If the CALs are identical to the D1001ks is it better to get the Denons if I can get cheaper than the CALs

They are completely identical except that the shape of the cups give it a slightly different sound, but they are otherwise made out of the same parts. I have heard of ONE guy who owns both and actually prefers the sound of the CALs over the D1001k. Everyone else on Head-fi just says the Denons are better, simply because they have a brand name on them. :rolleyes:

I have never seen Denon D1001's for the low price of the CAL, but I'd pick whichever looks to most appealing aestethically to you, and which is cheaper, as I believe they can't sound too different, and the graph I saw awhile back was 99% identical. Like the Denon had a 1db boost over the CAL in the entire range, which is negligible. They had the same exact curve however.

Does the K702 do positioning as well or even better than the AD700?

How is it for theatrical (like a movie) and immersive Single Player Gaming?

Also how well does it do music for games that support custom soundtracks?

Does the K702 do positioning as well or even better than the AD700?

How is it for theatrical (like a movie) and immersive Single Player Gaming?

Also how well does it do music for games that support custom soundtracks?First of all, it's all subjective.

In my opinion though...

-The K702 is on par with the AD700 for positioning alone. If I HAD to pick, I would say the AD700 is a little bit better at positioning, but it's really close. There is absolutely no comparison in terms of sound quality though. I hate the AD700s and love the K702s. The K702s offer MUCH better clarity and a fuller, richer sound as well. They pick up the slack in the bass dept too.

-I haven't watched movies with the K702, but I wouldn't choose them for it. For movies I would prefer a headphone with more bass.

-The K702s are awesome for music, but they aren't everyone's taste. As with most audiophile headphones, they are light on bass in comparison to what the general public is used to. Instead you get a tighter, more defined bass. To most people not familiar with audiophile headphones, I think they would say they are very bass light. I've actually come to prefer tighter, more defined bass instead of boomy, sloppy "consumer" bass, but I have to say that with the K702s, for me, it's more about the genres. There are better options for hip hop and rock, but they are great with jazz, classical, and lighter stuff that doesn't rely on a lot of bass impact. Another thing to note is that for music, you are getting into the realm where a better DAC and headphone amplifier can make or break the headphones, and the K702 are among the top contenders that "need" an amp in nearly everyone's opinion. Music is kind of a different animal, at least IMO, so the dac/amp stuff is something to keep in mind if you plan to use them for music. The mixamp is an amp, and it's good enough for gaming, but for music, it isn't that great at all.

Truthfully, I wouldn't plan on using the K702 (or equivalent) with music unless you plan on getting at least a decent dac (like the uDac at $99) and a decent headphone amplifier (like the bravo from ebay for $40-50, as a bare minimum). Otherwise, you are kind of wasting your money TBH.

So what is a good pair of Headphones for Awesome and Incredible Positioning, but still do Excellent for an Immersive Single Player Game Experience?

they dont really exist... when you introduce good bass and immersion, you lose out on positioning and detail clarity.... the closest compromise may be the DT880.

think of it this way... you have to choose if you want to hear/feel the explosion, or hear the footsteps behind you DURING the explosion.

most people would recommend 2 sets of cans.... you wouldnt use the same set for rap as you would for classical... gaming is sort of the same way.... rather than blowing a lot of money on a single can and making a compromise both ways (also possibly compromising comfort, needing other source components, etc) you're better off getting 2 budget cans... one to be modified with a mic for online, and another for immersive single player and movies.

both cans could be used for music, depending on the genre you're listening to.

Strife, when you say you want a headphone for "gaming" -- are you talking about FPS gaming where you want to have awesome positioning to hear where the enemy is without seeing them? Or do you mean for single player games where you want it to feel more theatrical (like a movie) and immersive?

I don't think a headphone exists that excels at both FPS gaming AND movies, because those two have very different requirements (mostly in the bass dept) IMO. If you want a headphone that does both movies and single player gaming well, there are more options, but none of them will work particularly well at positioning and details in online FPS games.

Unfortunately you sort of have to choose, or, wind up in the middle with a headphone that does both well enough but does not excel at either.

In any event, you mentioned the AD700, and I'll just say that they are great online FPS competitve gaming headphones, because they offer a big sound stage and awesome positioning, but that's about it. They won't make the game sound great, they aren't great for music (IMO), and they would be horrible for movies due to their complete lack of bass.

I wish I had some actual suggestions for you, but I haven't tried many headphones in the price range. Some of these other guys have tried a lot of them in that range though and can definitely help you out. I just want to let you know up front that if you are hoping to get a headphone that is awesome for both FPS gaming and movies, it probably doesn't exist. The best you can hope for is "good enough" with both.

You sir are amazingly insightful. I'm looking for a gaming/theater headphone. When a grenade goes off, I want to feel like a grenade went off. I do play FPS, but not competitively (and I wouldn't do well any way). So now I can narrow it down. Is there a headset that will give great surround sound for movies and "single player" gaming. I would like a mic if possible.

they dont really exist... when you introduce good bass and immersion, you lose out on positioning and detail clarity.... the closest compromise may be the DT880.

think of it this way... you have to choose if you want to hear/feel the explosion, or hear the footsteps behind you DURING the explosion.

most people would recommend 2 sets of cans.... you wouldnt use the same set for rap as you would for classical... gaming is sort of the same way.... rather than blowing a lot of money on a single can and making a compromise both ways (also possibly compromising comfort, needing other source components, etc) you're better off getting 2 budget cans... one to be modified with a mic for online, and another for immersive single player and movies.

both cans could be used for music, depending on the genre you're listening to.Exactly. The qualities that make it good for one thing are the same qualities that make it "bad" for another.

The DT880 (600 ohm in my case) is my favorite for single player, and probably my favorite overall for music as well (hard to pick), but it is really not good with online FPS gaming ala MW2. I'd much rather use the K702 for that.

The most versatile I've tried might be the HD600. They are kind of a jack of all trades, master of none (except maybe acoustic guitar). I don't want to take anything away from them by saying that though, as they really are very good overall, and there is something to be said for being as versatile as they are and performing at the level they do no matter what you use them for. I think they would make a fine choice if you must use something for everything.

Exactly. The qualities that make it good for one thing are the same qualities that make it "bad" for another.

The DT880 (600 ohm in my case) is my favorite for single player, and probably my favorite overall for music as well (hard to pick), but it is really not good with online FPS gaming ala MW2. I'd much rather use the K702 for that.

The most versatile I've tried might be the HD600. They are kind of a jack of all trades, master of none (except maybe acoustic guitar). I don't want to take anything away from them by saying that though, as they really are very good overall, and there is something to be said for being as versatile as they are and performing at the level they do no matter what you use them for. I think they would make a fine choice if you must use something for everything.

Except that he wants to stick in the $100 range. The HD600's are, what, around $300, and the DT880's around $250 or so? I agree with the point that you and formula are making, but it may be moot in his price range. I think he's going to have to find something that's 'ok' at everything, but not great at any one thing.

I'm gonna throw my vote out there for the CAL!. I've never used them but the reviews they've gotten seem to pretty much mirror Shin's comments. I don't think you're going to find anything else in that price range that's as good for what you want.

Also, by saying you want a mic you're really limiting your options. If you're considering modding/adding one on when you get back, then that's different. But if you're looking for something built in, you're going to have a pretty small pool to pick from.

What's everyone take on the sennheiser PC 350's? Is it overpriced because it has a built-in mic, or do they actually sound good?

The mic is not a necessity. I mostly play online with my ps3 and I can always use the PSeye as a mic. The 360 would need a mod. I'm flexible.

i've heard they sound pretty terrible, ESPECIALLY given the price. though i have not used them myself... others who have, preferred the astros, or maybe even the ax720.

ideally they'd just put a mic on the 595 at that price, and while they might share the same drivers, they put the drivers in tiny plastic cups internally.

i would never purchase them (and i purchase everything at least to try them out, haha)

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/4538/1003828cx0.jpg

You sir are amazingly insightful. I'm looking for a gaming/theater headphone. When a grenade goes off, I want to feel like a grenade went off. I do play FPS, but not competitively (and I wouldn't do well any way). So now I can narrow it down. Is there a headset that will give great surround sound for movies and "single player" gaming. I would like a mic if possible.

I'm looking for the same type set up and what I think seems to be best is the Turtle Beach HPA2's and then connecting them to a mixamp.

In my case I've got the HPA2's on order, but am still working to bid on an external sound card (Creative Extigy) on ebay.

I don't have them yet so I can't really give an opinion, but the HPA2's have rave reviews across a number of forums for gaming, music and movies.

Hmm. But every headset/headphone discussion I run into always has bad things to say about turtle beach, or they dont even bring up the brand. I read about some AX900's but I dont see those for sale anywhere. I want to hook up my laptop (bluray movies). Are the sennheiser 555's (however you spell it) good for movies and "single player gaming"? How about the 720's? Did they only get bad comments because of FPS gaming?

Or even the ax pros? But I heard two drivers are better than surround sound ones on all fronts.

I'm looking for the same type set up and what I think seems to be best is the Turtle Beach HPA2's and then connecting them to a mixamp.

In my case I've got the HPA2's on order, but am still working to bid on an external sound card (Creative Extigy) on ebay.

I don't have them yet so I can't really give an opinion, but the HPA2's have rave reviews across a number of forums for gaming, music and movies.


theres no reason you wont like the HPX.... the extigy on the other hand you may not like.... it's a nice little unit, but you wont get the benefit of the voice mixing like you would with the mixamp... some people deal with it by playing titles that allow you to decrease the game sound (thereby increasing the chat volume) but for a lot of titles, you can't decrease the game master volume (halo 3 comes to mind, hopefully reach is different, but i wouldnt count on it.)

also, with the extigy i'm not sure you can use cmss 3d on the optical input or not (i have one, but have not tried yet.)

Hmm. But every headset/headphone discussion I run into always has bad things to say about turtle beach, or they dont even bring up the brand. I read about some AX900's but I dont see those for sale anywhere. I want to hook up my laptop (bluray movies). Are the sennheiser 555's (however you spell it) good for movies and "single player gaming"? How about the 720's? Did they only get bad comments because of FPS gaming?

A good review for most of the major gaming headsets that I found was here www.competitivegamingaudio.com

He raves on the HPA2, which got me started. Then I found other reviews on the MLG forums, CNET, and some other places.

I play a lot of Bad Company 2 and many of my friends have the TB X41's. They love the sound..but there is the hiss and some popping due to it being wireless. It can be interference or the headphones doing a re-synch w/ the base station. the BC2 gaming forums rave on the X41s, but overall give them 8/10 due to replacing/recharging batteries, a hiss when mic is turned up and the random, loud, popping.

I have TB X1's which I think are great...but after a year I realize they don't do 3D sound well enough for me. when someone is behind me...I hear them, but I can't pinpoint where they are so I tend to flip around in a panic and hope I don't get knifed. I'm not sure if the 5.1 emulation amps would do me well enough on the X1s.

theres no reason you wont like the HPX.... the extigy on the other hand you may not like.... it's a nice little unit, but you wont get the benefit of the voice mixing like you would with the mixamp... some people deal with it by playing titles that allow you to decrease the game sound (thereby increasing the chat volume) but for a lot of titles, you can't decrease the game master volume (halo 3 comes to mind, hopefully reach is different, but i wouldnt count on it.)

also, with the extigy i'm not sure you can use cmss 3d on the optical input or not (i have one, but have not tried yet.)

That is a good point. There had been a lot of love for the extigy, but yeah I didn't think about games that don't allow in game sound adjustments. The other device in mind besides the extigy was the HD Audio Rush 5.1 decoder. I guess I should look to consider the mixamp more, but it was just so much higher priced than other devices.

Hmm. But every headset/headphone discussion I run into always has bad things to say about turtle beach, or they dont even bring up the brand. I read about some AX900's but I dont see those for sale anywhere. I want to hook up my laptop (bluray movies). Are the sennheiser 555's (however you spell it) good for movies and "single player gaming"? How about the 720's? Did they only get bad comments because of FPS gaming?


thats because turtle beach, in general, makes some pretty poor products these days.

the HPA/HPX is an exception, of course there are some people who do not care for it, others would rate it one of the better headsets with integrated mic, especially for the money.

if you really want an excellent all in one solution, pair the MMX300 with the mixamp.


i wont even touch on the 555 comment, as i've already explained it and apparently you either don't believe me, or want to read what i said. i can't think of a single active forum member who either would not buy the 555, or hasn't already bought them and gotten rid of them.

as far as ax720's go, i've already talked about that too... 95% of all gamers would be very pleased to own the ax720... buy them and then never read about new headphones or headsets and dont wonder "what could have been"... you'll be happy with them.

That is a good point. There had been a lot of love for the extigy, but yeah I didn't think about games that don't allow in game sound adjustments. The other device in mind besides the extigy was the HD Audio Rush 5.1 decoder. I guess I should look to consider the mixamp more, but it was just so much higher priced than other devices.


a lot of the extigy love comes from users with multichannel headphones, like say the new psyko audio headset.... with that they can decode dolby, and send a signal out to all the drivers in the headphones.... little do they know that multi driver headphones are pretty much the worst way to game.... the HPX is some what of an exception, because when playing with the mixamp, it's using 2 primary drivers (40mm each) in each cup.

at least with the extigy and the HPA2, you can try the multi driver setup properly, and who knows, you may love it..... if not, you can easily sell the extigy for what you paid, and then pick up a mixamp.

Its not that I don't believe you about the 555's. I'm just confused. How are the HPX's for movies?

Is there a site or reference source people can look to in order to really learn about stereo, Dolby, and surround sound headphones?

How multi speakers, drivers, and external amps and decoders work?

If I knew this info, all in one place, it could lay a nice base for people to understand all these conversations and then really take to heart the suggestions.

