Conference Phone: How to choose?

Did you know that room size is important when buying a conference phone? It is vital to know which product is right for you and your company. Correct use of the device can help grow your business. The information below offers advice based on different room sizes, complete with our top picks for each size room.

Small rooms

Up to 4 people
Room size (approx.): 12′ × 10′
Approx microphone coverage: 5-7 feet

This room could be a home office or small conference room. The users are close to the microphones. The small size and furniture in the room also limits the chance of echos.

1) Polycom VoiceStation 300 Analogue

The Polycom Voicestation 300 is a small conference phone perfect for use in smaller rooms. For meetings of up to 4 people.

Polycom Acoustic Clarity technology
3 microphones
Connects to any analogue jack.
Microphone range of up to 7ft away.

2) Polycom Soundstation 2 NE (Non-Expandable)

The Polycom Soundstation 2 provides professional call quality. For meetings of up to 10 people.

An LCD display and a built-in keypad
Intelligent microphone

3) Konftel 220

The Konftel 220 is the perfect device for offices and small meeting rooms.

Easy-to-use conference phone
360-degree microphone
Non-expandable

Medium rooms

Up to 12 people
Room size (approx.): 12′ × 15′
Approx microphone coverage: 10-12 feet

This is a standard conference room or larger office. There are more challenges with this size room. These include; more participants, echo noise and air vents. Expansion microphones are recommended.

1) Polycom Soundstation IP 5000 PoE

Both compact and stylish, the Polycom is ideal for use in rooms such as offices or meeting rooms. For meetings of up to 6 people.

HD Voice
2m microphone pick-up range
Full Duplex

2) Polycom SoundStation 2 EX Expandable with Display

For meetings of up to 10 people.

Expandable phone for meetings of up to 30 people
Full Duplex
Intelligent microphone

3) Konftel 250 Expandable

A simple, but hi-tech conference phone that also provides crystal clear sound. For meetings of up to 8 people.

Record meetings
Plug and Play connectivity
Can be expanded with additional microphones

Large rooms/Boardrooms

Greater than 12 people
Room size (approx.): 20′ × 15′
Approx microphone coverage: 12 feet + (and additional audio systems)

Expansion microphones are vital so that everyone can be heard. Additionally, other audio systems can be used to improve clarity and sound performance.