A DSL filter, also known as a microfilter or splitter is a type of low-pass filter installed between plain old telephone service lines and analog devices.
Oftentimes, there are multiple telephone devices connected with a single DSL line. The connected nature disrupts the system which in turn creates interference in calls.
Though the technology isn’t a revolutionary one, a DSL filter effectively helps to separate each of these lines. It not only ensures security while making a call by effectively eliminating chances of tapping but also ensures that a subscriber can enjoy quality calls.
There are different types of DSL filters out in the market. In this article, we will discuss the best DSL filter options that you can buy right now.
Our Top 5 Best DSL Filter
Power Gear DSL Filters For Phone Lines
We will start with a DSL filter from Power Gear. This filter uses a single-line noise filter to reduce interference in a DSL device.
The interference in a DSL device mainly occurs through the mainline. Many people often assume that any meddling in calls or noises might be due to faulty devices. But when it comes to interference, it’s almost always because of the DSL line. And its only solution is a phone line noise filter.
The power gear phone line DSL filter is designed to work as a middle phase between the DSL port and the device. There is no need for external connectivity with this filter as it uses the standard phone jack for connection.
In addition to phones, the device can be used to eliminate interference in wireless printers, fax machines, and answering machines.
The call quality improves significantly thanks to its single-line noise filter system. Rather than filtering in multiple devices, the one-to-one connection ensures crystal-clear sound and eliminates call dropouts.
The device can be easily connected with any brand of products as long as they are compatible with the standard phone wiring.
Highlighted Features
- One-to-one filter for a single device
- Compatible with any product with standard phone connectors
- Single-channel filtration
- Comes as a single filter or part of a bundle of 2 or 10 for multiple device usage.
Installer Parts DSL Filter for Phone
DSL filters are more or less similar in design and functionality. And this one from InstallerParts is no different.
The DSL filter works seamlessly with all the universal phone connectors. Any RJ11-type connectors, which are also known as universal phone connectors are good to go with this filter. The design of the filter is compact and minimalistic.
The connecting cord for the DSL main channel has been kept short for aesthetic pleasure. You wouldn’t even notice the filter from a distance. The port and the device are protected by dual-layer hard plastic to ensure rugged usage. The DSL connecting line base also has a plastic protective ring at the base to dissuade wear and tear.
In addition to reducing the interference, InstallerParts has put special emphasis on static noises as well. The filter does an amazing job of cutting out the analog signals at different ranges to provide a uniform and pleasant experience.
As a result, you will see that the calls and vocals are crystal clear on this filter. The filter eliminates the analog signals, which means there won’t be any call drops whatsoever.
Just like other DSL filters, this one is also compatible with fax machines, VOIP devices, printers at home or school anywhere. Additionally, the filter comes with ISO9001 and ISO14001 certifications.
Highlighted Features
- Industry-standard build quality and security.
- Universal connection
- Static noise clearance
- Easy and quick installation
Cimple Co DSL Filter
The main purpose of every DSL filter is to cut out the interference and static noises from phone lines. But since many phone lines are connected via the DSL line, it’s also a source of internet in many homes and offices.
The question might arise as to how the filter can filter out the interference without affecting the internet. As a workaround to this problem, many companies started implementing a two-way output to the DSL filter.
The main line of the DSL filter is connected to the DSL port. The telephone line noise filter itself has two ports, one for the phone and the other for the DSL. Both ports are marked for usage. The device does an excellent job of filtering the phone line and keeping the DSL line intact.
This device is basically designed for households and offices that use a single DSL connection for the internet and phones. It can be simultaneously used for DirecTv, satellite dish, Comcast as well as best printers and fax machines.
You can also choose from three different colors as well as a pack of 1, 2, 3, or 5. The company also offers DIY and splicing kits for the personalization of the included cable and its ports.
Highlighted Features
- Two-port design
- Specialized noise reduction filter
- Works for ADSL lines as well
- Built-in splitters
iMBAPrice Outdoor DSL Splitter
Just like the Simple Co one, the MBA price DSL filter is also designed as a two-port splitter. However, you are getting some additional features with this one.
The underlying aspect of phoneline filters is that they work as a bridge between the DSL source and the electronic device. As a result, there is every bit of chance of packet loss if the connectors aren’t up to the mark.
The iMBAPrice DSL filter has specialized gold-plated contacts in each of the ports for superior lossless conduction. DSL filters themselves alleviate the call experience. However, this DSL filter for phones takes it a notch up and you get the most reliable, secure, and lossless call experience out there.
The filter can be used in 6 different positions thanks to its 2 conductor-based designs. The reinforced cable can be easily maneuvered in whatever direction you want. The soft rubber does an amazing job of withholding any position.
