[Shubz]

Originally Posted by SS-Traveller

Hey Shubz, this thread started off as a review of one product, but the scope of the thread has now been expanded to include all car kits that anyone is interested to post a review of. Would suggest moderators add a link to every review in the first post itself. So let's have a more detailed review of both your Nokia & Plantronics.

Thanks sir. Here goes

Nokia:

Pros: Quite sleek. Gives a robust look. Good battery back up. Charges very quickly. Good voice quality. Other party is able to hear clearly. (all this in normal conditions). VFM (reasonably priced - ~ 2000 INR

Cons: Hard to hear when traffic noise is too much. No Noise cancelling. If window is rolled down, lot of outside noise is "amplified" and this is the best way to make the other person hang up on you.

Plantronics:

Pros: Snug fit over the ear. Choice of ear buds to suit different ear shapes. Noise cancelling. People can hear very well even when the window is rolled down. You get 1 year of Vocalyst free which can read (whisper) out your messages/emails/news etc into your ear. Awesome call clarify. Voice commands to answer/reject calls.

Cons: May be a little inconvenient to have the unit dangling from your ear all the time - but trust me - it is not hard on the ear.
Just 7 hours of standby time. Expensive ~5k

[n_aditya]

Originally Posted by Shubz

Thanks sir. Here goes

Do post pics of the unit to go along with the review as well.

[shankar.balan]

The Blaupunkt Drive Free 211 and 311 are nice products. I ve got one of those - the one without the ear piece.
It works very well in the vehicle and the quality of sound is good too.
The cost was about Rs 4160/-

[funkyp]

Ay views on Samsung BHF1000 or Nokia HF210 Bluetooth speakers? For the price they seem great value for money. It's missing auto on/off on car stop and voice answer but for the price can't expect much more.

The heart is set on jabra tour, but at 6k it seems way too expensive.

[n_aditya]

Running a little late on my review of the Parrot Car Kit Minikit +

Here is the official product page.

I ordered mine from Flipkart which was on sale for Rs. 6854/-.

I placed my order on 6th March and received the package on 8th March. Flat 2 days as promised by Flipkart.

Here are the pics:

Prior to unpacking:





The rear of the package has details of the company providing support. I hope i never need any.



The contents of the package. From left to right:

Elastic strap that is slipped onto the sun visor in the car, charging cable - works via the usb port on a laptop, the bluetooth handsfree unit, the car charger unit. The charging cable slots into the car charger via the cigar lighter.

The device can be charged via the cigar lighter in the car or from the usb port of a laptop / PC.



The product:



The clip that attaches onto the small pocket built into the strap. The device remains in place securely without any movements even on bad roads.



It takes around 3 - 3.5 hours for the device to charge completely. The device has a red led indicator which glows when charging and the led goes off when the device has fully charged.

The packaging contains the manual for configuring and using the device. You can download the quick start guide or the instruction manual via the internet (product site mentioned above).

When the unit is switched on or off, it produces an aural note indicating the same. This sound is similar to a percussion instrument. A desi touch maybe

With bluetooth activated on my cellphone, all i had to do was enter the default code to pair the minikit device upon discovery.

I was initially confused on how to store the contacts in the device and was cracking my head but realized in a few moments that the unit automatically synchronizes the phone's contacts.

To make a call, one has to press the green button and say the name and the device repeats the same and places the call if the said name is heard correctly.

If multiple nos. are stored in the phone, the device asks for options such as mobile? home? office? etc. and all you have to do is respond saying mobile or whatever the option you want to call. The unit affirms the same by repeating the name and option (mobile, home, etc.) and places the call.

It is quick and very easy to make calls. Pronouncing some names is an issue but using an accent as close as possible to UK English gets you through.

Let me cite an example.

I have a colleague by the name Devdutt and the device failed to recognize the name and kept asking if i wanted to call other people who's names sounded entirely different (and i had to say no). I finally said Dev doot (like in boot) and it got the name right.

Answering calls is a breeze as well. When there is an incoming call, the device states the name and asks if you want to accept or reject. Saying accept answers the call and saying reject, sends a busy tone/rejects the call.

