Customer Reviews

Plantronics .Audio 85 Foldable Stereo Headset for MAC (White)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Overall, I would rate this product highly. It works, with excellent sound quality at a super price. The carrying bag is a good perk too, but...my problem with it may be a mac problem. The microphone will randomly stop working and seems to happen with any updating of Mac software. The fix is simple, but annoying:

Plug in your Plantronics headset, launch "Audio MIDI Setup" in your Utilities folder, make sure you select "Plantronics" in the Audio Input pull down menu, and disable the 'mute' checkbox.

For further info, paste the following phrase into Google and click on the MacSpeech technical article:

"We are caught in the middle since it was not something that could have been foreseen by MacSpeech"

Try this before sending it back.

I researched headsets for 3 long days before finding this one. It's almost identical to the Plantronics Audio 470 USB, only it's white (for Macphiles).

I originally wanted a bluetooth stereo headset, so that I would not be (literally) tied to my computer, but decided against it after reading so many complaints about hissing, radio frequency interference, etc. Maybe if I lived on an island by myself, but since I have lots of neighbors capable of ruining a phone call by randomly turning on an appliance within range, I opted for the more reliable wired variety for now.

I use it in my home office for calls with Skype, and for listening to music if I'm working late at night. Sound is great (both input and output). The noise canceling microphone comes in handy when my puppy starts barking (as opposed to the built-in Mac mike that catches everything and makes it sound as if I'm holding him up to the mike on purpose). My MacBookPro recognizes the headset each time, even if I unplug it. Just make sure you change the Skype > Preferences > Audio to your headset before your first call.

The cord is very generous in length (9 feet), which is great for my home office as I can move around while on a call (consult the bookshelf, turn the fan on, etc). Also very handy if I want to watch movies without disturbing anyone else, or (remove the USB plug and) listen to my iPod while cooking if someone else wants to listen to Metallica.

At first the headset was a little tight (and I'm a chick with a small head) so I left it stretched over a lampshade for a few days and now it's fine. It's light as a feather, so you can keep it on for hours, which is great because my Mum can really yak. I am thinking of sewing some silk earpads though, as foam can irritate skin after awhile. (And you thought YOU were fussy...)

So yes, I highly recommend it. It's not a brick, so find a sturdy pencil box if you plan on traveling a lot. I recommend installing a hook (like for a bathrobe)near your desk to hang it on.

This headset *apple Only* Audio 85 with usb for Apple works flawlessly with Skype. It is also very good for listening to music.

It's hard to find broad reviews of headsets. I looked at Apple's website to see which models Apple carries. My thinking was that any headset listed on the Apple website must be pretty good. I saw the Audio 85 there, and then check Amazon, where I found it for $20 less and with free shipping. That made the decision a no-brainer. I don't think you can find a better headset for $40. The Audio 85 is a particularly good pick if 1) you want to take it on trips and 2) want to use it mostly with Macs and occasionally with PCs. It folds fairly small and comes with a decent travel bag. I use the Audio 85 via the USB port on my Macs and via the analog ports on my PCs. It works great for both. It does not come with any CD or software, but you don't need it for the Mac. You don't need it for the PC either if - like me - you use the analog ports.

I like the first one so much that I bought a second one about three weeks later. My only complaint is that the Audio 85 seems kind of flimsy; the cables are really thin. I wish the construction were a bit more rugged. That said, I have put mine through the ringer - the kids are tough on it - and it has held up so far. For Mac users and mac/PC users who travel, I think this is by far the best deal around.

Well, all I can really say is the head set and microphone work and are adequate. The switch on the cord that mutes, doesn't work. Very disappointing as that is a very important feature and a reason I selected it. Sooooo I'll probably go to a local store and find something else. I would return this item, like I usually do if dissatisfied, but just don't have the energy to deal with it.

I can wear the AKG for whole day but I can not wear this 85 for 5 minutes. The hard frame just touches the top left and top right corners of my head, making me feel uncomfortable. After trying for several positions, I know that it is just not fit. I throw it away, without any willing to try to listen to the sound.

They said it is for Apple. Only the color looks like. Not the structure design.

The headset has excellent sound and is easy to use. It's ability to fold make it easy to transport.

Pros: Looks nice, goes well with Mac. Long cord. Volume and mic control remote. Would rate sound quality as 3.5 out of 5. Used with Skype, integrates very well with the software. Lightweight, and very portable since you can fold it up and it even comes with a leatherette pouch.
Cons: While being portable is a plus, the way it keeps collapsing is annoying. It should have a "lock" to keep hinge in place when you are using it. But it's just a minor thing, it shouldn't keep you from buying it.