Ok. I think I'm pretty much set on the Turtle beach HPX's, unless someone here has some information I dont know about. All their review seem really good, and out of all the headsets, it's one of the few that people mention movies in the reviews. I would be getting a mixamp when I get back. Can someone clarify the difference between the HPX's and the HPA2?

Ok. I think I'm pretty much set on the Turtle beach HPX's, unless someone here has some information I dont know about. All their review seem really good, and out of all the headsets, it's one of the few that people mention movies in the reviews. I would be getting a mixamp when I get back. Can someone clarify the difference between the HPX's and the HPA2?

HPX and HPA2 are the same headphone. The HPA2 comes with a Decoder Amp built in for use with ALL it's drivers via a PC. If you use this with a MixAmp, Laptop, etc. You will need to buy the HPX-2 adapter cable from Turtle Beach to remove the amp and turn it into a Stereo/Mic cable to fit.

The HPX aren't bad headphones at all. I liked them ALOT. I was able to discern footsteps and such with explosions (depending on how close or loud it was). If you play with them for a little bit, and get used to the sound signature (as with any headphone), you will like them. Once stretched, they are very comfortable to boot.

For movies, they were quite good for movies. the Mids aren't as recessed as those of the DT770, but they did have a little more "mud" in them. The DT770, even with recessed mids... note separation was better. I'd be ok with using the HPX for gaming and movie watching. If you want to get a little more volume out of them, get a Fiio E5 to go with it. It does help.

Now, to ask many of us here on the forum how we feel about them, those that didn't spend alot of time with them may not like them (Looking at PJ here :D). The biggest problem that I see though, is many of us have tried far superior headphones, and going to the HPX... we see it's many faults. It's like driving a new ZR1 for many years and upgrading it's potential... and then some young buck comes up to you and tells you, that you have to drive his stock Chevrolet Cavalier or something. Do you really think you'd like it?

Will you like the HPX? I think you would. Will you want to upgrade from them, maybe eventually. Will they serve your needs. I think so. I did like the bass... and even music through them wasn't bad. Once I started sampling other headphones though, I don't think I could go back... but then again, given some time.... I'd adapt.

Its not that I don't believe you about the 555's. I'm just confused. How are the HPX's for movies?

I'll say this as a still current 555 owner. When I bought them 2.5 years ago, they were talked about here as a good middle of the road headset. I think it's the perspective of the person. I went from turtle beach x4's (the wireless stereo phones) to a Dolby headphone receiver with the 555's and a zalman. The turtle beach were returned within 2 weeks.

The comfort and sound of the senn's blew me away. So if you go from nothing to the 555's, I think you'd like them. But the zalman and changing the volume levels for online play in games is a pain in the a$$.

Many of the fellas here have owned numerous cans and that's why they say what they say about the 555's.

With all that said I am looking to upgrade and see what it's like at the next level. I've been considering the 702's and may pull the trigger if the price is right.

Just my .02

HPX and HPA2 are the same headphone. The HPA2 comes with a Decoder Amp built in for use with ALL it's drivers via a PC. If you use this with a MixAmp, Laptop, etc. You will need to buy the HPX-2 adapter cable from Turtle Beach to remove the amp and turn it into a Stereo/Mic cable to fit.

The HPX aren't bad headphones at all. I liked them ALOT. I was able to discern footsteps and such with explosions (depending on how close or loud it was). If you play with them for a little bit, and get used to the sound signature (as with any headphone), you will like them. Once stretched, they are very comfortable to boot.

For movies, they were quite good for movies. the Mids aren't as recessed as those of the DT770, but they did have a little more "mud" in them. The DT770, even with recessed mids... note separation was better. I'd be ok with using the HPX for gaming and movie watching. If you want to get a little more volume out of them, get a Fiio E5 to go with it. It does help.

Now, to ask many of us here on the forum how we feel about them, those that didn't spend alot of time with them may not like them (Looking at PJ here :D). The biggest problem that I see though, is many of us have tried far superior headphones, and going to the HPX... we see it's many faults. It's like driving a new ZR1 for many years and upgrading it's potential... and then some young buck comes up to you and tells you, that you have to drive his stock Chevrolet Cavalier or something. Do you really think you'd like it?

Will you like the HPX? I think you would. Will you want to upgrade from them, maybe eventually. Will they serve your needs. I think so. I did like the bass... and even music through them wasn't bad. Once I started sampling other headphones though, I don't think I could go back... but then again, given some time.... I'd adapt.

I see, I see. So, what would someone in your position, having had better experiences, use? I really expected some good movie info, this being avsforum and all, but I guess most people just use and speaker system, which I will, but not when people are sleeping or should I have kids soon.

So, regarding the CAL's, are these more single-player or competitive multiplayer oriented? That is to say, do they excel more on positioning/soundstage or bass/immersiveness?

Or are they simply a nice balance of everything, jack of all trades, master of none.

and where did you get them for 60-70$?

I see, I see. So, what would someone in your position, having had better experiences, use? I really expected some good movie info, this being avsforum and all, but I guess most people just use and speaker system, which I will, but not when people are sleeping or should I have kids soon.

They DO sound good for movies. They still have the slight recess for voices... but it's not bad. If you watch from a laptop... you can EQ that to make it better. Just remember... THEY'RE OPEN. So as loud as YOU hear them, everyone else hears it about 1/2 as loud (so about 10ft away or so you can still hear it).

Hmm. I read that connecting the HPX's to the mixamp wont give you surround sound. Is true? I read it will only use four of the drivers, but I thought using the mixamp would give dolby headphone surround.

Hmm. I read that connecting the HPX's to the mixamp wont give you surround sound. Is true? I read it will only use four of the drivers, but I thought using the mixamp would give dolby headphone surround.

Deep breath...

No, that's not true. Connecting the HPX to the Mixamp will still give you Dolby Headphone. It won't use all of the HPX's drivers....which is a good thing. Just don't worry about the fact that it has multiple drivers because when you connect it to the Mixamp it'll only use the 2 40mm drivers in each cup, thus acting more like a standard stereo headphone.

Also, I very much liked the HPX for the time that I had them. I'm not going to say to ignore PJ's opinion on the HPX because he has headphone experience and he knows what he's talking about. However, he only used them on a pretty short trial basis where SID3W8Z and I used them for quite some time and we both really liked them. Just goes to show that no matter what you get, not everyone's going to like them. I'd recommend them, IF you can use an open can where you're going to be. While I never used them for movie watching, they do have enough bass that I think they'd provide some "thump" for you. Just remember, if you get them, just quit reading here and enjoy 'em. :D

..I'm not going to say to ignore PJ's opinion on the HPX because he has headphone experience and he knows what he's talking about.

I agree with that.... I was only jesting... but seriously, he heard the HPX after he's listened to much better headphones, he's bound to find lots to fault in them. I don't think he has a closed pair of headphones, and the HPX very much sound like a closed headphone (even though they are open).:rolleyes:

I still think you guys are absolutely crazy. I guess everyone really does hear differently.

Regarding comparing to much better (and more expensive) headphones, yes it's not a fair comparison, but I mostly compared the HPX to the A40s, and for $30 more, the A40s are an order of magnitude better for fps gaming, and better IMO for music too, though I can see where that would get more subjective. SP gaming is probably more subjective as well.

Sideways... do you still have the HPX? I wouldn't mind sending you the A40s to compare and see if it's just me.

I still think you guys are absolutely crazy. I guess everyone really does hear differently.

Regarding comparing to much better (and more expensive) headphones, yes it's not a fair comparison, but I mostly compared the HPX to the A40s, and for $30 more, the A40s are an order of magnitude better for fps gaming, and better IMO for music too, though I can see where that would get more subjective. SP gaming is probably more subjective as well.

Sideways... do you still have the HPX? I wouldn't mind sending you the A40s to compare and see if it's just me.

Did you say $30 or $130? 'cause the HPX is $80.... A40 is $200, or $250 with MixAmp.

I still think you guys are absolutely crazy. I guess everyone really does hear differently.

Regarding comparing to much better (and more expensive) headphones, yes it's not a fair comparison, but I mostly compared the HPX to the A40s, and for $30 more, the A40s are an order of magnitude better for fps gaming, and better IMO for music too, though I can see where that would get more subjective. SP gaming is probably more subjective as well.

Sideways... do you still have the HPX? I wouldn't mind sending you the A40s to compare and see if it's just me.

Yah, where are you getting the '$30 more' from?

or even the ax pros? But i heard two drivers are better than surround sound ones on all fronts.

no, no, no, nooo!

I agree with that.... I was only jesting... but seriously, he heard the HPX after he's listened to much better headphones, he's bound to find lots to fault in them. I don't think he has a closed pair of headphones, and the HPX very much sound like a closed headphone (even though they are open).:rolleyes:

Now, my question is, what are these better headphones? When you say better, do you mean better for something specific (FPS Play) or just better all around? Think of it like this, I wanna watch star trek and hear the laser shooting by, or like a ship just flew over. As similar an experience to my surround system as I can get. I know I cant get the exact same experience. Also, I do really like the headphones that seal around my ear, not sit on top of it. For example, I prefer the way beats studio feel opposed to the solos. Is that what closed means?

So, regarding the CAL's, are these more single-player or competitive multiplayer oriented? That is to say, do they excel more on positioning/soundstage or bass/immersiveness?

Or are they simply a nice balance of everything, jack of all trades, master of none.

and where did you get them for 60-70$?


You sir, said exactly as how I felt them to be. They offer a nice balance of everything, but aren't a master of any. They have very good bass, not overpowered or weak, just, NICE. You will feel it. They are detailed, offer GREAT positioning, and a decent soundstage for a closed headphone.

I honestly don't see how people have heard them to have overpowering muddy bass. I find the bass in them to be slightly weaker than the M50's bass. Honestly, the CAL compares VERY well to the M50, with a more relaxed sound sig, and more soundstage. The M50 is more in your face, and sparklier in the upper registries. About 5% better in music than the CAL, but the CAL is 25% better than the M50 for gaming and movies.

I bought them off Newegg for $60. But I hear they are out of stock.

no, no, no, nooo!

No they're not better? Or no, dont buy those?

No they're not better? Or no, dont buy those?

Avoid the AX Pros like the black plague. Those who like them obviously never heard a decent headphone setup with Dolby Headphone. I was unimpressed by everything they had to offer. Dolby Headphone >>>>>>>>>>>> 5.1

edit: The CAL is going for $75 shipped on Amazon from a third party seller.

If you are getting a mixamp anyway, that's $130. No getting around that cost. If the A40 system is $250, that makes the A40s $120 with the system and I thought the HPX was $90 (guess it's $80 my bad). Also, you can get a used A40 for $100-130 or whatever too. I guess maybe it's more like $40 more but still worth it IMO. I would never pay the full $200 for them, nor recommend them at that price. But I dont know if anyone has ever paid that price?

If you are getting a mixamp anyway, that's $130. No getting around that cost. If the A40 system is $250, that makes the A40s $120 with the system and I thought the HPX was $90 (guess it's $80 my bad). Also, you can get a used A40 for $100-130 or whatever too. I guess maybe it's more like $40 more but still worth it IMO. I would never pay the full $200 for them, nor recommend them at that price. But I dont know if anyone has ever paid that price?

Ah, ok. I get your math now. :)

What are CAL's

If you are getting a mixamp anyway, that's $130. No getting around that cost. If the A40 system is $250, that makes the A40s $120 with the system and I thought the HPX was $90 (guess it's $80 my bad). Also, you can get a used A40 for $100-130 or whatever too. I guess maybe it's more like $40 more but still worth it IMO. I would never pay the full $200 for them, nor recommend them at that price. But I dont know if anyone has ever paid that price?

HPX used can be had for $50-$60. :D

What are CAL's

They're in-between Cows and Calves.

They're in-between Cows and Calves.

OR they might be the Creative Aurvana Live! headphones. Either way. :D

Now, my question is, what are these better headphones? When you say better, do you mean better for something specific (FPS Play) or just better all around? Think of it like this, I wanna watch star trek and hear the laser shooting by, or like a ship just flew over. As similar an experience to my surround system as I can get. I know I cant get the exact same experience. Also, I do really like the headphones that seal around my ear, not sit on top of it. For example, I prefer the way beats studio feel opposed to the solos. Is that what closed means?

As far as I know, he has the HD600, K702, DT880, A40 and I dunno what else. Everyone of those are better than the HPX (A40s too according to PJ and DaeKwan... I haven't tried... so I dunno).

I think you are probably a good candidate for the ATH-M50 with a Velcro Mic Mod. They have the rumble, the clarity and the Highs that cover pretty much everything. If not, I believe the CAL might fit your needs as well (for less money to boot).

As far as I know, he has the HD600, K702, DT880, A40 and I dunno what else. Everyone of those are better than the HPX (A40s too according to PJ and DaeKwan... I haven't tried... so I dunno).

I think you are probably a good candidate for the ATH-M50 with a Velcro Mic Mod. They have the rumble, the clarity and the Highs that cover pretty much everything. If not, I believe the CAL might fit your needs as well (for less money to boot).

So, in order to get "better" you're going to have to expand your budget, at least a little. Or just get the HPX or CAL! and be happy with them.

...Also, I do really like the headphones that seal around my ear, not sit on top of it. For example, I prefer the way beats studio feel opposed to the solos. Is that what closed means?

No, you're thinking of on-ear vs over-ear (circumaural) which is pretty much a comfort preference. Closed vs open describes a difference in how much noise the headphones keep out (or in, depending on how you look at it). Anyway, it's how much noise leaks through the headphone so that other people in the area can hear it.

Can I connect the HPX's to my laptop? Just has normal headphone connection. If I can, then I'll be getting the HPX's with the mixamp before I go. Might as well, its my bday.

What are CAL's

As someone said, the Creative Aurvana Live.

