The Spider is Phoenix Audio’s latest top of line conference phone series delivering HD audio, noise/echo cancellation, dual connectivity, as well as the popular daisy chaining capability. The SIP version MT505 connects to SIP service via Ethernet cable or your computer via USB, while the PSTN version MT502 connects with your analog phone line as well as computer via USB.

Highlighted Specs:

  • Bridging between USB and VoIP/SIP/IP
  • Use alone or daisy chainable up to 14 units of MT503 or Quattro3’s
  • Interactive dial pad with backlights
  • 4 mic beamforming array with directional LED lighting
  • DSP based algorithms:  echo canceling, noise reduction, de-reverb, automatic gain control
  • SIP version supports PoE (Power over Ethernet)

Phoenix Audio Spider PackagePhoenix Audio Spider Package Interior

Upon opening the package, we can see the Phoenix Audio Spider conference phone came well packed with foam cushioning and cut-outs to prevent shifting damage during transit.  The content includes the Spider conference phone, 48V power supply with international adapters, USB cable, and Ethernet cable for SIP version (phone cable instead for PSTN version).

Phoenix Audio Spider Package ContentThe Phoenix Audio Spider aluminum casing has a more matte finish to help prevent unpleasant finger prints.  At 7″ diameter and 1-7/8″ in height the Spider is discrete and visually pleasing.  Phoenix Audio also added foam lining to the bottom of the unit to help keep it in place and prevent scratches.  The soft-touch keypad is back-lit when active or off when the unit is on standby.

Initial boot-up took a couple minutes then from there on the set-up was pretty simple via Spider’s GUI interface – just minutes after plugging in we are having our first test call.  The menu options are pretty self-explanatory via on-screen prompts, but you can also check the user manual for a flow-chart.  The settings can be changed both manually on the unit itself or via its web interface.

PhoenixAudioSpider-Standby IMG_20141111_170744 IMG_20141111_170717

We tested using the Spider conference phone from various distances up to 7 feet away and is happy to say our voices were picked up very well.  Our voices sounded clear and natural for the caller on the other side with minimal or no background noises.  The Spider’s proprietary directional beamforming array (seen by blue LED light under Spider’s grill) followed each speaker’s voice around the room with stunning accuracy.  (Note:  For those who don’t enjoy LED light shows, the red and blue lights can be turned off via menu option.)  In conclusion, an individual Phoenix Audio Spider unit would be sufficient for any small to mid-sized conference room and a good conference phone to consider. For larger settings you can daisy-chain up to 14 sub-units for additional expansion.

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