A headset is a useful addition to a modern smartphone. This compact device, consisting of headphones and a microphone, allows you not only to talk on the phone without using your hands, but also to listen to music in excellent quality.

Pairing a smartphone and a headset is carried out via a wireless bluetooth connection, and the device is controlled both from the smartphone itself and using the buttons on the headset.

However, not everyone knows that a headset is capable of more than just transmitting sound.

There are special headset button control apps, with which you can teach the device to execute many other useful commands. We will tell you how to “pump” a popular accessory in this review.

In most cases, on Android headset has only one button, but it can also be configured to perform different actions when pressed.

The fastest and easiest way to do this is through the simple and straightforward SmartKey application, which can be downloaded without any problems. Google play, and which works perfectly on all modern models of Android smartphones without the need for access to account the main administrator.

After installing the SmartKey application, several options for pressing the headset button will be available in the settings for the user's choice.

In this case, there are three types of pressing: single, double and triple.

The reaction to pressing a key is configured taking into account the current state of the smartphone - the application takes into account whether the player is on, whether there is an incoming call or the smartphone is simply in standby mode.

Button on Android headset using the SmartKey application it is very easy to configure:

1. Install and run the application;
2. We set the settings for the "Music" function, ie what actions will be taken when the headset button is pressed while the standard music player is running. To do this, you need to turn on the selected mode by switching the slider to the "ON" mode. We assign an action for a single press by choosing any of the suggested ones: play / pause, next track, previous track, volume up, volume down, voice command. In the same way, we assign actions for double and 3-time pressing;
3. We set the settings for the "Call" function, ie what actions the smartphone will perform when you press the headset button during an incoming call. In this item, the following actions are available for single, double and triple presses: answer / end a call, reject an incoming call, turn on / off the microphone, turn up the volume and turn down the volume.
4. We set the settings for the "Standby mode" when the headset is connected. For each of the three types of pressing, the following actions are available: repeat (call) the last number, increase the volume, decrease the volume, turn on a voice command, start a voice search.

It is enough to set the appropriate settings and close the application to save them.

VIDEO INSTRUCTION

Customizing the buttons on the iphone headset

Most users of Apple devices actively use the standard EarPods headset, which is equipped with three keys - volume up, volume down and a central microswitch. But not everyone knows that with their help you can send a lot of commands to your smartphone without taking the phone out of your pocket.

There is no need to make any additional settings, just remember the following commands:

• Turn on music / pause - single press on the center button
• Switching the track forward - quick double pressing of the central button;
• Switching the track back - quick triple press;
• Fast forward the song - short + long press (with a delay);
• Rewind the song back - two short + long press (with a delay);
• Answering a call - a single press on the center button of the headset;
• Rejecting an incoming call - long press;
• Taking photos / recording videos (works in the mode of the camera on) - pressing the volume up button;

Use the cloud-based Siri personal assistant - press and hold the center button.

Autumn 2017 Apple introduced the regular AirPods wireless headset, which is 2 separate earbuds.

The wireless headset is compatible with any Apple devices working on the basis operating system iOS 10 and up. AirPods let you listen to music, call phone numbers, use Siri assistant, and more.

Before using AirPods, you need to set up.

For this:

1. Open the headphone charging case, go to the "Settings" section on the iPhone, select the "Bluetooth on iOS device», Then - AirPods in the proposed list of devices;
2. Give a name to AirPods and click Done;
3. Select the left earphone on the screen, set the command for it to be performed by the smartphone when you double-tap the earphone. This can be the launch of the Siri assistant, play / pause audio recording, switch the track forward and backward;
4. Select the right AirPods, set the command to be performed by the smartphone when you double-tap the earphone.

Use Siri to control the contents of your music player, change the volume on your device, or perform other action.

The same assistant will notify the user of an incoming call while listening to music.

To answer a call, simply double-tap the earpiece. The same action must be repeated after the end of the call or to switch to another call.

VIDEO REVIEW

What should I do if the button on the headset does not work?

