Thursday, September 17, 2009

BlueAnt Z9i Bluetooth Headset (Red)

The Pitch:

Improving on the original Z9, the enhanced BlueAnt Z9i Bluetooth headset incorporates a number of new features and packaged accessories with a focus on comfort and wearability. BlueAnt has refined its Voice Isolation Technology software to improve the Z9i's noise suppression, echo cancellation and wind noise reduction capabilities.

Thanks to BlueAnt's Voice Isolation Technology, the Z9i provides outstanding noise suppression, echo cancellation and wind noise reduction.

It comes with both large and small interchangeable ear gels, as well as two types of ear hook.
The Z9i includes both large and small interchangeable ear gels, as well as two types of ear hook: the original translucent style and a more ergonomic, rubberized metal ear hook. It also offers an innovative tie clip lets you attach the V1 headset to your shirt or cuff when not in use.

The Z9i incorporates dual microphones allowing for BlueAnt's patented Voice Isolation Technology, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) software solution that uses advanced techniques to separate the user's voice signal from all other sounds, enhancing and isolating all frequencies that affect voices coming into and out of the headset. This results in outstanding environmental noise reduction, echo cancellation and wind noise protection. You can choose between dual Voice Isolation modes: Standard for use in normal environments to remove mild background noise, and Max, which provides superior voice clarity for use in extremely noisy environments.

The BlueAnt Z9i works with Bluetooth version 2.0 and its multi-point technology allows you to connect simultaneously to two phones and answer the one that rings. The Z9i can now connect with up to five Bluetooth devices (instead of the Z9's three). Automatic reconnect also finds the last cell phone or device paired, and automatically reconnects.

Features
  • Two microphones for pure speech
  • Multipoint technology allows connection to two phones simultaneously
  • Automatic connection and reconnection with notification
  • Different ring-tones for known and unknown contacts
  • Innovative tie clip for attaching to shirt or cuff, when not in use
  • Choice between a stylish, translucent or ergonomic, rubberized metal ear hook
  • Firmware upgrade via USB on your PC
  • Small and lightweight (just 1.5 inches in length and weighs only 0.35 ounces)
  • Up to 5.5 hours of talk time and 200 hours of standby
  • Bluetooth v2.0 with Headset Profile, Hands-Free profile
  • Two-year manufacturer replacement warranty
What's in the Box

Z9i Bluetooth Headset, AC wall adapter, USB cable, earbuds (1 small, 1 large) two earhooks, user manual, quick start guide

The BlueAnt Z9i Dual Microphone Headset is the latest in Bluetooth devices, combining cutting-edge technology with stylish design. Incorporating BlueAnt's revolutionary world class Digital Signal Processing solution - Voice Isolation Technology¿, the Z9i provides outstanding noise suppression, wind noise reduction and echo cancellation in both noisy and windy environments. The BlueAnt Z9i is the follow up to the awardwinning and highly successful Z9 Bluetooth Headset.The device includes additional box contents and enchanced features. Incorporating BlueAnt's revolutionary Digital Signal Processing solution - Voice Isolation Technology, the Z9i provides outstanding noise suppression, echo cancellation and wind noise reduction. The headset's 'Voice Isolation Max' feature further enhances the user experience in extreme noise environments.

Reference Numbers:  Z9i, BA-Z9i-RED, B0018R9EAG, 190 0579


The Skinny:

I ordered this headset to replace a Jabra JX10 which did not survive a trip through the washing machine. I place a premium on lightness and comfort and have been thoroughly spoiled by the insignificant weight of the Jabra. I'm happy to report that the Z9i is even better. To sum up quickly, range is excellent. I can go out to 20+ feet before the signal begins to degrade. The ear loop is comfortable and the very light weight (roughly 1/3 ounce) means that the headset can be worn for hours without distress. Volume is ample, though not as loud as the Jabra, and noise reduction is such that I can speak intelligibly at expressway speeds with all my car windows open. I do not detect much difference in the normal and maximum noise reduction settings, though. I can't really speak to battery life because my headset lives on the charger at night.

For comparison's sake, I borrowed a friend's Aliph Jawbone II for a few days while he used my Z9i. We agreed at the conclusion that there was no significant difference in the performance of the two. The Jawbone is a very fine instrument, too, though it is significantly more expensive and takes a little care to be certain that the movement sensor touches the cheek.

The price is reasonable and I cannot imagine anyone being unhappy with the BlueAnt Z9i.  
 
The Deal:
 
It is best to compare prices when you can. We will not post prices as retails tend to change. However at the time of this post, your best bet is one of the following:
 
Buy the BlueAnt Z9i Bluetooth Headset (Red) from SavvyTronics.com
 
Buy the BlueAnt Z9i Bluetooth Headset (Red) from Amazon.com

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