Audio conferencing is the process of using electronic communication channels to conduct meetings between three or more participants that are communicating using audio only. Today, audio conferencing is quite in demand for effective company and employee management or more productive interaction with partners.
Many audio conferencing solutions can be accompanied by multiple online collaboration tools, such as screen sharing, team messaging and meeting recording, further enhancing the value of audio meetings.
Types Of Audio Conferencing
There are three types of audio conferencing systems: distributed, local and integrated.
- Distributed (Remote) audio conferencing connects several participants from different locations.
- Local audio conferencing connects several participants who are in the same room (conference room or meeting room).
- Integrated audio conferencing brings together remote and nearby participants.
Advantages of Audio Conferencing
Audio conferencing is a useful communication tool for different types of businesses. It has many benefits and advantages, which include:
- Audio conferencing is a cost-effective communication tool. It is a cheaper alternative to face-to-face meetings and travel.
- Audio conferencing allows businesses to conduct meetings and conferences without the need for expensive equipment. All you need is a telephone and a conference call service.
- Audio conferencing is a convenient communication tool. It allows businesses to conduct meetings and conferences at a time and place that is convenient for all participants.
- Audio conferencing is a flexible communication tool. It can be used for different types of meetings, such as sales meetings, training sessions, and board meetings.
- Audio conferencing is a reliable communication tool. It is less likely to experience technical problems than other types of communication tools, such as video conferencing.
- Audio conferencing is an easy-to-use communication tool. It is simple to set up and use.
What is DTMF?
DTMF is a dual-tone multi-frequency analog signal used to dial a telephone number. In other words, DTMF translates the sound signals from the keys on the telephone keypads into readable information.
Today, DTMF signaling technology is widely used in call centers to speed up call processing and reduce errors. Paired with voice auto-response (DISA or IVR), DTMF provides automated self-service menu selection and collects customer data. IVR systems enhance the customer experience by allowing users to navigate through options seamlessly, ensuring they reach the right department or service without unnecessary delays.
What Are the Main Differences Between Video Conferencing and Audio Conferencing?
Video and audio conferencing are components of the broader umbrella term “teleconferencing,” which take place in real time.
There are three main differences between video and audio conferencing:
1.The methods of information transmission
During an audio conference session, users can only communicate in voice mode and cannot see other users or use collaboration tools that require eye contact.
2.The cost of solutions
Audio conferencing systems are much cheaper than video conferencing because they only require telecommunications equipment (phone, IP phone, conference phone) and IP telephony software application, through which users can communicate with each other.
3.Convenience
Unlike video conferencing, where a virtual meeting is as close as possible to a real audio-visual contact, in audio conferencing the level of interaction between the participants is much lower and is similar to a telephone conversation.
Equipment for Audio Conferencing
If the user wants to equip a room for the purposes of audio conferencing with a remote branch office, it is necessary to pay attention to the equipment such as conference systems consisting of a central control unit and remote conference microphones. This equipment is specifically designed for the organization of audio and video discussions in large-area conference rooms. Also, you can use echo canceling speakerphones for audio playback, which can be combined in a chain to cover large areas.
If the user needs to negotiate with foreign partners or customers, additional equipment can be used (e.g., simultaneous interpretation systems in wireless headsets in order to avoid any difficulties in communication). This equipment can be both integrated with a conference system and autonomous. In the first case, the translation is distributed by the central unit, in the second case, it is necessary to use IrDA.
About TrueConf audio conferencing
TrueConf is a self-hosted and secure solution for audio/video conferencing and team messaging that makes your business communication more productive. Thanks to the integrated SIP/H.323 gateway, you can call or invite VoIP devices, PBX or PSTN subscribers to your meetings.
Level-up your audio conferencing with TrueConf:
- Unified communications. Ultra HD video conferencing with up to 1,000 participants, instant team messaging, and telephony are available to TrueConf users.
- HD Audio. TrueConf creates a real presence effect thanks to the modern Opus audio codec which easily adapts to bandwidth, providing the best quality even on unstable connections.
- Security. The solution is deployed on-premises or in a private cloud, providing full control of the data. Media data is encrypted with AES-256, SRTP or H.235 depending on the network protocol.
- Recording. You can record your audio conference for future playback. All the recordings are stored locally and available only for the participants.