Very often, owners of iPhones and Android smartphones, having bought a new headset, face an unexpected problem - the smartphone refuses to respond to pressing a button, while the headphones themselves regularly play music.

There may be several reasons for this "pathology", here are the most common:

1. The plug may not be fully inserted - try to push it harder so that it enters all the way;
2. The pinout of the plug does not match (different wiring standards). The fact is that a 3.5 mm mini-jack has four contacts, but the control signals can be wired of two types - OMTP and CTIA. You can eliminate the problem of incompatibility of devices by purchasing an adapter adapter OMTP-CTIA.

Wireless headphones are a convenient, practical and compact audio transmission device that works wirelessly (hence the name). But why does one headset require a wired connection, while the other can work from a distance, and what are its advantages and disadvantages? All the answers about how to use wireless headphones in the article below.

What is Bluetoth and how does it work?

It is Bluetooth that allows wireless headphones to work without the use of ever-torn wires. This is a technology based on the transfer of data between devices by exchanging information using radio waves.

"Bluetooth" is a patented radio frequency standard over 20 years ago, named after the King of Denmark who ruled in the 900's. This is a spectrum of frequencies that other radios do not use - the 2.400 to 2.4835 GHz band. In addition, it is a set of rules in the form of a protocol that normalizes the interaction of devices connected to each other.

Bluetooth appeared in response to the technology of data transmission via infrared that was popular at that time; the disadvantage of the transmission method was the high requirements for transmitters - they had to be placed in line of sight to the receivers and on short distance from them. "Bluetooth" can work even through a wall and any surface that is capable of transmitting a radio signal.

Wireless technology functions due to special piconets. There is an active and passive device. The first connects to the second and transfers information in the form of bits. In this case, the transmission speed can reach up to 3 Mbit per second. Since Bluetooth uses low-power waves, data transmission does not drain the device's battery at all and uses a minimum of charge.

Bluetooth range. How far can wireless headphones work from a signal source?

The key problem with this technology is the presence of many devices equipped with radio modules. This can cause interference when other equipment is accidentally connected to the transmitter. But the developers of Bluetooth have done everything possible to prevent the existence of such a problem - as much as possible reduced the range of "Bluetooth" and activated frequency hopping.

As a result, you will not be able to listen to music through the wireless earbud if it is more than 10 meters away. And so that a foreign device does not accidentally interfere with your data transmission channel, the transmitter changes its frequency every second. Even if the frequencies coincide, it will be a short-term disconnection that you will not have time to notice.

How to pair devices via Bluetooth?

Not all electronics are equipped with this technology, and if the device has Bluetooth, it is not a fact that it is suitable for connecting with headphones. The developers of this method of data transmission, in order to avoid interference, made it so that each device has its own set of protocols with which they can work.

The easiest way to connect devices is when both of them have Bluetooth. Then it is enough to activate this function in both devices and connect through the active gadget to the passive one for data transmission. If Bluetooth is absent in the device, then you can connect a special adapter that will act as a removable radio module.

Along with wireless headphones, sometimes an adapter and a receiver are included. In this case, you only need to connect the transmitter to the equipment that transmits sound, and insert the receiver into the headphones. True, this is not true for any equipment, and depending on the configuration of the adapter, you can connect it to a USB connector, or to an audio output, for example, of a music center.

What are the profiles of wireless headphones?

How to use wireless bluetooth headphones and get the best sound quality? Not all wireless headphones work equally well. This is because they use different codecs and profiles in their work. That is, they are based on different technologies, even though they work using the same networks. There are 3 main profiles with which headphones function:

1. Headset Profile - the most basic profile that was created to transmit sound in two directions: so that you can listen to music and. But the attempt was not entirely successful - the quality of the transmitted sound is very low - at best it is 64 Kb / s.
2. The Handsfree Profile is a more advanced profile, much like its predecessor. Its sound quality is better, but listening to music still won't work. But for conversations through headphones Handsfree Profile is very suitable.
3. Advanced Audio Distribution Profile is the best profile for connecting headphones with other devices. Although it compresses the sound (and it will not work in another way, because the Bluetooth technology is very limited), the sound quality remains approximately the same as if you were listening to music through wired headphones.

