I have a 7100g and i have been using it since early Aug on the cingular network. Let me say first that the phone is only as good as the service it's on in terms of phone use. The 7100g has incredible clarity. I have no issues talking on the phone. Since the phone is flat and has no curviture it is a bit awkward in the beginning to line the earspeaker to your ear. Once you get used to it, it's fine. The earpiece which is provided with the phone works just as well or even better. The speakerphone is a 7 out of 10. Background noise will make the speakerphone less useful compared to other phones. I find that when i talk, people on the other end will ask if i am at home (when i initiate the call, i restrict my i.d.) because of the clear sound. I would def recommend the phone solely based as a cellphone.
What service are you using or thinking of using, Laurah?