Gaming Headset - for PC & PS4 • Non-Gaming • PC Hardware • Eurogamer.net

Jaz666 21 Jan 2017 17:51:44 19 posts
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Hi folks,

I am in the market for a new headset. Most of my gaming is done on PC, but I have recently started to play a bit more on PS4 with multiplayer sessions with friends being my most common use of it.

As such I am looking for a headset to cover both needs. I've read countless reviews across the net, but am still to find a definitive 'best in class' that suits all my requirements. Also, a lot of the reviews read like adverts and I'm not sure how much I trust a lot of them!

I am looking for something that includes surround sound on both the PS4 and PC (which seems to be a problem as lots do one or the other), good sound quality and a half decent mic. Wireless would be a bonus, but not a deal breaker.

I have narrowed it down to 3 or 4 that are in my price range (Ł100 - Ł160 ish)and was wondering whether anyone could provide any input from personal use please.

Razer Man'o'War 7.1 (either wireless or wired - not sure if either do surround sound on PS4?)

Logitech G933

Tritton Katana HD 7.1 (from what I have read, this is the only headset to provide surround sound for both PC and PS4 in this price range?)

I am aware the Astro A50 is highly regarded, but this is out of my price range. I also know that lots of people prefer to get a good set of audio cans and a separate mic - this is not really an option as I want to be able to very easily move from PC to PS4, which are in different parts of the house.

Any thoughts on the above would be much appreciated and any other suggestions welcome.

gamecat 21 Jan 2017 18:26:43 1,230 posts
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Jaz666 wrote:
I am aware the Astro A50 is highly regarded, but this is out of my price range. I also know that lots of people prefer to get a good set of audio cans and a separate mic - this is not really an option as I want to be able to very easily move from PC to PS4, which are in different parts of the house.

Don't see why that's not really an option

https://www.amazon.co.uk/BoomPro-Microphone-computer-Internet-telephony/dp/B00BJ17WKK

Gaming headseats such a ripoff.

Barrel_Trollz 21 Jan 2017 18:32:30 777 posts
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Surround sound, good sound quality and a good mic.

If you want a wireless gaming headset, pick two.

Edited by Barrel_Trollz at 18:32:41 21-01-2017

Jaz666 21 Jan 2017 18:40:21 19 posts
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Thanks for the replies guys.

Gamecat - although I know the sound quality of these mics and headphones is very good, are the headphones not all stereo? I can't find any with a surround sound option. I have a surround sound set in both my games room and living room, so I am used to it now. I know the headsets won't be quite as good, but I have been happy enough with the virtual surround sound on previous headsets I've bought.

Also, if I can avoid having an extra cable hanging around the mic, that would be good, especially if that cable has a switch box on it like the ones you linked. I am a clumsy bastard and have a lot of form catching cables on things and breaking them or knocking bottles of wine onto keyboards.......

Barrel_Trollz - wireless isn't a deal breaker, if I can find a headset with just one cable, that would be OK. Hence, the man'o'war option. If I had to pick two attributes, the surround sound and good sound quality are a lot more important to me than mic quality though.

Jaz666 21 Jan 2017 18:40:23 19 posts
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Thanks for the replies guys.

Gamecat - although I know the sound quality of these mics and headphones is very good, are the headphones not all stereo? I can't find any with a surround sound option. I have a surround sound set in both my games room and living room, so I am used to it now. I know the headsets won't be quite as good, but I have been happy enough with the virtual surround sound on previous headsets I've bought.

Also, if I can avoid having an extra cable hanging around the mic, that would be good, especially if that cable has a switch box on it like the ones you linked. I am a clumsy bastard and have a lot of form catching cables on things and breaking them or knocking bottles of wine onto keyboards.......

Barrel_Trollz - wireless isn't a deal breaker, if I can find a headset with just one cable, that would be OK. Hence, the man'o'war option. If I had to pick two attributes, the surround sound and good sound quality are a lot more important to me than mic quality though.

gamecat 21 Jan 2017 19:02:08 1,230 posts
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The Vmoda is in-line, you don't get an extra cable, yes it will only be stereo, but a good stereo > wonky fake surround IME.