There is a so-called Bluetooth Profile, which describes the functionality of this wireless communication... In particular, the A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) determines how well the sound will be transmitted (mono or stereo) when using Bluetooth.

In turn, A2DP supports several codecs with which the original digital audio signal is encrypted for transmission over Bluetooth. All Bluetooth enabled devices support so called basic codecs (SBC), but they can also support additional codecs such as Apt-X, AAC, MP3, etc. They provide better sound quality than SBC, and Apt-X is the most advanced audio codec available today.

The core SBC codec uses the restriction frequency range of the transmitted signal with a sharp drop in frequency response above 14 kHz, so it is not suitable for high-quality listening to music. MP3 and AAC codecs are built on the basis of unprofitable “intelligent” data compression with loss of information, due to which the sound quality also deteriorates.

The Apt-X codec uses ADPCM audio processing technology, which is a lossless data compression with support for 16 and 24-bit processing and a dynamic range of up to 120 dB. In fact, the differences between it and the MP3 / AAC codecs are the same as between MP3 / WMA and FLAC / WAV compressed audio files. At the same time, the Apt-X codec can transmit audio encoded in MP3 and AAC without additional processing, without degrading its quality.

How do I connect wireless headphones to my phone, computer or tablet?

As a rule, the set with the purchased headphones has detailed instructions... If it was not at hand, then you will have to do the following:

1. Set up Bluetooth on the transmitting device.
2. Connect to headphones.
3. Start audio transmission.

It is very easy to set up Bluetooth in your phone. It is enough to go to the settings and turn on wireless network Bluetooth. Next is activated automatic search available devices. Check that the headphones are turned on (usually they are equipped with lights or indicators to quickly verify that the network is working). To turn on the headphones, find a special button on their case. When connecting, you will be prompted for a password - enter "0000" or look for another PIN on the headphone manufacturer's box.

It will be more difficult to connect to headphones through a computer, since stationary PCs do not have a radio module. You will have to buy a separate Bluetooth adapter. Connect it through the USB hole, insert the driver disc, and then through the "Toolbox" to " Network adapters»Find your wireless network and activate it. To pair with headphones, you will need to download special program... For each headphone it has its own, so ask about this in the instructions or call the manufacturer.

Wireless headphones are connected to a tablet in the same way as to a smartphone. Please note that the first time you connect, the device will be found in the search, but after connecting it will disappear, since synchronization will take place automatically.

How can I improve the sound quality of my wireless headphones?

To keep the sound from cutting your ears, you need to get the best possible audio fidelity through your headphones. To do this, use the Advanced Audio Distribution profile. To configure it, you need to install the appropriate drivers - you can try to install Bluesoleil different versions, just keep in mind that they will work differently.

If you turn on the headset on the computer, do not let the headphones initiate the connection, otherwise they will do everything their own way. Make sure that the sound is not spoiled by neighboring devices operating at a similar frequency. For example, it can be a router (Wi-Fi can occupy one or more of 79 Bluetooth channels). Also, do not place the transmitter and receiver behind thick walls - this will shorten the Bluetooth range.

And be careful not to use the headphones for too long, especially with mono devices. If you use the mono earpiece on one ear every day, your hearing will deteriorate over time. Monitor the volume level of the transmitter so that the sharp grinding or interruption of the radio frequency does not deafen you or deafen you!

What to do if the device does not see the Bluetooth headset?

The reason may be as follows:

1. the battery of the headphones has run out;
2. you have not turned on device sync;
3. did not turn on the headphones.

Sometimes the phone has automatic synchronization disabled, so you have to manually connect to the headphones every time. In a computer, you already have to do this - every time you connect to the headset through a special program. Make sure that the headphones are working, and only then dive into the transmitter settings.

