VTech CRL32102 dect_6.0 1-Handset Landline Telephone

Easy to use phone.

I was looking for a replacement cordless phone/answering system at a reasonable price and after looking at the choices on Amazon, decided to try the AT&T CRL 32102 having a positive experience with two other AT&T corded phones, and this unit was just under $40.00. I ended up with more than I bargained for.First, like other current model cordless phones, it makes use of DECT 6.0 wireless technology which means a dedicated frequency for cordless phones that gives extended range, is not bothered by interference from such devices as microwave ovens, and does not interfere with home wireless computer networks. This AT&T phone system (manufactured by V-Tech) has quite a few useful options, especially for people with hearing or vision issues. It has an extremely large viewing screen with large, black text on bright, white backlighting. A large keypad with orange backlighting with the option of a key press to be announced by the digital voice function. You can also activate talking Caller ID to hear who is calling as well as call-screening to hear answering machine incoming messages. Audio has also not been forgotten: The phone offers a feature called HD Audio - circuitry to add clarity to calls. On the front, there is an audio assist button to add a little more volume boost than the volume control alone. On the right side, there is an EQ button that alters, bass, treble, natural response, again for call clarity.In the short time I've used the unit, it has performed flawlessly, and I have been especially impressed with the quality of the digital voice functions. Per the enclosed abbreviated instructions ( a full 90 page manual is available on the AT&T website as a .pdf file), make sure to charge a fresh battery for 16 hours before setting up and customizing the phone options to eliminate issues.If you need expansion handsets, this system can support up to 12. I didn't know how well I would like it initially, so I only purchaed the base unit configuration. Now that I am completely satisfied, I purchased an extension handset that has all the features of the base unit. Registration of additional handsets is easy, quick, and automatic. If you need extra handsets annd this review helps your decision, buy one of the bundled sets (2,3, or 4 units) from Amazon. In this way, you will save almost $16 per unit over the cost of buying handsets later.Three little cons (but nothing that detracts from the value here): First, these are small, lightweight handsets that are somewhat smooth and slippery. Perhaps in future versions, they might add a rubberized coating to the sides, making it easier to hold on to. Second, when you are away from the base unit and using only the handset to play back messages, even with maximum volume, you need to hold the unit close to your ear to hear clearly. Finally, the handsets use a special battery and plug-in connector. The batteries are reasonably priced on Amazon, so it might be a good idea to have a spare handy. I hope this gives you an informed buying decision and I highly recommend this product!

Bought this unit for a couple who are in their 90's, both technologically challenged. This is a good system for them as the numbers on the keypads are large, and the operation is simple and easy for a senior to grasp. The base station has few controls and is equally straightforward in its operation, with one exception which, in our case, is major. The base station has the "on-off" button for voicemail grouped together with the playback controls. When voicemail is active, the button is lighted. This "on-off" button is constantly confused as the "play" button for listening to messages and they keep "turning off" the voice mail system. Even though the "play", "rewind" and "stop" icons to the right are universally recognized, they are meaningless to seniors who do not understand technology, and that glowing red "on-off" button is just begging to be pushed.The system setup is easy and the method for registering the handsets with the base station is superb. Now if we can only find a way to leave them important messages.

I received my new CRL32102 Base Unit, and (3) CRL30102 Handset Units, yesterday. I plugged all 4 units into a power strip and let them charge 16 hours. Today I have been setting them up. So far I like everything about the phone: the nice large lighted display and buttons is probably the most obvious feature. I wont go into all the many features this phone system has, but it seems to have about every one a person could want. You get an 'Abridged' Manual, and have to go online to AT&T to get the 'complete' 90-page one, so I downloaded the PDF and submitted it online to my nearby FedEx Office, they printed it nicely with Spiral Binding and Clear Covers, however that cost me $18. It will take me awhile to get use to the many features. I will edit this review in the future if I have anything especially good or bad to report. LATER: to get the Talking Digit to work you have to put in the numbers 'before' you then 'connect' the call by pushing the green 'Phone' button. LATER: This could save someone some trouble. I thought the Call Waiting Caller ID wasnt working on the new phone, so I did a service call to AT&T, we figured out that it didnt work because I had the base unit routed thru a separate large screen Caller ID that we had been using for years, we had to discontinue using that. FYI: The way this new phone works is that 'only' the Base Unit plugs into a wall Phone Jack, all the addtnl handsets work remotely, and only connect to an electrical outlet for recharging; but this doesnt seem to affect the sound/connection function. LATER: the Intercom function works well btwn phones/rooms, and is very convenient to save a trip across the house and down the stairs. I also really like being able to hear/process messages on the Answer Machine (in the Kitchen) from the Bedroom or downstairs Office. LATER: I really love the 'Quiet' function. You just press the Quiet button a few seconds, then put in the number of hours you dont want 'any' of your phones to ring, from 1-12 hours. The phone doesnt ring but the Answer Machine still takes messages, quietly. An amazingly great feature; the phone wont interupt you while watching TV or whatever, afterward you can retrieve messages and call the person back.