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    Torn between a selection of headphones/headsets

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by mckenziepiping, Oct 18, 2013.

  1. mckenziepiping

    mckenziepiping Notebook Consultant

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    I have no idea how to compare the technical specifications between audio devices and what kinds of things to look for....dB, frequency range, bass reproduction, all that terminology is beyond me. That said, could I get some recommendation as to which of the following would be the best option for gaming/movies? There's a mix of headsets and headphones. I've literally made this selection based on the best sales I've been able to find in Canada. There might be cases where I'm comparing a $200 (marked down to $100) headset vs $80 headphones, in which case the audio might actually be better in the headset (which is generally not so). Obviously, if I opt for headphones, I'll get a detachable mic, so don't worry about that. Also, please don't make value/price considerations because all these items are on sale at various retailers and range from $50 - $100 after the discount.

    Here's the list---

    Headset: Steel Series Siberia http://steelseries.com/products/audio/steelseries-siberia-neckband#specifications

    Earphones: Sennheiser HD 518 http://www.sennheiser.ca/live/senn/produit/en/1375/

    Headset: Sennheiser PC320 http://en-de.sennheiser.com/gaming-headset-stereo-pc-320
     
  2. kent1146

    kent1146 Notebook Prophet

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    Short answer:
    For $100 and computer-based use (gaming / movies), your best shot is going to be a USB-based headset like Logitech G35 or Corsair Vengeance 1500. The big thing that they bring to the table is support for virtual surround sound.

    The entry-level audiophile headphones that are worth buying for computer-based usage typically start at around $150 - $200. You can find products below that price range. But my opinion is that if you only intend to use these headphones with a computer, just get a USB-based headset for around $100 and call it a day.
     
  3. Vogelbung

    Vogelbung I R Judgemental

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    If USB, then the Corsair Vengeance 1500 V2 is a candidate.
    Newegg.com - Corsair Vengeance 1500 v2 USB Connector Circumaural Dolby 7.1 Gaming Headset

    V1 got Gold on [H] for superior positional audio.


    Headphone wise, the Sennheiser HD380 Pro is pretty popular - it's basically the PC350 minus mic if I'm not mistaken.
    http://www.amazon.com/Sennheiser-380-Pro-Collapsible-Professional/dp/B001UE6I0G

    The ever-popular ATH-M50 is also a safe bet too.
    http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-M50-Professional-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B000ULAP4U
     
  4. Qing Dao

    Qing Dao Notebook Deity

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    The ATH-M50 is a great set of headphones. It was arguably the best value buy. But the price has shot up over 50% in the last few years, and there is more competition. It really doesn't stand out amongst the crowd like it used to.
     
  5. kent1146

    kent1146 Notebook Prophet

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    Oh forgot to mention... Check out Monoprice'e HiFi DJ headphones for about $29. Absolutely insane value for your money.

    You can buy cheaper headphones. You can buy better headphones. But you can't buy better, cheaper headphones than that.

    Sent from my XT1060 using Tapatalk