VOIP/Skype handset recommendations?

[sam_leader]

Hi all,

I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for Skype handsets.

To date I've been unable to find ones that are both PC and Mac compatible. We use both so ideally want one that can be used either way.

I saw a pair of Phillips VOIP phones on www.cotd.com.au for $99 the other day and was tempted, but they didn't work with Macs.

Does anyone use VOIP handsets? What's the quality like? How expensive were they?

Look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Sam

[WhyGuy]

Hi Sam

We are using VoIP REASONABLY successfully. The big challenge is line quality.

Re your question about hardware:
Firstly, have you looked at options other than a handset which plugs directly into your computer? (I'm assuming this is the issue since you're asking about compatibility with a Mac/PC.)

You can get VoIP enabled routers with a phone socket. This means you can use any standard handsets - no need for VoIP ones.

The other option is network enabled handsets. We are using NetComm V85 handsets which plug into the network and so have nothing to do with the PC/Mac issue. The configuration is managed through a web browser. These start at around $140.

Check out www.shopbot.com.au for comparative prices.

Happy to help if you have more VoIP questions.

Regards
Laurence
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[fiona@vas]

Hi Sam,

I use Skype extensively, and would agree with the Laurence's comments about quality - so I don't ever use it for initial calls with clients or where it's very important that the line quality is good - and yet, I've found it a wonderful tool for connecting with interstate and overseas clients at low cost.

I've found the Logitech USB headsets are both Mac and PC compatible (I use both too) - and if you're spending around $60-$90 you're getting one of their higher end models with good noise cancelling features and a comfortable headset.

Can't comment on how these work with other VoIP systems - so hope this is still useful.

All the best
Fiona

[peppie]

Are you committed to using Skype? Because there are other options. Skype is a "community" sort of set up and one of the issues I had with that was getting good backup support, better that is than a members forum.

There are companies that specialise in providing VOIP phone services and in the end I ended up with Mynetfone which is Sydney based and their support has been very good. I hasten to add that I have a decent electronics background, but I have also learnt that I can save heaps by paying a bit more to save huge amounts of my time getting something working that I am not completely familiar with.

I have a "Phone Adaptor" (small interface box) connected to my home router into which I can plug 2 ordinary phones for 2 separate phone lines (or fax). I can also run a sofware phone on my laptop (using a mic headset) or access the same phone line from my 3G mobile phone (but not at the same time). My present 1 line has a landline No. to access it and has voicemail which will send me an email with the audio message of a missed call. All for $9.95 per month and cheap call rates to boot! And I have not had any issues with sound quality.

[tildavirtual]

I have three different set ups.

Home: I have an ATA adapter that plugs into my network that allows me to use a normal cordless phone. Works a treat and purchased through Engin on one of their plans.

Office: I have a VoIP enabled router and a Snom 320 handset that plugs into the network. It has it's own IP address and there was some configuration that needed to be done but as the code monkey (my lovely husband) did all that, I can't tell you how. We used to have a software based PABX but I didn't want to use it anymore (didn't have someone in the office with me anymore so I didn't need it) so it sits in the garage collecting dust.

Skype: Logitech headset for those that use Skype for Skype to Skype calls.

[David Linke]

Sam,

I have tried the following VOIP handsets...

On my desk - Snom 320, these are just like a normal business telephone and are very good should cost $250 to $350 depending on deals

For Conference Calls - Netcomm V35, which is a really groovy looking USB speaker phone with great call quality, great for our business grade VOIP and the Skype stuff, retails for about $100 if still available

At Home - I was using a simple ATA device to connect the old Telstra phone, but just got lots and lots of complaints from my wife about poor call quality. Installed a Siemens Gigaset 470, for about $130, which is just a fantastic cordless phone that does not need a computer to link to for calls.

David Linke

[sam_leader]

Thanks for your suggestions, everyone. A cordless handset is a preferrable way to go, although clearly quality can be an issue.

I'll let you know how I go!

Sam