Prior to this phone, I had the Vtech version for a few years (& it's terrible!! Don't do it just to save a few bucks, buy anything else). So this AT&T one I settled on after looking at one by Panasonic, this one had better reviews. I ordered it from the Amazon Warehouse "Very Good" and it arrived in the box, with all the parts and plastic protectors. It works perfectly. Only small issues, the number 8 is a bit wonky, like it's got a small rock under the button, so just need to be deliberate when pressing it. The other issue was the handset battery cover occasionally fell off, but after really looking into it, if anything it's a design flaw. I made sure all the little hooks were aligned, and so far it's fine.
There are lots of reviews that people mentioned the directions being complicated, I did not find that true. The machine walks you through setup (so you don't need the manuel, tho it does help clarify things if you want to know more detailed things about the phone). This phone works with out power, at least for in and out going calls (the Vtech version did not, only allowed outgoing). When power returns, this phone does start over with its tutorial setup. I thought it had erased everything, but if you have already set it up and the power goes out, even if it prompts you, you do not have to reset up everything. You can skip it, and your presets are all still saved.
The main thing you need to do, if youre using the smart blocker, is to make sure to add anyone you actually want calling you without hassle, to the directory (basically save their number). You can manually enter them or if they call, you can add the number from caller ID. You can also block people who made it through from the directory or when they call. Anyways, add the people you want to just ring through like normal, and anyone else, when they are announced, you pick up and still get to choose if you want to talk, save, block, or send them to the machine, without them even knowing you are on the line. Each one of these options has an assigned number (1-4). So most important, add to the directory & remember the functions of numbers (tho the phone will tell u each time, it's faster if you just know: "1=answer 4=send to the machine"). Saving or blocking can be done afterwards, if you can't remember the other numbers. I say faster because the person on the line, after announcing themselves to the smart blocker, gets put on hold. They don't hear a ringing, they hear a long beep or buzzing (which if you didn't know what smart blocker is, you may think there's been an error on the connection).
I'm making this sound more complicated than it is, it's really simple and the phone prompts you for everything. There's even different smart block options, where u "screen/block"everyone except directory numbers, or only unlisted numbers get the smart blocker, or everything comes through. There's a fair amount of customization. I have not figured out how to use the intercom from the base (not sure it's even an option), but the handheld has a button on the side and you have to pick the receiving device (ex. "Base" or if you have other wireless phones), and hit the "select" button, then the intercom goes through.
The sound is clear, the volume is great. I haven't tried adjusting the tone. The setting screen is a bit weird, seems like it skips categories sometimes, but it all functions. I love the way the phone looks. The buttons are big and light up orange on the handheld. As long as the base is plugged in you can add several wireless sets to your home. You only need an electrical outlet for the wireless base, not a phone line, so you can put a wireless phone anywhere in your home, which is awesome. I don't think the phone has a customizable ring tone, the default one it has is classic ring, but still kinda digital sounding (not like an old school metal ringing). I like it, it's loud without being jarring or sharp.
Only had the phone for a week, but I really like the look and the functions so far. The power went out, day after I put it up, so I did get to test it in that scenario (which is basically why I have a landline). It worked as expected. I do not regret buying a used version, though if I do buy used it's always "like new", but I took a gamble on this, and I'm glad I did! I would totally recommend this phone, and the discounted ones from the warehouse (I have gotten bad things from the warehouse, but 95% of the time the items are fantastic and don't look used at all). With "Very Good" I was expecting it to have scratches somewhere noticable, or missing manual, but nope! I am happy with this purchase. Paid as much as I did for the vTech nightmare phone, and this one is SOOOO much nicer!
| Manufacturer | Vtech |
|---|---|
| Brand | AT&T |
| Item Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 11.87 x 7.43 x 4.67 inches |
| Item model number | CL84107 |
| Batteries | 1 AAA batteries required. (included) |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color | Silver, Black |
| Material Type | Plastic, Metal |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Size | 1 Handset |
| Manufacturer Part Number | CL84107 |
