Jabra's GO 6430 is a Bluetooth headset with many appealing features. It offers good voice quality and is a multipurpose tool: not only can you use it to make hands-free calls with your cell phone, but you can also pair it with your computer for use with a Voice-over-IP application. Unfortunately, though, the GO 6430 is a bit bulky and not always comfortable to wear.
The GO 6430 is a long, bar-shaped Bluetooth headset that's bigger than most: it measures 3 inches long by .7 inches wide by .5 inches thick, and weighs just over half an ounce. It comes with just one ear bud -- no smaller or larger sizes are included for customizing the fit, which is unfortunate. You'll need the included earhook to make the GO 6430 sit securely on your ear, but even when using it, I never felt confident that the headset wasn't going to jiggle around. Alternatively, the headset can be worn with a headband or a neckband, which is more practical for office use, rather than when you're on the go.
At the top of the headset (on the edge that sits right behind your ear), you'll find the multifunction call button, which you can use to answer and end calls. It's on the small side, but is easy to find by feel. The side of the GO 6430 features a long touch sensor that you can use to raise and lower the volume, or to mute a call. I found the touch sensor a bit finicky, as I often had trouble setting the volume to the precise level I wanted.
The GO 6430 pairs easily with any Bluetooth equipped cell phone, but to pair it with a computer, you'll likely need the included USB Bluetooth dongle (unless your PC already has Bluetooth connectivity). To use it, you just plug the dongle into an open USB port on your computer; it's already paired with the headset, so the connection is automatic. You will need to install Jabra's software to use the headset with a VoIP app, though.
I tested the GO 6430 with an iPhone 4, and, overall, was impressed with the call quality. Voices came through loud and clear on both ends of the line, with only occasional crackling. When I roamed too far from the phone, though, voices began to break up.
Bottom Line
If you can live with its bulky design, the Jabra GO 6430 has a lot to offer, especially for business users who can appreciate its ability to connect to cell phones and computers.