The Gigaset C575A is the latest cordless phone from Gigaset. It is the direct replacement for the Gigaset C570A, which was previously our top-rated phone. But can this new model live up to its predecessor's reputation? We put it to the test in another of our in-depth reviews. Read on to find out what we thought of it!
Related: Top 10 Best Cordless Phones of the Year
Design & build
The one main difference between the C575A and the C570A is that it no longer features a separate base station. Instead, the handset now slots straight into the answering machine. Other than that, though, the two models are much the same; in fact, the handsets are identical.
Not that this is a bad thing, though. Here at liGo, we've always been big fans of the C570's sleek, modern style. The handsets fit neatly in the hand, and are a comfortable weight, so long calls aren't a strain. The build quality is superb, and while the handset may only be plastic, it's a world apart from cheaper handsets from the likes of BT.
The base still has a built-in message counter, so you can see at-a-glance if there are any messages waiting for you, as well as a speaker and playback controls. While admittedly not as refined as the C570's base station, it does mean you only need to use one plug socket for the base and handset.
Set-up
The Gigaset C575A is incredibly easy to set up, as it's essentially just plug-and-play. All you need to do is connect the base up to your phone line and a power socket, and pop the included rechargeable batteries into the handset. With that done, you're ready to start making and receiving calls. See- we told you it was simple!
If you've purchased any additional handsets, then these will each need to be paired up to the base station individually. While this does require a few extra steps, it's still a straightforward process. In fact, on-screen instructions guide you through the whole process. Using the phone's additional features are equally easy thanks to the large, full-colour display screen and intuitive menu layout. An abridged version of the phone's manual is included in the box, while the full version is available digitally.
Sound quality
Gigaset phones have long been praised for their excellent sound quality (not least by our customers at liGo), and the C575A is no different. With HD sound, calls sound better than ever. We tested the call quality from landline to landline, and mobile to landline through the earpiece and on the loudspeaker, and experienced zero distortion or interference.
What's more, the Gigaset C575 comes with a full-duplex loudspeaker. This cancels out the annoying echo that you tend to get when talking on speakerphone, making the C575 a great choice if you like to take your calls hands-free. Both this mode and the handset can go more than loud enough for anyone without a hearing impairment, while still remaining clear and sharp. And for those whose hearing isn't quite what it used to be, check out the Gigaset E390A, which is an adapted version of this model for older users.
Buy now: Gigaset Premium C575A from £69.99
Range
We mention this in every review, but it's worth repeating for those not in the know. DECT phones can provide up to 50m range indoors, and up to 300m range outdoors. However, this is simply the maximum that the technology can provide. Individual models can vary depending on the build quality, and the range can be affected by things like thick walls or electrical interference from other devices.
When we tested the C575A for ourselves, we found that it performed better than the average cordless phone. It provided close to the maximum range before the signal began to drop out. If you need more range than this, then you'll be pleased to learn that the C575A is repeater-compatible (unlike BT phones). With a repeater, you can achieve up to double the range- useful if you're purchasing multiple handsets!
Additional features
As did the C570A before it, the Gigaset C575A comes packed with plenty of extra features. There's space in the phonebook for up to 200 contacts, and you can assign three different numbers to each of them. You also have the option of creating VIP lists. This allows you to assign specific ringtones to different contacts, so you can instantly tell who's calling when the phone rings.
There's also a built-in answering machine (as we mentioned earlier) with up to 30 minutes' recording time. This comes on top of all the standard features one would expect from a modern cordless phone: speed dial, conference calling, intercom, and even a baby monitor mode. The C575A also includes a few nuisance call blocking features, too. There's an Anonymous Call Blocker, which should stop the majority of cold callers from getting through, along with a Do Not Disturb mode that lets you silence the ringer at certain times of day from everyone except VIP contacts.
Gigaset C575A: The Verdict
The Gigaset C575A is a worthy successor to the C570A, offering the same balance of stylish design, outstanding sound quality, and great value for money. In fact, we like it so much that we've made it our Best Buy cordless phone of the year. Put simply, you won't find a better-sounding handset!
