|
Midland BT-2 Bluetooth Motorcycle
Intercom
by H.B.C. for webBikeWorld.com
More:
Owner Comments
(Below) |
Motorcycle
Bluetooth Intercom Page |
Motorcycle Intercom Page
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Reviews Home
See Also: Part II -
Midland BT2 Configuration and Specifications
| Albrecht BPA 100
Bluetooth Adapter
Summary
A stylishly designed helmet mounted system with lots of features, along
with lots of unrealized potential.
All the features that were evaluated work as advertised, but audio quality and rider
to rider intercom limitations detract from what could be an
industry-leading system.
The ability to directly connect a radio transceiver via the input port
provides a simple and expedient means to allow a PMR/GMRS/FRS radio to
be used for extended range communications between multiple riders.
A potential major league player, but for now, relegated to the minors.
Before the Envelope, the Rules!
All communication systems I evaluate get put through a pretty rigorous
and (typically) a long term evaluation. During the evaluation period
certain steps, tests and user exercises are conducted in order to
understand and assess features, capabilities, strengths and weaknesses
of each system.
As the motorcycle communications market segment becomes more complex,
and better populated, the whole selection process has become more
complex as well. Being sensitive to this situation, and because there
has to be a start point, starting with the Midland BT2 system, a more
formal set of evaluation criteria will be identified, much like the
approach taken by the Editor for helmet submissions.
Trust me when I say it is easy to get somewhat jaded and glossy-eyed
with all the offerings out there, especially when considering the
considerable hype that goes with the physical product. The need to
maintain objectivity and to be consistent is paramount, be it for a
single or a multi-product comparison.
The tried and true criteria - form, fit and function will always be
considered, assessed and rated, although for any evaluation, recognized
categories such as packaging, design, execution, features, setup,
configuration options, performance, reliability, maintenance and
support, cost and value will be used.

Midland BT2 Bluetooth Intercom packaging.
Background
The BT2 Intercom is the latest offering from Midland Consumer
Communication, a company seemingly housed under the Alan (UK)
Professional Communication banner. Alan UK dates back to 1972 and both
entities are part of CTE International, a diversified radio
communication company. And, to clear up some past confusion, Albrecht is
also part of CTE International.
The US affiliate is the Midland Radio Corporation. Midland is the oldest
manufacturer of CB radios in the US and was also the first to market a
14 channel FRS radio in the US. Midland itself has been producing
quality two-way radios for nearly 50 years.
Way back in December 2006 (ancient history, right Rick?) an Alan UK/Cardo
wireless review was conducted which helped set the tone for what has
followed since then. As this growing market ‘matures’, specific brand
products have emerged, many of which have been evaluated and posted on
webBikeWorld.
Over the last year virtually every major manufacturer, or distributor
has come out with new or updated product and from the looks of it, this
trend is not going to change soon. As part of an ongoing effort to bring
you the latest product reviews, a series of Bluetooth communication
system evaluations culminating in a head to head comparison is being
planned.
What follows is the first of the bunch…

Midland BT2 Bluetooth Intercom.
The Package Finally Arrives
Two Midland BT2 kits were acquired for this evaluation and after a
longish wait the package was finally received via the Great White North
postal system.
Each box contains an intercom module, one stereo headset
with dual speakers, thin wire and boom style microphones, a stereo audio
cable, two helmet fixing plates (bi-adhesive and screw clamp), a
110-220V wall charger, spare fastener pads and a multi-language
instruction guide.
Curiously, the 3mm Allen key identified as part of the kit and needed to
install the clamp bracket onto the helmet was missing...maybe the Editor
knows where they are? (I'm innocent - Editor).
In any case, the missing piece issue was overcome
by reaching into the handy tool kit and finding a replacement, itself
probably a leftover from another system.
