Gaming Headset Final Thoughts

Headphones are a difficult item to review because I can’t just show charts of benchmarks comparing how the headphones scored against other headphones. Instead, I have to try to convey to you how the headphones felt and sounded to me.

As I mentioned in the beginning of the article, I’ve never really been a fan of headsets. I’ve always preferred to use a good set of surround speakers cranked up pretty high when watching videos, listening to music, or playing games. With some things changing at home, I started to look into a good gaming headset, so as not to wake a sleeping baby lying next to my desk in what used to be my office. In my search, I’ve found the types of things that I like and dislike about headphones and headsets.

First, I need a comfortable set of headphones. I normally don’t like bulky headphones or heavy headphones because I plan on using them for extended periods. I don’t like it when my ears get too hot or when I start to get a headache from the headphones sitting on my head for too long.

Second, I need headphones that produce very high quality sound. I tend to be disappointed with headphone sound quality unless the headset is pretty expensive. I happen to like surround sound very much, especially in gaming. I find it very convenient to hear where my enemies are approaching from. Many headsets, such as the Kave 5.1 Analog, put multiple drivers at angles in each headset. I think this approach goes a long way to improving the game. Add in the noise isolation and I have a better chance of hearing subtle movements with a headset than with my traditional surround sound speakers.

Third, I like breakaway headphones with a long cord. Headphones always seem to get in my way. With kids running around, my gaming sessions are rarely uninterrupted. There is a lot of moving around, getting up, holding the baby, etc. A long cord that doesn’t tangle easily and detaches from the headset is much appreciated. The Roccat Kave XTD 5.1 Analog Gaming Headset doesn’t have a breakaway cord, but the cable is pretty long and doesn’t tangle.