you are interested in podcasting without paying too much. However, the software supplied with the Behringer PODCASTUDIO seem to be the same as the equipment; that is, simple and best for beginners. All the components of this recording kit do well for starter equipment, even the headphones and mic. However, you may want to invest in a pop filter to enhance noise reduction for the mic, and clean it up later with software.

Plantronics Mirage H41 Voice Tube Earset (Over-the-ear)

10 Reviews

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	Price: $60.24
Black Box Network Services	Price: $93.95
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Pros: Comfortable over-the-ear design, Compatible with most phones, Quick Disconnect feature
Cons: Average sound quality, Noise-canceling mic must be bought as a separate accessory

Taking calls is not an easy thing to do, especially when your job requires you to answer numerous calls from different people all the time. It also gets annoying when the person on the other end of the line can't seem to hear you well and therefore, keeps on complaining. In these cases, you should invest in a good headset. We all know that although most headsets come with an adjustable head band, they're still awkward to use as they tend to be uncomfortable when used for long hours. To resolve this issue, Plantronics came up with the Mirage H41. For those who prefer an earloop design over the standard over-the-head design, it is worth the try. Combining a swiveling headset and a Quick Disconnect feature, it changes the way you handle your everyday calls. Plantronics wasn't joking about comfort, either. The ergonomic and lightweight design of the H41 makes it all the more easy and fun to use. It remains comfortable to wear even during extended use as opposed to headsets with ear pads that make your ear warm and sweaty. You can even attach it to your shirt and make sure that it doesn't get in your way through the supplied adjustable clothing clip. In terms of sound quality, it is average overall. It is sufficient for everyday use but if you expect superb voice quality, the Plantronics H41 may not hit the mark. Adding to that, it is compatible with most phones but it requires an optional amplifier. On the positive side, the Mirage ships with a voice tube and you can buy replacement voice tubes or even color voice tubes in case you lose yours and you want to add more style. An eyeglass adapter kit for eyeglass wearers and a noise-canceling microphone which effectively cuts external noise are likewise available.