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Review: Jawbone ICON HD + The Nerd …One Headset to Rule Them All

Almost everyone at some points has owned a Bluetooth headset, but not quite like this one. Jawbone was awesome enough to send me an ICON + The Nerd to try out for myself and I am quite happy with it.  The ICON HD + The NERD  headset is not your everyday run of the mill Bluetooth setup. This headset offers the same great performance as the original ICON HD but with the advantages of  “The Nerd”, which allows you to sync multiple devices to your Bluetooth headset effortlessly and wirelessly. The Nerd allows you to stream music in HD, Google Hangout, Skype, or any other media from your PC through your ICON HD while still being synced with your mobile device. Pick up a call with the press of a button and then go right back to your tunes when the call is finished. No more changing of headsets or earbuds, or turning up and down of volumes to grab a call.

Jawbone has also added in their signature “Noise Assassin”. Making the audio clean and clear even with background noise or windy walks. Jawbone has shown this awesome technology in a few commercials and YouTube videos. It is probably one of the greatest reason to spend a little more on a headset then your average bargin bin cheapy.

 

What’s in the Box

  • ICON HD Bluetooth Headset
  • The Nerd Adapter

  • 7 Form Fitting Earbuds
  • Binaural Earloop
  • Wall Charger
  • USB Cable
  • Instruction Booklet

Form Factor

I must say that I am not to big of a fan of Bluetooth headsets because of the overall hideous size of most, but this one is perfect and the size is non obtrusive which is a very important factor me, along with comfort. The device measures in at just about a little over an inch which is the perfect size for a Bluetooth headset. It comes with seven earbud cups and an optional binaural earloop, ensuring the perfect fit in either ear, no matter what your size. I prefer the standard way of wearing it but you do have the option of the earloop if the standard isn’t comfortable for you.

Features & Apps

The one thing that impressed me the most other than the sound quality of both streaming media and calls was the ability to download apps to the headset. I’m sure your asking what exactly an app is going to do with your Bluetooth because I was wondering the same thing. You can now download Apps and keep your bluetooth up to date via Jawbone’s “MyTalk” website which offers both audio and dial apps. Have your current battery stats or incoming calls read out to you from a Mafia boss, or maybe even the “Sexy Bombshell” instead of a robotic voice. Not only can you change the voice but you can add other apps that will call your most dialed contact at the press of a button or even read your text messages and e-mail’s off to you.  For those of you with an iPhone, keep tabs of battery life with an on-screen meter or visit MyTalk for those of you on Android and Blackberry. For more information on all features and  app’s head on over to Jawbones MyTalk page where you can see their offerings as long as listen to an audio clip of each voice.

 

Additional Specs and Compatibility

Features and additions are great, but how long does it last and what can you use it with is another key component to a Bluetooth headset. The ICON HD has a built-in rechargeable battery that will provide the user with 4.5 hour of talk time and up to 10 days of standby time. You get a nifty little battery power display inside the MyTalk app for the device, so you never have to wonder how much charge you have left. Granted it won’t last an entire work day for streaming music, but you should spend more time working anyways.

As for compatibility the ICON HD will connect to your Android phone, tablet, Blackberry and iOS device. This gives you a wider range of connection options. The NERD will plug into any PC that has a free USB port. It works with Windows 7, Vista , XP, Mac OSX 10.5 and higher. Which should cover a majority of you guys Sorry, we don’t see any Linux support, but will fire of an email about that a bit later.

The Verdict

Overall this is an awesome headset. I give it a 5 out 5 for the Bluetooth alone with the Noise Assassin, not to mention the nerd adapter. I listen to music 24/7 and it’s great not having to switch back and forth from headset to Bluetooth  It is the perfect size and it fit’s so comfortably I can’t even tell I’m wearing it. The call quality is great, and is probably one of the best I have heard from a Bluetooth headset. I will say that the price is a bit high but definitely worth the money if you are needing something with this type of capability. If you already own the ICON HD you can pick up “The Nerd” Adapter for around $50.

If your interested in checking out the Jawbone ICON HD + The NERD you can pick one up on their website or through our handy little Amazon links below.