Plantronics Voyager PRO UC headset does Bluetooth and VoIP
By Darren Murph 
posted Nov 3rd 2009 12:11AM
posted Nov 3rd 2009 12:11AM
Considering that Bluetooth headset makers are now dealing with the harsh realization that consumers don't actually like these things any more, Plantronics -- a staple in the sector -- is hoping to snag some dollars from the unknowing corporate purchasing managers in attendance. The Voyager PRO UC is a dual-mode headset that packs integrated Bluetooth capabilities and ships with a USB dongle that allows softphone conversations (think Skype) to take place on your headset rather than through your laptop's built-in microphone / speaker. Users can even stream audio over it and hear alerts when a VoIP call rings in, and as expected, there's quite a bit of noise nixing technology baked in. The only problem? The $199.95 price tag that'll be affixed to it when it ships later this month.
VoIP users are those who look for inexpensive alternatives, and I'm sure they'll find this product's price attractive.
@siva
think your post needs /sarcasm, at least I think so... on another note who the hell would buy this at that price?
I agree. The sarcasm was seriously veiled too much.
for 199, this headset better give head too.
or you can purchase the voyager pro and use a generic bluetooth USB dongle (yes it works I have the same headset).
Have to agree with richard.
The pro work just fine with a generic bluetooth dongle
I wonder what sales pitch Don Drapper would come up with for this one.
A plantronic voyager 510 can already do that all...
Yes but the Voyager 510 (great headset) doesn't have the dual mic setup of the Voyager Pro so background noise is not suppressed as well.
We reviewed the unit without the dongle and it's easily one of the best headsets around. Will be interesting to see what the dongle adds to it though.
30 dls bluetooth headset + blue solei software will do the trick.
So....if your computer (running a VOIP application) already has a bluetooth radio in it, then this headset adds zero extra functionality over any other bluetooth headset?
Most laptops that have Bluetooth are restricted to data transfers only so no voice, for example my HP laptop wont do voice.
Patrick, exactly
Richard, that's completely not true. Most laptops are not restricted regarding what their internal bluetooth chip can do. I can't even fathom why you would think this. Did you simply not try? I'm pretty sure both Windows Vista and 7 support using bluetooth for generic input and output, meaning you wouldn't even need a program that specifically supported BT. I'm 90% sure that with little effort this would even work in XP. It sure as hell has worked on every mac that has ever had BT. Are you running OLPC OS on that HP?
You can use any BT headset with your computer (using Windows) as long as you update the BT stack. You can use the widcom or broadcom stack for free or you can buy a program like bluesoleil. I'm using an old plantronics 650e which I much prefer as I don't have anything over my ear like the model in the photo. The 640e goes for about $40 and I'm using my BT dongle that also controls my logitech keyboard and mouse.
What the hell, engadget. I keep reading this over and over to see if I'm just missing something, but I'm not. You've been duped by a marketing tactic. Newsflash, this "dual-mode feature" is on every bluetooth headset in existence. When you connect a bluetooth headset with a dongle (or an internal module), software can let you use the bluetooth headset for VOIP, or anything else regarding input/output of audio streams.
"Users can even stream audio over it" OH WOW REALLY? YOU CAN STREAM AUDIO WITH A BLUETOOTH HEADSET?! JESUS CHRIST, SOMEONE CALL THE PRESIDENT, ALL OUR PROBLEMS ARE OVER.
I'm going to take an existing bluetooth headset and market it as "dual mode" with "voice note taking". Engadget can expect their review unit in the next week.
BT sales likely went down because most people already have one. (Luckily they're not engineered to die in 1 yr.)
I still prefer wired headsets for many of my calls. Unfortunately, there aren't many wired options now. Recently bought a Plantronics and I can't stand that it's 2.5mm and I need an adapter to use it with my 3.5mm phone.