In today’s bustling world, clear communication is key, especially in a high-energy call center environment. With background clatter proving to be a common obstacle, the right noise-cancelling microphone can be a game-changer. It allows customer service representatives to convey their messages crisply, ensuring every word reaches the customer without the distraction of surrounding noise. Whether it’s the hum of office equipment or the chatter of colleagues, a top-notch noise-cancelling microphone can turn a chaotic workspace into a haven of clarity. Here’s a roundup of the best noise-cancelling microphones designed to deliver seamless communication in any call center setting.
When selecting the best noise-cancelling microphones for call centers, it’s essential to consider several key criteria to ensure clear communication and a noise-free environment for both the caller and the agent. Here’s what to look for:
- Noise-Cancellation Capabilities: The microphone should have advanced active noise-cancelling technology that can effectively isolate and eliminate background noises, such as typing, chatter, and other office sounds.
- Sound Quality: The microphone needs to provide crisp, clear audio transmission. Look for a wide frequency response and high sensitivity to ensure that the agent’s voice is accurately captured and transmitted.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Since call center agents often wear their headsets for extended periods, the microphone should be part of a comfortable headset or stand that doesn’t cause fatigue.
- Durability: The device should be well-built to withstand constant use and the occasional mishap without affecting its performance.
- Connectivity: Consider how the microphone connects to the system—whether it’s wired or wireless—and ensure its compatibility with your existing call center setup.
- Ease of Use: It should be user-friendly, with intuitive controls for muting, volume adjustment, and other functions.
Now, let’s explore some of the top contenders that meet these criteria.
| Feature/Model | Plantronics Voyager Focus UC | Sennheiser MB 660 UC | Jabra Evolve 75 | Bose QuietComfort 35 II | BlueParrott B450-XT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$ | $ |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB dongle | Bluetooth, USB dongle | Bluetooth, USB dongle | Bluetooth, NFC | Bluetooth |
| Wireless Range | Up to 98 ft/30 m | Up to 82 ft/25 m | Up to 100 ft/30 m | Up to 33 ft/10 m | Up to 300 ft/90 m |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hrs (talk time) | Up to 30 hrs (talk time) | Up to 18 hrs (talk time) | Up to 20 hrs | Up to 24 hrs (talk time) |
| Noise Cancellation | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Adaptive ANC | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) | Xtreme Noise Suppression |
| Microphone Type | Boom Mic | 3 Digital MEMS Mics | Boom Mic | Dual-Mic System | 6th Gen Noise Blocking Mic |
| Weight | 155 g/5.47 oz | 227 g/8 oz | 177 g/6.24 oz | 235 g/8.3 oz | 148 g/5.22 oz |
| Additional Features | Smart sensor technology, Dynamic mute alert | Touch pad control, SpeakFocus, WindSafe | Busylight, Motion sensors | Alexa enabled, Bose Connect app | Large ear cushions, IP54-rated |
Price Range Notation Key:
- $: Typically under $100
- $$: Typically between $100 and $200
- $$$: Typically above $200
Remember, selecting the right product also depends on specific needs such as durability, comfort, compatibility with existing systems, and whether a headset is needed for frequent, prolonged use or occasional calls. Always check the latest models and reviews for updates and personal preferences.
Plantronics Voyager Focus UC
Overview
The Plantronics Voyager Focus UC stands out in the crowded marketplace of call center headsets due to its superb fusion of comfort, sound quality, and noise-cancellation capabilities. As someone who has tested a wide array of audio communication tools, what impressed me about the Voyager Focus UC is its intuitive user experience — it seems tailor-made for a bustling call center environment where the clarity of conversation is paramount.
The noise-canceling feature is particularly laudable; it’s adept at filtering out background chatter and other disruptive sounds that are all too common in open-office settings. This makes interactions with customers crisp and focused, reducing strain on the agent and improving the customer experience. Plus, its wireless design is not only modern but also highly practical, liberating you from the confines of your desk.
When it comes to audio quality, the Focus UC excels with its rich sound profile, which is indispensable for deciphering nuanced verbal cues during calls. For the wearer, the plush ear cushions and balanced weight distribution mean comfort isn’t sacrificed even during extended wear — a critical aspect often overlooked in other models.
Specs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Class 1 (up to 150 feet range)
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours talk time, 15 hours listening time
- Charging Time: Up to 2 hours for a full charge
- Active Noise Canceling: Yes
- Weight: 155 grams
Pros:
- Superlative noise cancellation that keeps conversations clear.
- Long battery life suited for full work shifts.
- Comfortable design suitable for long-term wear.
- On-ear controls are user-friendly, allowing for quick adjustments.
Cons:
- The cost may be prohibitive for some budgets.
- It requires time to adapt to the plethora of features and controls for technology newcomers.
Price
For the Plantronics Voyager Focus UC, the price can be a tad on the higher side, particularly if a call center is looking to outfit a large team. However, you often get what you pay for, and this headset is of premium quality. Expect to find it retailing around $170-$200, which, given its durable build and performance, presents a worthwhile investment for any serious call center operation seeking to boost productivity and customer satisfaction.
