Bought a pair of Motorola 8500's today and they are not worth a darn. Not near as good as an old pair of Moto 5000's that I've had several years. The last two pair that I've had have been re-chargable. I don't know how that could be affecting my reception when I use regular batteries, but something is causing poor reception. I'm taking the 8500 back and getting a refund and will look for an alternative.