Context: I had a 7.1 gaming headset that was getting on my nerves because it was bulky and closed back, and I didn't really like the claustrophobic feeling you get with closed, so I switched to Sennheiser 558s and a Modmic. Now I can pinpoint where a sound is coming from better than before with 'only stereo', plus they are more open, comfier and have better audio/ mic quality.

Tricky 21 Jan 2017 20:47:02 5,088 posts
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Be careful taking everyone's recommendation on stereo vs. "Wonky" fake surround sound because everyone is different. Some people fall outside of the large percentile that can perceive the difference made by something like DTS Headphone X and so they'll call it crap. They're right when they say that you can get a good sense of directionality from a good stereo headset, but if you're one of the majority that Headphone X works for then it genuinely does make a difference.

You're right when you say that the Katana is the only one of those that you mention that can do surround sound on both PC and PS4. It's a good sounding headset but if you have a large head then steer clear. If PC is more of your focus and you don't mind 'only' having good stereo on PS4 then the secret trump card is Logitech's new G533. It's basically the G933 without the RGB lights and analogue connectivity but the USB dongle will still connect to a PS4 and give you wireless stereo sound.

Jaz666 22 Jan 2017 10:40:47 19 posts
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Thanks for the advice chaps/chapesses, its very interesting and useful to see some contrasting views.

Just to make the matter more complicated I see EG has posted a very positive review of the new Sony Platinum headset (which looks to me like it does surround sound (3D sound aside) on both PS4 and PC wirelessly - though isn't really clarified in the review).

Gamecat - Those Sennheisers look intriguing. I don't think Ive tried open back headphones before, so will try to find a way to give them a shot. Not sure if this will defeat the object of using them so the sound doesn't disturb my better half though!

Tricky - My current headset is an only Speedlink Medusa 5.1 (using 'true' surround) and I have been very impressed with the surround effect on that. It certainly looks to me like technology has come a long way since then, so I do feel that a move to modern surround tech would be something I will enjoy. Re the G533 - they are currently the same price as the 933 on Amazon, with that in mind are there any benefits to the 533, or is the 933 preferable at the same price?

Thanks again to you both - its a tough question to answer due to the subjective nature of sound quality etc. so I do appreciate the help!

Max_Powers 22 Jan 2017 10:53:41 1,256 posts
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I love my Sennheiser Game One's. In this price range fantastic sound quality and it comes with two wires. One I have permanently plugged into my gaming laptop and the other in my Dualshock so switching is very easy.

Also super comfortable.

the_milkybar_kid 22 Jan 2017 11:01:42 8,474 posts
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Arctis steel series 7. I got it from amazon.com for about 160 quid with shipping / tax. It's probably thr best wireless headset I've ever used and gives the wired Sennheisers a run for their money.

y2rich 24 Jan 2017 11:43:18 3,501 posts
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Superlux HD668B, Modmic 4.0, 2 3pin 3.5mm Jack to USB adapter, bit of cable sleeving to attach the two wires together. Total about Ł80 and twice as good as anything you'll get from an all in one headset

Chuck an extra Ł20 on some replacement velour earpads for extra comfort in long sessions and you're sorted

Edited by y2rich at 11:45:11 24-01-2017

Tomo 24 Jan 2017 13:20:28 19,565 posts
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Been thinking getting a surround headset too recently. Interesting thread on reddit here: https://www.reddit.com/r/pcmasterrace/comments/4nabvv/gaming_audio_and_you_why_995_of_gaming_headsets/

Basically says don't, but then concedes that the Kingston HyperX CloudII headset is pretty good. Based on Beyerdynamic tech (love their DT770s, so I have a bit of faith here). Not sure about PS4 compatibility though. But, for Ł60-70 depending on where you shop, it's not a bad option.

Jaz666 2 Feb 2017 10:25:27 19 posts
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Thanks for all the replies folks. I ended up getting pulled far to into the world of headphone/set chat on forums and reviews, until it actually started to piss me off a bit.