If you find that a traditional wired laptop headset only annoys you by tangling and tying it to your workplace, consider the modern version of computer accessories - wireless headphones. Why do many computer and laptop users choose a wireless headset?

Wired headset - is it worth changing to wireless

Wired headphones were the first to hit the computer accessories market. Today their assortment is represented by hundreds of models designed for users with different interests. However, there comes a time when it is no longer possible to resist the decision to purchase a wireless headset. This happens for several reasons.

First of all, the constantly tangled wires are annoying. This secret has not yet been solved - no matter how you try to fold the headset neatly, the wires will inevitably get tangled in a ball. The second reason to change traditional headphones is to restrict freedom. Putting on a wired headset, you tie yourself to the workplace. There is also a possibility that the audio output on the laptop will fail.... Not only will you have to spend money on fixing the equipment, but you also need to give up the headphones.

If you find it difficult to make a decision and do not know whether to change wired headphones to a wireless headset, listen to the recommendations of experts. If you often use your laptop for communication, make audio and video calls, and plan to talk a lot on mobile device, choose a wireless headset. If for you the main selection criterion is sound quality, choose wired headphones.

Wireless headset - let's understand the details

When choosing an accessory, you need to understand all the nuances in order to choose the best option from the whole variety of presented models.

Communication types

1. Radio headphones.

it the best choice for home use. The declared transmission range of the signal is 100 meters. However, we are talking about data transmission in open areas, while the sound quality deteriorates with each additional meter.

It is important! The quality of the signal is affected by household appliances, they create interference that distorts it.

2. IR Headphones.

In this case, the signal is transmitted via infrared port... If the headphones are in contact with the transmitter, the signal quality is unaffected by interference (house walls) and electromagnetic radiation.

It is important! Among all kinds of wireless earbuds, IR headset is the cheapest.

3. Bluetooth headphones.

The compromise model is the signal transmission radius of only 10 meters, but the headphones are not susceptible to radio interference and other physical obstacles.

It is important! The main advantage of the headset is that it is compatible with different devices... These headphones are suitable for a computer, player, tablet and smartphone.

How to make sense of the huge assortment

First you need to determine what exactly you plan to use the headset for. If you require the maximum distance between the headphones and the transmitter, choose radio headphones. For music lovers, a model with a signal transmission via Bluetooth or infrared is more suitable.

1. Headsets for communication.

Headphones are required to work with different programs - Skype and IP-telephony. All types of wireless headphones cope with this task, they differ in a set of additional functions.

Bluetooth headset allows you to:

• receive incoming calls while in the next room;
• receive calls from a mobile phone.

The headset is connected to a laptop via a USB-Bluetooth adapter. The kit includes a special software to sync headphones with laptop and phone.

Connects to a laptop using a DECT-USB adapter. To synchronize with a computer and a phone, you need special software, sold with the headset. In addition to managing calls in Skype and softphones, you can use headphones to receive calls over the Internet and even from a landline phone.

Such a model is the best choice for the head of the company, manager or specialist who works remotely.

3. Wireless headphones for music.

The main difference between such a headset and other models is the presence of buttons for remote control:

• Play;
• Pause.

As a rule, these functions can only be used with the most popular players.

A USB adapter is required to connect headphones. A special technology is used to transmit sound, rather than traditional Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. In such models, large headphones are usually closed type.

It is important! Headphones can be used to communicate in different programs, but it will not work to receive calls remotely.

Arguments for a wireless headset

All owners of computers and laptops are probably familiar with classic wired headphones. The main drawback of the headset is the wire, which constantly gets tangled and restricts movement. Fortunately, modern technology is constantly evolving and wireless headphones have replaced the wired headset. This is the most modern and comfortable to use option, first of all, for communication on the Internet.

The benefits of a wireless headset are clear.

1. Lack of wires.

Just imagine, there are no ever tangled wires around you and on the table, you don't need to connect a cable to a laptop or computer and worry about a possible breakdown of the audio jack.

