Skullcandy snip the cables and go wireless with their latest and greatest, not too mention funky PLYR gaming headset.

The full sized headphones come with a killer sound EQ and spatial enhancements built-in.

Sure, it will depend on the audio source as to what output you receive, but if you have games that effectively use ‘3D spatial’, like on PlayStation 5, you’ll feel that HQ virtual audio-scape booming of explosions, whizzing of bullets and hear that sneaky enemy trying to flank you.

In the box you’ll get a USB charge cable and an old school 3.5mm cable.

The battery will see you right for up to 24 hours non stop gaming, however the best bit here is that Skullcandy’s PLYR have been built to work with any console or device.

Pair up via bluetooth to your PC, Mac, PS4 or PS5, Switch and mobile. You can also dual pair. Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S need to be wired though.

If the game’s getting good and you’re low on juice, plug in the USB cable, or that’s where the 3.5mm comes in handy (but you won’t likely get the same quality audio).

If you’re not a chatty gamer, Skullcandy have made the boom mic removable from the PLYR or you can simply mute with a red LED light indicating that you’ve gone silent.

This said, the PLYR has a secondary mic on the headset itself, so if you simply want to use the PLYR to rock out with on the go on your mobile, you’ll be able to use handsfree.

I tried this and it was okay. The on-board mic worked well, but when a bit windy or in a stupidly noisy environment like the CBD noise pollution did filter in.

The PLYR itself is super light, and has memory foam ear cups that prevent sweat and dust and can be a comfy wear for extended periods. There’s also audio controls on the headset.

Battery life on the unit that I reviewed was on the mark. While I did not game for 24 hours straight, I did use as my primary headset for a couple of weeks.

I managed to squeeze 8 days of roughly 4 hours gaming per day from a full charge. That’s slightly over the factory listed length of battery life.

Artistically designed to be worn for any use, the Skullcandy PLYR is an all round headset. From gaming marathons on your preferred platform through to pumping out your playlist or podcast streams at around one third of the cost of an equivalent competitor’s headset.

This is the headset that’s not going to cost you a small fortune, has all the goods and has been designed for you, the PLYR.

The post Skullcandy PLYR Wireless Headset Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Jump into the heart of the action with the JBL Quantum 910 Wireless.

Free from wires and restrictions, the latest addition to the JBL Quantum line-up features advanced head tracking for the ultimate gaming experience.

“Hearing your surroundings is crucial for gamers, but truly immersive sound gives you the competitive edge,” says Michael Sherman, Strategy Manager at JBL New Zealand.

“Realistic three-dimensional audio has the power to create the most exhilarating gaming experiences. For our JBL Quantum headsets, our proprietary algorithms allow gamers to experience virtual worlds in added dimensions and with pinpoint accuracy, outperforming the most popular surround sound technologies available for gaming headsets today.”

The JBL Quantum 910 Wireless provides the audio quality you need to gain the upper hand, no matter what you’re playing, with the JBL QuantumSPHERE360, JBL QuantumSPATIAL 360 and integrated head tracking. Built-in sensors precisely track the tiniest of head movements for a next level sound placement and immersive in-game audio experience. You’ll hear every footstep and precisely locate enemies as sounds appear in multidimensional space. Next-gen 360-degree room emulation and JBL Quantum SURROUND replicates the sense of space within virtual worlds more realistically, allowing for full game immersion.

Leave distractions from the real world behind with powerful active noise cancelling and concentrate on what really matters with JBL’s legendary sound quality. Use the flip-up-to-mute boom microphone for supreme voice clarity and to take multiplayer games to a whole new level.

Compatible with all lifestyles and platforms, simply connect the headset to your PC, console or mobile. 2.4 GHz wireless low latency connection and JBL QuantumSPHERE 360 ensures you have a competitive edge on the PC.

Prefer PlayStation or Nintendo Switch? Connect your headset and instantly be in the centre of every game with JBL QuantumSPATIAL 360.

On the move?

Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and active noise cancelling provides an immersive on-the-go gaming experience, even in the noisiest environments.

And to ensure you don’t run out of juice mid-game – top up the 39 hours of battery life with play and charge using the USB charging cable for unlimited gaming sessions.

