Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset with Boom Mic (Plantronics) - Dual-Ear (Stereo) Computer Headset - USB-C

The Poly Blackwire 8225 is a high-quality wired USB headset designed for office professionals and remote workers. With its advanced noise-canceling technology, premium sound quality, and comfort-driven design, it aims to boost productivity by minimizing distractions. But does this headset live up to its promises? This review covers its key features, audio performance, design, and overall value.

Overview

The Poly Blackwire 8225 is a corded over-ear headset that connects via USB-C or USB-A. It comes in a dedicated Microsoft Teams-certified version with a Teams button for instant access. The headset offers adjustable active noise cancelation (ANC), high-quality microphones, and padded comfort.

Key Features

• Adjustable ANC with 3 settings to block ambient noise
• Noise-canceling boom mic for crisp voice pickup
• On-ear controls for volume, ANC, call answer/end
• Pivoting speakers and padded headband for comfort
• Dedicated Microsoft Teams button on certified version
• Plug-and-play USB connectivity for PC and Mac
• 2-year global warranty

Design and Comfort

The lightweight plastic design features thick padding on the headband and ear cups to allow for comfortable all-day wear. The ear cups rotate 180 degrees to rest comfortably around the neck when not in use.

The boom arm easily adjusts to position the microphone near the mouth. The padding isolates some environmental noise, but the adjustable ANC settings help block even more background sound for fewer distractions.

Sound Quality

With 40mm drivers, the headset produces very good audio quality for both music listening and calls. The sound profile offers strong bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. ANC helps to noticeably reduce ambient noise, especially steady droning sounds like from air conditioning. Voice pickup remains clear and intelligible even in noisy environments.

Volume is adjustable on the headset with easy-access controls. Sound isolation is not at the level of premium ANC models, but performs admirably for the price.

Connectivity

The USB-A or USB-C plug-and-play connectivity provides broad compatibility with PCs, Macs, and even mobile devices with USB-C ports. The headset shows up instantly as a sound output and microphone input device.

The Microsoft Teams version offers dedicated access to the Teams app with one-touch button. Multipoint Bluetooth connectivity allows pairing to a mobile device for music while connected via USB for voice.

Use Cases

The Blackwire 8225 is ideal for office professionals, call center agents, remote workers, and anyone who needs an exceptional headset for frequent calls and video meetings. The active noise cancellation allows you to focus in noisy environments by blocking out distracting sounds around you.

User Feedback

The Poly Blackwire 8225 has received largely positive reviews from customers. Based on over 100 global ratings, it averages 4.2 out of 5 stars.

The most commonly praised features are the headset’s noise-canceling capabilities, audio quality, and comfortable fit. Users say the adjustable noise cancellation makes a noticeable difference in blocking out ambient noise like air conditioning, barking dogs, and other distracting sounds. This allows them to focus more easily in home office environments.

The audio quality stands out as excellent for both conference calls and music playback. Customers describe the sound as full-bodied, crisp, and crystal clear. Many mention the sound isolation and noise cancellation create a peaceful zone that boosts productivity.

Comfort is another highly rated feature, with the padded headband and pivoting ear cups allowing for all-day wear without irritation or fatigue. Those working long hours at their computer find this critical.

One downside mentioned in some reviews is that the ear cups can feel a bit snug after prolonged use of over one hour. And a few note the microphone boom is not completely stiff, allowing for some wobbling if moving actively during calls. But these have not been major issues for most buyers.

Pros

• Superb microphone with adjustable noise cancellation
• Strong audio playback with deep bass
• Lightweight and comfortable design
• Convenient on-ear controls
• Dedicated Microsoft Teams button

Cons

• Noise isolation could be more advanced
• Snug ear cups may cause discomfort over time
• Microphone boom could be sturdier

Value

With its premium noise canceling technology, high-end audio drivers, and comfortable design, the Poly Blackwire 8225 delivers significant value at its price point. Given its execellent microphone quality and ability to isolate voice from ambient sounds, it outperforms many lower-cost USB headsets.