The device also relays music and GPS navigation instructions from the phone using A2DP profile.

You can also use many options such as browsing the phone book, setting the volume, activating dual mode (for 2 phones), software update, etc. by pressing the button on the jog wheel (center) and turning the jog wheel for the required option.

Holding down the green button will redial the last no. Pressing the green button while on call transfers the call to the handset and back to the unit upon pressing the green button again. The red button disconnects an active call or goes back to the previous menu when the device is not on call and when the menu options are activated.

The device automatically returns from sleep mode when the doors are opened and closed (motion / vibration sensors) and connects to the mobile phone automatically.

Overall, the product is very easy to use and offers excellent clarity in sound output. Noise cancellation makes for an easy hassle free conversation. Despite having a conversation in thick city traffic nobody complained of any background or traffic noise.

The battery has lasted me 2 weeks with quite a bit of usage, which is pretty good.

When the battery is running low, the device beeps every few seconds. There is a voice instruction as well saying charge battery, before the device battery finally dies.

Below specs are from the Parrot website:

Telephony

• Green button: answer, call a contact from the phonebook, start voice recognition, confirm, dual call, private mode
• Red button: hang up, switch on/off, exit the menus, cancel
• Rotary button: access the menus, adjust the volume, send DTMF signals

Interface

• 3 buttons, including 1 rotary button
• 2 LEDs: green LED and red LED

Audio

• Full duplex
• Built-in omnidirectional microphone
• Audio output via the vibrating panel
• Advanced Parrot NR3 noise reduction
• APA echo cancellation
• Voice menus for all menus
• Multi-speaker voice recognition
• Text To Speech: speech synthesis of the names in the phonebook

General

• Dual Mode (Multipoint): simultaneous connection of two Bluetooth telephones
• Number of contacts: 2 000 per phone total of 20 000
• Language: one language per version
• Pairing: up to ten devices
• Battery: lithium-ion, maximum charging time of 3.5 hours
• Battery life: over 12 hours’ talk time over 6 month on Ultra Low Power Mode
• Automatic connection by pairing order

Bluetooth

• Bluetooth v2.0 + EDR
• Profiles supported:
  • HFP (Hands Free Profile)
  • OPP (Object Push Profile)
  • PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile)
  • A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile)
• Other profiles : SyncML, Synchro AT,
  • Synchro NokiaRange: 10 metres
  • Pairing: by PIN code (0 0 0 0)
  • Updates via USB port

Dimensions

• Length: 110 mm / 4.33 in
• Width: 60 mm / 2.36 in
• Thickness: 29 mm / 1.14 in
• Weight: 83 g / 2.93 oz

Processor

• Parrot P6i @ 416 MHz
• Flash = 1 Gbits
• RAM = 128 Mbits

Product package contents

• 1 Parrot MINIKIT+
• 1 USB/mini USB cable
• 1 12 V accessory socket charger – USB
• 1 Elastic strap
• 1 Quickstart guide

Verdict:

+ Small, compact and extremely lightweight
+ Superb clarity
+ Easy to use

- Some names are not recognized. But magic words can be "taught" to the device
- Service center / support address is listed in Delhi. No idea of the quality of after sales support. No information of support centers in other parts of the country, either.

Overall, I would highly recommended this product. It is very easy to use, is small and barely noticeable in the sun visor unless you are seated inside the car.

And yeah, in case someone wants to know, the voice is that of a lady with a UK accent (device is built in with UK English as default).

[n_aditya]

Here is how the Parrot Minikit+ looks when it is mounted on the sun visor via the elastic strap.

[phamilyman]

Originally Posted by shankar.balan

The Blaupunkt Drive Free 211 and 311 are nice products. I ve got one of those - the one without the ear piece.
It works very well in the vehicle and the quality of sound is good too.
The cost was about Rs 4160/-

Originally Posted by n_aditya

Running a little late on my review of the Parrot Car Kit Minikit +

Here is the official product page.

I ordered mine from Flipkart which was on sale for Rs. 6854/-.

btw, I am in the same boat now. Did you all know that these products are now MGA, and thus CHEAPER in showroom than on Flipkart?
The parrot MK+ is available for 6k.
The MGA blaupunkt BT Free drive series are available at MRPs cheaper than flipkart's advertised prices!!!

