Jørgen Sundgot dons Plantronics' M3000, finding a versatile headset with dual profile support and exceptional reception.
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Moving away from the long, sleek lines of previous models from the manufacturer, Plantronics has opted for a shorter and more compact look in its most recent Bluetooth headset, the M3000. In fact, it shares quite of a resemblance with Nokia's HDW-2 headset, and is more likely than not a result of efforts from the same design team.
 | The Plantronics M3000 uniquely offers a user exchangeable battery
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A silver gray creation, the 30 g M3000 appears rather large when worn, but this is more a result of its physical design than anything else as its actual volume lies in the mid-range of headsets currently on the market. Courtesy of two differently sized and reversible earloops, the headset can be worn comfortably by most users on either ear for short to medium length periods. Unfortunately, this method of attachment renders the headset's fit somewhat loose, negating use whilst jogging or generally everything that involves less-than-calm head movement.
On the bright side, the headset otherwise offers excellent ergonomics with well-placed buttons offering good tactile and audible feedback. It boots quickly, and courtesy of support for both the Headset and Handsfree Bluetooth profiles is compatible with virtually every handset or handsfree kit on the market.
Furthermore, the M3000 is the first headset we've encountered with a user exchangeable battery, which along with its ability to redial the last number dialled through a simple key combination chalk up quite a few bonus points. Additionally, the M3000 is one of few headsets to offer cradle-free charging as the charging jack is embedded in the headset itself, which is a boon for road warriors - and its charger is relatively petite as well.
In use, the M3000 overall offered exceptional reception and clarity, very little static and almost oddly few abruptions. Perhaps its noise cancelling microphone contributed to this, but regardless both caller and recipient voice quality was overall excellent. Battery life was also promising, falling only marginally short of Plantronics' own listings of 8 hours talk time and 200 hours of standby time: we achieved appproximately 7.5 and 190, respectively.
Availability
The Plantronics M3000 is available now throughout North America at an estimated retail price of $149 USD.
Conclusion
There are only two flaws with the Plantronics M3000: its tendency to flap, and its apparently large size. Should these not be issues, the exceptional voice clarity and reception combined with good ergonomics, long battery life, dual profile support and a reasonable price all speak in favour of a handset which is one of the best additions to this particular accessory market of late. The M3000 comes recommended.
- What's positive: Excellent range and reception; dual profile support; user exchangeable battery
- What's negative: Prone to flapping; appears large
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Price and availability
The will start selling for TBA () in December 1969.
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