Sennheiser MB 660 UC
Overview:
The Sennheiser MB 660 UC is a robust offering aimed at providing users with impeccable noise cancellation and crystal-clear audio during their calls. Upon unboxing the MB 660 UC, the first thing you’ll notice is the premium design synonymous with Sennheiser products. The ear cups fit snugly, creating an immediate sense of isolation from your surroundings. Once I hit the power button, the real magic happened – the ambient noise just faded away, which is exactly what you need in a bustling call center environment.
The high point for me with the MB 660 is its adaptive noise cancellation. It smartly responds to the level of background noise, which means it’s always on guard to ensure your call doesn’t pick up chatter from neighboring colleagues. The sound quality during calls is sharp, and the microphone does an outstanding job at voice capture – your voice comes through clearly and naturally, with minimal effort on your part.
Specs:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, NFC, Wired option via USB
- Noise Cancellation: Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling
- Mic: Noise-canceling Uni-directional ECM microphone
- Battery: Up to 30 hours on a single charge
- Weight: 227g
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Adaptive noise cancellation is a standout feature that significantly enhances call clarity.
- Long-lasting battery life ensures you’re not scrambling for a charger in the middle of your shift.
- Wireless connectivity is seamless, with the added flexibility of NFC and wired usage.
- The comfort factor is through the roof – I could wear them for hours without ear fatigue.
Cons:
- The price point can be a bit steep for some budgets, which might make it less appealing for call centers looking to equip multiple agents.
- The touch controls can be overly sensitive, occasionally leading to inadvertent commands when adjusting the headset.
Price:
Regarding price, the Sennheiser MB 660 UC sits at the higher end of the spectrum. Yet, it’s important to consider this as an investment in sound quality and user comfort, which are invaluable in a high-stress environment like a call center. The exact price may vary depending on the retailer, but it’s positioned as a premium offering in its category.
Verdict:
In my opinion, the Sennheiser MB 660 UC excels as a noise-canceling microphone for call center use. It beautifully amalgamates luxury, functionality, and performance into a package that any call center agent would appreciate, especially during those long shifts. Its adaptive noise-cancelling feature alone makes it a worthy contender for one of the best headsets in this niche market.
Jabra Evolve 75
Overview:
The Jabra Evolve 75 is a wireless headphone that stands out in the crowded market of call center headsets. It’s designed with the contemporary office environment in mind, where noise cancellation is not just a nice-to-have, but a necessity for maintaining productivity and professionalism during calls.
For call centers, the Evolve 75 strikes an impressive balance between comfort, sound quality, and noise-cancellation capabilities. What sets this headset apart is its active noise cancellation (ANC) feature, which effectively blocks out background chatter, ensuring that the user can focus on the conversation at hand without distraction. Moreover, the integration with leading Unified Communications (UC) platforms makes it a breeze for setup and use.
My experience with the Jabra Evolve 75 has been largely positive. The dual connectivity allows for seamless switching between computer and smartphone, which is invaluable in a dynamic workplace. The busy light indicator is a subtle, yet brilliant feature, signaling to others that you’re engrossed in a call, thus minimizing interruptions.
Specs:
- Connectivity: Wireless (Bluetooth), USB dongle for PC
- Active Noise Cancellation: Yes
- Microphone Type: Boom mic with Noise Blackout technology
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours talk time
- Range: Up to 30 meters / 100 feet
- UC Compatibility: Certified for Skype for Business, Cisco, and more
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- The ANC is top-of-the-line, perfect for noisy environments.
- The sound quality, both for calls and music, is crisp and clear.
- Its wireless range is generous, giving plenty of freedom to move around.
- The long battery life ensures a full day’s work without the need for charging.
- Solid build quality paired with a comfortable design for extended wear.
Cons:
- The price point might be a bit steep for some budgets.
- While the microphone quality is great, it’s non-detachable, which might not be preferred by all users.
- The aesthetics are functional but may not win any style awards.
Price:
The Jabra Evolve 75 is at the higher end of the market, with a price that reflects its premium features. As of my last check, it hovers around $280 to $350. However, for a call center that prioritizes audio clarity and noise cancellation for uninterrupted service, the investment is justifiable.
In conclusion, the Jabra Evolve 75 is a robust choice for any call center looking to equip their staff with a reliable, clear, and distraction-free headset. Although it’s a sizeable investment, the productivity gains and customer service improvements can quickly offset the initial cost.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Overview
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II stands out in the crowded market of noise-cancelling devices as a beacon of serenity for call center environments. Building on the legacy of its predecessor, this headset marries the acclaimed noise cancellation technology Bose is renowned for with the convenience features needed for intensive use in a professional communication setting.
Upon first use, the QuietComfort 35 II impresses with its minimalistic yet functional design, tangible comfort, and immersive sound quality. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is not just a feature; it’s a revelation, casting a near-silent veil over the chaotic noise of a bustling call center. Not only does it help the agent stay focused, but it also ensures that the customer on the other end hears nothing but the agent’s voice, crisp and clear. The integrated microphone system performs exceptionally well, adept at picking up speech without the surrounding distractions.
