Labtec Introduces Headset and Microphone Line for Optimizing PC Speech Recognition; New Line Delivers Best Solution for Voice-Enabled Applications with Performance and Comfort

Business Wire, June 30, 1998

VANCOUVER, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 30, 1998--Labtec Inc., The Computer Audio Experts(TM), announces a new line of advanced PC speech recognition headsets and microphones.

The new line, ClearVoice(TM), features three models specifically designed to meet the highly technical demands of speech recognition applications. All three models have received full certification from Dragon Systems(R), the leading developer of speech recognition software.

Labtec ClearVoice(TM) microphones feature NCAT2 (noise canceling and amplification technology, version 2), a Labtec proprietary microphone technology that optimizes the performance of PC speech recognition and other voice-enabled software applications.

The NCAT2 microphone element delivers clear, articulate speech input in noisy environments, a requirement for effective speech recognition. NCAT2 microphones are designed to be compatible with virtually all sound cards.

ClearVoice(TM) models are ergonomically designed to be comfortable, lightweight and adjustable. The ClearVoice(TM) models will be available to consumers in September, 1998.

"The new Labtec ClearVoice(TM) microphones with NCAT2 technology will help our customers get the best results from their PC speech recognition software," said Darrell West, director of marketing for Labtec.

"We researched customer environments and ergonomic needs, and designed a series of products that address both the performance requirements of demanding speech recognition programs and the comfort requirements of active users."

Speech recognition applications require a clear, strong, noise-free signal for the software to perform effectively. Background noise can interfere with the voice signal, causing errors in the translation of speech to text. NCAT2 ensures that users spend a minimum amount of time correcting text and "teaching" their software to accurately translate speech. The technology also provides improved intelligibility and speed for Internet transmission of compressed voice files. The three new ClearVoice(TM) PC speech recognition models are: -0-

--   LVA-7330 ClearVoice(TM) Head Microphone -- A head-mounted
     microphone that properly positions the microphone element in a
     near-field proximity to the user, ensuring the consistent input
     signal required for speech recognition. Designed for voice input
     applications that do not require audio feedback, or for use with
     a speaker system, the LVA-7330 is an ultra-light alternative to a
     conventional headphone/microphone combination. The LVA-7330
     features a fully adjustable headband and microphone arm for easy
     positioning, and an eight-foot shielded cord with 3.5mm gold
     plug. The LVA-7330 will have an estimated retail price of $29.99.

--   LVA 8450 ClearVoice(TM) Mono Headset/Boom Microphone -- A headset
     microphone combination featuring a headphone volume control and
     microphone mute switch; an adjustable double headband for
     increased comfort; and a rotating microphone boom arm for left or
     right side use. Padded ear piece is designed for extra comfort,
     and pads are sealed for deeper bass. Includes an eight-foot
     shielded cord with 3.5mm monaural gold plug for headset and 3.5mm
     gold plug for microphone. The LVA-8450 will have an expected
     street price of $39.95.

--   LVA-8550 ClearVoice(TM) Stereo Headset Microphone --
     Top-of-the-line headset and boom microphone system featuring a
     stereo headset, headphone volume control and microphone mute
     switch. Microphone boom rotates for left or right side use.
     Padded ear pieces are designed for extra comfort, and pads are
     sealed for deeper bass. Includes an eight-foot shielded cord with
     3.5mm gold monaural plug for headset and 3.5mm gold plug for
     microphone. The LVA-8450 will have an expected street price of
     $39.95.

-0- About Labtec Inc.

Founded in 1982, Labtec Inc. is America's no. 1 multimedia speaker and PC audio peripheral company. Labtec offers a complete range of PC audio products including a full line of speakers, subwoofers, PC Voice Access(TM) microphones, headphones and accessories. For additional information, please call 360/896-2000, or visit the Labtec Web site at: http://www.labtec.com.

    CONTACT: Labtec Inc.
              Debbie DeFreece, 360/896-2000
              debbie@labtec.com
               or
              Golin/Harris Technologies
              Sean Kauppinen, 415/904-7030 ext. 228
              skauppinen@hi-tech.com