Review: Vtech Expandable Two Handset Cordless Phone System

The Vtech model CS6329-2 is economically priced when compared to its many competitors, yet has all the needed features of the higher priced systems. The base station is small and unobtrusive. The system comes with a base station with built-in digital answering machine and one remote handset that can be placed anywhere in your house. Don't miss a call; carry the cordless handset to the garage or even out to the pool or your yard. The system is expandable up to five stations by purchasing the system compatible CS6309 handsets. Like its predecessor, the CS6329-2 features caller ID, call waiting and redial.

Unlike earlier versions of Vtech's cordless phones, this model can store up to 100 names and phone numbers, plus it will store the name and number of the last fifty callers. You can store different numbers on each handset, so the kids can save all their friends' numbers, leaving your phone free for family, friends and other important or frequently dialed numbers. They have also added speakerphone capability to this model, an invaluable feature when you are stuck on hold waiting on customer service or just want to have hands-free operation while doing other tasks. Another improvement over earlier Vtech products is the ability to listen to recorded messages from the handset and not have to go to the base station. It also has much improved range. It has a strong and clear signal even when you are outside.

The handsets are sleek and light-weight. The screen and number pad are both back-lit for those late night calls. The buttons are of ample size and easy to operate. A large button in the center of the handset turns the speakerphone off or on. The handset also has the complete control of the digital answering machine. Listen to your messages, delete messages, record your outgoing message and turn the answering machine on or off, all from the handset. This prompted my wife to say, "I love this phone; it is so convenient." You can also choose from an assortment of ring tones and ring volume on each handset.

There are only a couple of negative aspect to this Vtech phone. Programming in numbers is fairly easy, but it can only be done when the phone line is not busy. With a household of active teenagers, finding the phone line idle is a challenge. I also find it a bit difficult to get the ringer volume set to a level I like and have it stay there. Both are minor problems for an otherwise great phone.