Some of the absolute guff posted by so-called audiophiles is just nonsense! (And why the fuck everyone on the internet has to brand themselves as part of some group totally baffles me) Most of the people seemed to know very little about gaming and a lot about the minutiae of irrelevant EQ settings.

And really, I am only going to use the set two or three times a month....

Anyway, in the end I came back from the pub, nicely sozzled, and bought a pair of G933s on ebay for about Ł70. They are 'opened box' and as good as new.

Personally very happy with them indeed. Love the surround effect (its almost overwhelming at times!), good depth of sound and nice software customisation.

Importantly, I am really loving the wireless feature. I find playing the set on extremely comfortable and a lot less irritating than with wires. I also like the fact I can wonder around the house with music/podcasts etc playing. Or grab a beer without having to take them off.

I also asked my brother, who is a sound engineer and musician, for his opinion and he was suitably impressed by the sound quality for the price and the surround sound effect.

So there you go. Drunken purchasing wins again!

Carlo 2 Feb 2017 12:40:10 21,801 posts
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Jaz666 wrote:
Most of my gaming is done on PC, but I have recently started to play a bit more on PS4
As such I am looking for a headset to cover both needs.

I am looking for something that includes surround sound on both the PS4 and PC (which seems to be a problem as lots do one or the other), good sound quality and a half decent mic. Wireless would be a bonus, but not a deal breaker.

I have narrowed it down to 3 or 4 that are in my price range (Ł100 - Ł160 ish)

Why are the Sony Wireless Gold 2.0 or Sony PS4 Wireless Stereo Platinum Headsets not in this list.

Every box gets ticked?

Jaz666 2 Feb 2017 13:24:26 19 posts
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@Carlo I didn't actually know about the Golds when I wrote the list. The Platinum set was considered after the EG review, as mentioned above.

In the end though, I realised most gaming would still be done on PC. And my actual surround set up for PS4 is already very good, so focused on PC sets. Also, the reviews I read on the Platinum set didnt seem quite as positive as the G933s overall.

gamecat 2 Feb 2017 13:38:31 1,230 posts
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Platinums lose the surround sound thing you wanted on the PC, they are also stupidly expensive. The gold version has a really crappy mic and clamps your head like a vice, but at least they're cheap.

Tomo 2 Feb 2017 13:46:22 19,565 posts
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Nice! Ł70 is a bargain. Well played.

Carlo 2 Feb 2017 13:48:36 21,801 posts
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gamecat wrote:
Platinums lose the surround sound thing you wanted on the PC, they are also stupidly expensive. The gold version has a really crappy mic and clamps your head like a vice, but at least they're cheap.

Played for about a year with a team who all used the Golds and our mics were crystal clear.

As for clamping to your head I have no idea why yours did that? You got a big head or something?

docrob 1 May 2017 21:52:30 1,795 posts
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Also may be in the market for a headset. Was looking at this one:

HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset PC/PS4/Mac/Mobile - Red https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00SAYCXWG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_r.5bzbHHGW4KT

Anyone have any experience of these? Price looks OK.

richyroo 1 May 2017 22:03:20 662 posts
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@docrob

I have the HyperX Cloud (1st one). They are exceptionally good headphones, I use mine all the time on my PC and PS4. They make games sound so much more immersive.

I do find they are a little quiet on the PS4 when plugged into the controller, so I instead plug them directly into my TV.....there are various cables that it comes with which supply a lot of length.

The only advantage of the Cloud II's over the 1st edition is that they have Virtual 7.1 surround. However this only works with PC. When using on the PS4 you will only get stereo. Although I hear some people arent a fan of the 7.1 vurtual sound and turn it off anyway. You could probably save some money if you bought the 1st editions.

For the price, you really wont get a better set of headphoness (wether you choose the Cloud I's or II's). These headphones review really well EVERYWHERE and I would strongly recommend them.

docrob 1 May 2017 22:11:49 1,795 posts
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richyroo wrote:
@docrob

I have the HyperX Cloud (1st one). They are exceptionally good headphones, I use mine all the time on my PC and PS4. They make games sound so much more immersive.