Reflecting the continued evolutionary trend of such devices, the Midland
BT2 Intercom system is feature-rich: Bluetooth version 2.0 stereo with
headset/handsfree/A2DP protocol support; Class 1 power output (100mW); AGC as well as manual volume adjustment; VOX or manual communications
call modes; three large function buttons enable telephone, intercom and
wired connections; fully waterproof; lithium battery with 8 hours talk
time and a recharge time of around 4 hours.
After unpacking each kit, the BT2 modules were given an initial charge,
one at a time, using a North American plug adapter to overcome the
permanent 220V plug on the kit charger. While the first unit continued
its slow charge, the ‘UK’ section of the well-written multi-language
Instruction Guide was read from start to finish.

Albrecht BPA 100 Bluetooth Adapter.
A final component, an Albrecht-branded
BPA 100
Bluetooth adapter (review) was also acquired.
This device
provides a Bluetooth interface for peripheral devices.
Unfortunately,
this unit is the "Navi" version, not the full-feature BPA 100 that comes with a PTT
switch and a radio specific interface module that allows a two-way radio
to be connected to the system via Bluetooth.
At the minimum however, the Navi version will allow some additional connections to be tried out,
such as the voice navigation audio from the Garmin 2820 unit when
mounted on the F800GS.
Another item not available for this evaluation was a compatible radio,
such as the Alan PMR446 radio (also used for earlier AKE system
evaluations) or a compatible cable to use a North American approved
radio. Therefore, the direct connection feature of the BT2 could not be
tested for this submission, but it will be and soon.
The Tour
Fashioned of plastic with a rubber-like coating the unit measures 16mm x
87mm x 47mm, weighs just a few grams and has an attractive stylized
shape, akin to that of a cartoon rocket-ship.
Held so that the lettering and access ports are to the lower right, all
input controls are on the large face of the module. At the top on the
right hand side is the Volume + (UP) and Volume – (DOWN), left to right
respectively.
The surface of the rocket-ship is broken into three sections as
delineated by two raised lines that are part of the face moulding. Each
section houses one of the three main control buttons. The Forward
section is the Phone button, Midships is the Intercom button and the Aft
button is the Auxiliary Control. The Aft section also houses Red and
Blue LEDs.
Rather than calling down to Scotty for more power, press the raised part
of the Intercom button for three seconds – the small Blue LED in the aft
section starts to flash slowly. Powering down is a bit different – both
the Intercom and the Auxiliary buttons must be pressed simultaneously,
causing the Red LED to flash three times as the unit power off.
While waiting for the second BT2 module to charge, the first unit is
connected to the headset harness and the microphone lead for a quick
audio test. Be aware when powering the system up: if the headset is
close to the ear, installed or not, the ears bear the brunt of a very
loud and obtrusive power-up tone.
Even with earplugs installed it hurt. Lesson learned – there is no
volume adjustment possible for the power up/down tones. Plugging the
supplied 3.5mm to 2.5mm stereo jack plug accessory cord to an MP3 player
and then into the module results in good quality stereo audio being
heard from the headset.

Midland BT2 Bluetooth Intercom mounted on helmet.
A Small Gripe About Audio
Why only a ‘good’ rating you ask? Well, while the stereo headset centres
the audio nicely in the helmet, fidelity and tone is not up to the same
audio standards (mono or stereo) experienced from other Bluetooth helmet
headsets evaluated, expensive or otherwise, or even off-the-shelf
consumer headsets that I've tried. I know that there are always design and engineering concerns, especially
regarding power consumption, weight and size, but in this instance, more
would definitely be better. This is particularly relevant given that the
BT2 supports stereo streaming via Bluetooth using the A2DP protocol.
As example, both the top-of-the-line AKE High Sound and the inexpensive
Blue Virtu BSH-01 headsets provide amazing audio. Most systems are now
using or implementing quality stereo headsets to take advantage of
Bluetooth stereo streaming.