The Denon D1001 and CAL are 99.9% the same, with the exception of slightly different design of the cups. The pads are also shaped differently.

The drivers, and internals are all the same with the exception of the Denon having a few more metallic pieces while the CAL trades them off for some plastic pieces.

The person who owns both opened both and said the plastic vs metal makes no difference in overall build quality.

I think I can hook up my laptop through the mixamp. But heres the thing. For the HPX and the mix amp it comes to about $220. Being so close to the astro's price, are they that much better? Again, for immersion.

Brining one last headset into the equation. I never hear anyone talk about the a30's. According to reviews they have more a multimedia sound with good bass. Has anyone tried these? A30's with mixamp cost about the same as hpx with mixamp.

Double post.

I'm moving my PC back into my bedroom... so gaming at night as I usually do... will have to be done with closed headphones now. My K702 will end up being strictly for music pretty soon. So, I might be grabbing the A30 to try out.

The A30s seem more for general purpose as opposed to strictly gaming. If I had a choice, I'd go for the A30s. I didn't particularly care for the A40s. I owned them and preferred using my old cheap Pioneer 5.1 htib than the A40s. It wasn't until I got the AD700s where I felt like headphones offer a better experience for gaming over speakers, as you're completely in tune with the sound of the game, instead of EVERYTHING.

Seems the A30 at $99.99 price is only temporary (http://www.astrogaming.com/blog/108/A30_Celebratory_Special_Pricing/).

My A30 Speaker Tag...
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/AstroLogo.jpg

Seems the A30 at $99.99 price is only temporary (http://www.astrogaming.com/blog/108/A30_Celebratory_Special_Pricing/).

My A30 Speaker Tag...


Hahaha, neat. I dunno, if I can have my own tag, it'd be something classy, as opposed to the skullcandy-esque crap kids like these days. Woodied tags or straight carbon fiber. :D

I dunno.

So it seems that the A30 might also suit me. So, if you guys had to choose, would you prefer the a30's or the HPX's? A30 system would be about 20 bucks cheaper than buying the HPX's with mixamp.

So it seems that the A30 might also suit me. So, if you guys had to choose, would you prefer the a30's or the HPX's? A30 system would be about 20 bucks cheaper than buying the HPX's with mixamp.

Can't say... never heard the A30s. Though, if you don't like them... I'm sure you could always sell them on Fleabay and pick up a used (or new) HPX afterwards.

reviews say the A30's sound good, but they're over the ear headphone, HUGE negative for me.

Hey SWZ would you only recommend a velco mic mod on the m50 or the CALs?

HPX are kind of on ear too. At least, they don't go around as much as the 702/A40/etc. Kind of in between. They were pretty comfy though.

HPX used can be had for $50-$60. :DAnd aren't worth half that :p:D

Kidding. Kind of :p

By the way, I just want you all to know that your opinions are all wrong and only mine are right. Just wanted to clear that up.

Hey SWZ would you only recommend a velco mic mod on the m50 or the CALs?
I recommended them because they are closed, have the bass boogie without recessed mids that other closed headphones have ( well, M50 anyway).
The Shire SRH840 is better for music than M50.... but maybe not twice the price of the M50 though.

And aren't worth half that :p:D

Kidding. Kind of :p

By the way, I just want you all to know that your opinions are all wrong and only mine are right. Just wanted to clear that up.

Yea yea yea, we get you don't like them, and the typical closed headphone sound... it's cool. I didn't find them nearly as bad as you portray them. I still think going HPA2 route from Amazon is best way to try these as you can send them back if you don't like them. We all hear differently... and PJ is wrong.. :-)

The A30s seem more for general purpose as opposed to strictly gaming. If I had a choice, I'd go for the A30s..

Seems the A30 at $99.99 price is only temporary (http://www.astrogaming.com/blog/108/A30_Celebratory_Special_Pricing/).

My A30 Speaker Tag...
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/AstroLogo.jpg

After seeing this link:

http://www.complex.com/blog_galleries/the-25-best-gadgets-of-2010-so-far/Astro-A30-Headset

Where some magazine voted the A30's one of the top gadgets for 2010 so far.. I just learned something about them that might me take the $99 swipe at them. They are iPhone compatible, meaning they have a mic and iPod remote control buttons built into one of the 3 cords that comes with headset. Anybody can make great sounding earbuds or phones.. but this is a very important feature to me and the main reason why I bought the Klipsch S4i's.

For $99 bucks Im looking at something less bulky I can use gaming on the go when Im traveling.. and also something I can use with my phone on my daily commute to/from work. The S4i earbuds work great.. but isolate you from the world a little too much (get hit by a bus much??) and theres nothing more comfortable on the ears than a good set of phones. The A30's also include a detachable boom mic if you want to get serious about online gaming (FWIW I think the boom mic on the A40's is one of the best available. Teammates never have to ask me to repeat what I said, other teammates who use the A40's are always the clearest sounding and the mic doesnt pick up much background noise.. people forget how important a good mic is for gaming online and communicating with friends.).

For $99 that you get (phones, 3 different cables including mic/remote cable, and removable boom mic) it seems worth the deal. I dont care about the on-ear stuff. Payday is next Friday, if this special is still going on I'll jump.

Like your speaker tags btw Sidewayz.. cool custom touch.

I recommended them because they are closed, have the bass boogie without recessed mids that other closed headphones have ( well, M50 anyway).
The Shire SRH840 is better for music than M50.... but maybe not twice the price of the M50 though.

LOL I what I meant was would you only recommend doing the velcro mic mod on them instead of doing a full mic mod like what you did with the Dark Knight. Would it affect the sound quality of the closed design if putting a jack into it?

Like your speaker tags btw Sidewayz.. cool custom touch.
I think I may order tonight, but I will change the custom tags.... don't need to advertise at home,
LOL.

Hmm.. wonder how much I can sell my old mixamp for? If I buy the A30/mixamp combo its only $100 to get the new mixamp that is PS3 compatible.. With a few coworkers currently playing MW2 on the PS3.. and the eminent release of GT5 I'll probably be gaming online withe PS3 sooner than later.

I could probably sell my old mixamp for $100+ on Ebay.. and walk away with an even swap for the new mixamp.

Also says the new Mixamp will work with a PC/Mac and give true Dolby surround sound over the USB cable for watching movies, playing games and audio communication. Listening to a movie in surround sound on the plane or playing COD4/MW2 on the laptop at work during lunch hour.. Bought! :)

LOL I what I meant was would you only recommend doing the velcro mic mod on them instead of doing a full mic mod like what you did with the Dark Knight. Would it affect the sound quality of the closed design if putting a jack into it?

Probably won't fit in M50 without using a console connector, buy should fit in Cal. They won't affect sound as it's behind the driver anyway.

Anyone wants to buy my old mixamp $100 shipped. PM me if interested.. I'll drop it in the mail today if Paypaling.

...Shire SRH840...

That headphone is all the rage with hobbits. :p

And aren't worth half that :p:D

Kidding. Kind of :p

By the way, I just want you all to know that your opinions are all wrong and only mine are right. Just wanted to clear that up.

I rescind my original statement. Ignore everything PJ says. His thoughts are clearly invalid and all of his posts should probably just be deleted. :D

Just to clarify for those looking at the A30 and don't know, it's ON-ear. Thought I'd clear that up as there seems to be conflicting statements here.

That headphone is all the rage with hobbits. :p

So I hvae a prbloem wifth my clel kueobadr Neo?

So I hvae a prbloem wifth my clel kueobadr Neo?

lol. How many tries did it take you to intentionally screw that sentence up so bad? :)

Is there a site or reference source people can look to in order to really learn about stereo, Dolby, and surround sound headphones?

How multi speakers, drivers, and external amps and decoders work?

If I knew this info, all in one place, it could lay a nice base for people to understand all these conversations and then really take to heart the suggestions.
My blogs does on this a bit, but maybe not as much as you would like..

I got back my amp that was upgraded to V12:D. Comes with a new universal, external PS, that really bring it to a new level.. Other adjustments er made.. Ofcourse.. I went from V6 to V12 in one giant leap.. The amp maker really likes to improve his amp.. & is easily worth the extra cost.. & is only driving distance away..

Here is the link to my Goldpoint amp review...

http://www.head-fi.org/products/the-goldpoint-headphone-pro

MMy blogs does on this a bit, but maybe not as much as you would like..

I got back my amp that was upgraded to V12:D. Comes with a new universal, external PS, that really bring it to a new level.. Other adjustments er made.. Ofcourse.. I went from V6 to V12 in one giant leap.. The amp maker really likes to improve his amp.. & is easily worth the extra cost.. & is only driving distance away..

Here is the link to my Goldpoint amp review...

http://www.head-fi.org/products/the-goldpoint-headphone-pro

I like the horizontal version of that amp. How does it compare to a Burson HA-160?

M

I like the horizontal version of that amp. How does it compare to a Burson HA-160?

I would love to know. I know the 160 uses a superior opamp.. But IMO, that doesn't make or break a amp.. The HR2 has highly regarded opamps & I wasn't overly impressed by it.. Sugar coated the music.. But for SS, did have a tube like sound signature...

The Goldpoint pro amp does offer a stepped atten, which makes for better channel matching, balance, & some noise reduction.. Not sure the 160 has that. I did make a error in my review.. I bought the V4 & upgraded to the V5.. Then arn came out with V6, then went up to V12.. I had mine upgraded twice.. Total cost was around 730.00. I always hated the wall wart.. The new External PS looks sleek & the size of a ipod length wise, & the width of 2-3 Ipods.

The 160 is around 700.00 & gets great reviews.. Some people feel a straight gain to wire, & discrete design is superior to opamp based amps... Think, Gilmore lite & GS1. Think 1080i vs 720p in terms of controversy.

I think the V12 ups the stock GS1..But the GS1 also has a stepped att add on plus a module upgrade, which I'm sure would even better the V12.. But Justin is Awful at time lines.. Some have waited a yr to get their GS1.. His site states 8 weeks.

If you are looking for a killer SS amp under a grand the GPV12, Meier Concentro, K.I.C.A.S, 160, GS1, SPL Auditor, are all great candidates, & can easily match that mystical 1,000 SQ from what I read & actually heard. The closest would be the GP amp (bang for the buck) if Arn is selling the newest version for 549.00... Of course being a DIY guy.. The B22 is a league above the amps I listed.. For 600.00-900.00. (you could build your own. Cost depends on the quality of the parts) The schematics are available online & the parts are easy to get.. The usual 3 channel single ended B22 cost around 1,800 if you hire someone to build it for you.. Balanced is around 2,200..

I just never heard bass so well controlled, textured, & detailed then with my V12.. I owned the BADA12/VHP1 with external PS/HR2/& auditioned the GS1. Of course, I'm using a great source as well, the oppo83se.. But that doesn't make the V12 any less spectacular

But I'd really go to a meet that has a 160.. I hear they mate very well with the 701/2.. & will probably be your last upgrade in terms of amps..

But I'd really go to a meet that has a 160.. I hear they mate very well with the 701/2.. & will probably be your last upgrade in terms of amps..

Yea, I'm not sure I want to do balanced, as I'd need a balanced source and amp... and what not. I really wanted a nice DAC with multiple analog outs, so I can attach the Burson HA-160 to that and when I can attach a nice Woo Audio 6 or something similar. I don't know if I have good enough ears (especially since I thought the HPX was decent) to notice any difference.

Ok, finalized my Speaker Tag and doing final consideration for A30 purchase... and if I do, these will be on them!
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/NinjaLogo-speakertag.jpg

Yea, I'm not sure I want to do balanced, as I'd need a balanced source and amp... and what not. I really wanted a nice DAC with multiple analog outs, so I can attach the Burson HA-160 to that and when I can attach a nice Woo Audio 6 or something similar. I don't know if I have good enough ears (especially since I thought the HPX was decent) to notice any difference.
The 160 & woo 6 are very good amps.. The only DAC I know of with multiple analog outs is the DAC1 PRE.. & maybe the precon station.. Getting high into audio can be a treacherous but mind blowing ride.. I still need my HD800 & NUFORCE upgrade & my days will be over, unless arn adds another upgrade of course.. Your cable you made me is still down great. Thanks again..

Gran Turismo Pro 5 sounds astounding.. Especially with 5.1 LPCM.. The engine revs of the cars all very clear & distint.. Now I need Forza 3..

The 160 & woo 6 are very good amps.. The only DAC I know of with multiple analog outs is the DAC1 PRE.. & maybe the precon station.. Getting high into audio can be a treacherous but mind blowing ride.. I still need my HD800 & NUFORCE upgrade & my days will be over, unless arn adds another upgrade of course.. Your cable you made me is still down great. Thanks again..

Gran Turismo Pro 5 sounds astounding.. Especially with 5.1 LPCM.. The engine revs of the cars all very clear & distint.. Now I need Forza 3..

I find the audio better on the PS3 than Xbox as of late... but maybe it's the games I play... dunno.

I find the audio better on the PS3 than Xbox as of late... but maybe it's the games I play... dunno.
The PS3 does have been audio in general.. 5.1 to 7.1 LPCM & DTS.. & even DD 5.1 sounds better in most cases.. Of course, the 360 is still a great machine & has more exclusives that I want by a mile.. You can have your metal gear 4.. I want GOW 3!!

To all who are wondering, the CAL is over ear, but it's still slightly on ear. I normally hate one ear, but the CAL is still supreme in comfort. The pads are thick enough to somewhat go a little on your ear, is all I'm saying. It's a small headphone.

SWZ: like the tag, but not fond of the text font. Looks a bit industrial?

Lol, at the LOTR reference on the last page. Ironically I finally saw it for the second time just last week, since it first came out yeeeeears ago.

Nerd: Planning on ordering 12 month live on Amazon tomorrow, for my main account on my sig. I'm addicted to Castlevania enough to make me wanna use my real account. Not even CoD does that.