I do find they are a little quiet on the PS4 when plugged into the controller, so I instead plug them directly into my TV.....there are various cables that it comes with which supply a lot of length.

The only advantage of the Cloud II's over the 1st edition is that they have Virtual 7.1 surround. However this only works with PC. When using on the PS4 you will only get stereo. Although I hear some people arent a fan of the 7.1 vurtual sound and turn it off anyway. You could probably save some money if you bought the 1st editions.

For the price, you really wont get a better set of headphoness (wether you choose the Cloud I's or II's). These headphones review really well EVERYWHERE and I would strongly recommend them.

Thanks - that's really helpful. I'll be using them mostly on PC, so the 7.1 may be useful.

I think I'll just order them. I was tempted by a pair of Razer ManOWars, as I've got a Razer mouse and keyboard, but I'm not sure it's worth the higher price tag.

Is the microphone good on the Clouds?

richyroo 1 May 2017 22:24:40 662 posts
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@docrob

Glad I could help. The Clouds certainly punch above their weight and perfom like a more expensive set of headphones.

I can only speak for the 1st editions microphone which is very nice and clear. I see no reason why they wouldnt be on the Cloud II's as well.

You certainly wont be dissapointed. I was actually thinking of upgrading mine but thought against it as 70 quid wasnt worth it just to gain the 7.1 surround. If I didnt already have a pair, then I would certainly choose the 2nd edition ones.

Edited by richyroo at 22:28:02 01-05-2017

TitanWarlord93 1 May 2017 22:29:13 475 posts
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I have the first gen HyperX Cloud headset. The quality is really good. Very affordable. Astro A50's are apparently good too.

richyroo 1 May 2017 22:32:00 662 posts
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@TitanWarlord93

I just checked out the Astro A50's. I should hope they ARE good at that price

Edited by richyroo at 22:32:16 01-05-2017

Crumb1ebad 1 May 2017 23:36:26 83 posts
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I use hyperx, great headphones

Barrel_Trollz 2 May 2017 04:48:36 777 posts
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HyperX headsets seem like the ones to get these days. Top end Astros and Turtle Beach headphones are never worth their asking price.

Edited by Barrel_Trollz at 04:48:50 02-05-2017

docrob 5 May 2017 13:41:38 1,795 posts
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richyroo wrote:
@docrob

Glad I could help. The Clouds certainly punch above their weight and perfom like a more expensive set of headphones.

I can only speak for the 1st editions microphone which is very nice and clear. I see no reason why they wouldnt be on the Cloud II's as well.

You certainly wont be dissapointed. I was actually thinking of upgrading mine but thought against it as 70 quid wasnt worth it just to gain the 7.1 surround. If I didnt already have a pair, then I would certainly choose the 2nd edition ones.

Been using the Cloud 2s for a couple of days now and I can confirm they are indeed very nice to use. Sound quality is great.

I did initially think the microphone didn't work as the voice activation didn't while playing Forza Horizon 3. I think that's the program though. Oddly my voice doesn't seem to be picked up that loudly while testing the sound via the control panel, but I mucked about with Cortana's voice controls for half an hour and it picks it up perfectly even when I'm speaking quietly.

Sharz 5 May 2017 15:11:21 2,121 posts
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I bought a pair of Cloud IIs the other day for Ł38 from Currys and can confirm they are great.

I have been using Sennheiser 518 for a few years on my pc but wanted something I can easily use on my Xbox. And to be honest while the sound is different (open vs closed) I wouldn't call it better or worse. Which isn't bad considering the Sennheiser headphones were around Ł90 when I bought them 5 years ago. They were matched with a Xonar DGX also, so not motherboard audio either way.

Edited by Sharz at 15:12:58 05-05-2017

Pazie 16 Nov 2017 21:03:54 1,343 posts
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Could anyone recommend a headset under Ł80 which will work both on the PS4 slim and Xbox One. Need it to be wireless too.

Rivuzu 16 Nov 2017 21:33:37 18,424 posts
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