I'm looking for a quality gaming headset (speakers & mic) for a PC running Windows Vista.
- Logitech Z5500 computer stereo system.
- currently using just the Realtek ALC889A (onboard audio). I do own a Creative Xtremegamer card, but left it out last system build because of the quality issues and other problems the latest Creative drivers have (if they've fixed these I'll probably reinstall the sound card).
I guess, bottom line, what I'm looking for is a high quality headset with maximum adjustability to fit a somewhat larger cranium (mine). Hard plastic microphone arms won't be considered. I'd like the set durable, comfortable, adjustable with high quality "true" 5.1 Surround Sound.
I currently use a set of Phillips headphones (with noise cancellation) and a Logitech desktop microphone (USB; it sits on my desk in front of me)). I get good voice quality, and decent (but not stellar) audio. So naturally any headset I buy has got to be superior to this setup.
-----------------------------------
Requirements
Speakers
- prefer digital 5.1 Surround (true surround, not emulated). In other words, multiple high and mid range speakers in the headphones
- noise cancellation
- comfortable material covering ears and at the top of my head.
Microphone
- must be of the "boom" variety, adjustable in all dimensions! (this is a big issue for me)*
- detachable is a plus but not required
- good quality voice pickup for VoIP, internet gaming, ventrilo, etc.
*Problem with any headsets I've looked at locally, they all have a hard plastic arm, completely non-adjustable, and placed as if the manufacturers think my mouth is located inches below my left ear, on the side of my head. Hate 'em.
Doesn't anyone make headsets featuring a microphone with a "memory metal" boom arm? I want to be able to adjust the microphone for optimal voice pickup.
Connectivity
- USB or regular microphone input.
- SPDIF is possible as the Z550 has an optical output, but I'd have to disconnect my HDTV from my computer stereo.
- No Bluetooth
- Must be PC / Windows Vista compatable. Hopefully no issues with Vista (like the mic not working, surround crackling issues, etc)
Durability
- This is price dependent, but I'd pay more for a durable set, no cheap breakable thin plastic parts
Ergonomics
- Comfortable to wear over extended periods. Don't care so much about weight, heavy is fine, just the headphones need to have comfortable material on the interior and top.
- Adjustable headpiece/headphones. I've a big head, they gotta fit and be comfortable.
Price
Right now I'm just combing the field looking at headsets and prices. I'm willing to go fairly high, but anything over US $150.00 better not only be "ultimate headsets", but cook and walk my dog, too.
-----------------------------
Notes:
I've searched through the forums here, and the headset posts are scattered all over. Really need some seperate forums concerning headsets.
The last review Tom's did of headsets is ancient (2005). Tom, how about a new one? Gaming headsets preferred.
So far I've looked a few of the ones Turtle Beach is offering. I like the Tritton AX360's, but am unsure as to its connectivity requirements (only optical, and PC?). I haven't even covered the tip of the iceberg yet I've still looked at so many headset solutions that it's becoming confusing.
How to make a quality buy with the specifications I require? Post on Tom's forums.
Thanks for any suggestions, tips, links, etc.
- Logitech Z5500 computer stereo system.
- currently using just the Realtek ALC889A (onboard audio). I do own a Creative Xtremegamer card, but left it out last system build because of the quality issues and other problems the latest Creative drivers have (if they've fixed these I'll probably reinstall the sound card).
I guess, bottom line, what I'm looking for is a high quality headset with maximum adjustability to fit a somewhat larger cranium (mine). Hard plastic microphone arms won't be considered. I'd like the set durable, comfortable, adjustable with high quality "true" 5.1 Surround Sound.
I currently use a set of Phillips headphones (with noise cancellation) and a Logitech desktop microphone (USB; it sits on my desk in front of me)). I get good voice quality, and decent (but not stellar) audio. So naturally any headset I buy has got to be superior to this setup.
-----------------------------------
Requirements
Speakers
- prefer digital 5.1 Surround (true surround, not emulated). In other words, multiple high and mid range speakers in the headphones
- noise cancellation
- comfortable material covering ears and at the top of my head.
Microphone
- must be of the "boom" variety, adjustable in all dimensions! (this is a big issue for me)*
- detachable is a plus but not required
- good quality voice pickup for VoIP, internet gaming, ventrilo, etc.
*Problem with any headsets I've looked at locally, they all have a hard plastic arm, completely non-adjustable, and placed as if the manufacturers think my mouth is located inches below my left ear, on the side of my head. Hate 'em.
Doesn't anyone make headsets featuring a microphone with a "memory metal" boom arm? I want to be able to adjust the microphone for optimal voice pickup.
Connectivity
- USB or regular microphone input.
- SPDIF is possible as the Z550 has an optical output, but I'd have to disconnect my HDTV from my computer stereo.
- No Bluetooth
- Must be PC / Windows Vista compatable. Hopefully no issues with Vista (like the mic not working, surround crackling issues, etc)
Durability
- This is price dependent, but I'd pay more for a durable set, no cheap breakable thin plastic parts
Ergonomics
- Comfortable to wear over extended periods. Don't care so much about weight, heavy is fine, just the headphones need to have comfortable material on the interior and top.
- Adjustable headpiece/headphones. I've a big head, they gotta fit and be comfortable.
Price
Right now I'm just combing the field looking at headsets and prices. I'm willing to go fairly high, but anything over US $150.00 better not only be "ultimate headsets", but cook and walk my dog, too.
-----------------------------
Notes:
I've searched through the forums here, and the headset posts are scattered all over. Really need some seperate forums concerning headsets.
The last review Tom's did of headsets is ancient (2005). Tom, how about a new one? Gaming headsets preferred.
So far I've looked a few of the ones Turtle Beach is offering. I like the Tritton AX360's, but am unsure as to its connectivity requirements (only optical, and PC?). I haven't even covered the tip of the iceberg yet I've still looked at so many headset solutions that it's becoming confusing.
How to make a quality buy with the specifications I require? Post on Tom's forums.
Thanks for any suggestions, tips, links, etc.