The JBL QuantumSPHERE 360 and JBL QuantumSPATIAL 360’s audio with integrated head tracking lets you experience the very best spatial surround sound on PC (JBL QuantumSPHERE360 & Head Tracking) and PlayStation (Head Tracking) via the USB-C wireless connection.

You’ll also never get caught short with the battery life being up to up to 39 hours of consistent use.

The JBL Quantum 910 Wireless has now released store wide and online.

The post JBL’s Total Gaming Immersion appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Skullcandy has released news that its re-entry to the gaming zone with a trio of value-packed headsets for all skill levels.

Offering compatibility across PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch and mobile, the all-new SLYR, SLYR Pro and PLYR Multi-Platform Gaming Headsets were purpose built for gamers, delivering rich, detailed sound, crystal-clear communications, and all-day comfort.

“Everyone knows Skullcandy offers a premium sound experience and getting back into gaming is something our fans have been requesting for years–We’re stoked to release our new multi-platform gaming collection into the wild,” said Jason Luthman, Director of Global Product Management, Skullcandy. “As gamers will attest, exceptional audio, seamless communication and comfort are absolutely crucial. From illuminating unique nuances with personalised audio profiles, to executing crystal-clear player-to-player comms, we packed PLYR, SLYR Pro and SLYR with the must-have technologies gamers demand for fully immersive play.”

The ideal lifestyle-to-livestream audio companion, PLYR, the collection’s flagship offering, is perfect for gamers who desire maximum flexibility to play both wired or wirelessly via Bluetooth. To add maximum dimension to the audio experience, PLYR adapted Skullcandy’s well-known Personal Sound technology, re-engineering it specifically for gaming.

Like prescription glasses, but for your ears, the enhanced technology is called Enhanced Sound Perception (ESP) and requires users to take an innovative hearing test to tune audio drivers specifically to the user’s unique hearing.

To deliver crystal clear communications, PLYR features Clear Voice Smart Mic, which leverages artificial intelligence to isolate the speaker’s voice and cut out background noises, such as keyboard clicks. The technology works with both the boom mic, and on-board headset mic if boom mic is removed. Dual-connect capabilities enables users to connect via wired and wireless connection to stream audio from two separate devices, simultaneously. Lastly, an adjustable suspension headband reduces pressure on top of the head, an absolute must for all-day play.

For gamers seeking a premium wired-only gaming experience, SLYR Pro is the answer, offering must-have features like ESP and Clear Voice Smart Mic technology with detachable boom mic. SLYR Pro also sports a slightly redesigned headband for those who prefer a more classic, yet comfortable fit.

Casual gamers seeking an entry-level solution will want to turn their attention to SLYR. Supreme Sound maximises the gaming experience, providing premium in-game audio depth to ensure users not only hear enemies creeping up from behind, but also the roar of the crowd. SLYR also features a bi-directional removable boom mic that enables focused voice pickup, ensuring gamers can seamlessly communicate and collaborate with clarity in multiplayer settings.

PLYR, SLYR Pro and SLYR models are all constructed from tough, lightweight materials, each boasting head-conforming, memory-foam ear cushions wrapped in moisture wicking, breathable material. Easy-to-reach, on-board controls across each headset enables gamers to quickly mute and adjust volume without gameplay interference. Boom mics are also equipped with a mic-status LED so players know at a glance when they’re on mute or “on air.” SLYR Pro and PLYR models also include the ability to toggle through various gaming EQs, including ESP and custom EQ.

Each headset is beautifully designed and set off with a unique digitised aesthetic, blending the nostalgia of gaming with a modern form factor. SLYR and SLYR Pro are being offered in three colourways: Black DigiHype, Green DigiHype and Blue DigiHype, with PLYR available in Black DigiHype and available now.

The post Skullcandy gets its Game on appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

From the makers of Arctis, SteelSeries, has now introduced a new headset to rule the soundscapes and airwaves across the globe – the Arctis Nova 7 – the heir to one of the best-selling gaming headset of all time.

Through four years of innovative and meticulous engineering, SteelSeries set out to push boundaries, solve problems for a gaming lifestyle in today’s rapidly changing culture, and reinvent the premium gaming headset market.

