What equipment will I need?

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Most on-hold messaging systems require some special equipment. Your phones must be equipped with music on-hold capability, and if your system is old, you may need to install a music on-hold card, interface, or adapter. Adapters allow you to play audio sources through the hold lines when the hold button is pressed.
Next you must choose between tape, CD, or digital playback systems. Tape systems are the least expensive, but they require more upkeep and their lifespan is shorter than CD- and digital-based systems. Sound quality will also deteriorate over time. Some on-hold message tapes are endless loops, meaning they are played continuously until they wear out. CD systems allow for longer programs and more message options. Each message has its own track, so you can program which tracks you want played in what order. CD systems require reprogramming when you alter the line-up or after power interruptions. Digital playback systems are the most popular choice thanks to superior sound quality and little to no maintenance. Messages can be switched by downloading a new prerecorded message that erases the previous program in memory. The most advanced systems are remotely addressable digital announcers, which receive audio via computer modem technology.



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