High-def seems to be the buzz word for VoIP and teleconferencing. First we had VoIP-HD. Now we have high-def conferencing. Better sound translates to a better experience, at a time when reducing company overhead and travel costs is paramount.

Citrix Online is “launching” the HiDef audio conferencing services it acquired when it bought Vapps back in November. The flat-priced, monthly-billed service will support up to 500 participants, with larger companies able to get integrated management functions on a per-minute basis.

HiDef’s biggest hook is the ability to support wideband codecs for 16kHz sound; a typical standard PSTN phone call has an 8kHz range, so wideband brings in a richer experience. The offering provides a self-service option that includes free recording and integration with Microsoft Outlook and Skype, as well as Citrix’s GoToMeeting service. Conferences can either be started by logging into the service or initiated via Outlook.