Residential Phone Systems  

The utility of most residential phone systems is quickly being overtaken by the mutiple handset wirelss systems aimed at the SOHO and consumer market. This being said, the most popular residential phone systems are built by Panasonic, Vodavi, and Lucent. Wiring for all of these is identical, home run Cat 5. Programming, usability, pricing and reliabilty vary greatly.

jcmitch

Take a look at the KX-TA624 and 7000 series speakerphones from Panasonic. Do a search on Google to find info and resellers.

I installed the Panasonic Digital Super-Hybrid system in my house... been quite happy with it. I used the KX-TD816 system and TVS-50 voice mail system.

Here's a little info on my setup: http://ht.napurano.com/phonesystem.html

If I can make a vendor recommendation, these guys had GREAT pricing, and great support... www.tomcochran.com


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Mike Napurano
My HT (updates!) | Dallas Home Theater Group (DHTG)

If you are in to automation DSC makes a sytem called the communique with a built x10 controller of 32 devices and 24 macros. In my opinion its a tad bit more user friendly than the 624 but I am a biased dealer so take that with a grain of salt. just my thoughts, hope it helps.

Hi Eric, I had the Panasonic 624 ,3 wireless phones and the 50 Voice mail from Panasonic for my home. No question, it's a powerful telephone system, however it is not very end-user friendly and it's geared more for business use than residential. Where can I see some details on the DSC system you are describing. I currently have the Homevision controller for automation with the Caddx Security system,and several X10 modules.

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Joe C
MY HT/Gameroom

Joe, go to dscsec.com and you should find everything you need to know. the system is limited to 24 extensions but the average house doesnt exceed that. it will also integrate to dsc's security panels making every phone a keypad(even your cell phone or any phone for that matter).the voicemail has 24 private boxes and one general box. I guess I should quit and let you see the website(too many features to list.

ERIC,
Will the Communique integrate with the Homevision controller or Caddx security system? I like the Communique system phone with buttons to access "security" and "automation", but are those buttons for only DSC product lines?
THanks, JOE


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Joe C
MY HT/Gameroom

As far as the automation goes all you need is an x10 interface(RJ11 to AC outlet). For the security part it either has to be a power 832 series or the maxsys series(both DSC). It is kind of limited that way but the way they come together is great. They work better than any other phone/security combo I've seen. You could probably find an 832 panel and a couple of keypads for under 3-400 dollars if you installed it yourself or tack on another 100-150 for someone to install it for you.