ALL DONE! A30 Headphones and Custom Speaker Tags have been ordered! Now, the waiting game. :(

Cool! Pics or it didn't happen! Also very interested on your thoughts of them. ;)

To all who are wondering, the CAL is over ear, but it's still slightly on ear. I normally hate one ear, but the CAL is still supreme in comfort. The pads are thick enough to somewhat go a little on your ear, is all I'm saying. It's a small headphone.

SWZ: like the tag, but not fond of the text font. Looks a bit industrial?

Lol, at the LOTR reference on the last page. Ironically I finally saw it for the second time just last week, since it first came out yeeeeears ago.

Nerd: Planning on ordering 12 month live on Amazon tomorrow, for my main account on my sig. I'm addicted to Castlevania enough to make me wanna use my real account. Not even CoD does that.


already added your grim... should i add I Chaos Zero I?

Yeah, add that one especially.

I have been reading up on that game, and it's no picnic getting your characters up to speed. Each character has a different way of being strengthened. It's pretty much smart to get in a good team and unlock the later levels then do them solo so you can build your characters. I plan on maining Shanoa first, then probably Alucard or Soma next. I wanna use Charlotte last because I hear she's hellish to get up to speed, because of all the magic spells you have to attain for her.

I actually should start with Johnathan first as his way of leveling up is pretty easy, though time consuming. Just use his sub-weapons over and over and it'll strengthen his main weapon. He only gets one main weapon the entire game. Soma and Alucard are probably the easiest to use, but EVERYONE is using them. I hate being in a bandwagon. Charlotte is popular because she's pretty much broken once you get her good spells, but she's not easy to use until then.

ALL DONE! A30 Headphones and Custom Speaker Tags have been ordered! Now, the waiting game. :(

Hmm. Well, good luck with that. I'll remain skeptical until you can post a review. :cool:

Hmm. Well, good luck with that. I'll remain skeptical until you can post a review. :cool:

Why is that? The whole "on-ear" thing? I'm not scaaaared. I like Grados!:D

If someone can find a larger version of this pic I think it would make a great speaker tag for you HP guys. BTW wasn't there a way to get a 10% coupon for Astro by joining some group or something?

SWZ, as of yet I have not been able to find a good price ( 225~ best) on the AT's you asked me to look into. If I do I'll let you know.

SWZ, as of yet I have not been able to find a good price ( 225~ best) on the AT's you asked me to look into. If I do I'll let you know.

$106.95 (http://www.amazon.com/Technica-ATH-M50S-Monitor-Headphones-Straight/dp/B001CKAY1C/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1281214591&sr=8-3)

If someone can find a larger version of this pic I think it would make a great speaker tag for you HP guys. BTW wasn't there a way to get a 10% coupon for Astro by joining some group or something?

I dunno, I think they have a restriction of what colors and what not you can use, that's why I took a pic of 'Snake Eyes' from G.I. Joe, and converted him to a 2D, profile pic and made it a solid color. So mine should work, I dunno if the one you posted (probably 256 colors or more) would work, but it is quite nice. Maybe buying their 'all black' one and going to a sign shop?

edit: It doesn't say anything about limiting the colors... Hmmm, might have to order another set now.

edit 2: ...but I can't use that skull pic... as those headphones are Skull Candy ones. :D

Well crap. I thought you wanted these.

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-ESW9A-Portable-Wooden-Headphones/dp/B002FTIDQC

You may be right about the colors. Didnt think about that. I believe I will be picking up a set myself. If I decide on getting some tags to go with it, I will be using something like this I think. With the black headset.

Wish I had the pic editing prowess that you do, there are other pics that I would also consider.

Well crap. I thought you wanted these.

http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATH-ESW9A-Portable-Wooden-Headphones/dp/B002FTIDQC

You may be right about the colors. Didnt think about that. I believe I will be picking up a set myself. If I decide on getting some tags to go with it, I will be using something like this I think. With the black headset.

Oh yea, I did... and I still may, I just want everyone who hasn't purchased a headphone yet... to stop wasting time and get the K702... then order a gaming cable, so I can get the ESW9a :D

edit 2: ...but I can't use that skull pic... as those headphones are Skull Candy ones.

Ha, funny. Well how about this then. This guy with some AKG's on his head. :D

Ha, funny. Well how about this then. This guy with some AKG's on his head. :D

'course I could Photoshop them on... but I already ordered my Custom Tags... don't want to spend another $24 or so on another set already. Maybe in a few weeks time.

Double post.

Stupid phone...

Nerd: I made a castlevania thread, and got the three month xbl deal for 9.99 for my main account. Let's do it!

Also, bought the labtec lva 7330 mic off ebay for a 5.99 bid, so I will be velcroing it to my CALs. I'm excited to play with actual chat again...

ALL DONE! A30 Headphones and Custom Speaker Tags have been ordered! Now, the waiting game. :(

Well shyt.. cant wait to hear this review!

The PS3 does have been audio in general.. 5.1 to 7.1 LPCM & DTS.. & even DD 5.1 sounds better in most cases.. Of course, the 360 is still a great machine & has more exclusives that I want by a mile.. You can have your metal gear 4.. I want GOW 3!!

But if you use optical, wouldn't the audio quality be completely equal since optical Completely bypasses the ps3's and Xbox 360's internal DAC, Right?

But if you use optical, wouldn't the audio quality be completely equal since optical Completely bypasses the ps3's and Xbox 360's internal DAC, Right?

You would think, but it's more than just the transport (Optical) that affects that. It's whatever DSP or Processing they do internally to derive their Digital Signal (I'd think).

Yeah, I know for me the PS3 has a better DSP than the 360, as all the games I play on both systems sound clearer on the PS3, and I have the PS3 hooked up via optical digital to digital coax converter.

My Audio Only cable for the K702 was a little too short (3.5ft, since I listen at my computer). So, I built a new one...
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/1fc04cc2.jpg

...it was a pain in the butt to Hand Braid... but it looks good.

My Audio Only cable for the K702 was a little too short (3.5ft, since I listen at my computer). So, I built a new one...
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/1fc04cc2.jpg

...it was a pain in the butt to Hand Braid... but it looks good.

Wow those wires look sexy. Is that clear blue teflon tubing?

Wow those wires look sexy. Is that clear blue teflon tubing?

Maybe? ...dunno, It's actually Car Audio cable that I split and braided. It actually sounds pretty decent. I haven't A/Bed against my Mogami cables... but it sounds pretty good.

Maybe? ...dunno, It's actually Car Audio cable that I split and braided. It actually sounds pretty decent. I haven't A/Bed against my Mogami cables... but it sounds pretty good.

It looked like the stuff they use for car audio stuff. Ive actually looked at car audio stuff from JL, Kicker, Rockford fosgate and MMX because of the cheap wire but they are all just super thick gauges.

Sidways I'm gonna have to send you the A40 now so you can directly compare to the A30 and HPX if you still have them. I'd love to hear your impressions of the A30 vs A40.

PJ I'm going to order them Friday.. not sure how long shipping will take but since you are local to me, you are more than welcome to try them for yourself when they arrive.

Sidways I'm gonna have to send you the A40 now so you can directly compare to the A30 and HPX if you still have them. I'd love to hear your impressions of the A30 vs A40.

From the reviews I've read, you may not like them. They have boosted bass and are a closed set... but, wpuld probably fit my sound signature more. Not better than K702, as those are the Cat's meow!

used my Total Bithead with my Astro Mixamp and Senn 650's this weekend for a LAN. sounded great, gave me a boost in audio volume and possibly soundstage.

From the reviews I've read, you may not like them. They have boosted bass and are a closed set... but, wpuld probably fit my sound signature more. Not better than K702, as those are the Cat's meow!Yeah at that price, I don't expect them to compete with the 702s, but I suspect they will compete with the HPX / A40s. My guess is that maybe they are somewhere in between the two in terms of sound signature, and that may be a sweet spot for some people.

Daekwan, you can also plug the A40 straight into your iphone and it will work with the mic and all. I know the A30 are more portable so you're more likely to do it with them, but I didn't know if you knew about the A40.

Daekwan, you can also plug the A40 straight into your iphone and it will work with the mic and all. I know the A30 are more portable so you're more likely to do it with them, but I didn't know if you knew about the A40.

Have did that and it is pretty cool. Actually recorded myself and sent the recording to Astro to help problem solve a short in my A40 cable wiring.

The main reason im interested in the A30's is that they seem much more portable & of course have the iPhone mic/remote buttons built into the cable. I cannot tell you how much I love using the voice commands and remote control buttons to control the phone without taking it out of my pocket or bookbag when commuting/travelling. The $99 price also makes it an easy pill to swallow.. $99 in the headphone/headset world is peanuts.

The $99 price also makes it an easy pill to swallow.. $99 in the headphone/headset world is peanuts.

True 'dat... and my stuff has already shipped... including my custom tags... so, I figure... by Thurs. or so I should have them. Will see tho..

this might be a dumb question but I wanted to know does the A40 have a removable mic?

Yep.

And not just removable, but you can use it on either side. Left or Right.

It also swivels around 360 degrees.. which comes in handy when you have to speak to someone around you and dont want your speech to feed back into the mic (and dont feel like using the mute button). I flip mine up real quick.. say what I got to say.. and flip it back down. A40's rock dude.. if you have the means to purchase them, definitely give them a try!

Yep.

And not just removable, but you can use it on either side. Left or Right.

It also swivels around 360 degrees.. which comes in handy when you have to speak to someone around you and dont want your speech to feed back into the mic (and dont feel like using the mute button). I flip mine up real quick.. say what I got to say.. and flip it back down. A40's rock dude.. if you have the means to purchase them, definitely give them a try!

Sweet! thanks, i have been hearing great things especially about the mixamp. I was thinking of getting both. It's quite a bit of change though I don't want buyers remorse :(

If you are getting both together in the combo package for $249 its no remorse. I feel 'naked' playing without mine. Definitely a great investment. They also hold their value extremely well.. if you ever wanted to Ebay them for some reason.

Funny how we've tried the DT770 Pro (and they're decent, I just don't like the recessed mids), and we talked about the K271.... and here they are in use.
Francois C.Delacoudre (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6mEJ2tholU)

To those who have asked previously of what the SWZ cable on the K702 look like (I've seen a request or two, plus a PM from someone), I figured I'd post it here.
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/9515044c.jpghttp://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/d2d83744.jpghttp://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Audio/IMG_0070.jpg

Man, are they gorgeous!

I have the AD700's and I LOVE the soundstage with the mixamp- I hear things I don't hear even in my 5.1 setup. But I am disappointed by the lack of bass. Its not terrible, but the guns sound a bit tinny. Can anyone compare the size of the soundstage and the bass between the AD700's and the AKG 702's versus the a30's. Or anything anyone has found that had a comparable soundstage to the AD700's. I don't want to give up the soundstage, but I want more bass!
Thanks!!

The K70x takes the soundstage a bit further, and adds some bass. Not bassy by any means, but a huge improvement over the zero bass the AD700's have. The K70x is a noticeable improvement over the AD700s in every aspect, though whether or not it's worth the significant price jump is up to you. It was for me, but perhaps the Sony MDR-F1 would benefit most as the next step up from the AD700s? I dunno about their bass, but I hear loads of good things about their huge soundstage. If I had heard of them before the K701, I would've went for them first, because they can be had for $100 less than the AKGs.

So I went to a LAN this past weekend, and for some reason I had to set my Xbox to "Speakers And Headset" to hear anyone. Nothing changed in my setup, so I didn't understand. When I got home and plugged everything back in again, it did the same thing. I don't want that, I want Headset Only for voice. What gives?

Yep headset only.

yeah, i understand I want Headset Only. What I'm saying it, when I set it to that I can't hear anyone in my headset anymore. Something is messed up, and I don't know what.

yeah, i understand I want Headset Only. What I'm saying it, when I set it to that I can't hear anyone in my headset anymore. Something is messed up, and I don't know what.

My xbox did the same thing to me once. I don't know what happened, but it went back to normal the next day. Sorry I can't say how I fixed it, cause I don't know. Just know you're not going crazy.

yeah, i understand I want Headset Only. What I'm saying it, when I set it to that I can't hear anyone in my headset anymore. Something is messed up, and I don't know what.
I've had that problem before and it seemed to resolve when I unplugged and replugged the cable that connects the mixamp to the controller. If that doesn't work it could be a problem with the cable perhaps.

The K70x takes the soundstage a bit further, and adds some bass. Not bassy by any means, but a huge improvement over the zero bass the AD700's have. The K70x is a noticeable improvement over the AD700s in every aspect, though whether or not it's worth the significant price jump is up to you. It was for me, but perhaps the Sony MDR-F1 would benefit most as the next step up from the AD700s? I dunno about their bass, but I hear loads of good things about their huge soundstage. If I had heard of them before the K701, I would've went for them first, because they can be had for $100 less than the AKGs.

Thanks for the very helpful info. I am going to try the 702's.

Funny how we've tried the DT770 Pro (and they're decent, I just don't like the recessed mids), and we talked about the K271.... and here they are in use.
Francois C.Delacoudre (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6mEJ2tholU)

To those who have asked previously of what the SWZ cable on the K702 look like (I've seen a request or two, plus a PM from someone), I figured I'd post it here.


Awesome. I really want one now......how can I can my hands on it? :cool:
and that mic is which one again? (so lazy of me)

I've had that problem before and it seemed to resolve when I unplugged and replugged the cable that connects the mixamp to the controller. If that doesn't work it could be a problem with the cable perhaps.

yeah i figured out last night that my 2.5mm cable from my controller to the mixamp is broken. I think it's cut inside or something - I was able to use it when I kinked it a certain way, but I need to buy a new one.

