USB headsets simplify the set-up for daily use at the agent's PC, Thin Client, etc. It's easy to plug-and-work with these headsets for daily use; however, when side-by-side training is necessary, a frequent question that we receive is: "Can I do side-by-side training using USB headsets?"

The answer: You cannot!

While there are USB hubs and USB adapters/splitters (male USB to dual female USB plugs) on the market, they are not built for the distribution of sound. These cables are typically for power transfer and some carry data.

Another thought is to simply plug 2 USB headsets into the PC at the same time; unfortunately, the PC can only push sound through 1 device at a time.

When our customers ask us how to achieve side-by-side training in a softphone environment, our recommendation and only option is to purchase QD headsets.

Our recommendations for side-by-side training:

The least expensive Training setup is to utilize the Jabra BIZ 1500 QD’s, the Jabra Link 230 (no volume control) and the VXi Training Y cord. If you need volume control while training, then we would recommend purchasing the Jabra Link 265, along with 2 Biz 1500 QD headsets.

The image to the right shows how this training set-up would look. In this example, Jabra Biz 2300 headsets and the Link 260 with call controls are pictured; however, it would be a similar arrangement for Plantronics, Sennheiser and VXi products.







There is a USB Y cord unique to Jabra, the Link 265, which connects 2 QD headsets and ends in USB. This cuts out one step in the above pictured set-up, but is only available from Jabra, and is compatible with Jabra QD headsets. The Link 265 has a module that controls sound distribution, and the in-line call controls are a nice touch. This QD USB Y cord was created for softphone training!

We are happy to discuss your unique training needs, and provide recommendations based on your requirements. Contact us today: 1-866-998-9991 or email us.

To accommodate the latest USB port on the market, headset manufacturers are now offering adapters, as well as headsets, with USB-C connectors.

Why the change in standard to USB-C? First, the size. By diminishing the size of the port, laptops continue to slim down and weigh less. At first glance, the USB-C is similar to micro USB; however, it is slightly thicker and more oval than micro USB and differs in a major way: it has no up or down orientation. PC magazine calls USB-C the emerging industry-standard connector for transmitting both data and power.*

The Jabra USB-C Adapter enables you to connect Jabra USB headsets to USB-C devices, providing the same functionality as if connected to a USB-A device. The adapter is flexible, which makes it easy to use with your preferred devices without flipping around.

Plantronics also offers two types of adapters: USB-A to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A. Perhaps you are currently using computers with USB-A ports, but plan to upgrade to new computers. Your business chooses to purchase USB-C headsets, knowing that eventually, they will directly plug into the new computers. In the meantime, using an adapter will allow you to use the new headsets, with the old computers.

Within its Blackwire series, Plantronics offers headsets with the USB-C connector. The Blackwire 3200 and Blackwire 5200 headsets both have USB, as well as USB-C, headsets. In addition, the Blackwire 5200 headsets have 3.5mm connectors for use with mobile phones and tablets. And, they all feature in-line call controls, just like the USB-A versions, for ease of use. (Pictured is the Blackwire 5220 Duo headset.)

We expect to see the trend of USB-C headsets continue, as the technology evolves. Of course, don't expect the USB-A connectors to fade away; we believe they too will be present and readily available. The goal is to provide the technology you need, at a great price. Look to us as your headset experts. Contact us today!


*PC magazine: What is USB-C? An Explainer published March 2017

“Do you have an Active Noise Cancelling headset that I can use with my desk phone?” is one of the top questions we’ve been receiving lately. While all Active Noise Cancelling headsets so far are either Bluetooth or corded USB connection, with the addition of the MDA 220 adapter, employees are able to have the true concentration they need in noisy office environments that still utilize traditional desk phones.

The Plantronics MDA220 USB (MSRP: $149.95) is an audio switcher that toggles between desk phone and PC and is great for those who are transitioning to Unified Communications and still need to use a traditional desk phone. It allows the user to utilize the same headset for both their desk phone and PC.

Avcomm has tested this solution and it’s one of our top recommendations for customers with this particular need.

How to Set Up the MDA220 USB

Connect the MDA220 USB with the two cords at the back of the device: an RJ9 cable to plug into either the desk phone's headset or handset port, and a USB cable for connection to the PC.

The headset, or its USB dongle, connects into the USB port at the front of the MDA220 USB. EHS cables and handset lifters can be used with the MDA220 USB, to allow for remote answer/end from the headset. That would be an additional purchase, and would need to be compatible with the desk phone it's being connected to.

You can toggle between the desk phone and PC by simply pressing the corresponding icon on the MDA220,which then illuminates solid green to indicate connection.

Recommended ANC Headset Options

The Jabra Evolve 75 UC has captivated us with Active Noise-Cancelling in the speakers, a noise-cancelling microphone, comfortable wearability for all-day use, and a hard-sided case for travel. In addition, this headset either comes with a charging stand, or without. This is what we use daily at Avcomm, and the set-up that we recommend to customers whose open office environments present a challenge when it comes to concentration and productivity.

Another great option is the brand new Jabra Evolve 75e UC for those who prefer an ear bud wearing style. This headset also features Jabra’s excellent Active Noise Cancelling technology, an integrated busylight, and a protective travel case.

Other ANC headsets you may want to consider:
Sennheiser MB 660 UC

Plantronics Voyager Focus UC

Plantronics Voyager 8200 UC

Plantronics Blackwire C725

Ready to embrace a 'cone of silence' with your desk phone? The MDA220 USB, along with an active noise-cancelling headset, will get you there.

This video shows you how to connect the MDA220 USB and a headset to your desk phone and PC:

2017 Highlights by cmccoy006

Jabra has added the Evolve 75 headset to its Evolve series, and it was worth waiting for! Incorporating Active Noise Cancelling in the ear cups (like the Evolve 80), with a lighter weight fit and feel (similar to the Evolve 65), we believe that this headset will be a valuable asset to many — in the office and on the go.

First, take a look at the premium hard-sided case that the Evolve 75 comes in. Imagine you're on a plane, and you've just touched down, so it's time to put your headset, phone, and book away. This case with molded inserts makes it easy to store the headset, and is protected by the hard outer shell. The easy-to-zip zipper is smooth to operate, and individual storage areas for the charging cord, and dongle, keep the case organized.

Next, the Active Noise-Cancelling is the real deal. In our testing, we could not hear ourselves talk when we were wearing the headset and the ANC was on. To quickly listen to the surrounding environment, simply press the Listen In button on the ear cup.

Choose the version with the charging stand, or the version without the charging stand. We think you will like the charging stand version for your desk, as it’s a handy place to not only charge the headset, but also to store it when you’re not wearing the Evolve 75. (On a side note, Jabra recently came out with charging stands for the Evolve 65 headsets.)

The Jabra Evolve 75 is available in 4 variants:

With Charging Stand (MSRP: $346):
UC version	7599-838-199
MS version	7599-832-199
Without Charging Stand (MSRP: $293):
UC version	7599-838-109
MS version	7599-832-109

To learn more about the Evolve 75, and which variant would be best for you, Chat us right now!