Plantronics debuts Bluetooth, other stereo headsets

Plantronics today introduced the Pulsar 590, a Bluetooth stereo headset that lets users listen wirelessly to music and movies as well as switch seamlessly to mobile phone calls with the single touch of a button. The company also launched a variety of of other headsets for VoIP and gaming application Available with a universal Bluetooth audio adapter, the Pulsar 590 provides wireless compatibility for any device with a headphone jack, such as laptops, home stereos, and MP3 players--including Apple's iPod. The Pulsar 590 uses multipoint technology to function as both a stereo headset for high fidelity listening, as well as a communications headset for use with mobile phones and other voice-enabled devices.

The company says the new Bluetooth headset includes a telescopic voice tube with an omni-directional microphone for clear voice communications, allowing users to listen to music or have conversations up to 33 feet away from their laptop, music device or cell phone. The Pulsar 590 provides up to 12 hours of talk time and 10 hours of listen time.

"The Pulsar 590 has a familiar headband wearing style with pivoting ear cushions that provide all-day wearing comfort," according to Plantronics. The portable, lightweight headset features a foldable design for compact charging and travel storage and ships with a full range of accessories, including a desktop charging stand, AC charger, USB charging cable, in-flight cable and travel case. It also includes an in-flight cable, which allows the headset to be used with the Bluetooth radio disabled, a requirement for some air travel.

The headset can be purchased with the universal Bluetooth adapter for devices that don't have Bluetooth stereo capabilities. Computer, media and mobile phone devices compatible with the new Bluetooth Advanced Audio Distribution Profile, or A2DP, do not require the universal adapter.

The Pulsar 590 is available for $150 or $200 (with universal adapter) and will be available this fall.

Complete stereo audio headset suite

Plantronics also launched a suite of audio headsets (for US customers) that boast stereo sound and fresh new designs for gaming, music listening, and voice applications. Due in September, new .Audio 100, .Audio 110 and .Audio 150 headsets are designed specifically for use with PCs and combine high-quality sound, long-wearing comfort and easy functionality, according to the company.

The .Audio 100 ($45) and the 'open-ear' .Audio 110 ($55) headsets feature the Plantronics QuickAdjust noise-canceling microphone with bendable, telescoping boom for precision positioning and enhanced speech recognition. The .Audio 150 uses Plantronics' Flex Grip earbud design and inline volume and mute controls for full control while listening and speaking. The Plantronics .Audio 150 headset ($35) is designed for the mobile professionals, offering Flex Grip, a full-range stereo, and secure, comfortable wear and one-handed placement in the ear.

Filed under: peripherals