Jabra has announced that all variants in the Jabra Pro 9400 series of DECT wireless headsets are at their end of life date, and are no longer being manufactured as of October 2018. The Pro 9400 headsets will be sold for as long as stock is available.

Recommended Replacement: Jabra Engage Series

In its place, Jabra is recommending the Engage DECT wireless headsets. The Jabra Engage 65 and 75 Series includes a range of Stereo, Mono and Convertible models to enable an easy migration from the Pro 9400. The Jabra Engage Series is engineered to be the world’s most powerful professional range of wireless headsets. Utilizing new, exclusive technology that gives 3x better wireless density – while still maintaining excellent connection quality – Engage helps deliver better conversations to boost customer satisfaction.

The Engage series boasts better sounding calls, more talk time (up to 13 hours!), and better productivity because of the built-in busylights on each headset. Security features going beyond DECT security Step C providing enhanced protection against eavesdropping. A micro-USB charger in the base makes it easier to dock the headset correctly in one simple action and ensure it is charging. With the fast charge feature, you can power the headset to 40% in just 30 minutes. If the battery gets critically low during a call, Jabra Engage can also be charged using a standard wall charger while you are still on the call.

What is the difference between Engage 65 and Engage 75? Engage 65 connects to desk phones and PCs, and buttons on the base unit are intuitive and easy to use. Engage 75 headsets can connect to five devices simultaneously: 2 USB devices (softphone and/or desk phone), 2 Bluetooth devices and 1 analog desk phone. The base unit is touchscreen.

Pro 9400 Model	Engage Model
Pro 9470 — No longer in stock!	Engage 75 Mono
Pro 9465 Duo	Engage 75 Stereo
Pro 9460 Duo	Engage 75 Stereo
Pro 9460 Mono	Engage 75 Mono
Pro 9450 Duo	Engage 65 Stereo
Pro 9450 Midi Boom Mono	Engage 65 Mono
Pro 9450 Flex Boom Mono	Engage 65 Mono

New to the Engage series are the Convertible models with a smaller ear speaker and 3 included wearing styles: ear hook, neckband and headband. The Convertible model is available in both Engage 65 and Engage 75 variants.

We will continue to sell accessories for the Pro 9400 series, especially the popular replacement battery kit.

Call our headset experts today for assistance in choosing the best Jabra wireless headset for you: 1-866-998-9991.

 

Within the past year, we have noticed the increased frequency of questions about headsets with active noise cancelling. Many customers are familiar with the consumer brands out there that offer Active Noise Cancelling in headphones used for music and other media and are now asking us, “But what about for office headsets?” The pervasive noisy open office environment, as well as the continuing needs of mobile workers handling important calls on the go, provokes the question. Active noise cancelling technology (ANC) will reduce unwanted noise and eliminate distractions.

From the headset brands that we carry, there are several choices that, depending upon the connection type, may provide the ANC you need.

Bluetooth Connection

The Jabra Evolve 75 UC is our top pick for a wireless Bluetooth ANC headset. The large leatherette ear cushions are comfortable and perfect for all-day wear. The speakers rotate to lay flat in the hard-sided case (click here to see the case) that the headset comes in. The noise-cancelling microphone boom arm can be clipped to the headband when you’re not on calls – a magnet secures the boom arm until you’re ready to use it again. Integrated Busylights in the ear cups alert co-workers to your availability – at a glance. ANC is easy to turn on and off with the touch of a button on the left ear cup. The Listen-In feature allows you to keep ANC turned on – yet tuning into the conversation surrounding you – with a simple tap on the left ear cup. There are two certified versions of the Evolve 75: UC and Certified for Skype for Business. The included Link 370 dongle allows you to walk up to 100 feet away from the PC it’s connected to. Talk time is approximately 15 hours. There is an Evolve 75 UC version with the charging stand, which we recommend for those who primarily work at a desk. The stand is a great place to store and charge the headset when not in use. MSRP is $279.00 ($329.00 for the headset and stand).

The Plantronics Voyager 8200 UC is the newest ANC wireless headset, and has a contemporary boomless mic design: dual-paired omnidirectional mics with enhanced Digital Signal Processing. These technologies ensure your voice is picked up and background noise is not the focus of the conversation. Dual mode ANC lets you choose preferred noise-reduction level. Smart sensors allow you to answer calls by simply putting on the headset and automatically mute your calls or pause music by taking the headset off. It offers an almost-unbelievable 20 hours of talk time. A carrying pouch is included. The Voyager 8200 UC is available in two colors: Black and White and MSRP is $379.95.