The integrated insulation module works perfectly for the telephone line bypassing the DSL module, which makes it one of the best DSL filter models. You can also use splicing tools to modify the extension cable as per your need.
Highlighted Feature
- Gold plated connectors
- Separate DSL and phone line
- Works for several different devices
- Comes in a pack of 2, 5, and 25.
Cimple Co 1 Line DSL Filter
The Cimple Co 1 Line DSL Filter is a 2-wire, 1-line filter for a one-to-one connection between a device and a DSL line.
There can be two forms of interference within a DSL line. One of the interferences occurs at the high-frequency level. At this level, the performance of the phone filters for the internet drastically falls. It also creates service issues with the DSL connection.
On the other hand, interference on the lower end of the frequency distorts the phone connection. Particularly the analog devices suffer the most from the distortion.
The DSL filter from Cimple Co works in unison to ensure distortion breaks in both upper and lower frequencies. The one-to-one connection can be a perfect choice for people using a single connection in their homes or offices.
The dimension of the single-channel filter is very minimal. Since there is no need for external wiring, the filter does not interfere with the setup in any way. Any standard RJ11 cables can be connected to the port.
In addition to serving the phone lines, the filter can also be used for DirecTv, satellite dish, and Comcast.
Highlighted Feature
- Compact build
- Supports a range of devices
- Easy to maneuver
- Support on the extended cable.
DSL Filter Buying Guide
Every DSL filter has basically one job and that is to cut out the static noises and interference. But beyond that, there are other factors you should consider. Let’s look at some of them.
Modifiability
Modifiability is an important factor when it comes to choosing a DSL filter. Often there might be a need to extend the filter cable or the internal connection wire. In that case, simple splicing can get the job done of readjusting.
However, some of the DSL filters aren’t made to be spliced. So, if you’re someone who plans to move around or want to future-proof your purchase, go for the ones that provide splicing and modification option.
There are DSL filters that come pre-packed with splicing tools to make the process even easier.
Material
Construction material also plays a huge role when it comes to choosing the best DSL filter. Much of it depends on the choice of place and the purpose of the filter to determine which one will work for you. Ideally, go for the DSL filters which have stable and lossless connectors on them.
Universal Connectivity
The RJ11 port is the universal DSL wall port for most households. For analog devices like phones, the same RJ11 connecting ports are used. As a result, it’s important to use a DSL filter that is compatible with the RJ11.
Fortunately, most of the filters in the market come with universal ports. However, there might be different and specialized cases. So, it’s important to carefully read through the product description to check for compatibility.
Size
Most of the DSL filters come in a standard small connector size. However, there are other purpose-built filters for special needs. It all depends on the setup of the DSL connection and the phone line.
Number Of Ports
DSL filters are used to reduce interference in phones and other related devices. But what if you wanted to use the DSL internet line as well? You cannot connect the modem to the filter.
In this case, buying a two-port DSL filter can be a good option. A two-port filter usually leaves the internal channel as it is and filters the telephone frequencies.
But if you’re someone who’s using the DSL for phone calls and fax machines only, a single port would be enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. How Does A DSL Filter Work?
Answer: The working mechanism of a DSL filter is pretty simple. It works like a management tool for the incoming signals from a DSL port.
The filter can effectively separate the frequencies for the internet and frequencies used for other devices like a telephone or a fax machine. This effectively stops the frequencies from getting intertwined and creates disruption.
The filter turns the single-lane frequencies of a DSL port into dual-lane frequencies.
B. What Are The Types Of DSL Filters?
Answer: There are two types of DSL filters – single port filter and dual-port filter. A single-port filter uses a single device whereas a dual-port filter can be used for the internet and another device.
C. How To Install A DSL Filter?
Answer: The single-port filter installation is pretty straightforward. You should unplug the phone line from the wall socket. Install a filter into the wall socket and connect the phone line to the filter port.
For a dual-port filter, the process is somewhat similar as well. You should see two distinctive marks of filter and DSL in the dual-port filter. Connect the DSL modem to the DSL port only as it cannot be connected to the filter. The other port can be used to connect telephone or fax machines.
D. Does DSL Filter Affect Internet Speed?
Answer: Yes, but in a positive way. A DSL filter effectively separates the frequencies between the internet and the telephone. As a result, the bandwidth gets better optimized making way for better internet connectivity.
Final Words
Well, that concludes our comprehensive take on the best DSL filter out there. There aren’t many differences between different DSL filters as all of them are built almost similarly to each other with a common purpose.
Yet there are some intricate differences which we tried to highlight in our buying guide as well as a product review. We hope the article helps you to make an informed decision while buying DSL filters.
