I bought this phone at considerable expense because of its features, the brand name, and assurances from a sales person that the quality was excellent. It has persistently been problematic. Every time I pick up the phone, I hear very loud and obnoxious static. That used to fade away when I began a call, but now it persists, making it painful to listen to callers. Another minor annoyance is the caller ID light which continually flashes for no good reason, instead of simply staying on. I wish I'd bought the cheaper Vtech, or maybe got a Siemens.