Plantronics Voyager Focus UC is the first wireless headset offering ANC. The Focus UC is compatible with smartphones, tablets, smart watches, and PCs via Bluetooth. It offers up to 12 hours of talk time (10 with ANC on). This is another intelligent headset: Smart sensors answer calls by simply putting on the headset, mute by taking the headset off and pause/resume music. First-to-market Dynamic Mute Alert feature senses and alerts users when they are trying to talk when muted. The sleek noise-cancelling mic can be worn on either side of the head by rotating the boom arm. A carrying pouch is also included with this headset; MSRP is $279.95 or 299.95 for the version with the charging stand.


Sennheiser’s MB 660 UC has innovative NoiseGard hybrid adaptive ANC that constantly monitors your background environment for noise, thus adjusting the level of noise reduction in the headset seamlessly. Advanced own-voice detector provides optimal speech intelligibility while reducing background noise. SpeakFocus technology, along with the 3 digital microphones, enhances voice clarity in all sound environments. The listening experience can be personalized with the various sound effect modes: Club, Movie, Speech, or Director. The MB 660 UC comes in a hard-sided case for travel convenience. A certified Microsoft Skype for Business version is also available: MB 660 MS. MSRP is $449.95.

Wireless around-the-neck earbud wearing styles are the newest addition to the professional office headset market. The Jabra Evolve 75e has an integrated Busylight and magnetic earbuds that connect to pause your music, or end your call. The neckband is silicon rubber and is sweat and water resistant, however, make no mistake: this business headset is made for work. The three-microphone technology provides crystal-clear calls and creates a unique "talk-zone," making sure you’re heard, while nearby voices are filtered out. ANC is activated by pressing a button on the neckband; to "listen in" to your environment, simply press and hold the same button. The headset comes with a USB dongle, zippered hard-sided travel case, three eartip and three pairs of both EarGels and EarWings, and includes a desktop charging stand. MSRP is $259.00.

The Plantronics Voyager 6200 UC headset features Plantronics clear talk technology, four omnidirectional mics and enhanced noise cancelling, optimizing your voice and minimizing background noise. ANC can be turned on and off with the flip of a switch. Connect to PC with the included BT600 dongle. Also included: a hard-sided, zippered travel case, desktop charging stand, and 3 sizes of eartips for maximum comfort and customization. The Voyager 6200 UC is offered in two colors: Black and Sand. MSRP is $299.95.

For both of these neckband earbud headsets, the neckband will vibrate when there is an incoming call, so you won't need to keep the earbuds in your ears at all times.

USB Connection

Plantronics Blackwire 725 All-day users of PC softphones will like this headset. This is a corded, all-in-one USB headset with large leatherette ear cushions that rest on the ear. It also features a leatherette padded headband for added comfort. The microphone is noise-cancelling and has a flexible boom arm that can be bent to personalize the fit. The in-line call controller has a built-in clothing clip, soft touch answer/end and mute buttons, a rocker-style button for volume, and on the side of the controller, the ANC on/off switch. Slide the switch toward ANC to activate. Smart sensor technology allows you to answer a call by putting the headset on your head. A zippered neoprene travel pouch protects the headset from damage – either while traveling, or even in the office environment.

Download Plantronics Hub software to gain call control across multiple softphones. A headset control panel allows for customizing settings, including call notification. MSRP for the Blackwire 725 is $179.99.

USB and 3.5mm Connection

Jabra Evolve 80 This corded headset is compatible with devices that have a 3.5mm port and PCs via USB. Oversized ear cup style cushions completely surround the ear and hug the user’s head. It is the heaviest of the 3 choices, weighing in at 11.43 ounces – almost ¾ of a pound. The bulkiness of the headset could prove to be a deal breaker for some users; however, customers who own this headset don’t mind the heft and comment on its incredible ability to block ambient noise. There is a comfort feature to the headset: the headband has a soft rubber cushion that allows it to lightly rest on the head.

Activate ANC at the bottom of the right ear cup. A nice feature of the Evolve 80 is the “Listen In” button: when you have ANC activated, but need to “listen in” to your environment, press the button in the middle of the right ear speaker, to temporarily disable the ANC. Press the button again to resume ANC. The rechargeable battery is charged when the Evolve 80 is connected via USB port.

Other features: a neoprene zippered pouch for travel (the ear cushions rotate to lay flat) and a noise-cancelling microphone that mutes automatically when the mic boom is docked in the headband. MSRP: $329.00.

Hi-fi stereo sound and wideband audio for listening to music and multimedia applications contribute to the luxury feel of all of these headsets.