My xbox did the same thing to me once. I don't know what happened, but it went back to normal the next day. Sorry I can't say how I fixed it, cause I don't know. Just know you're not going crazy.

I've had that happen before after accidentally unplugging mid-game. A restart fixes it.

yeah i figured out last night that my 2.5mm cable from my controller to the mixamp is broken. I think it's cut inside or something - I was able to use it when I kinked it a certain way, but I need to buy a new one.

same here, i'm actually replacing it with the "X31" talkback cable from turtle beach.

astro will probably replace it for you though, as there is widespread failure... i bought mine pre-owned so i may not have that luxury.


i'm currently using the AX720 in the meantime... it's really not all that bad once you get used to the sound signature, but i haven't been playing any competitive multiplayer so i can't rate it there.... seems pretty nice for co-op/single player though, good sound signature, a little warm on the ears, and pretty comfortable for 6+ hours, but not as comfortable as i'd like.... volume AND chat are independant and can be increased louder than anyone could want, though there is a little hiss on the chat amplification circuit, i dont notice it on the level of volume i use for chat (though if someone went louder, i'm sure they'd hear it.)

For $129 for a complete solution, its very impressive. Thats why I advise people to try that first (no risk at Best Buy) before dumping big bucks into a headphone/headset gaming solution.

Thanks for the very helpful info. I am going to try the 702's.

Some follow up:
Got the 702's. I think I like the ad700's better. The 702's had a much smaller soundstage than the ad700's. Their bass was better- but not a huge amount so. And the deal breaker was that to run them with the ps3 and the mix amp, I had to turn the mix amp volume ALL the way up just to get them loud enough and even then they weren't so loud. They were louder on the xbox 360. I appreciate the opinions offered but I must say I have yet to find a bigger soundstage than the ad700's.

yea, the 702's have a large soundstage, but i also think the ad700's soundstage is better.... not only larger, but more accurate positioning... this is why i decided to try the MDR-F1, to see if i liked it any more than the k702.

(still undecided on that by the way, but the F1 is definitely no slouch)

Some follow up:
Got the 702's. I think I like the ad700's better. The 702's had a much smaller soundstage than the ad700's. Their bass was better- but not a huge amount so. And the deal breaker was that to run them with the ps3 and the mix amp, I had to turn the mix amp volume ALL the way up just to get them loud enough and even then they weren't so loud. They were louder on the xbox 360. I appreciate the opinions offered but I must say I have yet to find a bigger soundstage than the ad700's.

You'll need to amp them then. I LOVE the K702, I loathed the AD700... ..but we all hear differently. I don't really need to amp the K702... but when I do.. there is a definite difference between an unamped K702 (from the MixAmp) and an amped K702 (after the MixAmp). Even the lowly Fiio E5 showed a nice boost in Bass, Mids and Highs when I ran it after the MixAmp and into the K702. If I ran the MixAmp into my Tube Amp... it sounds fantastic. Still don't understand what people like about the AD700 though. I was happy to rebuild mine and sell them.

Some follow up:
Got the 702's. I think I like the ad700's better. The 702's had a much smaller soundstage than the ad700's. Their bass was better- but not a huge amount so. And the deal breaker was that to run them with the ps3 and the mix amp, I had to turn the mix amp volume ALL the way up just to get them loud enough and even then they weren't so loud. They were louder on the xbox 360. I appreciate the opinions offered but I must say I have yet to find a bigger soundstage than the ad700's.

This is only true on a new pair of K70x. It has been said many times on Head-fi, that the K70x needs ample time burning in before the soundstage opens up.

I have tested the AD700 (one of my friends has it, I sold it to him) and K701 side by side, and the AD700s soundstage is just a teeny bit smaller than my K70x. I did trade for a used pair and also burned them in for over 200 hours before really using them, but the soundstage was definitely in a league of it's own.

Also, you should have already known that the K70x is VERY hard to drive. It has been stated everywhere. You can only blame yourself for that. You need a pretty beefy amp to get them to sound full if you add voice chat to the Mixamp. The E5 and E7 I have did not help it.

As it stands, I use them without voice chat, and have the Mixamp at 100% game. They would blow out my ears at max volume. You only need the master at about 1-2 o clock unamped, as long as voice chat isn't mixed in. As soon as you start turning the game/voice knob towards voice, the volume takes a MASSIVE hit, where even the master volume maxed won't drive the K70x anywhere near loud. It's actually crazy how fast the K70x becomes underdriven on the mixamp when adding voice chat.

The should definitely be burned in.. need time to loosen up.

As much as I absolutely love the AD700's sound, their soundstage is not bigger than a well burned in K70x. I'm still constantly in awe at how spacious they are, and I was used to the AD700 for nearly half a year.

The one thing I give the AD700 is their ability to sound so crisp, as if you were breathing brisk, breezy air. I'm sure it's due to their treble emphasis and distinct lack of bass, whereas the K70x are warmer, and more balanced. Not that the K70x are warm, but warmer than the AD700 for sure.

i still think the ad700's have a better soundstage :) of course i used them daily for around 2 years.

my k702's were purchased like new, previous owner burned them for 250 hours straight, and then i burned them for 5 days or so while i was out of town... lookin at nearly 400 hours of burn in, which is well past the timeframe most people recommend for them.... they're still great headphones, and i still like them more than the ad700... i just think the ad700 soundstage is better, if not larger then more precise sound field and imaging, at least for gaming.... for me they just had pinpoint accuracy all around me (except of course where the game lacks directly behind and above/below)

shin, if they fit you perfectly and you enjoyed the looks, tell me you wouldn't still have them.

i still think the ad700's have a better soundstage :) of course i used them daily for around 2 years.

my k702's were purchased like new, previous owner burned them for 250 hours straight, and then i burned them for 5 days or so while i was out of town... lookin at nearly 400 hours of burn in, which is well past the timeframe most people recommend for them.... they're still great headphones, and i still like them more than the ad700... i just think the ad700 soundstage is better, if not larger then more precise sound field and imaging, at least for gaming.... for me they just had pinpoint accuracy all around me (except of course where the game lacks directly behind and above/below)

shin, if they fit you perfectly and you enjoyed the looks, tell me you wouldn't still have them.

Dude, hell yeah! I loved everything (sound-wise) about the AD700s, including the lack of bass. I'm a basshead, and the AD700 is the polar opposite of what I would normally go for, but they definitely left an impression I will never forget. Like they were made for hardcore competitions! I too agree that their positioning is more precise than the K70x. Asides from the DT770 Pros, the AD700 has the most accurate sound 'field' out of all the headphones I have ever used.

Now let me clarify, I did NOT like them for music or anything in general. But for the purpose I bought them for, they were completely awesome.

That DAMN loose fit. They need to make a variant with a normal headband!

I still believe the K70x has a larger stage, but the added bass may make others feel that the AD700 are more airy, since bass 'congestion' is non-existant in the AD700s. There's nothing keeping you from hearing all that glorious soundstage with them.

The DT880s soundstage was big enough, but not like those two.

Awesome. I really want one now......how can I can my hands on it? :cool:
and that mic is which one again? (so lazy of me)

From me... The mic is actually a Dicsong mic from China. I've yet to acquire the Hyundai Mic.... as I get these when I order the Hyundai (so maybe they don't sel Hyundai anymore), but these still sound great and have the gold plated 3.5mm as well.

My 702s have around 800 hours on them., and I think the AD700 has a little bit bigger sound stage, but it's minimal really and I overall I think they are pretty close in that dept. For positioning as well, I think the AD700 edges them out just a bit, but again very close.

I would never on any planet call the AD700 more crisp though. The K702 are IMO much crisper, clearer, cleaner, fuller, tighter, accurate, musical, and just flat out better. There is literally no comparison as far as I'm concerned.

To me the AD700s sound like cheap ass drivers that are just spaced way off your head by the pads, which gives it the big sound stage and good positioning. But the cheap ass drivers and spacing is also what kills the sound quality and bass. Though I will still never take away the fact that I don't think there is a better competition headphone (for fps gaming) possibly at any price, and certainly not in the AD700 price range.

Some follow up:
Got the 702's. I think I like the ad700's better. The 702's had a much smaller soundstage than the ad700's. Their bass was better- but not a huge amount so. And the deal breaker was that to run them with the ps3 and the mix amp, I had to turn the mix amp volume ALL the way up just to get them loud enough and even then they weren't so loud. They were louder on the xbox 360. I appreciate the opinions offered but I must say I have yet to find a bigger soundstage than the ad700's.

I really do appreciate all the info and opinions shared here- very helpful. For me, I really don't want to have to run two amps just hear the K702's. (I did have both volume nobbs all the way up on the mixamp with the ps3 and they were barely loud enough). That was really the deal killer for me. I am going to try the AD900's- I hear (haha) that they have more bass- we'll see. I do love the AT soundstage!

We all hear very differently. If you find the AD700's work great for you.. why keep spending money looking for something better?

We all hear very differently. If you find the AD700's work great for you.. why keep spending money looking for something better?

The pursuit of nirvana. I do plan to stop looking after the ad900's though- wife is getting tired of all the return boxes:). I just have to satisfy my curiousity one last time...

same here, i'm actually replacing it with the "X31" talkback cable from turtle beach.

astro will probably replace it for you though, as there is widespread failure... i bought mine pre-owned so i may not have that luxury.


i'm currently using the AX720 in the meantime... it's really not all that bad once you get used to the sound signature, but i haven't been playing any competitive multiplayer so i can't rate it there.... seems pretty nice for co-op/single player though, good sound signature, a little warm on the ears, and pretty comfortable for 6+ hours, but not as comfortable as i'd like.... volume AND chat are independant and can be increased louder than anyone could want, though there is a little hiss on the chat amplification circuit, i dont notice it on the level of volume i use for chat (though if someone went louder, i'm sure they'd hear it.)

oh I already bought a new longer one when my Astro one started acting up over a year ago. I don't think I even have the Astro one anymore. Something about 2.5mm cables I guess. That stupid brick they have hanging on the cable weighs it down and it's already too short.

I do plan to stop looking after the...

Thats what they all say! lol

oh I already bought a new longer one when my Astro one started acting up over a year ago. I don't think I even have the Astro one anymore. Something about 2.5mm cables I guess. That stupid brick they have hanging on the cable weighs it down and it's already too short.


well that "brick" (i think it's a ferrite core?) doesnt bother me as it's on the mixamp side.... i just wish they made the 90* side more durable, or put a puck on it with a mute switch, or something... i havent had any stock mic cables short out with or without the puck.... the ax720 is even worse, it's a straight cable on the controller side, and sticks out about an inch or so... i dont see it lasting very long.... i may just lop a cable off of a stock mic up near the ear piece, and put a 2.5 (mixamp) or 3.5 (ax720) end on it.

http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/85789e1b.jpg
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/66dc0d92.jpg

i dont like the square around the ninja, or the white border on it... should be a silhouette of the white ninja with a transparent black background (the shiny black on the rest of the tag)

kinda cool though!

i dont like the square around the ninja, or the white border on it... should be a silhouette of the white ninja with a transparent black background (the shiny black on the rest of the tag)

kinda cool though!

Agreed... gonna call them and tell them their Q sux... I could've used my inkjet for similar results.

probably better off taking blank tags to a gfx/sign/screen shop

Agreed... gonna call them and tell them their Q sux... I could've used my inkjet for similar results.

Other than the white border, what's wrong with them?

This took all of about 45 seconds....

http://a.imageshack.us/img824/2417/tagy.png

Other than the white border, what's wrong with them?

Maybe hard to see in the photo, but the wording is VERY ALIASED! I mean, it looks like 6pt blown up to 36pt size or something (CRAP). The picture itself looks better... but still, looks like it was printed on sticker paper and then applied. I think it's a 2 part process. If you select from their pre-defined stuff, it gets applied by a machine (even if the fonts look like Poo). If you do custom, they print on sticker paper and apply by hand. Not impressed AT ALL!:mad:

This took all of about 45 seconds....

http://a.imageshack.us/img824/2417/tagy.png

Yes, but apparently... you won't get it that way... their printing still sux! I think I'm gonna MOD it. I'll sand it all off, and find myself a high quality sticker or something and apply that.

Edit: Just complained to their support line.... let's see what happens next.

yea, i didnt do that on their site, i did that in photoshop, i'd take it to a gfx place and have them print it.

yea, i didnt do that on their site, i did that in photoshop, i'd take it to a gfx place and have them print it.

Another Photoshopper in our midst? ...SWEET! Love Photoshop!... and someday, a Cintiq will be MINE!:D Probably 12WX...

Another Photoshopper in our midst? ...SWEET! Love Photoshop!... and someday, a Cintiq will be MINE!:D Probably 12WX...

cintiq is nice, but i just use a $20 digipro :)

at the very least, they better send you some new blanks so you can have someone do it up right.... oh, and did you get a chance to ship that cable out?

cintiq is nice, but i just use a $20 digipro :)

at the very least, they better send you some new blanks so you can have someone do it up right.

I already have a Wacom that's a few years old... was going to upgrade to an Intuos.... but fell in love with the 12WX... but I stopped going to Art Institute... so I put that on hold... found this forum... and forget it... now I got's no money... hehe. Eventually though, when I get back to school... I'll get something newer/better and add it to my student loan. :rolleyes:

Fock all that speaker tag shyt.

HOW DO THEY SOUND???

And I think I have extra black speakertags Sideways. So if they dont send you black speakertags for free.. we can trade. Lets say my speakertags for your 702's.. lol

Fock all that speaker tag shyt.

HOW DO THEY SOUND???