Has anyone used the Blaupunkt BTFree drive 112? Its the entry level model for 2k and does almost everything. I don't want to buy the 411 for 2800 since I think it may be a problem in a crash. I dont want the 211 that comes with a built in regular bluetooth earpiece, nor the 311 which has a lovely display.

Would you all recommend the Blaupunkt BTFree drive 112? Has anyone ever used it to take conference calls at work? I am looking for this secondary use too!!

thx in advance.

[phamilyman]

Originally Posted by funkyp

Ay views on Samsung BHF1000 or Nokia HF210 Bluetooth speakers? For the price they seem great value for money. It's missing auto on/off on car stop and voice answer but for the price can't expect much more.

The heart is set on jabra tour, but at 6k it seems way too expensive.

Originally Posted by shankar.balan

The Blaupunkt Drive Free 211 and 311 are nice products. I ve got one of those - the one without the ear piece.
It works very well in the vehicle and the quality of sound is good too.
The cost was about Rs 4160/-

Curious - I have not heard from anyone since then. Any feedback/advice , folks?

Originally Posted by phamilyman

btw, I am in the same boat now. Did you all know that these products are now MGA, and thus CHEAPER in showroom than on Flipkart?
The parrot MK+ is available for 6k.
The MGA blaupunkt BT Free drive series are available at MRPs cheaper than flipkart's advertised prices!!!

Has anyone used the Blaupunkt BTFree drive 112? Its the entry level model for 2k and does almost everything. I don't want to buy the 411 for 2800 since I think it may be a problem in a crash. I dont want the 211 that comes with a built in regular bluetooth earpiece, nor the 311 which has a lovely display.

Would you all recommend the Blaupunkt BTFree drive 112? Has anyone ever used it to take conference calls at work? I am looking for this secondary use too!!

thx in advance.

[Babuda]

The MGA blaupunkt BT Free drive series are available at MRPs cheaper than flipkart's advertised prices!!!

I use an MGA Bluetooth Hands Free Kit in both my Marutis - Ertiga & A Star. It connects via a cable to a socket at the rear of the stock HU, so there's no need for a separate charger. However, it's pretty basic though. There's a button which allows you to power off/on and to pair with your phone or any other B/T device. There are two LED's - Red and Blue. Red = Off, Blue flashing = On and when you press down on the power button for a couple of seconds, the red and blue LED's flash intermittently = pairing mode. Once paired, the blue light resumes flashing and the word 'TEL' is displayed on the HU. No need to pair again after disconnection. If the phone B/T is switched on, it connects automatically. Short push on the power button enables you to receive a call while a longer push rejects the call. Music streams easily from my Lumia 820 to the speakers via Bluetooth through the HU. The downside - music plays only through the front speakers! Quality is acceptable though. Price - Rs. 2,900/- Your call.

[phamilyman]

Originally Posted by Babuda

I use an MGA Bluetooth Hands Free Kit in both my Marutis - Ertiga & A Star. It connects via a cable to a socket at the rear of the stock HU, so there's no need for a separate charger. However, it's pretty basic though. There's a button which allows you to power off/on and to pair with your phone or any other B/T device. There are two LED's - Red and Blue. Red = Off, Blue flashing = On and when you press down on the power button for a couple of seconds, the red and blue LED's flash intermittently = pairing mode. Once paired, the blue light resumes flashing and the word 'TEL' is displayed on the HU. No need to pair again after disconnection. If the phone B/T is switched on, it connects automatically. Short push on the power button enables you to receive a call while a longer push rejects the call. Music streams easily from my Lumia 820 to the speakers via Bluetooth through the HU. The downside - music plays only through the front speakers! Quality is acceptable though. Price - Rs. 2,900/- Your call.

How is the noise cancellation?
- with other passengers speaking?
- with windows down / wind?
- with lots of traffic honking behind you?

Thanks for the feedback. Seems you have blaupunkt 411

[Babuda]

Originally Posted by phamilyman

How is the noise cancellation?
- with other passengers speaking?
- with windows down / wind?
- with lots of traffic honking behind you?

