While Plantronics is one of the most widely recognized providers of business headsets and audio solutions, their consumer line doesn’t get nearly as much love. Which is a shame really, as a lot of the tech that’s made their business lineup so good has managed to make it to their consumer headsets as well. I was fortunate enough to get an up-close look at their newest PH lineup too. Here are some of the highlight products.
Backbeat Go 3
As a casual listener, the Plantronics Backbeat Go 3 is easily my favorite of the new lineup. It’s an in-ear neckband that uses Bluetooth to connect wirelessly to your smartphone instead of being plugged in via a 3.5mm headset jack. You still get the convenience of built-in controls, but you’re otherwise freed from being tethered to another gadget.
The buds have been redesigned versus its predecessor, the Backbeat Go 2, with the buds now looking more comfortable thanks to an angled design.
Backbeat Sense
Another pair of Bluetooth cans that caught my eye was the Backbeat Sense. While it’s lightweight build was obviously made with comfort in mind, that doesn’t mean audio quality has been compromised. I got the chance to try them on and the audio was rich and detail, even without the benefit of sound isolating cups. It’s pretty smart too. Taking them off automatically pauses what you’re listening to. To resume, just put them on again!
Backbeat Pro
Now, if you’re looking for a pair of Bluetooth cans that’s all about the music, check out the Backbeat Pro. Plantronics went to work on these cans, ensuring they deliver crystal clear highs, natural mids, and thumping lows without the distortion. The battery life is pretty epic too, with up to 24 hours of straight music.
RIG 500 Series
As a gamer, the RIG 500 Series was another lineup of audio gear that got my attention. Despite their chunky appearance, the RIG 500 Series is actually quite lightweight, not to mention comfortable to wear thanks to its self-adjusting band and memory foam ear cups.
Another favorite feature of mine is the flip-to-mute noise-cancelling mic. They might not look capable of it, but the audio capture is pretty clear as well.
Backbeat Fit
For those who like to workout or go on runs, the Backbeat Fit is a great choice. Audio is still important, so the ear tips have been designed to direct sound directly into your ears. However, the Backbeat Fit still lets you hear your surroundings, which is an important safety feature, especially when your going out on runs. The flexible band and on-ear controls also means it can keep up with an active lifestyle.
On the business side of things, the Voyager Legend is top of the line. It’s larger and chunkier than a lot of single-ear Bluetooth headsets, but it’s packed full of technology such as noise-and-wind-cancellation and support for voice command.
Voyager, Explorer, and Audio Series
Of course, not everyone needs or can afford that much tech just to make and take calls from a Bluetooth headset, so Plantronics also has a whole lineup of Voyager and Explorer Series headsets to choose from.