The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind on the investment. For those who rely heavily on calls and virtual meetings everyday, the headset pays for itself by boosting productivity and minimizing fatigue. Overall, customers feel it is well worth the extra cost over basic models for its construction quality, advanced features, and crystal clear communications.

Conclusion

The Poly Blackwire 8225 offers a compelling balance of sound quality, comfortable fit, advanced noise cancellation, and instant plugin connectivity. While priced higher than basic wired USB headsets, it adds plenty of premium features to justify the cost for those needing an exceptional headset. With excellent microphone pickup and adjustable ANC, it’s a top choice for an office or call center headset.

Specifications

• Drivers: 40mm
• Frequency response: 150Hz - 6.8kHz
• Sensitivity: 94dB +/-3dB
• Impedance: 150Ω
• Microphone type: Noise-canceling boom
• Microphone frequency response: 100Hz - 10kHz
• Microphone sensitivity: -40dBV/Pa +/-3dB
• Wireless range: Up to 30m/98ft (with USB adapter)
• Battery life: Up to 12 hours talk time (with USB adapter)
• Weight: 177g / 6.24oz
• Active noise cancellation: Hybrid ANC with 3 modes
• On-ear controls: Call answer/end, volume +/_, ANC mode
• Audio connections: USB-A, USB-C
• Compatibility: Windows/Mac PC, Mobile with USB-C
• Warranty: 2 years

What’s in the Box

• Poly Blackwire 8225 headset
• USB-A adapter cable
• USB-C adapter cable
• Carrying case
• Setup guide

How to Use

1. Select either the USB-A or USB-C cable to connect to your PC or Mac.
2. Adjust the headband and ear cups for a secure and comfortable fit.
3. Position the microphone boom near your mouth.
4. Use the on-ear controls to adjust volume, toggle active noise cancellation levels, mute the mic, and answer/end calls.
5. On the Microsoft Teams version, press the dedicated Teams button to instantly access the Teams app.
6. Make calls and enjoy music with crystal clear sound and enhanced noise isolation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset stand out?

The Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset stands out for its advanced features tailored for professional use. It offers dual-ear (stereo) design for immersive sound, USB-C connectivity for compatibility with modern devices, and active noise-canceling technology to block out distractions. Additionally, it comes in both USB-C and USB-A options to suit different connectivity needs.

How effective is the noise-canceling feature of the Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset?

The Poly Blackwire 8225 features advanced hybrid Active Noise Canceling (ANC) with three adjustable settings. Users can customize the level of noise cancellation according to their environment, helping to create a zone of calm and enhance productivity. While it effectively suppresses background noise, some users may find that it may not completely eliminate all external voices or sounds, as reported in some reviews.

Is the Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset comfortable for long-term use?

Yes, the Poly Blackwire 8225 is designed with comfort in mind. It features a lightweight design, padded headband, and 180-degree pivoting speakers, ensuring all-day comfort even during extended wear. The over-the-head stereo wearing style provides stability, and the adjustable headband ensures a personalized fit for each user.

Can the Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset be used with Microsoft Teams?

Yes, the Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset is available in a Teams Version, which includes a dedicated Teams button for instant access to the Teams app. This version is ideal for users who frequently collaborate on Microsoft Teams, offering seamless integration and enhanced productivity.

How does the Poly Blackwire 8225 Wired Headset perform in terms of audio quality?

The Poly Blackwire 8225 delivers premium sound quality for both calls and music. With its noise-canceling microphone and stereo sound, users can enjoy clear and immersive audio experiences. Whether participating in conference calls, listening to music, or engaging in multimedia activities, the headset provides rich and dynamic sound performance, as highlighted in customer reviews.

Tips

• Adjust the active noise-canceling settings according to your environment to maximize productivity and minimize distractions.
• Take advantage of the dedicated Teams button on the Teams Version of the headset for seamless collaboration and communication on Microsoft Teams.
• Ensure a comfortable fit by adjusting the headband and positioning the speakers for optimal comfort and audio performance.
• Utilize the lightweight and portable design of the headset for flexible work setups, whether in the office or working remotely.
• Explore the versatility of the Poly Blackwire 8225 for various tasks, from conference calls to listening to music, enhancing your overall work experience.