anybody use those progs that call long-distance through your net connection?

[Descend492]

I wanna call somebody (yes...a girl) a lot, but I don't have the funds. I've heard of progs that let you call through your internet connection (I"m on a college network). Are they any good? I've heard they have some problems, but that was about a year ago, and they might've been improved. Any suggestions on a prog to try? thanks fellas and ladies

 

[maddmax]

I have used Dialpad with mixed results. IMHO a good headset mic combo is not an option for this application. Labtec 8550's are a good choice. My system used a soundblaster live and Diamond supraexpress 56k isa modem. Most calls were quite acceptable. Some calls got a little choppy on the other end. This seemed dependent on modem connect speed and/or traffic on the net. WWW.dialpad.com was very user friendly. Best of Luck.

 

[jaywallen]

I've used Dialpad with varying degrees of success.

I've heard good things about the latest version of MSN Messenger. It now has PC-to-phone (free, within the U.S.) as well as PC-to-PC calling functions. It's reputed to be very good -- better than Dialpad. I installed it on my machine, but I haven't used it yet because I don't like anyone enough to call them -- even for free.

Regards,
Jim

 

[Mears]

I have used both extensively. Here is what I've found:

If you have a very slow connection it will sound like crap no matter what.
Dialpad has better sound quality than MSN. At least there is a noticeable difference in my area.

 

[IamDavid]

I use the dialer in MSN Messenger and it works great.. I'm on broadband and haven't tried it on a dial-up.

 

[TP]

Dialpad can be a pain through proxy, but as long as you have a headset, you will get by. MSN Messenger is good too, but echoe is a factor for both...If your girly has a PC and sound card etc... Use Firetalk. I've got my whole family all across the country on Firetalk and it's excellent sound quality...