Hello all!
I would like to share my thoughts on the PowerConf based on my first days of use, side by side with a Logitech P710e (more or less similarly priced).
I would also like to compliment AND feed the tech team with a wish list to make the PowerConf truely live up to its expectations.
I hope that future firmware updates will be able to add these features!
Wish list for improvements
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MORE brightness in microphone sound: it seems that the noise reduction cuts off most of the high frequencies, leaving a muffled voice pickup
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Direct-sound mode: Add ability to fully cancel the noise reduction through the app by adding a 3rd sound mode: “single person” and “Multi-person” modes, followed by a new “direct-sound mode”
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Less lag between video and audio (lip-sync) in bluetooth mode
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Optimize Multi device connectivity: Allow for playing music via BT while device is connected to USB
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Add option for soft clicking sounds to button touch
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Connectivity with Webex/Zoom/MS Teams for MUTE button function
If the above can all be solved (and seems relatively easy to do with firmware), the Anker PowerConf is a KILLER conference speaker that can perform with so many established brands in a higher league!!!
Side by side comparison with Logitech P710e
Both are in a similar price range, so I’ve used both side by side for some time now.
Logitech P10e Pro’s and cons:
Pro
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great clarity in microphone sound, on par with USD 200 devices
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Almost no difference in microphone quality via USB or BT
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Multi-device connectivity: Leave it USB connected for Videoconferences, and in between have phone connected via BT for your regular phone calls.
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nice to have features: USB cable storage; integrated phone stand (does not charge phone though)
Con
- Speaker sound quality is average: relatively clear, but crackling
- Speaker volume is limited
- Some interference in BT microphone mode
Anker PowerConf
Pro
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Speaker sound is well balanced for its task: Excellent for calls, OK for music.
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Sufficient volume
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Battery life
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App options and firmware updates make it a future proof product
Con
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Microphone sound quality is mediocre: not sure if it is the quality of the microphones, or the noise reduction software that causes a muffled sound: people on other side of the line still have trouble hearing me some times…
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No BT auto-connect (small point though)
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Delay in BT sound and mic: lips of the other participants are not fully in sync with sound.
Conclusion - PowerConf: close but no cigar
The Anker is a very promising device, but since in the end it is intended as a conferencing device, microphone quality and multi-device connectivity shoud definitely be improved to make it a truely great device.
Although The device is close to being a GAMECHANGER in this product niche it still underperforms in the areas it SHOULD (and could?) EXCELL.
The Logitech p710e is a 7 year old design, yet is focused on the one thing that it should do well: Help conferencing make pleasant by: 1. making sure that voices are clear on microphone AND speaker; 2. allow seamless connection of several devices.
Not great for music playback, not a great form factor…
In this price range, if your focus is on speech and conferencing, the Logitech p710e is still a better choice compared to the current Anker PowerConf, (firmware version v26.48) in my personal opinion.
But the promise is certainly there!
For microphone comparisons, check this video:
