We also compared the HS1 to the Razer Megalodon, another 7.1 virtual surround unit, and was immediately struck by just how wide the HS1’s dynamic range appears to be. By comparison, Razer’s high-end unit’s maximum volume just couldn’t compare. We’ve also listened to the Psyko 7.1 headset with its baffled multiple drivers. But the less said about that, the better.
Finally, we fired up several games: Mass Effect / Mass Effect 2, Mafia II, Left 4 Dead 2, and Just Cause 2. Left 4 Dead 2 allowed us to try out the microphone with our teammates, and it worked like a charm, though Corsair’s control panel defaults to a mic gain of “1”, so be sure to turn it up if you want to be heard! We also recorded some voice content, and then played it back to test out the noise-canceling feature, which worked quite well. The only thing we avoided were “karaoke” effects (allowing you to alter the sound of your voice). But that capability is there, so if you’re a man who plays female characters in MMOs, you can now sound like one as well.
It’s worth noting that the HS1 was more comfortable than any headset we’ve tried, including various Razer headsets, the Steelseries Siberia V2, and the Psyko. It’s also more comfortable over the long haul than our dedicated Sennheiser HD 580 audio headphones.
In the end, Corsair has exceeded expectations. The audio quality, while not perfect, is certainly excellent overall. Factor in the high level of comfort and the $99 price tag, and you have a nearly unbeatable combination.
I only see general pictures of the headphones...
this is not the quality review i'm used to see from tom's...
total disappointment, but still interested in the headphone.
I'd say for its price of $100, this headset is a great value. For comparison, the MSRP for the Sennheiser PC 350 is $250, while it can be found online starting at $125.
i dont think there's hardly any people who can hear above 20kHz (or below 20Hz). i remember we tried it in a science lesson at school, out of a class of about 30, there was only me and one other person who could hear a tone upto just over 18kHz.
I've always been under the impression 20Hz - 20kHz is the full range of human hearing. anything above or below that is pointless measuring, and of no use what so ever.
Anyway, this headset looks good. i've never done gaming with a proper headset before, and am rather tempted by this one.
I only see general pictures of the headphones...
this is not the quality review i'm used to see from tom's...
total disappointment, but still interested in the headphone.
Only good/interesting/informative part of this "review."
best headset i've tried is the original fatal1ty usb headset from creative. could it be better? yes...but haven't see anyone else do better.
all the surround headsets suck...nothing but a gimmick.
Do wish they were compatible with my 360, so I wouldn't have to keep using a sub-par headset when playing console exclusive games, but c'est la vie, I suppose.
All simulated headphones, regardless of the quality are simply just inferior alternatives.
The HPA2 is cheaper too.
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Get a microphone and tape on it.
They get the job done though... I'd give the megaledons a 4/5 stars.