Sound ID Bluetooth headsets with adaptive sound
updated 09:20 am EDT, Mon October 16, 2006
Sound ID Bluetooth Headset
Sound ID announced on Monday two new wireless headsets that it says help with the common problems of phone conversations. The flagship SoundFlavors is a combination headset and external microphone that includes an adaptive sound system that can focus on the caller's voice while blocking out wind and other ambient noise which is often caught by regular earpieces. While adaptive technology has existed in the past, what makes Sound ID's system different is the ability to prioritize it through different modes: a Phone Mode exists for the most common uses, but an Amplification Mode can deliberately bias the audio towards background sounds and a CompanionLink Mode shifts attention to the external microphone for interviews. A One2One Mode is also available for two owners of Sound ID's headsets that takes advantage of their noise isolation. The SoundFlavors system includes a charging cradle and ships now for $699.
For those who only need the technology in a simple headset, the SoundMate (pictured) supports all but the Amplification Mode (which requires a microphone placed away from the main source) and is also shipping now for $250.
