EPOS | Sennheiser IMPACT SDW 5061 Headset

EPOS | Sennheiser IMPACT SDW 5061

Pronounced - SENN- high-zah. Everyone struggles with this so we thought we'd pop that in first up!

The SDW 5061 is a DECT wireless headset.  It comes withb a DECT (not Bluetooth!) dongle that connects to any standard USB port. It is certified for MS Teams, Zoom and all major softphone applications.

The 5000 models are each available in 3 wearing option variants; 3-in-1, which comes with a headband, earhook AND neckband in the box, the Mono version; a headband only style which is what about 80% of people want these days. Also the Stereo; a headband only '2 eared' model. All of the options can be worn with the microphone arm on the left or the right. This is the Stereo variant.

More details

Connections - The SDW 5000 Series will connect via the included D1 USB dondle to your PC, laptop or, if you have a snazzy new phone with a USB headset port, the dongle can also connect to that. It will also connect to Macs but (at time of writing) EPOS don't have a way of updating firmware via a Mac.  If you have access to PC,  you can use that then go back to using it on the Mac.

Most people associate a USB dongle with a Bluetooth devices so lets be super-clear here;  This series of headsets is DECT wireless. You can't connect to a mobile BUT its perfect for hotdeskers, anyone who wnats an uncluttered desk or an eaisly transportable headset that still has the superb quality sound and range that DECT offers.

The 50x1 series with the DECT dongle come with a cable to charge, It does not have a base unit.  This makes it much easier to move between locations.  It also comes with a case to protect it.

Sound quality - Sennheiser has this NAILED. The DW range has the best quality sound we've experienced and we expect the SDW range to be the same. If you're looking for the best quality sound in and outbound, you can stop looking - this is your new headset.  The SDW5000s have SUPER wideband to ensure a natural sounding voice no matter what device you're using it with and it has High Density Wideband to ensure best call clarity in offices with many users (such as call centres).

Microphone quality - Sennheiser are keeping the ULTRA noise cancelling microphone (they have 2 noise cancelling mics!) which is VERY good news for anyone in an noisy office who wants to sound like they're in their own private office. Nothing is less professional that customers hearing the hubbub around you, so this, along with the older DW series remains the best option option for you if you don't fancy sounding like you're in a call centre or have crazed colleagues around you!

Busy light - There's an inbuilt online indicator light - a flashing blue light on the ear to show colleagues when you're on a call. Anyone who has ever had to show a colleague 'the hand' when they interrupt them on a call or has gone through the over-exaggerated 'are you on a call???' mime will know that this is a brilliant feature.

The Not-So-Good

As we mentioned earlier If you're a Mac user please note that like all headsets from time to time you'll need to update firmware of the headset. Sennheiser (at time of writing, August 2019) don't have a Mac version of their firmware update. The headset will work FINE with your Mac BUT you'll need to access a PC or non Mac laptop to update firmware.

The line of sight range is advertised as up to 135m  This is a little lower than the models that have a base unit.  EPOS say in a standard, busy office,  that's about 40m.  Still about double what a Bluetooth headset will offer.

Charge time is also a little longer via the USB cable than a base unit model.

The Verdict

The EPOS|Sennheiser IMAPACT 50x1 variants are great for those who only need a USB connection and want the quality sound and extended range that only DECT truly offers.  The lack of a base unit and carry case makes it perfect for prefessionals on the go, or those without a permanent desk.