Generally I find the audio situation is not being addressed to the
degree it could be. Specifically and especially as a new-to-market
system I expected far better audio quality from the BT2. Some sites
identify that the BT2 can be upgraded to Hi-Fi quality speakers, but
I have not yet been able to confirm this.
Helmet Installation
The original Arai XD helmets were between wired and wireless device
engagements so they became the hosts for the BT2 systems.
The headset
assembly consists of three parts: the BT2 module, the main headset
harness and the smaller microphone harness. One XD received a boom
microphone while the other got a thin wire mike installed.
Input/output connections are via three bottom ports, all with (finicky)
rubber plugs to help keep the elements out when the ports are not in
use. The front mini-USB port is for charging, the middle mini-USB port
is for the headset harness and the back port is a 2.5mm stereo input
socket for connecting an external player or a transceiver (like the Alan
PMR446 approved for use in Europe).
The headset harness housing is a flexible L-shaped assembly. When
connected to the main module the short leg points in towards the helmet,
ostensibly to keep this connection tucked out of the way when in use. However, the long leg of the connector extends below the bottom of the
mounting bracket base and typically, below the bottom edge of most
helmets.
Each speaker of the stereo headset is 50mm by 5mm thick (with adhesive)
and the lead wires are long enough to facilitate installation in
virtually any helmet. The speaker cover is fabric with a hook-n-loop
back and this cover has a back access port so that the speaker can be
(gently) removed allowing the cover to be washed or replaced.
The speakers were installed in the correct across-from-the-ear position,
under the liner material and secured via provided hook-n-loop pads. Given the large air intake vent on the front of the XD chin bar, the
microphone is positioned to the left edge of the vent. This location,
although not optimal for audio input, works well.
Each kit comes with two plastic mounting plates - one adhesive and one
screw-clamp fitting that requires the 3mm key. Each plate has two unique
cut-outs to receive the matching studs on the main module. With
everything aligned the module is simply slide down onto the mounting
plate.
Mated together the whole assembly is only 20mm thick, presenting a
low-profile appearance on the helmet and offering up minimal frontal
area in any airstream. Something immediately evident as a weak point
however is the thin plastic fixing clip that is supposed to keep the
module secured on the mounting plate.
In actual use the fixing clip arm is too long and thin to provide any
strength in keeping the module seated. If the main module or any
of the cables are touched by anything, the fixing clip
releases, allowing the module to slide upwards and
eventually off the vertical alignment tabs, as can be
seen in these photos:

Midland BT2 System, showing mounting plate and module,
with fixing clip
just grabbing the top surface of the module.

Midland BT2 mounting plate, showing fixing plate with
top tab, too weak to
exert pressure on module and hold it in place.

Midland BT2 fixing clip just barely touches the main
module with virtually no pressure exerted.

This is what happens when the jacket collar pushes up on
the module and the connection cable.
Pair Pairing
After a full day spent in charging the second unit using a
step-up/step-down transformer, the flashing Red LED that indicates
charging mode finally went out. Both units were now ready for their
initial pairing.
The BT2 system unlike some other Bluetooth products has a two-stage
process - setup and pairing. Stage one or Setup Mode is initiated by
holding the Intercom buttons on both units down for seven seconds, which
results in a steady Red LED.
With Unit 1 in hand, press the Volume + (Up) button until the Red and
Blue LEDs flash rapidly, this indicates stage two or Pairing Mode. On
Unit 2, press the Volume – (Down) button to initiate its Pairing Mode.
After five to ten seconds the Blue LED on each unit flashes once and
both units go back to Setup mode (steady Red LED).
With this sequence completed, the set will be paired. To take the units
out of Setup Mode, press the Intercom button on each unit for three
seconds. The Red LED goes out and the Blue LED will flash twice and then
settle into a rhythmic pulsing. The devices are now paired and ready to
go.

The Road Show
Even before hitting the road to conduct the first system test run, a
number of observations (see above) were starting to manifest themselves
as issues. Some of these issues have workarounds, but some do not.
