Plantronics/Poly EncorePro 320 Corded Headset

Plantronics/Poly EncorePro 320 Corded Headset

Limited info available from Poly – more to follow when available

The EncorePro 320 is a budget corded headset for contact centre workers. This ‘EP300’ series It replaces the HW111N and HW121N. ‘EncorePro’ is the latest generation of corded headsets from Plantronics. It can be used with desk phone, computer or mobile phone (but remember – each requires the right connector cable). It is both wideband and noise-cancelling – a combination of great value, fantastic sound and proven ruggedness that will make it a hugely popular headset with businesses of all sizes.

This 320 is a Stereo (two-eared) coreded headset. If you prefer something for 1 ear, have a look at the Plantronics/Poly EncorePro 310 Corded Headset. There are also USB options.

All non-USB corded headsets come with a brand-specific QD (quick disconnect) connection and require an adaptor cable to make them compatible with your phone. These range in price from $20-$100+. Many of these cables look the same but are different inside, just add the headset to cart and follow the prompts to find the right cable for your phone

The Good

This EncorePro 300 series is the entry-level variant in the hugely popular Plantronics/Poly suite of headsets. The microphone is mono-directional to help keep background noise from being transmitted to your callers.This is a wideband headset, which means it offers the most natural sounding voice clarity but, bear in mind, this is only if both you and the person calling you are on wideband phones, in which case it will just offer just standard narrowband. NB the HW510 is ‘wider’ than this model

The Not-So-Good

Corded headsets are pretty rare outside of call centres these days – most people prefer the freedom of a wireless headset and, starting at less than $200, it’s hard to say they are too expensive! The reality is that a wireless headset can make you more productive – grab a quick cuppa while you listen to your caller, locate a file or resource while building more rapport – you can understand why businesses have moved away from corded headsets!

As with any corded headset, with the EncorePro, you are connected to your phone via a cable – something that can be frustrating when wires lie across your desk and get in the way of papers, or, worse still, drop down and get crushed & tangled under chair wheels. In addition, don’t forget to factor those additional costs when budgeting. You may even need an amplifier – if so, a wireless headset will probably work out cheaper than a corded one.

If you don’t have a headset port on your phone, a corded headset will take the place of your handset. If you still want to use the handset, you can pick up a switch to allow you to swap between the two, but really, at that stage, you’ll probably want to pay a few bucks extra and get a wireless headset. A wireless headset will let you use the handset or headset, regardless of what sockets you have on the phone.

Plantronics/Poly say this is a more durable headset than previous models – check out the video to see some of the repeat stress testing they have done on the headset to convince you of the quality. It’s also supposed to be a bit louder (listening volume) than other models.

The Verdict

Good entry-level option

Alternatives To The Plantronics/Poly EncorePro 320 Corded Headset

The closet equivalent is the – an excellent choice for around the same money. The is our top pick corded headset and certainly worth a look.

Another factor to consider is the extra productivity that can be gained from the freedom to walk away from your desk while on a call. It is worth checking out the superb or the , which is a great entry level wireless option for only a small amount extra.. If you’re brand loyal to Plantronics, the is the wireless equivalent of the EP320.

Specifications
SKU	77T26AA
Manufacturer	Plantronics/Poly
Product Type	Office Corded
Cable Length	1m
Wireless Technology
Warranty	2 Year (Direct with Manufacturers)
Wearing Style	Over the head (two ears)
Connection Type	Quick/Easy Disconnect Cable
Software Compatabilty
Ear Cushion Material	Foam
Speaker Frequency Response	200-6800Hz
Mic Frequency Response	200-6800Hz
Headset Weight	TBC
Coverage Range
Conference Additonal Headsets
Best Use	Noisy Office, Quiet Office
Application	Desk Phone (Digital, IP or Analogue)
Audio Qualities	Mono sound, Noise cancelling mic, Noise protection, Soundguard, Wideband Audio, Wideband mic
This product is featured in	, , , , , , ,

Manufacturers Description

*See Data Sheet under Support Tab