And I think I have extra black speakertags Sideways. So if they dont send you black speakertags for free.. we can trade. Lets say my speakertags for your 702's.. lol

Tempting.... but the A30 tags are smaller than A40. The tags sound fantastic tho... one of the lowest noise floors I've ever heard... then again, they're just tags. :D Headphones don't arrive till Monday.:rolleyes:

I really do appreciate all the info and opinions shared here- very helpful. For me, I really don't want to have to run two amps just hear the K702's. (I did have both volume nobbs all the way up on the mixamp with the ps3 and they were barely loud enough). That was really the deal killer for me. I am going to try the AD900's- I hear (haha) that they have more bass- we'll see. I do love the AT soundstage!

Both volume knobs? Explain. If you have the master volume maxed, and the game/voice set all the way to Game, you would blow your ears out. The K70x is easily driven loudly by the mixamp alone, as long as it's almost all the way on the game side of the voice chat knob.

Rage, as for crispness between K70x and AD700, I mean that the AD700s has so much emphasis on the mids and highs that there's nothing distracting you from perceiving crispness.

The K70x are easily better than the AD700, but since is sounds fuller all around, people may be distracted by the other frequencies. The AD700s are so good because in competition, because the mids and highs are everything in competition.

The AD700s are so good because in competition, because the mids and highs are everything in competition.

That's also the reason why I felt they sounded like a AM Radio.

Haha, ouch. They're not bad. Just lacks bass is all. ;p

Haha, ouch. They're not bad. Just lacks bass is all. ;p

Then maybe it was the pair that I had... 'cause they had over extended highs, ok mids, non-existent lows..... basically, an AM Radio. I tried them for a few nights in a row, put them down.... then another few nights in a row... and ended up doing the Mod and selling. I couldn't get used to them. So maybe, I shouldn't be too hard on them as I never gave them a long enough audition...

With your skillz.. You should have put some subs in them. real 2.1 or 5.1 sound lol

Both volume knobs? Explain. If you have the master volume maxed, and the game/voice set all the way to Game, you would blow your ears out. The K70x is easily driven loudly by the mixamp alone, as long as it's almost all the way on the game side of the voice chat knob.

Rage, as for crispness between K70x and AD700, I mean that the AD700s has so much emphasis on the mids and highs that there's nothing distracting you from perceiving crispness.

The K70x are easily better than the AD700, but since is sounds fuller all around, people may be distracted by the other frequencies. The AD700s are so good because in competition, because the mids and highs are everything in competition.

Yeah, I had BOTH knobs turned to the loudest setting and it still wasn't loud enough when the mixamp was connected to the PS3 via optical. The xbox 360 came through louder though so I did need to turn the knobs down for that. But the ps3 issue was the dealbreaker- I didn't want to buy a second amp. As a side note, I do appreciate your time and suggestions. Thank you.

uDac just got Waaay cooler! NuForce uDac-2 (http://www.nuforce.com/hp/products/iconudac2/index.php)

Yeah, I had BOTH knobs turned to the loudest setting and it still wasn't loud enough when the mixamp was connected to the PS3 via optical. The xbox 360 came through louder though so I did need to turn the knobs down for that. But the ps3 issue was the dealbreaker- I didn't want to buy a second amp. As a side note, I do appreciate your time and suggestions. Thank you.

I just google "ps3 low volume via optical" and got a crap load of stuff. So it has nothing to do with your MixAmp and K702. It's a PS3 problem. I don't use it with my PS3... so I wouldn't know about it. I just have my PS3 going optical into my Denon Receiver.... but I rarely game on that anyway... it's the kids, and they're always playing Little Big Planet.:D

PJ I'm going to order them Friday.. not sure how long shipping will take but since you are local to me, you are more than welcome to try them for yourself when they arrive.

Did you order them?

Gonna pick up my labtec mic tomorrow from my mother's house. Brought the CALs with me to work so I can size it up with the labtec mic first thing in the morning! I'm so excited about this 6 dollar mic, lol.

I just google "ps3 low volume via optical" and got a crap load of stuff. So it has nothing to do with your MixAmp and K702. It's a PS3 problem. I don't use it with my PS3... so I wouldn't know about it. I just have my PS3 going optical into my Denon Receiver.... but I rarely game on that anyway... it's the kids, and they're always playing Little Big Planet.:D

Hmm, don't have a problem with either my first gen 60gb, or slim ps3. The K70x is as loud on either console as my 360.

Might wanna try setting the PS3 to output ONLY Dolby Digital, and not tweak the frequency range there.

In any case, that definitely sounds like a PS3 problem, not K70x/Mixamp problem.

Did you order them?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220654348910

:)

Im guessing the new one will ship Monday. Astro uses UPS so no weekend activity. Which sucks. FedEx or USPS seems like a much better option to me.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220654348910

:)

Im guessing the new one will ship Monday. Astro uses UPS so no weekend activity. Which sucks. FedEx or USPS seems like a much better option to me.

Added to watch list. :D

So my stepfather (handyman in everything) removed the headband, sanded down the Labtec LA 7330 mic to the part necessary, and stuck a 2-sided velcro onto my Creative Aurvana Live. He removed the foam padding of the Labtec mic and cut out a velcro to match the dimensions, and that's how I connect it to the CAL (so when I don't need a mic, I can just remove it in less than a second). It's 100% fully functional, and for just $6-$8 on top of the CAL's price, you get a beast that I bet outperforms almost all headsets in the $200 or less range.

I like it so much, I think I may just ask him to remove the velcro, and permanently attach the mic to the CAL. I love that it turns up or down, and swivels for when I need to readjust or just put it up when I don't need it. Right now the piece that attaches to the CAL covers the Creative logo on my left cup perfectly. :)

I'll post pics soon, but I'm gonna be busy moving tomorrow, so perhaps it will happen tomorrow night or Tuesday.

Playing co-op and survival in Castlevania, people said they could hear me clearly, and I had no issues hearing voice chat on my CAL. The Mixamp drives them well, and I could put the game/voice knob at like 85% voice, and the sound is still very loud without having to max out the master volume.

These will from now on be strictly for multiplayer sessions when my friends are on, and my K701 will be for when I wanna completely focus on a competitive game like MW2, without getting distracted by voice chat. I rather not talk during my CoD-esque sessions anyway, but now the option is there with my CALs. ;)

So after about 3 months of research and saving up...i've narrowed my choices down to these Three phones:

BeyerDynamic DT880 32ohm
Audio Technica AD700
Audio Technica AD500

Gaming Wants :

1.Excellent Positioning
2.Immersive Soundstage for RPGs
3.Good For Music (alternative, electronic, hip hop)
4.Detailed
5.Bass needed for Realistic Sounding Explosions or effects like thunder and Quakes?

Hey guys, I just received my Turtle Beach HPA2 headphones in the mail today. I was wondering though if anyone can help me.

If i want to use these w/ std stereo output devices the only option I'm able to find for me to get this adapter is to get the official TB stereo adapter.

My problem is finding a compatible adapter w/ a 9 pin DIN connector. Right now, going through TB its $7.99 for the adapter and then shipping is another $8. $16 seems high for a simple adapter.

Does anyone know another source I can get a similar adapter? Its gotta go 9 pin din to 3.5mm stereo jack.

Thanks.

Hey guys, I just received my Turtle Beach HPA2 headphones in the mail today. I was wondering though if anyone can help me.

If i want to use these w/ std stereo output devices the only option I'm able to find for me to get this adapter is to get the official TB stereo adapter.

My problem is finding a compatible adapter w/ a 9 pin DIN connector. Right now, going through TB its $7.99 for the adapter and then shipping is another $8. $16 seems high for a simple adapter.

Does anyone know another source I can get a similar adapter? Its gotta go 9 pin din to 3.5mm stereo jack.

Thanks.

Probably not, unless you can find it on eBay. I'd be prepared to buy more than 1 cable... I'd spring for the HPX-1 and HPX-2 cable so that you have the Astro 4 pole cable (which works as a standard stereo plug as well), and the dual plugs for computer use. Then the shipping doesn't change and it seems more palatable. They do have a retarded shipping setup.

Edit: Though, using the green cable on the setup should work, no? I don't know if you're trying to use it with a portable device (in-which a Fiio E5 should be used), but good luck either way.

Edit2: I still have the 6 cable adapter for it. I can always check the pin-outs to see where a stereo only mode might work and then draw up a schematic (or have my children do it... according to BBExperience). Then you should be able to source parts from NewEgg.

Edit: Though, using the green cable on the setup should work, no? I don't know if you're trying to use it with a portable device (in-which a Fiio E5 should be used), but good luck either way.

Edit2: I still have the 6 cable adapter for it. I can always check the pin-outs to see where a stereo only mode might work and then draw up a schematic (or have my children do it... according to BBExperience). Then you should be able to source parts from NewEgg.[/QUOTE]

I tried just plugging the Green connector right into my receiver and no sound came out. I did not try it in any other stereo type device though.

Edit: Though, using the green cable on the setup should work, no? I don't know if you're trying to use it with a portable device (in-which a Fiio E5 should be used), but good luck either way.

Edit2: I still have the 6 cable adapter for it. I can always check the pin-outs to see where a stereo only mode might work and then draw up a schematic (or have my children do it... according to BBExperience). Then you should be able to source parts from NewEgg.

I tried just plugging the Green connector right into my receiver and no sound came out. I did not try it in any other stereo type device though.[/QUOTE]

You may need to have the amp on the HPA running as well. Dunno though. I'd get the HPX-1 and HPX-2 cable to lessen the cost of shipping impact though (that's what I did... I ended up order pretty much all their cables except the strereo one, as the HPX-1 does double duty).

So after about 3 months of research and saving up...i've narrowed my choices down to these Three phones:

BeyerDynamic DT880 32ohm
Audio Technica AD700
Audio Technica AD500

Gaming Wants :

1.Excellent Positioning
2.Immersive Soundstage for RPGs
3.Good For Music (alternative, electronic, hip hop)
4.Detailed
5.Bass needed for Realistic Sounding Explosions or effects like thunder and Quakes?

If you want bass then I think you should avoid the AD700, tho they have great soundstage.. I had the DT880 32ohm for a spell and they have great all around sound that is very good in all the attributes you mentioned. I'm sure you listed these for a reason, but I'd urge you to consider the K702s. In my opinion its the best overall sounding gaming headphone, with the bonus of some very good mic mod options given the detachable cable.

I tried just plugging the Green connector right into my receiver and no sound came out. I did not try it in any other stereo type device though.

You may need to have the amp on the HPA running as well. Dunno though. I'd get the HPX-1 and HPX-2 cable to lessen the cost of shipping impact though (that's what I did... I ended up order pretty much all their cables except the strereo one, as the HPX-1 does double duty).[/QUOTE]

oh shoot ha. You're right. I totally forgot about the amp. Powering it on and turning up the front channel I get sound.

Awesome, no real need for that cable now then!

You may need to have the amp on the HPA running as well. Dunno though. I'd get the HPX-1 and HPX-2 cable to lessen the cost of shipping impact though (that's what I did... I ended up order pretty much all their cables except the strereo one, as the HPX-1 does double duty).

oh shoot ha. You're right. I totally forgot about the amp. Powering it on and turning up the front channel I get sound.

Awesome, no real need for that cable now then![/QUOTE]

Good deal!:D

So after about 3 months of research and saving up...i've narrowed my choices down to these Three phones:

BeyerDynamic DT880 32ohm
Audio Technica AD700
Audio Technica AD500

Gaming Wants :

1.Excellent Positioning
2.Immersive Soundstage for RPGs
3.Good For Music (alternative, electronic, hip hop)
4.Detailed
5.Bass needed for Realistic Sounding Explosions or effects like thunder and Quakes?

I'd go with the DT880 32ohm. I absolutely loved them for practically all applications, but they sorta let me down in pinpointing rear rounds, compared to other headphones. But if you're playing RPGs (I love RPGs too, currently playing Star Ocean: Last Hope International on my ps3, loved it on the 360), they are nearly perfect. All in all, I like them a little bit better than my K701, if only because they have a little more bass. The K701 is clearer, and has a biiger soundstage, and absolutely awesome positioning. The K701 isn't as bassy as I would LOVE it to be, but with a slight bass boost, they can have all the bass I want.

I'd go with the DT880 32ohm. I absolutely loved them for practically all applications, but they sorta let me down in pinpointing rear rounds, compared to other headphones. But if you're playing RPGs (I love RPGs too, currently playing Star Ocean: Last Hope International on my ps3, loved it on the 360), they are nearly perfect. All in all, I like them a little bit better than my K701, if only because they have a little more bass. The K701 is clearer, and has a biiger soundstage, and absolutely awesome positioning. The K701 isn't as bassy as I would LOVE it to be, but with a slight bass boost, they can have all the bass I want.

I dunno if the K701 is the 'xact' same as the K702... but with a decent amp (read tube amp), it has plenty of impact. Surprisingly so. I believe the Bravo can pull good bass out of the K702 as well. I'm actually quite happy with the Bass the K702 have.

Well, it has a decent amount of bass, whereas the AD700s has none. I like a bit more bass than even the DT880 has, but for gaming purposes the DT880 had everything right except rear positioning. This was only a problem with shooters, though.

Other people who have bought the DT880 32ohm at head-fi told me that their rear positioning was perfect. YMMV, for sure.

IMHO, the DT880 was the most balanced headphone I have ever heard.

If I add the Fiio E7 on Bass Boost 3 to the Mixamp, the K701 isn't lacking anything, though it does sound like a different headphone.

is there anyway to improve the rear positioning on the DT880 32ohm?

does the k701/k702 have better positioning than the DT880 32ohm?

If I add the Fiio E7 on Bass Boost 3 to the Mixamp, the K701 isn't lacking anything, though it does sound like a different headphone.

I still don't think the E7 is getting the most out of the K701. I still think you'd be surprised if you heard the K701 on a good desktop amp (not that the LD I+ is considered good, but it's pretty decent all things considered). I've heard some very good things about the NuForce HDP as well, as in.... it drives the K70x as well as the Meier Corda Cantante.2 and even has been put up against the Burson HA-160 - I believe in Power wise, but they beat out the HDP sonic wise (but only by a little).

