Is the Aastra 57i still available?

[Fonestar]

I read this is supposed to be the best SIP phone ever but everything points me to the 67i. Is the 57i still available and is it configurable through a web-interface? I am sick of dealing with this 7940, the fact that I have to deal with t*f*t*p is unnecessary garbage.

What would be a good SIP phone that is quick to get up and running on the network for $100 - $150?

 

[TheShniz]

Aastra just basterdized their entire product lineup's model numbers, that's all... It's referred to as a 6757i, and yes it's still a viable phone, but good luck finding one for under $150. For your price range w/ Aastra, you're looking at the 6730/31. For a little more $$$, you could get the 6755i which has all the exact same XML capabilities as the 6757i. I personally see no practical purpose to go for a 6757i when the 55i works identically... unless it's the CT version.

Better get used to t*f*t*p and shell access

 

[Reddog]

We used to use the 55i and the 53i (we manage hundreds of desk phones) and only roll out the 57i when managers etc. The 55i and the 57i are only 40-50 dollars difference in Australia and the 57i is much more scalable in that you can change buttons around (and you will do this as new XML stuff comes along) and because of the LCD the screen updates. With the 53/55i you have to issue a new label everytime you change a menu option location. If you have the budget get a 57i.

 

[TheShniz]

Reddog does make a good point on the 57i, the (only) difference between the two really is the top button softkeys... if your organization is subject to lots of changes in configuration, I could see that as a nicety; anytime you can do something via LCD instead of a template is good. It also depends on how many telephones you've got... there's a much greater impact on the bottom line for a site with 50x desksets versus one with only 5x.