PANASONIC’S CORDLESS “PHONE OF THE FUTURE”
© 2011 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
Over the years I’ve tested numerous cordless phones, but Panasonic’s latest KX-TG series, appears to be a real winner. Here are just a few of the outstanding features:
Dect 6.0 Plus, increases error correction thus improving the phone’s transmission range without interfering with other common wireless devices.
Intelligent Eco Mode, lowers battery consumption when handset is within close proximity of the base unit.
Call Block, allows you to program in numbers from unwanted callers such as telemarketers, bill collectors or just plain nuisance calls. Simply program in the number after the first call and the caller will now receive a busy signal on all future calls until you deprogram. A GREAT feature and well worth the price of the phone itself.
Silent Mode, permits programming to ring only when convenient so as to not disturb sleep, etc.
Talking Caller ID, is another feature that makes this phone priceless. This feature announces who’s calling after the second ring. It can be programmed individually, or for up to six instruments.
Locater button, finds misplaced handsets
Additional features, more common with other brands of cordless phones, include an 18 minute answering machine, handset locator, intercom, up to 4-way conference capability, 50 number directory that may be grouped, speaker phone headset jack and ringer ID for easy identification of favorite callers.
A step up model, KX-TG6583T, features Link-To-Cell, a technology that connects Bluetooth®-enabled cell phones thus allowing you to make and receive calls on the system’s handset from your cellular phone. I did not test this model.
(TIP: Periodically allow the instrument to fully discharge before returning to the charger unit. This will prolong battery life.)
I tested the model KX-TG6545, a five-handset package. All the features worked exceptionally well. Again, the Talking Caller ID and call-block make this cordless phone bundle an outstanding choice. I also like the addition of a headphone jack since when talking with technical support services, etc., you can easily listen/talk hands-free while working out the support issue. Requires an optional headphone/mic such as the KX-TCA60. As I’ve mentioned in other reviews of similar products I would like to see a 75 – 100 number directory, a feature that should not be difficult for the manufacturer to incorporate.
(TIP: This phone does offer a speakerphone feature, however, all speakerphones can present sound issues depending on your proximity to the instrument. Therefore the use of a headphone/mic makes perfect sense for this purpose. Panasonic offers several styles of accessory headphone/mics. To ensure compatibility stick with their accessory model suggestions.)
Additional handsets may be added to existing systems for up to six instruments.
MSRP:
KX-TG6545 5-handset bundle $159.95
KX-TG6583T “Link-To-Cell” 3-handset bundle $199.95
KX-TCA60 headset/mic $14.95
Available on-line and at retail outlets.
GADGETEER’S RATING: H H H H H
Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer.
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