With the systems powered up and helmets worn, a real user input
limitation is felt, or rather not felt. With medium to heavy gloves on,
I found it hard, without a lot of practice, to discern the three
sections.
Even with a slightly raised centre line shape that helps in
finding the Intercom button, tactile perspective is poor and the raised
section divider mouldings both help and hinder.
Out on the road another concern became an immediate problem. This time
of year pretty much anything worn has a high full collar. The collars of
the FirstGear Jaunt
(review),
Olympia AST
(review) and the
Olympia Phantom suit
(review) all rub
the bottom of the mounting plate and/or the connector. My riding partner
has the same problem, albeit to a lesser degree, with her
Rukka Sapphire
jacket (review).
With this rubbing and upward pressure, the main harness connector pushes
the main module up whereby the fixing clip simply releases, allowing the
module to continue its upward movement, off the alignment mounts. On one
occasion, as the module was pushed upwards, the main connector separated
from the module.
When a stop was made to ascertain the reason for the connection failure
it became apparent that only the accessory stereo cable had prevented
the unit from separating completely from the mounting bracket and
becoming flotsam in the airstream -- not a good thing.
In true road-side fix tradition a less-than-elegant but perfectly
functional workaround was implemented. Two small elastic bands hooked
around the top of the fixing clip, down across the module and around the
mounting plate base and main connection keeps the fixing clip tab pulled
tight to the module, so is does what it was designed to do.
UPDATE: Alan UK recently told us that
the original clamp has been updated and existing
customers can obtain a replacement; see the
comments section
below.
Here's a photo illustrating the fix:

Quick fix for mounting plate.
Getting on with the Show
Rubber bands and all, the system works as advertised in providing rider
to rider or rider to passenger communications and in supporting a host
of Bluetooth and wired devices.
While the reliable operating range of 100 to 150 metres is far less than
many other Bluetooth units used, like the Cellular Interphone or Cardo
scala-rider Q2, it is consistent with the information provided in the
manual.
Over level and open terrain a voice link is sometimes possible up to 250
metres. The limitation is most evident when riding up and down hills or
through forested areas, our favourite place for riding this time of
year. In these conditions even 100 metres of separation will result in a
noisy and intermittent link.
Close proximity to other vehicles also severely impacts the signal
between the two riders. Although somewhat expected from this type of
communications and probably attributable to the limited power output and
resultant range limitations, the situation is still irritating and far
more severe than with any other system used or evaluated.
Not an issue is volume – the Up and Down buttons provide adjustment for
any specific helmet or user requirement and once set, the Automatic Gain
Control (AGC) function does an excellent job in maintaining the selected
volume at a constant level in the headset as ambient noise levels in and
around the cockpit and helmet areas change.
Another positive is the speed with which the units pair or initiate the
intercom or rider to rider link – typically within one to two seconds. Once the synchronization tones are heard in the helmet, the link is
active. Another plus is the speed with which the units will re-establish
a lost voice link.
When the maximum range is reached, the noise floor increases and the
voice link drops out. This is not unexpected and is typical for BT (and
other) systems. Once the units are within range again the noise levels
drop and the link is re-established quickly.
While other Bluetooth rider to rider capable units will also restore a
link, it is not always a given and more often than not one of the riders
needs to initiate a new session. With the Midland BT2 systems
restoration is virtually seamless.
As the battery runs down, link range will decrease and recovery time
will increase accordingly. A system management feature, whereby the
battery is powered down to conserve it during inactive periods may also
create a situation where a new session has to be manually initiated.
These use and management issues are the realities common to battery
powered systems and as such need to be factored in when considering the
frequency and type of use.
Battery life itself is very good, due in large part to the lithium
battery used. Six to eight hours of use is possible when using the
systems for basic rider to rider purposes. If a constant wired or
Bluetooth music connection is maintained power will start to run out
after five hours or so.
