Hasta La Gadget!

If you use your mobile phone to take calls, listen to music, watch video, and play the occasional game, you’re probably tired of swapping out a Bluetooth headset when you get a phone call for a wired set of ear buds when you want to listen to music. Plantronics feels your pain, and has unveiled some new headphone models that come with in-line microphones so you don’t have to switch.

The BackBeat 903+ is an update to the original BackBeat 903 that came out under the Altec Lansing name back in early 2009. PC Mag gave it 3.5/5 stars, and the new version retains some of the high points of the original model. The form factor remains the same, and the combination headset and microphone still provides stereo audio in both ears using an in-ear design that’s connected around the back of your head with a flexible audio cable. The 903+ aims to improve voice quality by adding a dual mics and one-button call management, but is still Bluetooth audio, which means audiophiles should be ready for audio compression. It will be available next month for $99.99 list.

The BackBeat 216 and the BackBeat 116 are both wired models that connect to a 3.5mm stereo jack for audio, and feature an in-line controller for accepting or ending phone calls, adjusting volume, and muting the microphone. The 216 features noise-isolating ear buds, and the in-line controller also allows you to control music playback when used with an iPhone, iPod, or iPad. The 116 is simpler model that will come in multiple colors and works with more devices. The 216 and 116 will also be available in October, retailing for $49.99 and $29.99 respectively.