In the end though, as long as your happy with the sound, it's all that matters. I'm happy (currently) with what I'm getting out of the K702, uDac (soon to be uDac 2), and LD I+ (and misc. custom cables).

As for tomorrow.... I should be getting the A30s in. So, I'll be posting impressions of that soon enough.

About the DT880s, I wouldn't worry if you're not an aggressive fps gamer. Even then you might find them to be fine in that. I'm just very particular about rear sounds. The DT880 has great positioning otherwise. The K701 has the bigger stage, and easily pinpointable rear sounds, but I prefer the sound signature of the DT880 otherwise.

YMMV, and in this case, I hope that if you get the DT880s (they are awesome), you find them to be just as good as the others have on Head-fi.

I played CoD with the DT880s for a while, and did just fine with them. It's just that I'm so used to really great rear positioning, that I had second thoughts. It didn't help that I also had the DT770 Pro 80 at the same time, which are IMHO the very best in overall positioning out of all the headphones I heard, but they were overly boomy and too muddy at times. You need a REALLY good source and cold/bright amp for those.

Oh, I have no doubt in my mind that the E7 doesn't drive the K701 to their fullest. But I didn't get them for that purpose. Straight off the Mixamp was my intention, and at 100% game I don't think I could be happier for competitive gaming. If I want moar bass, that's what my CAL is for. :)

I don't see myself upgrading my 3 headphones for a long time, and the E7 as an dac/amp is all I need. Ignorance is bliss. :D

I don't see myself upgrading my 3 headphones for a long time, and the E7 as an dac/amp is all I need. Ignorance is bliss. :D

TRUE 'DAT! I almost wish the Tritton AX720 were comfortable enough for me... then I'd probably not have looked around for anything else. :rolleyes:

I'm anxious to hear about the A30s. They just look like they'll be surprisingly good, though I'm still wary about them being on ear.

Someone rich, take one for the team and order the Monster Beats PRO that is coming out soon for a whopping $400. They HAVE to be worth it!


HAHAHHHHA.

How are the Beyerdynamic DT990 32 ohms and DT250 compared to the dt880, ad700 and k70x series when it comes to positioning and soundstage?

The problem is that most people will always go for 250ohm and 600ohm versions of the Beyers, because they think 32 ohm versions can't possibly be as good. Judging by the graphs I have seen, the 32ohm Beyers are nearly identical to the 250ohm Beyers, with a slightly higher decibel level due to them being easier to drive.

I don't believe anyone here has tried DT990 32 ohms, but I hear the DT990s are very bassy, and have really recessed mids. For gaming, that would be a deal breaker for me, but I prefer recessed mids for music.

I personally think more bass than what the DT880 32 has isn't necessary for gaming, as it's well textured and punchy, and balanced with the rest of the frequencies. They to me have an 7 out of 10 in overall bass, while the K701/2 has a 5/10 in bass, and the AD700 has a 1/10 in bass.

I haven't heard about the DT250's performance with gaming.

As for 'my' preffered curve with music, if such a headphone existed that was 100% flat, and was capable of dealing with any EQ, in a 5 step equalizer with a max of 12 on each step, I'd have my curve as: 5,4,2,7,8 (the last two are mostly treble, and it'd be more or less depending on how smooth/sparkly it is.

Pretty much a check shaped curve. More of treblehead, followed by basshead.

I don't know about the 32 ohm vs 250 ohm, but they say that the 600 ohm sound different enough (in a good way) from the 250 ohm to almost be a different headphone.

When both are properly driven, the DT880/600 has more bass than the K702 IME. Especially in the impact dept, which is so hard to describe on the internet as it's not a matter of frequency response, bass quantity, boom, or any of that, it's more of a feel that accompanies nice tight bass and tickles your ear but you almost don't 'hear' it. Very hard to describe, but I haven't heard as much (what I'm calling) impact from the HD600 or K702. And I love that about the DT880/600. When timpani drums or even a kick drum gets struck with the DT880/600, it's eargasmic. The K702 has nice tight bass in it's own right, which I've come to enjoy, but in the grand scheme of things it's still a little light in bass quantity. Perhaps I need to try an even more powerful amp with them to really hear more bass, but if so, it will just prove even more that they are a bitch to drive.

As far as the DT880 vs K702 for gaming, I say if you play mostly online shooters, the K702 wins HANDS DOWN, as the DT880s kind of suck for online shooters. For most other stuff, ie single player games, the DT880 wins. Again this is for the DT880/600 and I don't know how exactly it compares to the 32 ohm version. Just as a side note, for use with the mixamp only, you should get the 32 ohm. The other (higher impedance) versions will require another amp to suit most people's volume preferences.

The other (higher impedance) versions will require another amp to suit most people's volume preferences.

I don't know about 600 ohm, but my HD650's which are 300 ohm are driven pretty satisfactory for me just by the mixamp.

Just as a side note, for use with the mixamp only, you should get the 32 ohm. The other (higher impedance) versions will require another amp to suit most people's volume preferences.

DT880/250 is fine with the mixamp, gets much louder than the K702, which would say is acceptable.

I don't know about the 32 ohm vs 250 ohm, but they say that the 600 ohm sound different enough (in a good way) from the 250 ohm to almost be a different headphone.

When both are properly driven, the DT880/600 has more bass than the K702 IME. Especially in the impact dept, which is so hard to describe on the internet as it's not a matter of frequency response, bass quantity, boom, or any of that, it's more of a feel that accompanies nice tight bass and tickles your ear but you almost don't 'hear' it. Very hard to describe, but I haven't heard as much (what I'm calling) impact from the HD600 or K702. And I love that about the DT880/600. When timpani drums or even a kick drum gets struck with the DT880/600, it's eargasmic. The K702 has nice tight bass in it's own right, which I've come to enjoy, but in the grand scheme of things it's still a little light in bass quantity. Perhaps I need to try an even more powerful amp with them to really hear more bass, but if so, it will just prove even more that they are a bitch to drive.

As far as the DT880 vs K702 for gaming, I say if you play mostly online shooters, the K702 wins HANDS DOWN, as the DT880s kind of suck for online shooters. For most other stuff, ie single player games, the DT880 wins. Again this is for the DT880/600 and I don't know how exactly it compares to the 32 ohm version. Just as a side note, for use with the mixamp only, you should get the 32 ohm. The other (higher impedance) versions will require another amp to suit most people's volume preferences.

That's how 'good' bass is supposed to be represented, even in a standard home theater setup. Properly configured, you shouldn't be able to tell where the bass is coming from because you should just "feel" it. It is very hard to describe if you haven't experienced it, I agree.

I don't know about 600 ohm, but my HD650's which are 300 ohm are driven pretty satisfactory for me just by the mixamp.The HD600 are pretty good on the mixamp for me as well... not quite as loud as I'd like when I mix in chat normally, but I'm sure some people would be fine with it. The DT880/600 are too quiet for me on the mixamp in any event.

DT880/250 is fine with the mixamp, gets much louder than the K702, which would say is acceptable.I haven't heard the DT880/250, I've just read mixed reports on using them with the mixamp. Just like the K702, some people say it's perfectly fine and they can't understand the problem, and other people say it's not loud enough. Personal preference as well as chat settings I suppose.

In any event, impedance is NOT the only factor when determining whether or not it will be loud enough. The K701/702 are the perfect example. Relatively low impedance, but very hard to drive. The HD600/650 are almost 5 times the impedance, but are driven louder by the mixamp, for example. And the DT880/250 are 4 times the impedance and are louder off the mixamp than the 701/702s (apparently). So you can't go entirely off the impedance.

That's how 'good' bass is supposed to be represented, even in a standard home theater setup. Properly configured, you shouldn't be able to tell where the bass is coming from because you should just "feel" it. It is very hard to describe if you haven't experienced it, I agree.

If you've been to a movie you've experienced it.

Even the most crappy theaters have very decent sound systems, especially in the bass department.. and are very capable of making you feel it right in your chest.

Bass is always better when the neighbors can feel it.:D

Speaking of which.. when Ebaying my mixamp, I also ebay'ed my 600watt Sony 5.1 system with powered sub. Couldnt turn the damn thing up past 3 or 4 on the volume dial without the neighbors banging on the wall.

In addition to headphones, Might give one of those soundbars a try.

Sideways did you use any 10% discount codes to order from Astro?

Sideways did you use any 10% discount codes to order from Astro?

No, didn't know about them... and the headphones should be here soon (on truck for delivery). As for the Speaker tags, they offered to re-print them, if I send mine back.... so, I'd have to pay shipping again it seems. No thanks, I'll just sand them down and do up a custom graphic myself and print it on my inkjet (using photo paper) and apply it myself... who needs these damn over-priced speaker tag printers!?:mad:

http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/66dc0d92.jpg

Hmmm... looks like Snake Eyes has boobies...

http://cdn2.knowyourmeme.com/system/profile/icon/8971/small/rage.png?1261853547

When I ordered my A40's I had a code that worked, no longer works of course. But I do know CEA members or something like that get a 10% code.

For the speaker tags you could always just order custom cut vinyl stickers. Its what I use on the painted plastic of my racebook and looks awesome. And since its not permanent, I can peel it off when I want to change it around.

I basically sent them a picture and told them to make duplicate stickers from the picture.. came out pretty decent.

http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/75b182dd.jpg
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/1f608d60.jpg
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/4bf601a3.jpg
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/42c25743.jpg
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/f2509715.jpg
They could've done a better job with this....
http://i699.photobucket.com/albums/vv356/sid3w8z/Misc/cb777071.jpg

... now off to do some Audio listening tests and pit them against my Sennheiser PX200-II and Sennheiser HD428 headphones. I'm hoping they fall somewhere in-between them. As for being on ear, I quickly tried them on... and it's softer and feels lighter (less clamp) than a Grado headphone. ....and I can wear those for a few hours without too much issue. Will have to see though.

... now off to do some Audio listening tests and pit them against my Sennheiser PX200-II and Sennheiser HD428 headphones. I'm hoping they fall somewhere in-between them. As for being on ear, I quickly tried them on... and it's softer and feels lighter (less clamp) than a Grado headphone. ....and I can wear those for a few hours without too much issue. Will have to see though.
Looking foward to your review.:D
I'm going to order a pair later this week. Also going to pick up a pair of Shure SRH840 Studio Headphones, for my studio, I'll also try them for gaming.

... now off to do some Audio listening tests and pit them against my Sennheiser PX200-II and Sennheiser HD428 headphones. I'm hoping they fall somewhere in-between them. As for being on ear, I quickly tried them on... and it's softer and feels lighter (less clamp) than a Grado headphone. ....and I can wear those for a few hours without too much issue. Will have to see though.

Dude, you need a better camera. :D

Let's hope the 'phones are better quality than the tags, eh?

If you've been to a movie you've experienced it.

Even the most crappy theaters have very decent sound systems, especially in the bass department.. and are very capable of making you feel it right in your chest.

True. Unless you live where I do and you can actually hear the speaker brackets rattle when the bass hits. :rolleyes:

It's different at home though because it's all about having the proper size sub and the right calibration to fill the space that you've got. Thus, you can actually get more perceived bass than you do at a theater...if that makes sense. :confused: I actually get more bass "feeling" from my home theater setup than I do at the theater, but I've probably got mine cranked a little past where it "should" be. It's a fine line between really feeling it and just being loud.

Dude, you need a better camera. :D

Let's hope the 'phones are better quality than the tags, eh?

Yea, using the camera on the HTC Hero again. I really need to remember to charge my real camera.

Anyhoo... so far, from those 3 headphones, this is how they rank (with just some light tests)....

Comfort:
1. A30
2. PX200-II
3. HD428

Highs:
1. PX200-II
2. A30
3. HD428

Mids:
1. PX200-II
2. A30
3. HD428

Mid-Bass:
1. A30
2. HD428
3. PX200-II

Low Bass/Subwoofer Style Bass:
1. HD428
2. A30
3. PX200-II

Bass Quality (Clean/Controlled Bass):
1. PX200-II
2. A30
3. HD428

Well, I first tried out some David Guetta, and it was too much for both the A30 and PX200-II... but good for the HD428. I then moved onto some Al Jerreau... and the A30 played it pretty decent, not as clean as the PX200-II. The A30 seems to have a veil over it. The whole spectrum seems recessed, but you only notice it when your comparing it to another headphone head to head. I actually enjoyed the sound of the A30, but it loses to the PX200-II in pretty much all categories except bass (where the A30 seems to have it set on exaggerate).

It did play Diana Krall, Diana Shuur, ColdPlay, Creed, and others fairly nice, but like I said, against other headphones... you can hear the recessed sound. I don't know if I'd be taking them out and about with me and my iPod, but it would work fine. I still prefer the sound of the PX200-II to it though. In the end, I think it sounds pretty decent.

So, if I were to rate the A30 headphone as a music headphone... and on it's own merits... ... I'd say it's a good 6.5 to 7 out of 10 for it's price bracket of $100. Keep in mind too, this is straight out of the box with almost no play time either (if it even matters for this headphone).


....now for some gaming...

Yea, using the camera on the HTC Hero again. I really need to remember to charge my real camera.

Anyhoo... so far, from those 3 headphones, this is how they rank (with just some light tests)....

Comfort:
1. A30
2. PX200-II
3. HD428

Highs:
1. PX200-II
2. A30
3. HD428

Mids:
1. PX200-II
2. A30
3. HD428

Mid-Bass:
1. A30
2. HD428
3. PX200-II

Low Bass/Subwoofer Style Bass:
1. HD428
2. A30
3. PX200-II

Bass Quality (Clean/Controlled Bass):
1. PX200-II
2. A30
3. HD428

Well, I first tried out some David Guetta, and it was too much for both the A30 and PX200-II... but good for the HD428. I then moved onto some Al Jerreau... and the A30 played it pretty decent, not as clean as the PX200-II. The A30 seems to have a veil over it. The whole spectrum seems recessed, but you only notice it when your comparing it to another headphone head to head. I actually enjoyed the sound of the A30, but it loses to the PX200-II in pretty much all categories except bass (where the A30 seems to have it set on exaggerate).

