John, Strange there have been several reviews that indicated that Webtalk was the best. I do not agree with them either. The problem with many of these reviews is that the are done by staff editors that know little about the technology, based on a limited number of calls
(sometimes as few as 2 to 3) and done on a PC with a set of $49 extension speakers. My thought is that these conditions do not enable the testers to make a good assessment of the capabilities of the software.
I have spent considerable money and time optimizing my computer sound system. I have selected components that provide close to flat frequency balance at my listening position. The specs on my sound card have been shown to be the best available in several published articles. I have made litterally thousands (in excess of 3500) of calls over the last almost 2 years. I have beta tested for about 10 different internet phone software providers, including Quarterdeck (Webphone) Vocaltec (Iphone) and Camelot (Digiphone).
I have used in excess of 25 different Internet phone applications. About 10 of these are on my machine now, and I use them all periodically (Including Digiphone Delux from time to time)!
I have even recorded portions of conversations using the different software digitally, and run spectrum and distortion analysis. I can show objectively and repeatedly that the there are significant differences in the audio from the different apps!
Now this is probably of no consequence to anyone but me (it is my hobby), however , it does serve to qualify my opinion.
Here it is again:
Digiphone as it is today (Delux and version 1.03) has the WORST sound available...period. It has no contenders for this dishonor, including many applications that are being distributed FREE of charge!
As long as these reviews are completely subjective, using no objective measurements whatsoever,use inadequate equipment, are based on statistically insignificant numbers of calls, and magazines tend to elevate big advertisers in the standings, I will trust my own ears, sound system, and test equipment.....thank you! |
