Well made hands-free speakerphone

A couple of weeks ago I ordered the BlueAnt Supertooth Light speakerphone. This device attaches to the windshield sunshade of your car and permits handsfree communication when using your Bluetooth capable telephone. The device has worked out very well for me so far and I’m pleased that I bought it.

It’s function couldn’t be simpler; on the right side of the device is a spring loaded antenna. When “in” (flush with the side of the device) the Supertooth Light is off. Push on the end of the antenna (which also acts as the mic) and it pops out, turning the device on.

Connecting the device to my Nextel i880 phone was very simple. I just followed the directions on the menu in my cell phone relating to mating Bluetooth devices.

Sound is excellent with the device. In a normal car the sound is clear and speech is easily understood. I also use the device in my Miata convertible where communication with such a handsfree device is not terribly useful. I can still communicate but sound quality is badly affected by wind noise at any speed over 40mph.

You can also “dial” numbers with this device by calling out the name of the person you wish to contact. Pronunciation has to be fairly good in order for this feature to work. I find it makes the connection around 60% of the time. Some of my words are easier for the machine to understand then others. For example, “home” and “work” get through regularly but when I call out “Peg–cell” not so well. Loud enunciation of the word/s is the key I find.

The internal battery of this device is supposed to last a long time. With the antenna out (device is on) the machine is in stand-by mode and has an 800 hour working life between charges. I’ve had the unit for around two weeks now and it shows no sign of losing power yet.

BlueAnt is an Australian company. A newer version of this machine is out, the Supertooth 3. It has some added features, such as announcing the name and number of the person calling and permitting you to respond with OK to accept the call. It’s biggest advantage over the Supertooth Light is the fact that they’ve eliminated the extended antenna. Less moving parts probably should equate to a more reliable piece of equipment.

I chose the white version (it also comes in black) but if I had to do it again I’d probably go for the black. I suspect the black unit would be less noticeable in my line of vision when driving. Not a big deal, just thought I’d mention it.

I’m very pleased with this device and would highly recommend it (or its newer version) should you require a handsfree speakerphone for your auto.