Thanks for the feedback. Seems you have blaupunkt 411

Reception is clear and so is transmission (from the feedback I've received) but of course with the windows rolled up. There's not much of an opportunity of driving with the windows down as it's hot and muggy for almost ten months of the year :( I would rate it as average.

[phamilyman]

Originally Posted by Babuda

Reception is clear and so is transmission (from the feedback I've received) but of course with the windows rolled up. There's not much of an opportunity of driving with the windows down as it's hot and muggy for almost ten months of the year :( I would rate it as average.

Thanks - may I request if you could try the sound quality sometime with the windows down or with co-passengers? Apologies for the request - but I want to understand how the noise is while in traffic, or while driving my two year old (who is almost always saying something or the other!)

PS: Writing here, and not PMing since u are still in moderation.

[Babuda]

Originally Posted by phamilyman

Thanks - may I request if you could try the sound quality sometime with the windows down or with co-passengers? Apologies for the request - but I want to understand how the noise is while in traffic, or while driving my two year old (who is almost always saying something or the other!)

PS: Writing here, and not PMing since u are still in moderation.

No problems at all - will try what you requested and get back to you on this thread ASAP.

[Babuda]

phamilyman;3239014]Thanks - may I request if you could try the sound quality sometime with the windows down or with co-passengers? Apologies for the request - but I want to understand how the noise is while in traffic, or while driving my two year old (who is almost always saying something or the other!)

PS: Writing here, and not PMing since u are still in moderation.

Tried it out last week. I was stuck in traffic on the way back home from office and was perilously low on diesel, so I rolled the windows down and switched off the engine. It was then that I remembered your request and so made a call home. It was madness outside, peak rush hour with horns blaring, music blasting from the auto next to me, etc. etc. - in fact the perfect setting for the test.

The recipient could hear me clearly, albeit there was some background noise transmitted. It was I who had difficulty in hearing through the car speakers with the cacophony around.

[raj_5004]

I picked a Jabra tour some days back. I bought it from Amazon and it cost me Rs. 5000/-. More details over here -

http://www.jabra.com/products/speake...our/jabra_tour




Reason for choosing the Tour over the competition:

• Jabra Freeway offered one extra feature which is an FM transmitter. I did not really care about transferring the sound to my car's speakers since I will be listening to music from my USB and wont really be switching to FM every time I get a call. Secondly, I wont be using this to stream music to the car's speakers as it will drain my phone;s battery and the quality will be nothing great. Plus the Freeway costed about Rs. 1000-1500/- more.
• Jabra drive was cheaper but it did not have motion sensors, so it wont switch on/off automatically every time you enter/leave the car.
• I read poor reviews about Blaupunkt's kits, so I avoided them.
• I was very close to buying the Plantronics K100, but that again did not have a motion sensor. I think a B/T kit should work seamlessly without making you aware about it. No point if you have to manually switch it on/off every time, since I would avoid doing that eventually and stop using the device altogether!
• Parrot Minikit+ was another great device but it offered nothing great above the Jabra Tour and still costed about Rs. 1000/- more. Also, it was too big compared to the Tour and also I did not like the way it fitted to the visor in the car, with the help of an ugly elastic band.

Initial impressions of the Jabra tour:

• It is a very well built device and oozes quality.
• Initial pairing is very easy and it copies all your contacts quickly.
• Whenever you get a call, the caller name (if stored in your phonebook) is mentioned loud and clear.
• It has voice recognitions, which means when you are getting a call, all you need to do is say 'Accept' or 'Ignore'. Of course, the physical buttons are present, just in case.
• Voice recognition also helps is other voice commands like 'Redial', 'Battery', etc. But the device does not accept Indian accent very well. Luckily, it understand 'Accept' and 'Ignore' easily!
• There is a voice command shortcut button which helps Apple users use Siri and Android users use Google Now remotely.
• Speaker quality is great and all calls can be heard loudly without distortion.
• Mic is also good and users on the other end of the call can hear me comfortably without any issues like echo or muffed sound, etc.