Headsets For The Avaya 1600 Series Phones

If you spend a lot of time using a phone at work or you need to be able to use your computer whilst having a conversation you may start to think about how you would benefit from using a headset rather than the phone handset. They can certainly be more comfortable to use for many people.

How to choose a headset...

You will find many headsets that will work with the 1608. However please be aware that many of the headsets that you commonly see are designed to be used on your computer and will come with either a USB interface or a headphone / microphone style connector. You are best looking at headsets specifically intended to be used with avaya 1608 telephones which will provide the level of call qualitity you need

Binaural or monaural?

When you start looking for headsets one of the first decisions you will have to make is whether to go for a binaural or monaural headset. This is very much a personal decision as to whether you want to hear the conversation in two ears (binaural) or just one (monaural) and which style of headset you find most comfortable. Binaural headsets have headphones covering both ears like traditional headphones and monaural headsets commonly having a headphone covering one ear with a clip holding it in position on the opposite side of your head. There are many variations on these with some over the ear style or ones that rest on your neck rather than going over your head. Fortunately  you will find a wide range of headsets which work with the 1608 and encompassing a wide price range. Also you will often find that headsets that work with the 9600 range of handsets will work just fine with the 1608 as well increasing you options.

How do I connect my headset to the 1608?

The phone has an rj9 port on the back of the phone into which you will plug a compatible Avaya HIS cable. On the other end of this cable is a quick disconnect plug into which you connect your headset. I would advise you to look for headsets which say that they are compatible with the 1608 and you can often order them with the HIS cable.  (picture) Unlike some phones with the 1608 you can leave the headset plugged in permanently and choose whether you use it or not when answering or making calls. To use the headset simply press the headset button on the front of the phone. (picture). For example if someone rings your phone you can either pick up the handset as normal, press the speaker button to answer the call on speakerphone or press the headset button to answer the call on your headset. It is the same when you are initiating a call.

A headset really can give you much more freedom in your working environment.