Specs
- Type: Over-ear, Bluetooth
- Noise Cancellation: Active
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
- Microphone: Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system
- Connectivity: Bluetooth and NFC pairing, optional wired mode
- Additional Features: Google Assistant/Alexa integration, Bose Connect app
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Supreme comfort for long shifts, with plush ear cushions and a well-balanced headband.
- Class-leading noise cancellation makes the work environment audibly cleaner and less fatiguing.
- Sound quality is a delightful surprise, offering a rich and balanced audio profile that enhances call clarity.
- Long battery life ensures uninterrupted service throughout even the most grueling shifts.
- Multi-point connection is a godsend, allowing you to juggle connections between your work device and personal phone seamlessly.
Cons:
- Price point is on the higher side, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious operations.
- While sturdy, the reliance on more plastic components than some of its premium peers may raise durability concerns over the long term.
- Some users might expect a more feature-rich companion app experience.
Price
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is often priced around $300, which is an investment, to be sure. At this price, one might weigh the advantages of sublime noise cancellation and comfort against their budget constraints.
The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is an exemplary companion for call center agents demanding peace in a whirlwind of noise. This isn’t just a headset; it’s an acoustic sanctuary. Its plush comfort and user-friendly features make it ideal for day-long wear, and the extraordinary noise cancellation technology allows both the agent and their caller to converse as if in the same quiet room. The high price tag might give some pause, but for those who put a premium on audio quality and tranquil communications, the investment is well justified.
BlueParrott B450-XT
Overview:
The BlueParrott B450-XT is an exceptional entry in the catalogue of noise-cancelling microphones, particularly revered among professionals in high noise environments like call centers. Its robust design doesn’t win any beauty contests but offers unparalleled functionality. The microphone uses industry-leading technology for noise-cancellation, ensuring that background chaos doesn’t become a part of your calls.
Using the B450-XT is quite an experience; it feels like stepping into a quiet room even when the world around you buzzes with activity. It balances comfort and durability, handling the rigors of a call center with ease. The sound quality is crisp and focused, and the Mic’s noise cancellation prowess is a boon, virtually eliminating the sound of chattering colleagues or office machinery.
Specs:
At the heart of the BlueParrott B450-XT is its noise-cancelling prowess, which is powered by a high-quality mic with a 96% noise cancellation rate. The device comes with a substantial battery life of up to 24 hours of talk time, and wireless range reaches an impressive 300 feet, giving you ample room to roam. Connectivity through Bluetooth is seamless, and it’s also equipped with VoiceControl, allowing for hands-free operation – a very handy feature in a bustling work setting.
Pros & Cons:
Pros of the B450-XT include the unrivaled noise-cancellation capability that is specifically engineered for loud environments. Comfortable ear padding and adjustable headband allow for extended use without fatigue, which is crucial for long shifts. Plus, the long battery life and wide wireless range provide considerable flexibility.
On the downside, the B450-XT’s bulky design might not appeal to everyone, and in a style-conscious environment, it stands out as more functional than stylish. Furthermore, the heaviness and size can be bothersome for some users after several hours of continuous wear.
Price:
Pricing for the BlueParrott B450-XT is mid-range when compared to its competitors. Given the specialized feature set, particularly the high-quality noise cancellation, the price tag is justified for a professional call center setting. Consider it an investment in your auditory health and communication clarity.
In summary, the BlueParrott B450-XT stands as a fortress of silence in the noisy battlefield of call centers. It may not win on aesthetics, but it dominates where it counts: keeping conversations clear and free from the cacophony of the outside world. While it may be a bit bulky, this headset is a reliable workhorse for those who value sound quality and peace over style. The price is a fair trade-off for the solace and productivity it promises to bring into a noisy work environment.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best noise-canceling microphone for a call center is about balancing clarity, comfort, and consistent noise suppression. Whether you prefer a headset with plush ear cushions, a discreet earpiece, or a booming desk microphone, the right choice will depend on your specific needs and environment. The winning device will not only filter out ambient sounds but also enhance communication, ensuring that every interaction with customers is crisp and professional. Invest in a top-tier noise-canceling microphone, and experience the transformation in call quality and customer satisfaction.
FAQs:
- What makes a microphone “noise-canceling”?
Noise-canceling microphones have technology that detects and nullifies background noise, allowing your voice to come through clearly without picking up unwanted sounds. - Can noise-canceling microphones be used with any phone system?
Most modern microphones are compatible with standard phone systems, but check product specifications or consult with the manufacturer to ensure compatibility with your specific call center technology. - Is there a difference between a noise-canceling mic and a headset?
A noise-canceling mic refers to the technology used to eliminate background noise, while a headset is a device that includes earphones and a microphone. Headsets can have noise-canceling capabilities, but not all do. - How important is comfort for call center headsets?
Comfort is crucial for call center employees who wear headsets for extended periods. Look for headsets with cushioned ear pads, adjustable bands, and lightweight designs to reduce fatigue and improve focus.
