FIRST LOOKS CONSUMER ELECTRONICS
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Next-Gen Bluetooth Headsets
N
ow that many states are implementing laws that require drivers to talk handsfree, having a headset for the car is vital. While many cell-phone makers include them with their handsets, most of the freebie ones are wired. Instead, skip the messy wires and pick up a Bluetooth headset. The latest models offer a compelling balance of design, features, sound quality, and endurance. Here we compare two top models: the Aliph Jawbone Prime and the Plantronics Voyager Pro.
Aliph Jawbone Prime The Jawbone Prime takes our former favorite Bluetooth headset, the New Jawbone, and makes it better. The Prime is small, attractive, comfortable, and does a very good job of canceling noise, especially in windy areas. This model uses a new, softer earpiece tip for improved performance and a loop on the back to stabilize the fit. As with previous Jawbone headsets, the Prime’s buttons are large but a bit confusing. However, the device’s range was very good: It maintained a solid signal up to 30 feet away. When tested in noisy situations, the Prime blocked out noise better than the Voyager Pro but transmitted voices at a softer volume, sometimes making them hard to hear.
Aliph Jawbone Prime $129.99 direct ll l l m
PROS Top-notch wind noise cancellation. Very good voice transmission quality. Stylish. More comfortable than its predecessor. CONS Low earpiece volume. Expensive. Short battery life. CLICK HERE FOR MORE 24 PC MAGAZINE DIGITAL EDITION JUNE 2009