Engineered with the Nova Acoustic System, featuring High Fidelity audio, supercharged by the Sonar Audio Software Suite, and delivering 360° Spatial Audio, the Nova 7 lets gamers hear the finite details that others don’t.

With wireless freedom and Simultaneous Audio, players can listen to two audio streams at the same time with 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, easily swapping between PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Switch with USB-C.

Communications are key and the new ClearCast Gen 2’s AI-powered noise cancelation gives players crystal clear comms. The bidirectional mic is the same technology used by Formula 1 teams. When paired with Sonar Software, it silences background noise and distractions cutting out keyboard tapping and button-mashing from a gamer and their squad. Additionally, the mic has been reimagined with a unique design that blends seamlessly into the earcup when fully retracted for on the go.

In addition to the Arctis Nova 7, SteelSeries expands the Nova multiverse and future of gaming audio with the introduction of the Arctis Nova 3 and Nova 1 headsets.

The people spoke and SteelSeries listened.

Whether the pain points were related to poor sound quality and booming bass, inability to utilise a single headset across multiple platforms, or even fatigue from all-day use, the extended Arctis Nova family of headsets solves multiple problems for gamers. The brand took all this feedback and created the ultimate sound experience across an entirely new line of headsets specifically designed for a variety of different consumer needs and price points.

Elite performance comes standard with Arctis Nova 7, Nova 3, and Nova 1 headsets. Each headset in the extended Nova family is equipped with the Nova Acoustic System, which fuses hardware and software to raise the bar over the competition and provide gamers with a new superpower known as ‘Almighty Audio.’ The combination of custom-designed High Fidelity speaker drivers that offer unparalleled sound purity, plus immersive 360° Spatial Audio for an immersive soundscape, along with the Sonar Audio Software Suite, which features the first pro-grade parametric EQ for gamers and allows them to adjust every individual frequency, provides an unparalleled in-game advantage to players.

From the noob to the aspiring esports pro, from the budget conscience to those that invest or splurge on gear, from the non-discerning to the audiophile, gamers deserve products that exceed their needs and expectations, enhance their experience, and make them feel like a star.

Players can choose from three options within the extended Nova lineup based on their style of play, budget, and personal preferences.

The Steelseries Arctis Nova series os now available worldwide.

The post STEELSERIES INTRODUCES THE ARCTIS NOVA 7 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

SteelSeries has unveiled its new franchise – a family of speakers that turn any rig into an epic gaming and entertainment space.

From the makers of Arctis, the most awarded audio line in gaming, SteelSeries introduces the Arena 3, Arena 7, and Arena 9, a premium line of gaming speakers that addresses a long-standing void in the current landscape by orchestrating a combined hardware and software solution that allows for total immersion within any game.

SteelSeries’ latest creation establishes yet another series of firsts with the Arena line, including a gaming speaker system with true surround sound from a single USB connection, with immersive, high-quality audio emerging from a two-way speaker design, including two front speakers, a center channel speaker, two wireless rear surround sound speakers, and a 6.5” downward-facing subwoofer, along with the ability to tune every individual frequency through the Sonar Audio Software Suite, which features the world’s first pro-grade parametric EQ designed for specifically for gamers.

The Arena line of speakers has been acoustically engineered and designed with premium organic fiber and silk drivers to create an extremely accurate in-game soundscape — the way developers intended for immersive titles like Cyberpunk, Red Dead Redemption II, God of War, Call of Duty, Assassin’s Creed, Destiny 2, and a variety of other games.

With one of the biggest speaker drivers in gaming audio, the Arena 3 utilizes a 4” organic fiber cone driver, creating a full range of crystal-clear highs, vibrant mids, and powerful bass to hear every footstep, bullet, and explosion with total clarity.

The speakers’ wired and Bluetooth connections and intuitive controls further enhance the gaming experience. Acoustically shaped for desktop gaming with a front-facing bass port for minimal sound distortion, gamers can enjoy the full audio soundscape as game developers intended. To create the perfect gaming environment, the Arena 3 comes on an adjustable stand and tilts vertically to create optimal listening positions.

Hardcore gamers want to plunge themselves into their games by both feeling and seeing the game around them.

