Training a new hire on live calls usually means one of two things: a special Y-cable that splits one corded connection into two headsets, or an adapter that does the same for wireless. Here's the current setup for both, plus computer-based training bundles for softphone use.
Quick answer
Last updated July 2026
Y-training cables for corded headsets
Both Jabra and Plantronics make a Y-training (supervisor) cable that splits one desk-phone connection between two corded headsets, letting a trainer listen in and interject when needed.
The Jabra Y-Training Supervisor Cable with Mute Button lets a trainer listen in on a call and mute or unmute themselves to interject, compatible only with Jabra corded headsets. It's available on our headset cables collection.
The Plantronics Y-Training/Supervisor Cord works the same way for Plantronics H-series corded headsets — a mute switch lets the supervisor choose whether to interject. Only one microphone is live at a time; both people can always listen.
Myth
A Jabra Y-training cable will work with a Plantronics headset, since they look similar.Reality
No — these cables are brand-specific. A Jabra Y-training cable only works with Jabra corded headsets, and a Plantronics one only with Plantronics H-series headsets. Always match the training cable to your headset brand.ZoomSwitch: training with wireless headsets
For wireless headsets, a ZoomSwitch adapter connects two wireless headsets to one desk phone, letting two people be on the same call the same way a Y-training cable does for corded headsets. The adapter has two headset ports, labeled A and B — Port A should go to whoever is responsible for answering and ending the call, since that side has the actual call control.
The ZoomSwitch is not EHS compatible, since its telephone interface cable occupies the same connection point an EHS cable would normally use. It does work with a Plantronics HL10 mechanical lifter for remote answering — a practical workflow is to temporarily attach the HL10 during the training period, then remove it and reconnect your normal EHS cable once the trainee no longer needs the ZoomSwitch setup.
Rather than assembling this yourself, the Poly CS540 Wireless Training Bundle comes pre-configured with two CS540 headsets and the ZoomSwitch adapter, including independent mute per side — the trainer can listen silently, jump in, or have both people live on the call at once.
Combining a wireless and corded headset for training
In the rare case you want to pair one wireless headset with one corded headset on the same ZoomSwitch, you'll need an amplifier on the corded side. The ZoomSwitch connects to the phone's handset port, which has no built-in amplification of its own — a wireless headset doesn't need this since it has an amplifier built into its base, but a corded headset does.
USB training bundles for computer/softphone use
For training on computer-based calls or softphones, pre-bundled USB training packages pair two headsets with a training adapter that plugs directly into the computer, with in-line mute and volume controls for the trainer. Current options include:
- Jabra Biz 1500 Mono — an entry-level mono setup, keeping one ear open for environmental awareness.
- Jabra Biz 1500 Duo — the binaural version, better suited to a louder office.
- Jabra Biz 2300 (mono or duo) — a step up in build quality with Kevlar reinforcement, for daily heavy use.
- Poly HW510 — a mono, over-the-head corded headset, hearing-aid (telecoil) compatible, with the training adapter connecting via USB for computer and softphone use.
Browse the current range on our headset cables and accessories collection, or call our team at 877-999-3838 to confirm a specific bundle's current availability.
How do I set up headset training for corded headsets?
Use a Y-training (supervisor) cable, which splits one desk-phone connection between two headsets with a mute switch so only one microphone is live at a time. Jabra and Plantronics each make their own version, compatible only with their own headset brand.
How do I train someone using wireless headsets?
A ZoomSwitch adapter connects two wireless headsets to one desk phone. Port A should be assigned to whoever handles answering and ending the call. The Poly CS540 Wireless Training Bundle comes pre-configured with two headsets and the adapter, so you don't need to assemble the setup yourself.
Does the ZoomSwitch work with EHS for remote answering?
No, the ZoomSwitch isn't EHS compatible, since its cable occupies the same connection point an EHS cable would use. It does work with the Plantronics HL10 mechanical lifter instead — you can attach the HL10 temporarily during training, then remove it and reconnect your normal EHS cable afterward.
Can I combine a wireless headset and a corded headset for training?
Yes, using a ZoomSwitch, but the corded headset's side needs an amplifier, since the phone's handset port has no built-in amplification of its own. The wireless headset doesn't need this, since its amplifier is built into the base.
Is there a training setup for computer/softphone use?
Yes, pre-bundled USB training packages pair two headsets (from Jabra's Biz 1500/2300 line or Poly's HW510) with a USB training adapter that includes in-line mute and volume controls for the trainer.
Whether you're training on desk-phone calls or softphone calls, the pre-bundled packages are the simplest path — no need to source cables and headsets separately. Call our team at 877-999-3838 for help matching the right one to your setup.
Comments (0)