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Call-Screening Headset Disappoints

Clever display doesn't outweigh mediocre audio quality.

Cathy Lu

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Creative Design BT800

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Photograph: Marc Simon
Okay, I'll admit that picking up the phone to take a call from my husband in stop-and-go traffic to discuss what's for dinner isn't too smart. But if the alternative is using Jabra's BT800--the first Bluetooth headset with a caller ID display--I think I'll have to remain a danger to society.

The $149 BT800's standout feature is its LCD, which displays either the name or the number of the person who's trying to reach you. This is hugely convenient if you keep your phone out of sight, but if you're wearing the BT800, you do have to take the device off your ear to see who's calling.

The BT800 also stores received calls so that you can ring someone back straight from the headset. Unfortunately, the call list shows only a person's telephone number and not their name, even if that person's information is in your phone's address book.

I tested a preproduction unit with two Bluetooth-equipped phones: a Sony Ericsson and a Motorola. Connecting to the phones was a breeze, but getting used to wearing the BT800 was a little more difficult. I discovered that getting the 0.8-ounce BT800 to sit correctly on my ear was tricky, and it soon became uncomfortable.

In my tests the battery lasted for about three and a half days between charges. Sound quality was adequate, but not awesome. The built-in digital signal processor, which is designed to perform automatic volume compensation and noise cancellation in loud environments, didn't seem to help much as I traversed well-trafficked Seattle streets.

The BT800 headset offers several unique features, but until it delivers better sound quality and comfort, it's not ready for prime time.

Jabra BT800
Rated 2.5 stars

Unit's display doesn't compensate for poor comfort and sound quality.
List: $149
Current Prices (if available)

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