The Arena 7’s high-quality sound, thundering sub-woofer, and screen-reactive RGB lighting bring players into new worlds like never before. The Arena 7 utilizes a USB-connected 2.1 RGB gaming speaker system with a 2-way speaker design and the 6.5” down-firing subwoofer creates a powerful response for rich, deep, and accurate reproduction of low frequencies. Utilize a standard USB connection to invite gaming’s most immersive sounds to a PC, Mac, or PlayStation.

Gamers can take advantage of optical and standard 3.5mm Aux connectivity for phones, tablets, TVs, and other audio devices, and a widely compatible Bluetooth provides a cable-free experience and a convenient connection with a phone and other devices.

The Arena 9’s true surround audio 2-way speaker design, dedicated center channel, powerful subwoofer, wireless rear speakers, and screen-reactive RGB illumination deliver total in-game immersion and provide gamers with the ultimate audio experience. As the world’s first USB 5.1 gaming speaker system, the Arena 9 makes setup easy with a single USB connection to the PC and wireless rear speakers. Utilize a standard USB connection to invite gaming’s most immersive sounds to a PC, Mac, or PlayStation. Gamers can take advantage of optical and standard 3.5mm Aux connectivity for phones, tablets, TVs, and other audio devices, and a widely compatible Bluetooth provides a cable-free experience and a convenient connection with a phone and other devices.

To both enhance and fully customize the acoustics of the Arena speaker line, SteelSeries equips gamers with the Sonar Audio Software Suite, specifically designed for intricate and powerful audio customization. Users can adjust nearly every aspect of the sound using a 10-band Parametric EQ, Acoustic Echo Cancellation, Spatial Audio for surround sound simulation, and much more.

As a perfect companion to the Arena speakers, SteelSeries is also launching the Arena Wireless Mic, a standalone wireless ear-mounted microphone that features a ClearCast SuperCardiod Noise Canceling Microphone that removes unwanted noise during voice chat utilizing the Sonar software suite. Gamers can enjoy Quantum 2.0 wireless freedom and the SoftFlex design reduces ear fatigue during marathon gaming sessions.

Available at  SteelSeries.com and retailers around the world.

The post STEELSERIES TURNS THE AUDIO DIAL TO 11 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Today EPOS reveals the USB-connected H3 Hybrid and wireless H3PRO Hybrid gaming headsets, providing high quality digital audio experiences and new features for a wide range of immersive experiences for all gamers.

Following the critical success of the recently released H3 wired closed acoustic headset, the EPOS H3 Hybrid launches today, boasting multiple connectivity options, a removable boom arm, simultaneous Bluetooth for audio mixing, and a long-lasting battery for on-the-go Bluetooth audio – unlocking the Power of Audio anywhere.

The H3 Hybrid is compatible with PC, Mac , Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch and Bluetooth compatible devices.

The H3 Hybrid brings true to life gaming audio and user versatility together. The H3 Hybrid is crafted with renowned EPOS engineering and high-quality gaming audio, achieving acoustic clarity and deep bass with exchangeable USB and 3.5 mm console cables.

The headset is available in Onyx Black and Ghost White.

The H3 Hybrid provides up to 37 hours of Bluetooth audio, offers multiplatform compatibility, and is equipped with simultaneous Bluetooth connection, dual microphones, EPOS Gaming Suite compatibility and a detachable boom arm for next-level gaming.

For gamers looking to take their play to the next level, the H3 Hybrid offers an array of features to unlock the Power of Audio, including:

• Long Lasting Battery Life with Bluetooth – A single charge provides up to 37 hours of Bluetooth audio and up to 24 hours when playing on a 3.5 mm console cable connection.
• Dual connectivity (3.5 mm cable and Bluetooth) provides up to 19 hours of play.
• Simultaneous Bluetooth Connection for Audio Mixing – When paired with a smartphone via Bluetooth, simultaneous connectivity allows players to chat with friends using their favorite third-party app while gaming on their preferred platform via USB or 3.5 mm cable. Separate intuitive volume control enables players to balance each audio stream.
• Convenient Magnetic Detachable Boom Arm – Gamers can easily detach and reattach the microphone with a magnetic connection in the boom arm. When the boom arm is removed, a cover plate protects the connectors and keeps the H3 Hybrid’s sleek, seamless look.
• Dual Microphones – The H3 Hybrid includes a secondary microphone in the ear cup that allows gamers to pick up calls when wearing the headset on-the-go without the main boom arm microphone attached to the headset.
• Multiple Connection Options – The H3 Hybrid allows for multiple connection options with included USB cable for PC, 3.5 mm cables for consoles and Bluetooth for mobile devices

Guaranteeing convenient use across all devices and all use cases, both at-home and on-the-go, the H3 Hybrid delivers versatility for all types of players.

