Via Techtree.com

 

A few years ago Bluetooth headsets were rare and expensive accessories and so were the phones supporting this feature. But now with easy availability of the Bluetooth feature in the mid level phones and some entry level phones as well, many are looking for a Bluetooth wireless handsfree over the conventional corded ones. Of many available options from popular brand Jabra, the BT 330 is an entry level set for those looking for a basic, functional Bluetooth handsfree that cuts the cord and the cost as well.

The Jabra BT 330 is an over-the-ear Bluetooth headset. It appears to be a bit bulky on the ear, but it weighs not more than 17 grams, which makes it comfortable and light enough to be worn for hours on end. The Jabra BT 330 comes with a flexible ear-hook which makes it possible to be worn over either ear. Volume controls and the answer/end (a dual function button) are made available at your fingertip. The sculptured shape of this headset directs sound into your ear for excellent reception.


Getting started with this device was few easy and basic steps. It followed the same conventional method for pairing it up with any Bluetooth enabled cell phone. However, the process comes neatly explained in the user manual provided. We paired this device with a Sony Ericsson P910i and put it into test for its range and performance. On first use, it asked for a password for pairing it up before being functional, which is “0000″ as specified in the manual. The functional range of this headset away from the phone is specified up till 10 meters, which according to our test results turned out to be half a meter more than the range we tested, and beyond this limit, the quality started deteriorating and loss in signal was apparent. However, within the specified range, the sound clarity was very good and the volume was sufficient, making the sound easily audible. The BT 330 also features a 6mm omni-directional microphone, which provides swifter and clearer voice transmission.

Unlike the earlier model i.e. BT 110 which worked on an AAA battery, the BT 330 comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium polymer battery, which provides 7 hours of talk-time and standby time of up to 200 hours. The low battery status is indicated by a flash every 5 seconds and 5 tones every second and the standard re-charge time for this is 2 hours. The Jabra BT 330 is compatible with most Bluetooth phones that are compliant with Bluetooth version 1.1 or 1.2. Besides the above mentioned features, the BT 330 also sports a few special features such as, voice activated dialing, reject incoming call, call waiting and last number redial.

The Jabra BT 330 is a smart looking hands-free alternative with excellent sound quality paired with an affordable price of Rs. 3,300. The handsfree set comes with a 1-year replacement guarantee, which makes it a more attractive buy over gray market pieces. An excellent option for the entry level Bluetooth handsfree buyer.