Some technology takes some learning and jargon-busting to understand. Just the other day we had a call in which I was trying to lay out the differences between a "normal" smartwatch and the Audar E2 health monitor, and with the whole "IoT" thing that's easier said than done!
But, some technology is just all in the name!
What is a Speakerphone?
The humble speakerphone is a loudspeaker and a microphone bolted together. Usually all wired up internally in a neat little frame, with some large walkie-talkie style buttons to allow you to control it on-the-go.
You might recognise the idea from conference tables (particularly in films, not in any of the offices I've worked in) in which a speakerphone unit sits in the middle of the desk and allows everyone in the office to talk to a third party at once.
How does that relate to the great outdoors? Well that's where personal speakerphones come in!
Take the MS550, for example.
Just like a speakerphone that's "all business", the MS550 contains both speaker units and a microphone.
Unlike the workplace version, however, the MS550 is built for more...
What Are Speakerphones For?
Outside of an office, a unique speakerphone like MS550 can be used for a whole host of situations. Wireless Bluetooth speakerphones are great for:
- Cycling and Hiking in a Team! With the small size and 3 ways to attach the speakerphone, you can keep connected when cycling or hiking, or even skiing! By redirecting calls through the speakerphone, your actual phone stays safely sealed in a coat pocket or saddlebag.
- Site Work and Odd-Jobs. Whether you're a solo contractor or part of an onsite team, having music and other audio on is inevitable. With a microphone through Bluetooth speaker you can take calls seamlessly to organise your next job or catch up on progress.
- Indoor and Outdoor Use. So long as you check that IP rating, a portable Bluetooth speaker with a microphone inbuilt can be used wherever you like! Having access to audiobooks and podcasts on-the-go as well as at home is fantastic.
How to Test a Wireless Microphone
The two core elements of these nifty mini Bluetooth speakers are the speakers (of course), and the microphone. You can tell the speakers are working just by connecting a device and blasting some music, but what about the microphone?
It's a good idea to run a test, especially if you're going to be using the unit on ski slopes, hiking trails or hands-free calling in the car.
To test a Bluetooth microphone you should:
- Ensure the device is paired. In the Bluetooth menu on your phone, make sure the speaker is selected. There should be an LED indicator on most models that displays the connection. Make sure you keep the speaker and phone within 10 meters so you don't break the Bluetooth connection.
- Trigger the microphone. To test the microphone, we need to check that your phone is correctly receiving your voice through the speaker (Rather than through the normal internal mic). To do that, you need to make the phone ready to receive audio. You could call the phone from another device, join a Skype or Zoom meeting, or simply launch a Sound Recorder app like this one.
- Isolate your phone's microphone. Before you begin speaking into the speakerphone, you need to make sure your phone itself is isolated. Otherwise, the audio you hear coming through the call or recording might just be from the phone! Put the phone in a pocket or stand further away from it, speaking directly into the wireless Bluetooth speaker and away from your phone.
- If the portable speaker is working, the audio of your voice will be loud and clear even when you are facing away from your phone, as the microphone in the MS550 is taking over.
- If you find your voice isn't being received, then the phone pairing is only being used for the Bluetooth speaker, not the microphone! Double-check your phone settings to make sure microphones are allowed, and that the Bluetooth connection is for both input and output.
Enjoy Music, Podcasts, Audiobooks and More Everywhere
The MS550 has 3 attachment methods to ensure you can enjoy your own audio and hands-free calling for up to 30 hours, wherever you need!
Worried about using the speaker in the shower? Follow our guide here to make sure the speaker is safe for showering!
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