SOUTHWESTERN BELL FM-2560S Telephone with Call Waiting Caller ID - Good Looks, But...
Written: Dec 22 '04 (Updated Mar 27 '09)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Looks good, good sound quality, durability, features and keypad
Cons: LCD visibility, scroll/LCD contrast button
The Bottom Line: This phone looks good and performs well, aside from the LCD visibility and the scroll/LCD contrast control button. I recommend it for...
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| dkozin's Full Review: Southwestern Bell FM2560S 1-Line Corded Phone |
Although I have been using the Southwestern Bell FM-2560S phone for two years, I must say that I should have done more research.
I admit that I have bought this phone based on looks. It matches my bedside lamp (has the brushed aluminum look top part) and looks sleek. In addition, it has caller ID and call waiting with caller ID. It also sells for less than $20.
Once I bought the phone I realized its shortcomings as well as its good points.
Features
The phone features call waiting and caller ID with 64-number memory, has a large 3-line LCD and the lighted keypad. Too bad that the LCD is not backlit and the contrast is pretty poor if you are not looking at it at the right angle.
The LCD also shows you the elapsed time of the call and the number/name of the person who is calling. Unfortunately, in addition to not being backlit, the display is on the outer side of the handset and, thus, makes you flip it over to see either the elapsed time or who is calling you if you were talking to somebody already.
I like the approach used in my cordless Panasonic KX-TC1733B Phone better - the LCD is not only backlit, but is also located on the same side with the microphone and the speaker, so you don't have to flip it over to see who is calling.
Performance
The sound quality of the phone is very good and clear. You can adjust the speaker volume as well (louder or quieter) and you can adjust the ring volume or turn the ringer off.
The caller ID works well and call waiting with caller ID lets you see who is calling even if you are talking to somebody on the phone already. However, the single joystick-like pad that serves as a scroll button as well as for LCD contrast adjustment is pretty uncomfortable and difficult to use for contrast adjustment.
The dialing buttons are large and backlit. They have good tactile feel. Both the base and the handset are hefty and feel sturdy. They worked well for two years and show only minor signs of wear, if at all.
The phone uses 3-AA batteries in the base. I wish it used 2.
Durability
As of 04/2009, I have used the phone for 4.5 years and it still works perfectly.
Bottom Line
This phone looks good and performs well, aside from the LCD visibility and the scroll/LCD contrast control button. I recommend it for its low price, features and performance.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
dkozin
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 in Electronics |
 - Top 10 |
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Location: California
Reviews written: 817
Trusted by: 514 members
About Me:
I love to push buttons on electronic (audio and video) equipment. It makes me happy.
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