Expanding on its H3 Hybrid counterpart, the H3PRO Hybrid meets the needs of demanding gamers looking for wireless freedom and high-quality audio.

The H3PRO Hybrid will debut in Sebring Black, while boasting long-lasting battery life, and proprietary EPOS wireless technology delivering lag-free transmission – all without sacrificing performance.

More features and details will be announced soon.

Both the H3 Hybrid and H3PRO Hybrid will offer quality-of-life features to enhance users overall gaming experience, including intuitive smart buttons for quick control of audio settings, instant mute by lifting the boom arm, lightweight adjustable fits, integrated volume control on the ear cup and exchangeable ergonomic ear pads.

The EPOS H3 Hybrid gaming headset is available now, further details on the H3PRO Hybrid will be announced soon.

The post EPOS Expand H3 Series w. H3 Hybrid & H3PRO Hybrid appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

EPOS revealed today the H3 wired closed acoustic gaming headset, delivering gamers crisp audio fidelity for immersive gaming experiences and cohesive team communication.

As part of EPOS’ next generation of premium peripherals, the H3 unlocks premium gaming audio for a wide range of players with fluid plug-and-play usability.

It is made from lightweight, durable materials in sleek Onyx Black and clean Ghost White color variants, with intuitive design, and fits comfortably on heads of all sizes.

Building on 115 years of audio engineering expertise, the H3 continues the company’s legacy of uncompromised clarity to deliver booming bass and crisp highs for exceptional realism.

Combining proven premium sound quality and entry-level pricing, the H3 opens new worlds for players looking to expand their gaming experience and take it to the next level. Further improved audio technology delivers the cues needed for quick reaction times, expected by only the best sound peripherals in gaming. An intuitive volume control on the right ear cup allows for easy adjustments mid-game with the turn of a wheel.

The H3 delivers crystal-clear team chat for precise communications that are essential to gaining the winning edge in multiplayer games.

A studio-quality microphone transmits clear audio while effortlessly reducing unwanted background noise to instantly fortify essential team plays. The headset’s boom arm clicks upwards for quick lift-to-mute functionality.

The H3 boasts the capability to seamlessly connect to all devices with a 3.5 mm jack port, including PC, Mac OSX, Nintendo Switch, Sony PlayStation and Xbox devices. The interchangeable one or two-prong 3.5 mm cable offers quick switches between devices for an array of uninterrupted gaming sessions. The H3 is fully compatible with all EPOS external sound cards, including the GSX 300 and GSX 1200 PRO.

Crafted with the EPOS standard of high-quality materials, the H3 offers a refreshed take on gaming headset design for a lightweight yet robust profile.

Stainless steel sliders in the headband, hinged earcups and durable padding ensure lasting comfort for gaming sessions of any length. Similarly, ergonomic ear cups and closed-back design guarantee passive noise attenuation.

“The H3 is the perfect headset for players who want to elevate their gaming experience to the next level, while adding value to preconceived expectations of premium entry-level audio products. Quality audio is a core component of how games open new worlds, and the H3 delivers on the promise to take us there,” said Maja Sand-Grimnitz, Director of Global Marketing at EPOS.

The EPOS H3 is now available in Onyx Black and Ghost White colour variants via Epos’ official site and from select retailers.

The post EPOS Introduces Next Generation of Quality Gaming Audio appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

NOW CLOSED – This month Steelseries are celebrating their inception, innovation and incredible gamer gear peripherals.

Here at STG we will be showcasing some of their most recently released and upcoming gear that any serious gamer should equip in to their arsenal.

Oh, and in partnership with Steelseries, we have some gamer gear up for grabs!

For this third week Steelseries and STG are shining the spotlight on the Arctis 7 Wireless gaming headset.