The pause to refresh takes about three to four hours with the first
unit, but the second one takes twice as long to recharge – usually
overnight. As this has been an issue since receiving the units a
replacement unit or replacement battery is going to be requested,
hopefully under warranty.
As the system is totally self-contained, portability is not an issue,
and outside of the overly long connection that causes interference with
clothing, it mounts up very well on a wide variety of full face helmets. Depending on the brand, it could be mounted on a flip-style unit,
although some ingenuity in use would be required.
With a portable MP3 player connected via the stereo input port, and
everything else paired via Bluetooth, including a mobile phone
supporting A2DP for stereo streaming of music, navigation output from
the Garmin 2820 via the BPA 100 dongle, the user environment is self
contained - the user is free to roam.

Peripheral Device Use
It is sufficient to state that anything put in front of the BT2 module
was successfully connected, either by the wired stereo input cable or by
a wireless BT link, directly to the module or via the Albrecht BPA 100
module.
Part Two of this evaluation provides further detailed
information on peripheral use and setup, so only the basics are covered
here.
To connect a GPS device or a mobile BT phone, put the module into Setup
Mode by pressing the middle button for seven seconds until the Red LED
stays on. With the peripheral device readied via its pairing menu, put
the BT module into Pairing Mode by pressing the front (Phone) button for
three to four seconds, initiating the alternating Red/Blue LED sequence.
Start the peripheral device pairing sequence. After one or possibly two
passes, the peripheral device will recognize the BT2. Typically a pass
code will be requested by the peripheral, which for the BT2 is “0000”.
Once the security protocols are in place, pairing will be completed.
Shutting either or both devices off and then turning them back on and
getting them cozy again resulted in the devices pairing up again,
usually without any user intervention. One of the two zumo 550 units
we tried is
reluctant to re-establish a pairing, but the other one works just fine.
This appears to be an isolated issue.
With one of the HTC Touch PDA devices paired to the BT2, full advantage
can be made of the A2DP protocols that both devices support. Appreciating what I perceive are some audio limitations of the headset
itself, the stereo music stream from the device to the BT2 was
continuous, with very low noise levels observed.
Two options will be provided for on the HTC Bluetooth paired menu –
Wireless Stereo and Hands-Free Headset, checking both boxes will allow
the user to more fully exploit the discrete functions of the HTC (or a
similar device) for hands-free phone use, including voice commands if so
configured and, streaming of stereo audio from the application player.

Midland BT2 system mounted on Arai XD. The weather
plugs will not stay seated.
Something Unique
Simply described, this feature allows the rider and passenger to use the
intercom even while a communication link is open, thus affecting a
three-way link. While not a feature that the two riders in this
household would use on a daily basis, given our separate mounts, it was
tested and it does work, very well.
As enabled per the Instruction Guide, the intercom link between the
rider and passenger is kept ‘open’, allowing both parties to listen to
an active link, such as music, GPS output or a radio session via a
connected transceiver (a feature we have not evaluated).
A clearly identified limitation, due to channel availability, is that
only the ‘wired’ system user will hear incoming audio in stereo, audio
to the second party will be mono or single channel. As well, again due
to channel limitations, music from a Bluetooth stereo player (A2DP)
cannot be shared.
So, while not a perfect three-way duplex environment, it is a feature
that can be enjoyed by those riding two-up and is just further evidence
of the enhancements being provided to consumers.
The Bottom Line Ratings
-
Packaging: Very Good. Attractively packaged and everything makes sense
when mentally fitting it all together. The simple but well written
Instruction Guide looks like and is a valuable part of the kit. Even
though the kit was shipped directly from the UK, the power adapter issue
is still frustrating.
Many manufacturers, big and small, provide multi-plug adapters to
address local or potential world-wide market requirements and from a
consumer viewpoint, to satisfy immediate requirements.
