Good quality audio is essential to a successful video conference. Audio
output is about making sure that the sound sent from the far end can
be clearly heard by all the participants in a location. The choice
of equipment should be based on the needs, the number of participants
and the environment.
There are four main classes of audio output that are commonly used
in videoconferences:
Headphones |
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- The simplest individual audio solution is a mono or stereo headset.
- These are inexpensive and convinient where the video conferencing
equipment is located in a shared or noisy environment.
- The quality can be variable, but is normally sufficient to make
sense of a conference.
- Headphones can make some users self-conscious and uncomfortable
on camera.
- The use of headphones can help reduce echo cancellation and feedback
issues.
|
External Speakers |
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- Small external speakers are suitable for small groups of listeners
or individuals.
- Speakers are more natural for many users than headphones.
|
Integrated Monitor Audio |
 |
- This type covers both computer monitors and video monitors/televisions.
- Speakers built in to computer monitors tend to be quite poor
quality.
- Video monitors and televisions are much more suitable for video
conferencing application and these offer the best portable solution.
|
Bespoke systems |
 |
- Conferencing suites or dedicated rooms may be fitted with custom,
multiple speaker systems.
- These can have significant cost and complexity but give excellent
results.
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