2. Freedom of movement.

In the case of a wired headset, in order to move away from the workplace, you will need to adjust the length of the wire - pull it up, twist it again. Now even the longest telephone conversations will be comfortable, you can go to the kitchen, make tea and continue doing your usual things.

3. The probability of missing a call is excluded.

If staying connected is important to you, a wireless headset is the perfect solution. You can be anywhere to answer a call, just press one button. This is a useful feature for those who work from home.

Thus, wireless headphones make life much easier for a computer and laptop user. The main target audience is users for whom communication on the Internet is a part of their work and a means of earning money.

It is important! Wireless headphones are often purchased for sports. They are less susceptible to breakdowns, very rarely fail.

Does a wireless headset have disadvantages

1. Typically, wireless headphones are heavy because they have a built-in battery.
2. Expensive enough.
3. The main problem that users often encounter is sound distortion.
4. Wireless headphones require recharging. At first, many people forget about this detail.

Top 8 laptop headphones

1. Sony DR-BT21G.

Stylish headphone designed for listening to music. The headset is equipped with a neck fastener. The headphones are large, comfortable to wear, with prolonged use, there is no feeling of squeezing the skull. The control buttons are located on the right earpiece, the operation of the headset is simple. The claimed usage time is 11 hours in active mode and 100 hours in standby mode.

The advantages of the model:

• great design;
• comfortable use;
• long working time;
• good sound quality.

Disadvantages:

• the model is not suitable for communication;
• sold in a blister, it is impossible to check the goods;
• high price.

2. SVEN AP-B770MV.

Headphones are focused on working with different devices and listening to music. The headset supports Bluetooth communication type. The model is quite ergonomic and comfortable to wear, the functions of voice dialing and receiving a call are provided. The range of the headphones is 10 meters.

Benefits:

• good sound, no distortion;
• high-quality assembly of the headset;
• good sound insulation;
• work in offline up to 22 hours.

Disadvantages:

• control buttons are inconveniently located;
• during conversations, words can be distorted.

3. Sennheiser RS ​​160.

Stylish headphones made of matte black plastic, the inserts of the cups are glossy black. The batteries are mounted in compartments under the ear pads. The headset is powered by a transmitter or battery.

Benefits:

• ergonomic and stylish design;
• headphones are easy to use;
• long term of work.

Disadvantages:

• some users note the inconvenient volume control function.

4. JBL Synchros E40BT.

The target audience this model is youth. The headphones are available in several colors. The headset folds easily and is easy to take on the go. The controls and navigation are intuitive.

Benefits:

• ergonomic design;
• stylish appearance;
• high-quality assembly;
• availability of the Share Me function.

Disadvantages:

• the model is focused on the conversation on the Internet, the quality of the music is not too high.

5. Apple AirPods.

The headphones are made in the form of earbuds. Users check high quality assembly, stylish design and high cost.

Benefits:

• good sound transmission;
• two ways to control music - touch and voice;
• reliable and beautiful;
• work offline - 24 hours.

Disadvantages:

• the headset works only with Apple brand appliances;
• very high cost.

6. Prolife BT55 Bluetooth headset.

The headphones are designed for listening to music, delivering clear, deep sound. You can also transfer information via Bluetooth. Music control is simple and straightforward, headphones are a great choice for listening to music while walking. The model charges quickly, you can talk continuously for 12 hours.

Disadvantages:

• high price;
• the case is not sealed, do not get caught in the rain;
• during phone call only 1 speaker works;
• some users report feeling tired after wearing the headset for a long time;
• the headset touches the collar of the clothes - this interferes.

7. Sony MDR-RF865RK.

The headset transmits and picks up a signal at a distance of 20 meters. The model is equipped with a special station made in the form of a panel, where you can neatly hang the headphones. The design of the headset is stylish and modern. Users note that you can watch TV with headphones - the sound is clear and not distorted.

Benefits:

• the ability to tune to different channels is provided;
• excellent sensor sensitivity;
• TV compatibility.

Disadvantages:

• according to customers, the main drawback is the unreasoned function of automatically turning the headset on and off;
• sometimes the headphones turn off on their own;
• high price.