-
Design: Fair to Good. Attractive shape, slim, lightweight, but some
real-life testing of any prototype should have/would have identified the
same mounting issues experienced during this evaluation.
-
Execution: Fair. Look and feel is good and main components are well
made, sturdy and fit well together. In actual use, between the weak
fitting clip and the obtrusive surface moldings, using the control
buttons is difficult with anything but a bare hand or thin glove.
-
Features: Very Good. The BT2 has a host of configuration and use
options that should satisfy a wide range of users, including the
provision to enable a three-way link - incoming audio, rider and
passenger. Although no longer a unique feature, the wired input port
adds a lot of flexibility and choice to users who ride alone, with a
passenger, with other riders or any combination of the three.
-
Fit: Good. The system mounts up very discretely on a wide variety of
full-face and could be used on other types of helmets as well, although
with some probable input limitations. The components all fit well
together, although the fixing clip is the weak link.
-
Setup and Configuration: Very Good. Understanding, installing and
configuring everything involved was extremely simple and it all works. The controls are large and easy to use with bare fingers or when wearing
light gloves, but it is best to have the system configured before
putting on heavier gloves.
-
Performance: Very Good. Despite a limited rider to rider range, overall
system performance is very good. Switching between connected devices is
fast and reliable, while automatic restoral of an interrupted voice link
is an appreciated feature.
-
Ease of Use: Poor to Fair. I would really argue with their ‘ease of use
with motorcycle gloves’ point made in the Flash Player presentation…with
thin leather or light textile gloves perhaps, but not with anything
related to cold weather use. Correct operation of the system via the
large input controls takes practice, some effort and luck. All in all,
bad form and a potential safety related issue as well.
-
Reliability: Good. Once the main module and connections are secured,
the systems have proven themselves over a prolonged evaluation period
and both systems continue to function well.
-
Maintenance and Support: Good. Maintenance to this point in time has
involved recharging the batteries, cleaning the units and, changing the
rubber bands that (totally) secure the system in place. A support rating
is not possible yet as submission of the slow battery charging issue is
overdue (my fault).
-
Cost: Good. From a component perspective and with its proven features
the Midland BT2 system is worth the extra cost involved in bringing the
system in from the UK. US pricing, when known, might make it even more
attractive.
-
Value: Fair. While appreciating that the system performs well in
providing rider to rider communications and supports a wide variety of
wired or Bluetooth devices, the issues identified that really infringe
on user enjoyment bring this category down.
Note – the cost and value categories are somewhat subjective as this
point in time. In a head to head, apple to apples comparison, the
categories can be more accurately assessed.
Conclusion
The Midland BT2 system is attractively styled, with great features that
allow a wide range of user requirements or preferences to be met. But, a
few simple design and use shortfalls impact big time on the bottom line.
So, what is needed? Well, some physical fitment and user input changes,
improved audio quality and increased rider to rider BT range would all
be great. The latter issue is very glaring in light of de-facto 500 to
1000m range-capable systems available now.
I really, really wanted to like the Midland BT2 system. For now however
the systems have been relegated to backup duties, much like hockey
players who get benched and not always just for poor on-ice performance.
Without being overly critical of one specific system, as someone
involved in the high-tech environment most of my life and as an active
and avid motorcyclist, I am very disappointed that shortfalls in design,
standards, application of technology and product testing are still so
obvious.
Next: Part II -
Midland BT2 Configuration and
Specifications |
Albrecht
BPA 100 Bluetooth Adapter |
Motorcycle
Bluetooth Intercom Page |
Motorcycle Intercom Page
| wBW
Reviews Home
| Product
Review: Midland BT2 Bluetooth
Intercom |
|
|
| Available From:
Alan UK.
Midland and Albrecht are part of
CTE International.
