Headset for Skype and internet calls

Hi guys,

I have no experience whatsoever with headsets. But now I need a headset for skype.

I have been looking at this Sennheiser PC 25:
http://www.sennheiser.com/sennheiser/home_en.nsf/product.html?ReadForm&path=private_headsets_pc_voip&product=500906&row=2

Would you recommend this? Or an alternative?

Thank you very much.

Regards,
Tissie

 

For voice (Skype) in a normal environment, even a cheap $5~10 headset will work just fine. That Sennheiser is a USB headset, it will bypass your sound card (this is not a problem), but why use a separate sound device when you can use your built-in sound card with a standard headset ?

 

What about this one then?
Sennheiser PC 20
http://www.sennheiser.com/sennheiser/home_en.nsf/product.html?ReadForm&path=private_headsets_pc_voip&product=500904&row=2

 

What PhoenixFM meant is that you don't need expensive kit.

If you buy a Creative Soundblaster X-Fi go you get a cheap headset of the "cable mobile phone" variety.
For the occasional call that'll be enough.

Maybe you should say what you plan to do.
Regular calls due to work?
Ocassional short chat with family?
Long chats with family?

 

Both of the kits i have suggested is below $99. so not insanely expensive.
I have always heard that sennheiser was a great brand in the earphone/headset category - and I like that the ones I suggested will only cover one ear. Othwise I'll feel claustrophobic


But I plan to do both ocassional and long chats with family.

 

Yes, Sennheiser is a very good company, especially on the high end products.
But then, I'm 100% happy with my little Sony EX85

And a headset that is 5-10$ that PhoenixFM had suggested would be enough for short chats.

For long chats you want comfort however.

Now: Bypassing the soundcard - generally laptop soundcards aren't too good (compared to, for example an X-Fi Go)

So, in terms of Audio quality, it may be better if you bypass the internal soundcard.
Otherwise there is no need.

Regarding plugs - USB is possibly easier, especially if your Mic & Headphone plug are "hidden".

Best thing to do:
Go to a shop that sells them and ask to try them.

 

Okay then, so by chosing eg. one of the sennheisers listed above, there is nothing to fear in terms of quality (sound and build)?

But you're right: such devices need to be tried before buyed, i did not think of that. Thank you

 

I couldn't think of any problems.

Sennheiser is generally good, your buying a possibly mid range product.

In terms of build quality and sound quality it shoul be OK.

(although I know that headphones have a greater frequency range in terms of output)

 

Okay, thank you for the kind help. I'll probably go with the PC 20 - it is half the price of PC 25. At least if I can try it first somewhere.

Regards,
Tissie

 

Ok. Well, I think that the both you have mentioned are the same. I.e. it doesn't matter which one you try.

You can try one in a shop - if you like it, order the other one off the internet if they haven't got it in stock.

(check if weight/mass is the same)

 

Specs wise they are identical except that the cheaper PC 20 is for the mic/headphone jack, and the more expensive PC 25 is with USB connection

 

Yes, so you need to only try one

If you want say the non.USB one and the shop has only got the USB one, try that, say you don't like it (even if you do) and order the one you want of the net.

And vice versa

 

LoL - thank you, I get it Only thing is that i dont know if the usb based headset is worth the double premium - will the audio be so much better compared to the onboard soundcard?

 

you can always go to a best buy near you and see some in person, they have logitech, plantronics, microsoft and other brands of headsets.


I agree tho, for just skype calling buy a cheap headset..no need for a usb, x-fi go! or anything else...just a 10 headset will sufice.

 

Long talks and a cheap headset can easily become uncomfortable - even with skype.

 

It also depends if you want to use your headphone jack or usb. I find it does not have to be that expensive. I have a $40 usb one and it an be a hassle at times adjusting all the volume things. Some times I wish I got the normal ones that go in the headphone and mic jacks.

 

I thank you all for the fast responses and good advice. I think i'll go with the PC 20 headset. I do currently not have the time to run around in different stores, so I'll take my chance with the comfort, otherwise i'll just send it back.