http://www.jabra.com/Sites/Jabra/na-us/Headsets/Pages/JabraHALO.aspx?productfamilytab=Overview

Released: August 2009

Prices: From $60 new

Specs: Rechargeable battery with Micro-USB charging option from AC power supply, PC via USB cable or car charger (not included)

 Colored LED-lights for Bluetooth status and battery indicator

 Size Unfolded: H 165mm - 190mm x W 136mm x D 45mm

 Size Folded: H 78mm x W 132mm x D 45mm

Weight: 80 grams

Operating range up to 10 meters (approximately 33 feet)

 

Strengths: 8 hour call or music time, folding compact design, noise blackout on calls, Digital sound enhancement via DSP technology, multiuse 2 devices, Track changes (next or previous track) on touch control (AVRCP),  A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for streaming music, auto volume control on received calls, Qualified for Bluetooth Specification version 2.0 + EDR (enhanced data rate), supporting Headset and Hands-free Profiles for phone, conversations and Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) for streaming music - e-SCO for enhanced audio quality- 128-bit encryption.

 

Weaknesses: Noise blackout doesnÕt work so well in noisy areas, skipping and scratchy sounds when paired with iTunes, design prohibits snug secure fit. Track, skip and volume controls are difficult to control.

 

Introduction

 

The Jabra HALO wireless headset is aiming to fill a much needed void in the stereo bluetooth and noise canceling headphone arena. Being able to listen to your music privately and answer your calls without having to switch devices is a great idea, but as always, there is room for improvement. The HALO folds neatly down for storage which fits neatly into a bag or coat pocket, closing the set turns it off and of course opening it up turns it on.  There are two lights on the inside one for battery which glows blue when you have charge and red when you need to plug it up.  The second light is the wireless light, solid light indicates ready for pair and blinking light is in use. Hold down the on off button on the outside to pair up, once youÕre on the first one you can tap for a link to another device, i.e. cell phone. I personally had some issues with pairing, while it could be me I found other reviewers out there also had pairing issues with Windows and Mac.  While I was always able to get it connected it took a little more effort then I would have liked. The other and most troubling issue I experienced was the crackle and cut out that seemed to happen quite often while I was at home. Strangely that didnÕt start happening until I did a distance test.  I walk about 15 feet away from my computer while listening to music, after the first cut out, which I attributed to the distance, it continued on even after turning them off and on.  The last issue I have with these is the hinge, it is all plastic. Because you have to turn it on and off by opening and closing these hinges are in constant use thus I am sure destined to crack.  But I will admit I carried these on two road trips to the beach, let my 20 and 12 year old kids use them and they still work.

 

Recommendation

 

If youÕre a light music listener, arenÕt planning on running with them then yes, buy them.  They are well worth the mulah. BUT and itÕs a pretty big but, when your shelling out over $100 on a headset, if youÕre hard on your gear, get around with music or are looking for noise canceling....hold out and save up for something a little more sturdy.