Featuring a 12 meter or 40 foot range with an astounding 15 hour battery life on a single full charge will keep you in the zone, on the battlefield for a marathon length of time.

Steelseries partnered with DTS Headphone:X to use an entirely new algorithm specifically designed for Arctis.

DTS Headphone:X goes above and beyond any other surround sound solution. You can perfectly identify positional audio, including enemy location and environmental cues.

The the Arctis mic is super clear as a broadcast-quality microphone. Like a broadcast mic, ClearCast picks up and reproduces an ultra-wide range of high frequencies, making your voice sound remarkably natural.

Steelseries know gamers and designed the Arctis 7 to be a lightweight headset so comfortable, you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

It’s also customizable.

From your surround sound, EQ settings, microphone settings, and more. DTS Heaphone:X 7.1 Surround Sound available only in Windows 7+. The Ski Goggle suspension band wraps itself around heads of all shapes and sizes and evenly distributes the light weight of the headset.

Arctis 7 is made for serious PC gamers and for full out, full on gaming sessions.

If you’re keen to score a Arctis 7 Wireless gaming headset through Steelseries x STG click the giant banner below and get in.

The post Steelseries 20th Anniversary: Spotlight on Arctis 7 Gaming Headset appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

When the Xbox team were designing Xbox Series X|S, they wanted to ensure that games feel true-to-life, load incredibly fast, and sound as if you were dropped in the middle of the action.

They embraced spatial sound processing by including custom audio hardware to offload audio processing from the CPU, dramatically improving the accessibility, quality, and performance of these experiences.

Having a high-quality set of headphones at an affordable price for your new console or existing Xbox One will help you feel immersed, react faster to the action, and connect further with your gaming worlds.

With each new generation of our Xbox accessories, they’ve raised the bar for innovation by focusing on performance, stand-out features, quality, and accessibility to deliver immersive experiences across console, PC, and mobile devices. The team are excited to build on this legacy with the latest accessory to join the family: the new Xbox Wireless Headset.

The Xbox Wireless Headset delivers best-in-class audio and chat performance, outstanding design and comfort, and unique experiences that are tailored for each gamer. They are also looking forward to bringing more value to the headset category with innovations not previously found in this price range. The Xbox team chatted with a host of folks from the audio engineering and design teams to learn more about what the new Xbox Wireless Headset will deliver.

The team spent countless hours studying what makes for a great audio experience, and because the team is familiar with the technology behind the Xbox Wireless protocol, they were able to introduce a fine-tuned and configurable auditory experience like no Xbox headset before. With the Xbox Wireless Headset, you can play loud and clear through low latency, lossless audio for exceptional sound quality.

The headset supports industry-leading spatial sound technologies including Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos, and DTS Headphone: X for realism and audio precision that fully surrounds you. You’ll have the advantage by being able to hear all the subtle, yet critical sounds (like enemy footsteps sneaking up on you) that elevate great gamers above the rest.

“We spent a lot of time in the audio testing chambers trying to characterize and understand how the headset reproduces audio in different room environments. It goes in your living room, game room, and dorm room and we want it to sound the best for all types of audio.” said Erik Garcia, Project Architect and Lead. “In the same way, the team studied gameplay to ensure great sounding chat with a sensitive mic to prevent background noise.”

In addition to best-in-class audio performance, the new Wireless Headset provides clear and intelligent chat audio quality. The new headset has dual beamforming microphone elements that focus on speech audio vs. surrounding sound.

Additionally, voice isolation tuning helps the mic pick up your voice rather than background ambient noise.

When you aren’t talking, the auto-mute feature automatically mutes your microphone (this can be toggled on or off), so you keep comms channels clear, while the manual mute button gives you privacy when you need it. There’s a lot of attention to detail to be found on the new headset, and the mic is no exception. The team added a light indicator that turns on when the mic is active, so that you always know when your voice is being picked up.

The team put a lot of energy into finding the right feel. The Xbox Wireless Headset is engineered for maximum comfort during extended gaming sessions with a lightweight design, ultra-soft large earcups made of polyurethane leather that distribute pressure evenly over the ears. It also features an adjustable headband with a thick cushion that easily fits wide-ranging head sizes and spreads pressure more evenly around the top of the head.

