Jabra Speak2 40

In our recent innovation watch titled “ Wired Speakerphones – TTAC (telehealthtechnology.org)”, TTAC provided an overview of both wired and wireless speakerphone devices and their applications in telehealth. Since that article, a newer version of the Jabra Speakerphone has been released. We felt that the changes to this speaker were enough to warrant a new Innovation Watch on this updated device. The improved feature set and higher fidelity audio of this device line compared to previous models make for a compelling choice for those in the market for a new speakerphone.

About this Device

The Jabra Speak2 40 has many of the same features and functions in a similar manner to its predecessor, the Jabra Speak 410. Changes include a better audio experience and improved mute/un-mute status indication. The round “Hockey Puck” form factor is immediately recognizable to users of the previous product. Like the 410, the Speak2 40 uses a wired connection with an integrated USB cord that wraps around the base of the device for storage and transport.

In addition to the USB-A plug at the end of the cable, you’ll find an integrated USB-C adapter connected via a tethered keeper to the cable, so that it cannot be lost. This inclusion of the more modern USB-C port, as well as the option to use the legacy USB-A port, is a welcome feature. This add-on prevents users from having to choose between different devices that support different connector types.

The controls on the top of the device function just as in the previous model with a few additions. There is now a power-off function so that you can simply power off the device without unplugging it. There is also a dedicated smart button that can be programmed with the Jabra Direct software for quick app launch.

The Speak2 40 does forego the 3.5mm audio jack that was available on the 410. This may impact some potential use cases where headphone support is required.

Innovative Features

Instead of a series of small indicator LEDs, there is an entire illuminated ring that encircles the speaker grill of the device to let you know if it is muted or live. The entire ring will turn green when live, or red when muted. The lighted ring also is used for volume indication, as you increase or decrease the volume on the speakerphone the ring illuminates in a dial-like pattern. This at a glance device status is a welcome addition to the Jabra line of speakerphones.

Audio quality is superior to the previous model. This is especially true for audio playback from music or other streaming source. There is more bass response, and high end sounds less tinny. Differences are less obvious, but still present in audio conference mode. The audio pick-up range is greater on the Speak2 40, as it features a 4-microphone array as opposed to the single microphone on the Speak 410. In conversations this is made apparent by better frequency response particularly in lower registers of speech.

We did a quick check of audio quality at 1 ft., 4 ft., and 10 ft. from both the Speak2 40, vs the Speak 410. At distances beyond 4 ft. the Speak 410 sounded much more distant than the updated Speak2 40. At 10ft., both devices sounded distant, but this is beyond the 8 ft. operational range of the device as indicated by the manufacture. Our test was spur of the moment, and in an uncontrolled setting, but users may want to do their own distance check based on their use case.

The new Speak 2 40 is slightly heavier and a little taller than the previous model. As this is a device that is designed to live on a flat surface, this increase in weight should not have a significant impact for general usability. The Speak 2 40 is still the same size in diameter as the Speak 410. The Speak2 40 is also IP64-rated protection from dust and water, this means it is splash and dust resistance, but not waterproof. In appearance the Speak 2 40 has matte finish that makes it more fingerprint resistant than the 410. The grill cover for the unit is fabric, which may make it less desirable for locations where it may need to be wiped down frequently.

Supported Use Cases

For a list of potential use cases reference our “ Wired Speakerphones – TTAC (telehealthtechnology.org)” Innovation Watch article.

Product Specs:

Summary

The Jabra Speak 2 40 is a substantially improved descendent of the Jabra Speak 410. Most of the core functionality of the 410 is here within an improved frame, with easier to interpret indicators and controls. Overall, a worthy improvement to an already widely used audio peripheral.

From time to time TAC will choose a piece of technology to show or demonstrate in the “Innovation Watch” section of our website.  No endorsement of any products or services is expressed or implied by any information, hyperlink text, product, service, material, or content referred to or included on, or linked from, or to the TTAC website.

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From time to time TAC will choose a piece of technology to show or demonstrate in the “Innovation Watch” section of our website.  No endorsement of any products or services is expressed or implied by any information, hyperlink text, product, service, material or content referred to or included on, or linked from or to the TTAC web site.