Skype

Completely free communication!

If you spend time working on a computer, or have one in your studio or office, then you can cut your phone bill substantially by using Skype.

Skype is an internet-based phone service (now owned by eBay) with over 300 million registered users worldwide.

Their system allows you to talk over the internet. The sound quality is very good and all you need to do is download their free software.

They have different versions for different computers (Mac and PC) and, once installed, you just need a way of talking and listening.

SIMPLEST
Most modern computers have built-in microphone and speakers, so in this case you just sit in front of your machine and chat away.

TRADITIONAL
You can purchase a phone handset, which plugs into your computer (via a spare USB socket), and then use it like a normal phone.

CALL CENTRE
This is great if you are in a noisy environment or an open studio.  Buy a headset with built-in microphone. Again, this plugs into your computer and has the advantage of keeping out background noise.

All connections to other Skype users are free - no matter where they are in the world. Thousands of artists use the service and many companies are starting to take advantage of the massive savings.

What’s more - if you have a video camera built into your computer (or attached) then you can video-call and see each other.

There is also an instant messaging system for sending text to each other and you can send files this way, too.

Great for collaborative working.

CHEAP PHONE CALLS
It may be that you don’t know anyone on Skype but that doesn’t mean you can’t make savings. You can call real phone numbers around the world using Skype as well. This costs you, but the prices are very low compared to using a traditional land line service (from 1p per min depending on where you call). Once you have a free account with Skype, you can buy calling credit online and then use that to pay for calls to real numbers.

We’ve used it to call people in Sweden, the USA, Germany and Canada with absolutely no problems. Skype keeps a check on the time and how much each call cost, so you can always keep an eye on where your money is going and bill clients/projects if needed.

On the whole, a brilliantly easy way to call locally and internationally which could save you a fortune.

To download your free software and start saving immediately, go to Skype. Set-up is easy, fast and the whole system is simple to use.

Skype - Unlimited Calls to Landlines