ANC Headsets for Desk Phones

The very first (and so far, only) DECT wireless headset with Active Noise Canceling is the Plantronics Savi 8220. This headset connects to desk phones, PCs and mobile phones. Conference two of your three devices to collaborate with colleagues or connect up to four Savi 8200 Series headsets for training or call resolution. There are 2 versions available: Microsoft Skype for Business certified, and UC. MSRP is $459.95.

At this time, ANC technology is not available in QD (quick disconnect) headset versions. We have tested a solution here at Avcomm that has proven to be successful for our customers, and lets you use an ANC headset (Bluetooth or USB) with a desk phone!

We recommend the Plantronics MDA220 USB, an audio switcher for PCs and desk phones, along with a USB headset of your choice, to connect your ANC headset to a desk phone. Yes, that’s right: an ANC headset CAN be used with your desk phone! And it's important to note that any brand of headset can be used with the MDA220 USB.

To learn how the MDA220 USB works alongside a desk phone and PC, along with an ANC headset, read our blog post, here: ANC Headset Compatibility with Desk Phones.

Avcomm’s 30-day money back return policy assures that you can try an ANC headset and see if it’s right for you! Call us at 1-866-998-9991 or email us to learn more about ANC headsets.

 

Noisy open offices can lead to unproductive and stressed-out employees ... and, unfortunately, this work environment is prevalent. Organizations should look to headsets as tools to bridge the gap and increase productivity in the workplace. Headsets must meet the needs of employees (who need headsets that are comfortable, convenient, and cancel background noise) and their customers (who need clear conversations, every time they call) to achieve organizational goals.

Plantronics' newest DECT wireless headset series, the Savi 8200, has been built for the human experience. The Savi 8220 features active noise canceling (ANC) that blocks out background noise so you can always stay focused on what’s important. This is the first headset on the market that's designed with ANC for desk phones! And, to further enhance collaboration and communication, these headsets also connect to PCs and mobile phones/tablets. Count on Plantronics technology for rich, people-first collaboration experiences so good that ideas can be shared and heard—wherever, whenever and however they happen.

With the noise-canceling mic, you’ll sound your best even in noisy environments. For the most sensitive environments, you can turn up noise canceling with the close conversation limiting feature (configurable in Plantronics Hub, free download here) for additional privacy. The mic boom is flexible, allowing for optimal placement: two finger widths away from the corner of the user's mouth.

Top Features of the Savi 8220:

*Active Noise Canceling
*UC and Microsoft certified versions
*Conference up to 4 headsets to 1 base unit - great for training in contact centers and also conference calls
*Connect 2 devices together, for conferencing between PC to desk phone; or mobile phone to PC
*13 hours of talk time!
*Ringer on the base (can be disabled, if needed)
*Large leatherette ear cushions and padded leatherette headband
*Roam up to 590 feet away from the base (this depends upon physical environment)
*DECT Security certified: uses the latest standards in DECT wireless security





The Savi 8200 also comes in a single-ear variant, which does not have ANC. And, just like the Savi 8220 headsets, the Savi 8210 comes in UC and Microsoft versions for every user environment.

Is it time to reassess headsets at your organization? Are you looking for high quality professional headsets with superior sound?

Take a look at the Plantronics Savi 8200 headsets, and call one of our headset experts today: 1-866-998-9991.

 

It’s a scientific fact that leading a sedentary lifestyle can be harmful to one’s health.

The job category of “knowledge worker” – people who handle information as their job – can be considered sedentary, where employees remain seated and desk-bound for 8 or more hours each day. This does not include their commute time to the job … which could be an hour or more each way. Your job (and the time it takes to get there) just may be harming you!

What are the harmful effects of inactivity?

According to an article on the Australian government health department web site, some hazards associated with sitting all day include:

1. Weakened legs and gluteals, which could lead to falls, and strains when exercising
2. Weight gain
3. Hips and back – hip flexor muscles shortened, leading to problems in hip joints; sitting for extended periods of time can cause problems in your back, especially if you have poor posture
4. Anxiety and depression
5. Cancer, heart disease, diabetes
6. Varicose veins, Deep vein thrombosis
7. Stiff neck and shoulders

In the United States, it’s estimated that 86 percent of workers have desk jobs. This sitting epidemic could be a national health crisis! So, what can be done about this?

The current official U.S.-government issued Physical Activity Guidelines, in place since 2008, says that adults (classified as ages 18-64) who are physically active are less likely to develop chronic diseases than adults who aren’t active – regardless of gender or ethnicity. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion reports that the worst thing to do is to avoid activity – any physical activity is better than none, and has health benefits.

