Sony SPP-111 900 MHz Cordless Phone

Sony employs its exclusive ClearScan 25 compander ProSound technology to make the most of the long-established lower-frequency analog transmission method. The result is a simple, low-cost cordless telephone with good sound.

To set up the Sony SP-111, we inserted the battery pack (included) into the handset, plugged in the AC adapter/recharger, and connected the RJ-11 telephone line cord. You should charge the battery pack for 12 hours before using the telephone for the first time.

You control the Sony SP-111 with one button and one switch on the base and one switch and seven buttons (in addition to the usual 0-9, #, and *) on the handset. The SP-111 is as easy to use as any corded phone, but we had to consult the instruction sheet to learn how to program the speed-dial buttons. You press Pgm, press the number (0-9) to which you're assigning the telephone number, dial the telephone number, and press Pgm again. To dial with the speed-dial buttons, press Speed Dial and then the number (0-9).

In our tests of the SP-111, we placed the base in a home environment where walls and ceilings might interfere with the signal. The handset sounded very good when close to the base, only slightly softer than our reference corded desk phone. This clear sound is presumably due to Sony's exclusive ClearScan 25 compander ProSound technology which automatically scans for the clearest of 25 channels and continuously "cleans" the transmission signal. However, we heard noise and static starting when the handset was only about 25 feet from the base, and the handset stopped functioning altogether at about 50 feet. Also, the handset picked up interference from some electrical appliances, especially our computer.

Despite its limited range and susceptibility to interference, the handset offers good sound when close to the base, and the low price makes the Sony SP-111 an overall good choice for value-minded shoppers. --Mike Brown

Pros:

• Low price, good value
• Comfortable, lightweight handset

Cons:

• Limited range
• Subject to interference from appliances

This cordless phone automatically scans all 25 available channels when turned on and operates on the channel offering the clearest reception. The Compander ProSound Noise Reduction System automatically filters out background noise to provide virtually static-free transmission. The base-to-handset paging feature sends a beep signal from the base to the handset, allowing you to summon a co-worker or family member or to locate a misplaced handset. A 14-day battery standby time allows longer intervals between charging batteries, and 10-number speed dialing provides simple two-step dialing of the business and personal numbers you call frequently. A low battery indicator visually alerts you when battery power is running low, and the Any Key Answer feature allows you to answer calls by pressing any key on the handset except "OFF".