Cingular Go Phone: Panasonic KX-TCA86 Comfort-fit headset with travel fold design Review

I bought this headset thinking to replace my aging (yet still functional) Plantronics that I've used every day of the week for 5+ years.

Well, I'm still with my old Plantronics, and after using this, I'll probably replace it with a similar model from them!

The good:
1) The ear pad is comfortable and largish, which works for me.I like a headset that feels comfortable against my ear for long periods of time (as in many hours).
2) The price here is a third of what I paid... can't believe I didn't research this, but I fell for the old "if it's expensive, it has to be good" marketing ploy at an Office ***-***** style store.

The bad:
1) The bumped out hard rubber piece that sits on your non-listening ear was both uncomfortable and shaped the opposite of how it will fit your head
2) The "mute" button only works while you hold it in.How does that help me on a 2 hour conference call?My Plantronics has a switch.
3) No Voice volume boost?Come on!
4) The "noise cancelling" is also "voice cancelling" to some degree.I had to increase my volume just to be heard.This was the main reason I ditched it after two days of testing with a newer phone system.It turns out that my Panasonic 2-line 5GHz cordless units also lower the output of my voice, but this thing does too.Going back to my old headset made it more reasonable for others to hear me.I don't have to shout as often (the problem with my new phone system made me question if I was being objectionable about the headset at first)
5) The fold out style of the headband is pretty inflexible and seems sort of pointless.I found that it dug into my head a little.

I've always been one to try new technology, and this looked on par with my original headset.I was (and still am) firmly in the Plantronics camp, but I thought I'd give it a try.Sorry to say that I did.After this, I may never try another brand.(No, Plantronics didn't solicit this review, but they sure could send me some money if they feel like it!) ;-)

Don't buy it.You'll probably return it just like I did.

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Product Description:
Panasonic's KX-TCA86 headset is the simple solution for hands-free phone conversation. The headset works with any telephone that has a standard 2.5 mm mini-jack, and the 4-foot cord gives you a generous amount of room, especially if you're connecting to a cordless handset. The headpiece fits securely around your head with a comfortable molded ear cup and folds down for compact storage. The adjustable noise-canceling microphone boom is reversible, so you can use your preferred side for speaking and listening. Panasonic includes a one-year warranty covering part and service.
What's in the Box
Headset with microphone, cable, user's guide, warranty card