Aerobic activity is best for substantial health benefits. Each week, strive for at least 150 minutes (2 hours, 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity (brisk walking, ballroom dancing, doubles tennis, water aerobics); or, 75 minutes (1 hour, 15 minutes) of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity (jogging, singles tennis, jumping rope, aerobic dancing or swimming laps); or a combination of these activities. Doing more than these recommended amounts each week leads to even greater health benefits.

At least twice a week, muscle-strengthening activities that are moderate or high intensity and involve all major muscle groups should be completed. This is defined as lifting weights or using resistance bands. Why is strength training recommended? It protects bone health and muscle mass, makes you stronger and fitter, keeps weight off for good, burns more calories, and helps with balance, coordination and posture — to name a few of the benefits.

New government guidelines are expected to be published by the end of 2018.

Of course, these activities will happen either before or after work; however, it is still possible to incorporate physical activity into even the most sedentary of desk jobs.

Tips to Keep Your Office in Shape:
* Take the stairs instead of the elevator

* Walk over and talk to co-workers, rather than sending an email

* Exercise on your lunch break

* Organize “walking meetings”

* Use a wireless headset and walk around the office while on calls

* Park your car in a far away spot to get extra steps to the building; or, ride your bike or walk to work.





Enjoy this quick Sennheiser video about how to get your office in shape (we particularly like the chair lifts!)

Get moving on your job today – even if you are one of the approximately 86 percent of the U.S. workers who sit all day – be creative and find ways to incorporate movement in your daily routine.

Sources:
Victoria State Government Better Health Channel: The dangers of sitting: why sitting is the new smoking
ODPHP: Guidelines for Adult Activity
U.S. News and World Report: Are you suffering from sitting disease?
Everyday Health: 7 Ways Strength Training Boosts Your Health and Fitness

 

This new Jabra wireless trade-in promotion is a first of its kind, offering $40 cash back for each non-Jabra wireless headset that is traded in, when you purchase a new Engage Series wireless headset. If you have wanted to make the switch to a Jabra wireless headset, NOW IS THE TIME! We have not seen a trade-in this big, EVER!

Or, if you already use a Jabra wireless headset (specifically, the PRO 920, 930, 935, 9450, 9460, 9465, or Motion/Motion Office), you can upgrade to the new Jabra Engage wireless series and receive a $20 rebate check in the mail for trading in your old Jabra wireless through the Technology Refresh promotion.

Additionally, when you upgrade your technology to the new Jabra Speak 710 wireless speakerphone, receive $20 back for a Jabra Speak 410/510, or $40 for a non-Jabra personal or huddle room speakerphone that is traded in. The Speak 710 (both UC and MS versions) offers wireless linking and connects to an additional Speak 710, for double the room coverage (up to 12 people). Connect to laptop, smart phone and tablet via USB or Bluetooth, and with plug-and-play simplicity, it's easy to set up wherever you take meetings. Fifteen hours of battery life ensures you can meet (or listen to music) for a long time.

Corded headsets have also been added to the mix, and with any Jabra Biz 2300 or 2400 II headset purchased, get $10/unit for existing Jabra wired solutions; or $20/unit for any non-Jabra wired solution.

These Technology Refresh promotions are only good through June 30, 2019, so take advantage of the savings and equip your staff with the latest and greatest in office and mobile wireless technology. Click here for the promotion's T's and C's.

Learn more about the qualifying headsets, below:

Engage with Jabra and its Engage series, an entirely new class of DECT wireless professional headsets. The series provides superior wireless connectivity to a range of up to 490 feet - and enables up to 3 times more users to operate in the same office space with no loss in connection quality. Integrated busy lights in these headsets increase productivity and alert co-workers' to your busy status.

Engage 75 headsets connect up to five devices simultaneously, increasing availability for customer calls. And the choice of wearing styles support workers' preferences and workstyles.

For detailed information about each Engage headset, click on any of the following links:

Engage 65 Mono
Engage 65 Stereo
Engage 65 Convertible
Engage 75 Mono
Engage 75 Stereo
Engage 75 Convertible

Biz 2300 and Biz 2400 II headsets
Jabra's corded headsets feature world-class sound, tough construction, and comfort for all-day use. The specially designed “air shock” noise-cancelling microphones filter out sharp breathing sounds and popping noises often heard in conversations. Available in both one-ear and two-ear models, and with connections to desk phones or PCs, Biz 2300 and 2400 II headsets are perfect for all-day wear in contact centers, offices and more.

Visit the Jabra web site to learn more about the promotion, and instructions on how to claim the cash back: Jabra Technology Refresh

Contact us today for recommendations on the best headsets for your unique requirements! 1-866-998-9991