3 years, 2 months ago
I need to find options for USB/(Mic/Earphone) connected speakerphones for onling meetings.
I need to be able to have multiple people on one end. Audio will be delivered by my computer to the speakerphone and then the mic on the speakerphone will deliver audio back to the computer. In the simplest case, the speakerphone just replaces a headset.
I know Polycom has stuff, but I am looking for cheaper alternatives. Portability is a concern as this will travel with me. Lastly, I think a non-USB option would be great as I could use it without concern of the OS. But, i am open to various options.
I need this for a meeting Friday, so I must be able to pick up in Houston or order today for overnight delivery. I would prefer the former.
I know Polycom has stuff, but I am looking for cheaper alternatives. Portability is a concern as this will travel with me. Lastly, I think a non-USB option would be great as I could use it without concern of the OS. But, i am open to various options.
I need this for a meeting Friday, so I must be able to pick up in Houston or order today for overnight delivery. I would prefer the former.
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M$2 Answers
1)
Usually when I'm involved in a video conference call with a group, a computer is hooked up to a large LCD tv (or projector) and folks gather around a table to talk. Since the video conferencing computer is sometimes in a wiring closet or other location, a wireless option has provided the best audio on both ends because it can be easily placed in the center of the table.
A bluetooth "speakerphone" is a good choice for Windows and Mac OS's. They're rugged, portable and usually have clear, loud full duplex sound. They're also generally inexpensive and can be found in just about any mall electronics shop.
Here's an example:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4483704&CatId=1810
http://images.tigerdirect.com/skuimages/large/G33-1214-main-dr.jpg
2)
If you don't think that this will solve your problem, then all you really need is a powered set of speakers (to amplify the sound so everyone can hear) and an omnidirectional microphone.
When video conferencing, audio problems usually occur with the mic and not with the speakers. If you think about it, it's easy (and cheap) to get a loud set of speakers that will easily connect up to any computer. Finding a microphone that will capture clear sound in a variety of locations, rooms and with a changing number of people is a more challenging task.
Powered speakers can be found for under $20 at any business supply or electronics store. You don't need anything fancy - Video conferencing audio is not high fidelity so all you're really concerned with is volume.
Fry's has an ok selection of basic omnidirectional mics and the long cables that you'll likely need.
Here is one from Sony that would do a good job:
http://shop4.frys.com/product/368731?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
http://images.frys.com/art/product/big_shots/368731.big.jpg
4)
Shure Audio products are available at a variety of high end audio & home theater stores. There are also a number of resellers who will ship to Huston in under a day.
Specifically this Mic will do an exceptional job of capturing a conference room full of people:
http://www.shure.com/ProAudio/Products/WiredMicrophones/us_pro_MX405_MX410_content
http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/1989/siteimgmx405mx410m.jpg
These mic's are pricy, but they are professional quality. Also, the base, stand and mic all come apart for easy transport and storage. The units come in a nice box so it would be possible to simply place them back in their original container for transport.
5)
The big advantage to the Polycom stuff is that it's built specifically for this. Polycom desktop units have multiple mics that are cascaded properly and offer a full duplex mic and speaker combo. Importantly, the Polycom units take care of some audio processing in the base unit.
They're not perfect though. They don't lend themselves well to large or distributed groups and have no way to connect to a PBX system for multiple office distribution. Plus, they're a little expensive when you really consider what they're doing.
6)
You did not mention how many people are going to be involved in "your end" of the video conference. If there are going to be over 20 people, you'll want a better microphone and that may need to be custom ordered. If this is the case, please comment back and I'll source one for you with stock that is available before Friday.
Usually when I'm involved in a video conference call with a group, a computer is hooked up to a large LCD tv (or projector) and folks gather around a table to talk. Since the video conferencing computer is sometimes in a wiring closet or other location, a wireless option has provided the best audio on both ends because it can be easily placed in the center of the table.
A bluetooth "speakerphone" is a good choice for Windows and Mac OS's. They're rugged, portable and usually have clear, loud full duplex sound. They're also generally inexpensive and can be found in just about any mall electronics shop.
Here's an example:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4483704&CatId=1810
2)
If you don't think that this will solve your problem, then all you really need is a powered set of speakers (to amplify the sound so everyone can hear) and an omnidirectional microphone.
When video conferencing, audio problems usually occur with the mic and not with the speakers. If you think about it, it's easy (and cheap) to get a loud set of speakers that will easily connect up to any computer. Finding a microphone that will capture clear sound in a variety of locations, rooms and with a changing number of people is a more challenging task.
Powered speakers can be found for under $20 at any business supply or electronics store. You don't need anything fancy - Video conferencing audio is not high fidelity so all you're really concerned with is volume.
Fry's has an ok selection of basic omnidirectional mics and the long cables that you'll likely need.
Here is one from Sony that would do a good job:
http://shop4.frys.com/product/368731?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
4)
Shure Audio products are available at a variety of high end audio & home theater stores. There are also a number of resellers who will ship to Huston in under a day.
Specifically this Mic will do an exceptional job of capturing a conference room full of people:
http://www.shure.com/ProAudio/Products/WiredMicrophones/us_pro_MX405_MX410_content
These mic's are pricy, but they are professional quality. Also, the base, stand and mic all come apart for easy transport and storage. The units come in a nice box so it would be possible to simply place them back in their original container for transport.
5)
The big advantage to the Polycom stuff is that it's built specifically for this. Polycom desktop units have multiple mics that are cascaded properly and offer a full duplex mic and speaker combo. Importantly, the Polycom units take care of some audio processing in the base unit.
They're not perfect though. They don't lend themselves well to large or distributed groups and have no way to connect to a PBX system for multiple office distribution. Plus, they're a little expensive when you really consider what they're doing.
6)
You did not mention how many people are going to be involved in "your end" of the video conference. If there are going to be over 20 people, you'll want a better microphone and that may need to be custom ordered. If this is the case, please comment back and I'll source one for you with stock that is available before Friday.
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$Report Abuse
I've always found IOgear to make nice portable stuff..
http://www.iogear.com/product/GPH100U/
http://www.iogear.com/product_images/web/hi/GPH100U_0.jpg
I think this will fit your needs.
http://www.iogear.com/product/GPH100U/
I think this will fit your needs.
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$
