Plantronics Augments Family of VoIP-Optimized Headset Solutions

Oct. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Plantronics today expanded its growing family of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) headset solutions with the DA40, a USB-to-headset adapter that enables enterprises to quickly optimize existing headsets for use with softphones. The DA40 helps companies realize the full benefits of VoIP communications with outstanding sound quality and reliability.

"There is no doubt that VoIP in the enterprise is now the standard for communications -- PBX lines are going the way of the dinosaur," said William Stofega, research manager, VoIP Services at IDC. "Whether companies are installing hardphones, softphones or both throughout the organization, headsets play an integral role in developing a successful VoIP infrastructure that optimizes voice communications."

Plantronics' family of VoIP headset solutions helps enterprises minimize implementation costs and realize a quicker return on investment. For example, with the DA40, companies that have recently migrated to a VoIP infrastructure and now utilize softphones can continue to use their professional series Plantronics headsets.

A Legacy of Communications Expertise
Plantronics has a long legacy of developing high quality headset solutions across numerous infrastructures and for numerous applications. By understanding what to deliver and receive in the VoIP network and managing specific audio parameters, including transmit and receive quality, side tone management, distortion and acoustic echo, Plantronics continues to develop products that operate optimally and intelligently within VoIP infrastructures.

"VoIP is changing the way companies do business -- enabling them to compete more effectively, provide better customer service and improve operational performance," said Chuck Yort, vice president of Business Solutions at Plantronics. "And yet the migration process remains a challenge for customers. The DA40 and the rest of the DA line of adapters enable companies to quickly gain access to VoIP benefits while preserving their existing headset investments."

VoIP-Optimized Family of Headset Solutions
All of Plantronics' VoIP digital adapters are built specifically to account for VoIP network parameters. The DA40 connects any Plantronics professional headset (for example, SupraPlus headsets) to any softphone using the computer's USB port -- providing customers with an attractive alternative to consumer-grade headsets.

DA40 benefits include:

-- Affordably brings enterprise-class headsets to VoIP softphones,
-- High-quality alternative to consumer-grade USB headsets,
-- Compact size takes up minimal desk space,
-- Ideal for enterprise offices to meet aggressive price-point requirements, and users with both a desk phone and softphone.

The DA40 has a manufacturer suggested price of $59 with a two-year warranty, and will be available in early November to Plantronics' channel partners.

For business-critical softphone applications in contact centers, the DA60 and DA55 USB-to-headset adapters offer additional software and audio controls.

-- DA55: Provides digitally enhanced audio quality and comfort of Plantronics headsets to VoIP softphones. The DA55 USB-to-headset adapter contains digital signal processing (DSP) technology for crisp, clear sound and optimal user experience. The DA55 has a manufacturer suggested price of $120 with a two-year warranty, and is currently available at office retailers and www.plantronics.com.
-- DA60: Building on the capabilities of the DA55, the DA60 is a premium adapter with several additional features. For added user convenience, the DA60 adapter features volume and mute controls on the cord, and PerSono Pro 2.0 software that provides unparalleled control of voice and audio quality.

The DA60 has a manufacturer suggested price of $150 with a two-year warranty, and is currently available at office retailers and www.plantronics.com.

SOURCE Plantronics, Inc.