8. Motorola S305.

Stylish, modern headphone model. Thanks to the flexible back hook, the headset does not cause discomfort even when worn for a long time. The headphones reproduce well, information can be transmitted via Bluetooth. At the same time, there is no interference and the signal is stable.

Benefits:

• an automatic shutdown function is provided;
• convenient control;
• an indicator light indicates what function the headset is performing.

Disadvantages:

• in the cold, the device quickly discharges;
• this model is not suitable for conversation, it is designed for listening to music.

Summary

The selection of wireless headphones is so great that you can choose the right model for every type of activity.

• The maximum range of information collection for headphones that support Wi-Fi technology. However, they are only suitable for stationary use.
• Good sound quality for Bluetooth headphones. The maximum working distance is 10 meters. The headset is suitable for sports
• Infrared headphones do not pick up electromagnetic radiation. They are often chosen by car owners.

Cross-platform program for text and voice communication through the Internet. Available for free download from the official developer page. If you need to make an urgent call from your computer, and the sound recording device does not answer, then we will tell you further how to talk on Skype without a microphone.

With the help of additional software

If the laptop's built-in microphone or external device is out of order, then for communication on Skype you can use Android Smartphone... To do this, follow these steps:

After these steps, the phone can be used as a device for recording sound. So start Skype and go to the Sound & Video Settings menu. Here select the driver WO Mic Virtual Device.

Using built-in Windows tools

If you don't have a smartphone at hand, but you somehow need to transmit the sound to the interlocutor, then you can use a speech synthesizer. For this:

After the steps taken, specify the appropriate driver in the Skype settings.

The interlocutor will hear all the system sounds of the computer (notifications, music from the player, games, programs). Therefore, for voice transmission, use any online text-to-speech synthesizer, for example, Oddcast.

Using headphones

The headphones and microphone have a special membrane that plays the sound in the speakers and records the sound in the microphones. Therefore, instead of a microphone, you can use headphones. Just plug them into the microphone jack on your computer or laptop. In this case, the quality of the transmitted voice can be much worse than that of a conventional microphone, because headphones are designed to play sound, not record it.

If you don't have a microphone, you can take headphones to connect to an audio device and use them as a microphone. The connection methods may vary depending on the type of audio device you are using.

When connecting earpieces (in more detail) to a device that is designed to work with a dynamic type of microphone, then you do not need any matching circuit. If the device has a 3.5mm microphone jack, you can simply plug in the headphones without making any changes. You will need to speak to the right, so the left will be shorted into the socket.

In order to use both radiators as a microphone, you must cut the plug from them and then attach the other, monaural, to them. If you only have a stereo at hand, you must make the connection of the general contact to the middle one. The “silver” or “gold” wires must be connected together and connected to the common contact of the plug. You must connect the green or blue wire to the red or orange one, after which it must be connected to the far contact.

There are also devices that are designed to accept a dynamic microphone that is equipped with other types of jacks. An example of this is most karaoke systems with a 6.3 mm jack, and tape recorders are equipped with 5-pin jacks. You must cut the plug from the headphones, replace it, and plug it into a 6.3mm jack using the method described above. If the player has two jacks, then you can use two pairs of headphones through which four people can sing at the same time.

To connect headphones instead of a microphone to a tape recorder with a five-pin jack (DIN, or ONTs-VG), gold or silver wires, you need to connect them together and connect them to the middle contact of the plug, and green or blue along with orange or red to the right side. If this microphone does not work, you must swap the last pair of wires to the left side.

Sound cards not designed to work with dynamic microphone... If you try to connect a microphone directly, you will get subtle sound. In order to amplify the signal, you must use a ready-made or home-made microphone amplifier. However, one should not forget that without performing the correction frequency characteristics even best amplifiers will give out a loud, but booming sound. Therefore, use an amplifier that is equipped with correction circuits. Excellent results can be achieved with an amplifier board from a regular music player. Its gain is very strong and you may need to install an attenuator.