The design is intentionally understated and shares the same shapes and colours found on the new consoles. The controls and indicators mirror the circular geometry that informed the design of Xbox Series X and Series S. And much like the new Xbox consoles, the Xbox Wireless Headset is designed to blend into your living room without feeling out of place or obtrusive.

“We’ve learned that gaming is a deeply social activity. Especially nowadays, given the state of the world, gaming and communicating with others is a critical need. The team took a human-centred approach to design a headset that removes the unnecessary distractions so that players can focus on the game and their friends,” said Scott Wang, the Senior Design Researcher working on the new Xbox Wireless Headset.

Combining a sleek and modern design with high-quality materials and finishes the Xbox Wireless Headset has a durable frame with inner metal headband, rubberized dial rings for grip, and a fully adjustable mic that tucks up and out of the way when not in use. The rotating earcup dials of the new Xbox Wireless Headset provide an intuitive way to adjust the volume and game / chat audio balance with just a simple turn without interrupting how it rests on the player’s head. As Elie Ahovi, Senior Designer, puts it “we were driven by wanting every interaction with the headset to be delightful.”

With the Xbox Wireless Headset, you can play wirelessly across multiple devices including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 PCs.

The headset also connects to mobile devices via Bluetooth for on-the-go music or chat and to your console via Xbox Wireless technology just like an Xbox Wireless Controller, meaning there are no cables or dongles required.  You can also simultaneously pair the headset to your phone and Xbox. That means, for example, that you can chat with a friend or – as the engineering team recalls doing – dial in to a conference call on your phone and play on your console at the same time.

The Xbox Accessories app on your Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows 10 devices lets you fine-tune the audio controls for a customized audio experience, including equalizer settings, bass boost, auto-mute sensitivity, mic monitoring, and brightness of mic’s mute light. Best of all, the headset can stay updated with the latest features via wireless updates from your console, ensuring you’ll have a premium audio experience that continues to evolve. Make sure you install all the latest Windows updates to enjoy audio customization features on the Xbox Wireless Headset when using the Xbox Accessories app on Windows 10 devices.

Finally, charging gets you back into the action in a flash: 30 minutes of charging provides about 4 hours of battery life, with only 3 hours of charging to reach up to 15 hours of battery life when the headset is not in use.

The Xbox Wireless Headset delivers expansive sound, ease of use across devices, long lasting comfort, and customizable sound through the Xbox Accessories app. “We want it to be satisfying when you use it and want you to feel all the pleasure and joy you can get when playing the game,” said Elie. “We are also excited to be adding many unique features not found in wireless headsets today, with an eye toward evolving the product over time with updates”.

The new Xbox Wireless Headset will be available from March 16th, 2021 in most worldwide Xbox markets and can be pre-ordered at select retailers.

Everyone that works on STG is a volunteer. If you like the site and its contents please think about donating. Even a small amount helps keep the servers running.

The post Introducing the Xbox Wireless Headset appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Thronmax, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of professional audio products, are launching their high quality, cost effective range of microphones, web cameras, headphones and accessories into the AUNZ market – perfect for the music recording, broadcast, post product and streaming markets.

With the boom in content creation, podcasts and streaming in AUNZ over the last few years, the Thronmax range offers high quality, effective and stylish products at a reasonable price. Everything you need to start a career as a successful content creator.

The Thronmax microphones offer the best variety of condenser microphone solutions for studio, USB, podcast, video conferencing and field recording – offering high quality sound on par with far more expensive microphones.

With sleek designs and easy operation, the Thronmax products can be used on-stage live-in-concert or in a garage, home studio, or rehearsal space and are designed to enhance audio quality recordings.

And they are incredibly easy to set up, simply use a USB cable to connect your Thronmax microphone or webcam to your computer, and you’re ready to go.

Thronmax has over a million dollars in precision machinery and an international team of more than 50 people across the globe.

As well as a main campus in Hong Kong, Thronmax has offices in Shenzhen, Dongguan, New Jersey USA. Thronmax Microphones are sold in 70 countries – and growing – making Thronmax a truly global company.

Everyone that works on STG is a volunteer. If you like the site and its contents please think about donating. Even a small amount helps keep the servers running.

The post Thronmax launch in AUS & NZ appeared first on Shane the Gamer.