Plantronics/Poly HW540 EncorePro Corded Headset

Plantronics/Poly HW540 EncorePro Corded Headset

The HW540 EncorePro is the latest generation of corded headsets from Plantronics. It can be used with desk phone, computer or mobile phone (each requires the right connector cable). It is both wideband and noise cancelling – this combination of great value, fantastic sound and multiple wearing styles make it a hugely popular headset with businesses of all sizes.

The HW500 series comes in a range of wearing style – 510; over the head, one ear, 520; over the head 2 ears, 530 earhook style, 540; over the head, earhook AND neckband styles included. If you like the over the head (headband) style the 510 and 520 will be the durable.

All 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 $10-$64. Many of these cables look the same but are different inside, so if you’re not 100% sure which you need, give us a call and our staff will gladly check for you. Alternatively just add the headset to cart and follow the prompts to find the right cable for your phone

The Good

This EncorePro model is the mid-range from the hugely popular Plantronics/Poly suite of headsets. The microphone features noise cancelling to ensure no distracting background noises are transmitted to your callers.This is a wideband headset which means it offers the most natural sounding voice clarity but bear in mind that 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.

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! A wireless headset can make you more productive – grab a quick cuppa whilst you listen to your caller, locate a file or resource whilst building more rapport – you can understand why businesses have moved away from corded headsets!

As with any corded headset, with the 540 you are connected to your phone via a cable, this can be frustrating when wires lie across your desk and get in the way of papers or 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. It’s also supposed to be a bit louder (listening volume) than other models

The Verdict

Plantronics/Poly have brought out what will no doubt be another best selling headset and there will be nothing wrong with it. Arguably other brands can give you better value for money or better quality but just like it’s predecessor, we’re pretty sure this headset will fly off the shelves.

Other Headsets To Consider Before Buying

Should you prefer a Sennheiser brand equivalent, the is an excellent choice for around the same money, but bear in mind it doesn’t have noise cancelling. The is our top pick corded headset and certainly worth a look.

The Jabra range (the other big name in headsets) also offers a smart cable which will provide a compatibility solution for the majority of phones. Have a look at the for a robust, quality solution equivalent to the Plantronics. If staff sit close together and it’s really noisy, the ultra noise cancelling of the is definitely worth the extra investment..

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 which is a great entry level wireless option for only a small amount extra (but it’s a single ear model). If you’re brand loyal to Plantronics, the is the wireless equivalent of the HW540.

Specifications
SKU	783P1AA
Manufacturer	Plantronics/Poly
Product Type	Office Corded
Cable Length	1m
Wireless Technology
Warranty	2 Year (Direct with Manufacturers)
Wearing Style	Around the back of the neck, Over the ear + no earbud, Over the head (one ear)
Connection Type	Quick/Easy Disconnect Cable
Software Compatabilty	Apple, Dragon Naturally Speaking, MacSpeech, Skype, Voice Recognition Software, Windows
Ear Cushion Material	Foam
Speaker Frequency Response	300-3400Hz
Mic Frequency Response	300-3400Hz
Headset Weight	32g over head configuration, 22g over the ear configuration, 24g back of neck configuration
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
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Manufacturers Description

Encore Pro 500 Series

Bring our top performers to yours

Whether you work in a busy office or customer service center, the stakes are high with every call. Introducing the Plantronics EncorePro 500 headset series – designed to give your team the quality, power, and confidence to perform – every time. Each of the three innovative designs in the series incorporates all-day comfort, superior noise canceling technology, and long-term reliability. It’s a win-win with next-generation performance for your team and your customer.

The EncorePro 500 headset series balances all-day comfort, superior noise-canceling, and long-term reliability in three innovative designs. Your team will feel the improvements and customers will hear it.

Comfort & Convenience

Adjustable fit enhances all-day wearing comfort, ensuring that representatives stay fresh and engaged.

The HW540 is lightest in its class – each of the three wearing styles has a soft foam ear cushion and a balanced boom mic that stays secure for all-day performance

The Quick Disconnect feature provides walkaway convenience and compatibility with all Plantronics USB, desk phone audio processors, and direct connect cables.

Superior Audio

• Flexible noise-canceling boom allows optimal positioning for voice clarity.
• Visual and tactile positioning guides enable precise and quick microphone positioning (HW510/520).
• Wideband audio delivers richer, clearer conversations and reduces listening fatigue, while SoundGuard technologyprotects from noise spikes, helping to meet OSHA/Noise at work requirements.

Long-term Reliability

• Designed for the rigors of call-intensive environments, which minimize operational disruptions and costly downtime.
• Laser-welded construction and metal joints are engineered to provide reliability where it matters.