Here is the
Midland BT2 website. |
List Price: UK – £144.99 for the
BT2 and £49.99 for the BPA 100.
|
| Colour: Black |
Made in: Thailand |
| NOTES:
Warranty is two years, except on the battery. Review Dates:
Product Evaluation - October 2008. Publication Date - November
2008. |
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►Reader Comments and Owner Feedback
Please
send
comments to
Comments are ordered from most recent to oldest.
From "A.M." (3/09): "I had the
experience to use Midland BT2 Intercom for 16 days
during a motorcycle trip to Alps last August (2008).
At the same time I also used the Midland PMR 445BT. In
these 16 days I crossed 5700km and 6 countries.
About Midland BT2:
-
The main module, even
with the slightest pressure, was slipping out of the
holding case. Surprisingly I had not lost the
device in the country side. I used rubber bands and
even tape to hold it in place.
-
The main connector was
separated from the module in more than 50% of the
rides as it is a mini USB-like connector that can
not be firmly attached to the device.
Furthermore, the connector holds only on the main
module and not on the mounting plate; so I could not
ride without the main module on.
-
The cable of the
microphone was so long that it was annoyingly
touching my chin.
-
The cable of the left
speaker too short for my Schuberth S1.
-
The battery could not
hold a day trip without recharging. My Cardo teamset
can easily stand a two-day trip without recharging.
-
Volume capability is less
than Cardo and I could not used it with my earplugs.
-
Difficult to feel inside
gloves what key I was pressing.
-
Really what is the use of
the weather plugs if they do NOT stay seated!
-
The telephone device I
have is a PDA like with mp3/GPS/A2DP capabilities.
Midland says that somehow you can use BT PMR and MP3
etc at the same time. In my situation this was a myth.
In case I was trying to give priority one to the phone I
could not use PMR because mp3 music from my phone.
In case I was trying to give priority one to the BT PMR
I could not use the mobile phone at all!!! The PMR
used to transmit towards BT2 a very low background noise
keeping the channel occupied as it had priority one.
Furthermore, the PMR 445BT was turning ON and OFF
accidentally and the antenna suddenly was separated from
the device during a ride!!!
Upon my return I have tested five! BT2 devices all
with problems mainly in the A2DP functionality.
The owner of the shop, where I purchased both devices,
took back BT2 and return the money. The local
distributor in Greece changed the 445BT with a new one."
From Alan UK (11/08): "First of all,
many thanks! We always appreciate feedback and honest
reviews of products and have always found comments and
criticism from your own site to be fair and constructive
whilst at the same point being encouraging and also fair
on positive points.
Having read the review of the headsets that you
tested, I am very pleased to say that many of the issues
you have pointed out have now long been remedied.
Clamp Issues
We identified the exact same problems that you did
in your test in our first batches of product and have
since re-designed both clamps for the BT2 to ensure a
firmer and more secure fit. We are happy to issue
replacement clamps FOC (free of charge) to any customers
who have brought product through our UK dealers.
Audio Quality
The standard BT2 is supplied with the stereo speakers
that you tested, however we now can supply high-quality
Hi-Fi speakers that simply replace the BT2's existing
speakers but produce an extremely high standard and
quality of sound. Again we'd be happy to send you
some of these to test out, but usually there is an extra
charge if consumers wish to get hold of these too.
(Editor's Note: These are the C895 Hi-Fi
speakers shown on
this Midland page. Alan UK says the speakers
are just being released to dealers).
Ease of Use
Lets face it... not everyone enjoys reading
instruction manuals! :-) We're doing our best to
make future products more "user friendly" so watch out
for future developments. In the interim we have
some other new "simplified" Bluetooth products that will
be hitting the markets in January.
We've also taken to the issue of people being unsure
of how to operate certain function on the BT2 by
producing a series of short "how to" video clips that
are now hosted on our own info website at
www.alan-info.co.uk
We are still working more clips to add to the site and
welcome any suggestions from customers who would like to
see any particular demonstrations."
Editor's Note: We'll be
evaluating the revised parts for the BT2 system and will
report back with an update.
|