Plantronics Discovery 650 and 665 earpiece test

Earpieces have made up part of the mobile phone world since the beginning so that the use of the phone under certain conditions is easier, especially when trying to drive. These hands-free kits, firstly with a wire, benefited from the introduction of wireless technologies like Bluetooth into mobile phones so that the connection could be made without a cable.

Since the use of Bluetooth has become wide spread (computer peripherals), the characteristics of Bluetooth, a technology adapted to the transport of voice which is without rival when it comes to energy consumption, is perfectly adapted to wireless earpieces.

But even if the range of wireless devices is astonishing (specific kits, GPS navigation devices, and Bluetooth rear view mirrors), the wireless earpieces are still the biggest sellers linked to the Bluetooth market, with there also being more and more competition being put up by wireless headsets which can also be used as hands free music listening devices since the arrival of A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) has allowed stereo sound.

Even if a few earpieces offer this possibility, the majority are restricted to straight telephony. To seduce the public, they change their shape and size. Colored or dark, multifunction or limited to the basics, serious and professional or just a toy for the public to be seen with, there is something for all tastes.

But progress is also being made internally. The makers are trying to find more ingenious ways of configuring circuits which limit external noise via their DSP systems (Digital Signal Processing) and proprietary technologies that promise better quality sound without annoying drop outs or echoes.

The integrated microphones are also more sensitive and filter noise so that you can have a quality conversation even in noisy areas. Finally, the race is on to see who can release the smallest earpiece (they now often weigh less then 10g) with the best battery life, as often the more advanced technologies use more energy leaving the manufacturers looking for the best compromise.

The two Bluetooth earpieces we will be looking at or oriented towards the professional market, with both presenting particular aspects. One has a sound treatment system that improves the sound quality, while the other has the possibility of being connected to two telephones simultaneously.
Manufactured by Plantronics, a specialist in headsets and earpieces for all kinds of use, the Plantronics 650 and 665 earpieces are representative of what is currently possible in this sector.