It did play Diana Krall, Diana Shuur, ColdPlay, Creed, and others fairly nice, but like I said, against other headphones... you can hear the recessed sound. I don't know if I'd be taking them out and about with me and my iPod, but it would work fine. I still prefer the sound of the PX200-II to it though. In the end, I think it sounds pretty decent.

So, if I were to rate the A30 headphone as a music headphone... and on it's own merits... ... I'd say it's a good 6.5 to 7 out of 10 for it's price bracket of $100. Keep in mind too, this is straight out of the box with almost no play time either (if it even matters for this headphone).


....now for some gaming...What were you hoping to get out of them? Strictly gaming, or music too?

What were you hoping to get out of them? Strictly gaming, or music too?

Gaming, but they were supposed to be good for music too... so I might as well try that out too...

Is there a Headphone that combines the best qualities of the K70x and the DT880's?

If not would there be a way to increase the rear positioning audio on the dt880's?

Would it be worth it to hook a creek oh-11 headphone to the mixamp...would that improve sound substantially?

Is there a Headphone that combines the best qualities of the K70x and the DT880's?

If not would there be a way to increase the rear positioning audio on the dt880's?

Would it be worth it to hook a creek oh-11 headphone to the mixamp...would that improve sound substantially?1)If there was, we would all be using it ;)

2)I personally don't know of any.

3)I don't know much about that amp, but assuming it's a good amp, coming from just the mixamp, you're looking at mostly just more volume as the mixamp isn't that great of a source to begin with. Depending on how under-powered the headphones you want to try are from just the mixamp, you may get some other slight improvements, but nothing I would call substantial (besides the volume increase if the amp has substantial power).

Is there a Headphone that combines the best qualities of the K70x and the DT880's?


yea, it's called the k70x. :)

Quick Gaming test 1:

They seem to work pretty well. Soundstage seems to be pretty good. The bass is good, and it didn't cover up footsteps as much as I thought it would, but I still haven't really had too much time with them anyway. I don't know about the Mic.. as I didn't really talk with anyone and I only played MW2 so far.

Will need a bit longer before I can truly say how I feel about them.

Quick Gaming test 1:

They seem to work pretty well. Soundstage seems to be pretty good. The bass is good, and it didn't cover up footsteps as much as I thought it would, but I still haven't really had too much time with them anyway. I don't know about the Mic.. as I didn't really talk with anyone and I only played MW2 so far.

Will need a bit longer before I can truly say how I feel about them.You don't seem too thrilled overall though? :(

You don't seem too thrilled overall though? :(

No, on the contrary... I was pleasantly surprised. I just don't want to gush over them when I really haven't had an opportunity to run them through their paces. It was late and I was tired... so I just tried 2 quick matches and they worked as expected. I'll try them out more in the coming days. So far though, I'd not have any problem making these my only gaming headphones.

I'm going to try them a bit longer and then put them up against the K702 to see how they fare against each other (which is probably unfair... but who cares).

http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/17/sonys-ultimate-weapon-gaming-headsets-are-as-macho-as-the-name/

they look sweet!!

http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/17/sonys-ultimate-weapon-gaming-headsets-are-as-macho-as-the-name/

they look sweet!!

Interesting! maybe it turns you into a Cyborg.:D

I've had my A40 set for about six weeks and continue to be impressed by them. Bioshock 2 was *amazing* with the headset. I seriously enjoyed it more than Bioshock 1 with my old 5.1 setup years ago.

Plus it's worth it to not make tons of noise in the house with explosions and stuff. Every game is made better with it. One of the best gaming purchases I have ever made, easily.

I've had my A40 set for about six weeks and continue to be impressed by them. Bioshock 2 was *amazing* with the headset. I seriously enjoyed it more than Bioshock 1 with my old 5.1 setup years ago.

Plus it's worth it to not make tons of noise in the house with explosions and stuff. Every game is made better with it. One of the best gaming purchases I have ever made, easily.

How big is the soundstage if I can ask? How about clarity and overall bass? Trying to decide between these and the a30. Thanks!

No, on the contrary... I was pleasantly surprised. I just don't want to gush over them when I really haven't had an opportunity to run them through their paces. It was late and I was tired... so I just tried 2 quick matches and they worked as expected. I'll try them out more in the coming days. So far though, I'd not have any problem making these my only gaming headphones.

I'm going to try them a bit longer and then put them up against the K702 to see how they fare against each other (which is probably unfair... but who cares).

Status: In Transit - On Time Scheduled
Delivery Date: 08/23/2010
Shipped To: ALEXANDRIA, VA, US
Shipped/Billed On: 08/16/2010
Reference Number(s): ASTRO GAMING 29446-0, 271-29446-0
Type: Package
Service: GROUND
Weight: 5.90 Lbs

I am not qualified to answer your questions. "It sounds good to me", keep in mind I went from the TV's speakers to this. That said I do think 95% of people would be as happy with the A40s as I am - HOWEVER, many of the remaining 5% are posting in this thread. :)

I've had my A40 set for about six weeks and continue to be impressed by them. Bioshock 2 was *amazing* with the headset. I seriously enjoyed it more than Bioshock 1 with my old 5.1 setup years ago.

Plus it's worth it to not make tons of noise in the house with explosions and stuff. Every game is made better with it. One of the best gaming purchases I have ever made, easily.

If I had to list my *best* gaming purchases this entire generation.

Best gaming console - 360
Best HTPC - PS3
Best game - COD4 or MW2
Best accessory - A40/mixamp combo

The A40 combo just works. Cant wait to see how the A40's sound with the new mixamp. And also directly compare the A30's vs A40's.

How big is the soundstage if I can ask? How about clarity and overall bass? Trying to decide between these and the a30. Thanks!

If you can wait till Monday.. I'll tell you.

Cant wait to see how the A40's sound with the new mixamp.

I thought the new MixAmp changes were just cosmetic, is it supposed to be improved in other areas as well?

OK, I just bought the new logitech wireless headset g930 and now I'm wondering if I made a mistake after reading the last 10 or 12 pages.

Anyhow, I bought that for the PC in my office and it should arrive tomorrow so I'll check that out when it comes in.

However, I was also looking at a setup for my home theater room since I sometimes can't have it loud in there and a headphone setup might be nice. Anyhow, I have a PS3 (HDMI), Xbox 360 (Optical), Wii (RCA jacks), and a HTPC (HDMI) hooked up there into a Marantz 8002 receiver that I believe has dolby headphone. I don't really care (at first, maybe later) about voice chat in the home theater room.

I have a pair of Etymotic ER-4P canalphones that I love and I'm wondering if they will work for surround just plugged into my receiver. My receiver is in a closet, so I'd guess I'd need about a 30 ft. headphone extender. Is there anything else I need? I guess I'm asking because I've read so much about the MixAmp. But, if my receiver does Dolby Headphone do I need to worry about one?

Surround sound processing works on ANY headphone plugged in, including yours. Though, YMMV on how well your headphones work with the processing. In almost all cases, the processing helps every headphone I have used, including cheap Koss IEMs.

I thought the new MixAmp changes were just cosmetic, is it supposed to be improved in other areas as well?

I think the only change is the 'new' Mixamp can use the USB cable for audio communication, in addition to using it for power. Which means it now acts as the voicechat transport on both the PS3 and PC. The 'old' mixamp used the USB cable for power only.

PlayStation 3 users will enjoy the benfits of the MixAmpTM for surround gaming out of the box with the included RCA-to-RCA cable, or add an optional TOSlink optical cable for a fully digital experience. For online multiplayer use, the MixAmp’s USB port is fully compatible with the PS3’s voice communication capabilities when connected with the included USB cable. The MixAmpTM draws power from the Playstation’s USB port, saving you from powering it with batteries. The MixAmp combines voice and game audio and enables you to fully balance between the two using the BALANCE control.

For PC gamers, the MixAmpTM enables your computer to offload surround sound decoding and voice communication duties, and will combine multiple audio streams thanks to its built-in USB audio input. By setting your VoIP program to use the MixAmp as the USB input/output device, full hardware mixing is enabled between voice communication, game sound, and music. Never <Alt - Tab> yourself to an untimely death again, trying to manage a software- based music player - just connect your mp3 player to the MixAmpTM and keep your gaming rig focused on the task at hand.

Im also thinking that you can run the mixamp off battery and connect the USB cable to a PC and listen to Dolby Surround when playing movies. No optical cable is needed. Works perfect when used with a laptop.

Why is this important?

Think about those long coast to coast flights. I usually watch atleast 2 movies when flying to the West Coast and back. I've been listening to those movies in standard stereo sound.. now I can do it in surround sound. Very cool.

Im also thinking that you can run the mixamp off battery and connect the USB cable to a PC and listen to Dolby Surround when playing movies. No optical cable is needed. Works perfect when used with a laptop.

Why is this important?

Think about those long coast to coast flights. I usually watch atleast 2 movies when flying to the West Coast and back. I've been listening to those movies in standard stereo sound.. now I can do it in surround sound. Very cool.

Once you plug in a USB cord.... the batteries in the MixAmp become useless. Though, I've heard there can be a clipping sound if the batteries aren't there. I dunno as when I ran across that tidbit of info... I've had dead Alkalines in there for a bit. Just checking every now and then to make sure they don't leak.

So it would use the power off the laptop battery then (if travelling portable). Thats sorta not cool, but I guess surround sound gaming & movies arent free (meant both literally & figuratively).

So it would use the power off the laptop battery then (if travelling portable). Thats sorta not cool, but I guess surround sound gaming & movies arent free (meant both literally & figuratively).

That'd be true. So, you'll need to do optical if you want to power the unit with batteries.

So it would use the power off the laptop battery then (if travelling portable). Thats sorta not cool, but I guess surround sound gaming & movies arent free (meant both literally & figuratively).I don't think I'm following... why is this sorta not cool? If you are going to have a USB connected to your laptop anyway, why worry about the fact that it's using USB power instead of its own batteries? Seems that it would be "sorta cool" instead since it's once less thing to worry about - just plug it in and go, no worry about the battery level.

That'd be true. So, you'll need to do optical if you want to power the unit with batteries.

Great point, but no optical out on Macbook Pros. Atleast not the model I bought. :(

I don't think I'm following... why is this sorta not cool? If you are going to have a USB connected to your laptop anyway, why worry about the fact that it's using USB power instead of its own batteries? Seems that it would be "sorta cool" instead since it's once less thing to worry about - just plug it in and go, no worry about the battery level.

Because I want my laptop battery to last as long as absolutely possible. Funny you bring this up, because just last night I watched the movie "Grown Up's" on my laptop, off just battery power, at a friends house. Movie lasted 1:45mins.. battery drained down to 65%. That means I could theorectically watch (2) different 2 hour movies before my battery completely dies. 4hours of movies doesnt even to get to West coast on a straight flight.

Now why would I want to pull more juice from that already precious battery time.. when my mixamp could use its own 10 hour rated battery. A feature I paid an extra $20 for.. :)

See my point

Hows the fit on the A30s?

Great point, but no optical out on Macbook Pros. Atleast not the model I bought. :(



since when? All the ones I've ever seen in the last 5 years have had optical out of the line out (you need a small adapter).

since when? All the ones I've ever seen in the last 5 years have had optical out of the line out (you need a small adapter).

If so thats news to me. I researched up and down about the MBP's and never saw anything ever listed about optical out on them. Of course if an adapter is needed then that is why it may not have been mentioned (same deal HDMI audio from mini display port ring a bell).

I purchased the newest model 13" MBP and will admit that I found out a new feature when installing Win7 onto my MBP. And thats if there is a problem with the sound card (or sound card drivers).. then theres a little red light that glows inside the headphone out to indicate a problem.. I guess what you are saying is that little red light can be converted to optical out using some sort of adapter. Pretty cool if so, PM me some info on it if you can.


*edit*

Nevermind.

http://digitalprosound.digitalmedianet.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=56671

Bscott you fockin rock!! Thanks dude :)

:)

Hows the fit on the A30s?

Monday.. Monday.. Monday!!

(unless Sidewayz reads this first lol)

Monday.. Monday.. Monday!!

(unless Sidewayz reads this first lol)

LOL I actually directed the comment towards SWZ but I will also await your opinion as well!!!

I may have to get me a pair!

I would have paid for quicker shipping if their prices werent so damn ridiculous. 3day UPS was $33.. 2day UPS was $48 and overnight was $60. On headphones. Really??
Even ground shipping that takes a full 7 days to get to the East Coast was $12.55

I love Astro's products but they really need to move to a better shipper. FedEx (even if priced the same as UPS) delivers & pickups on Saturday and would really shorten their coast-to-coast shipping times. And the USPS could easily do 2-3 day Priority mail on their 'large box' for these headphones for $12 bucks anywhere nationwide.

Paying upwards of $60 to ship a 4lb box is just stupid.

agreed.

On the off topic, I just got a pair of Grado SR-80i's in the mail. First time hearing Grados. I need to get to a tucked away spot at the office to really open them up, since they're open air and will bother my co-workers ;) But the clarity is really good so far at low levels.

Yeah that's reasonable Daekwan. I initially thought the amount of power would be negligable, but after running some quick numbers, the USB port can hurt more than I thought.

To get an idea of what the mixamp draws for power, astro's website says their rechargeable pack is 2300mAh and lasts 12 hours. This means they figure the mixamp draws ~192mA. If we figure 90% efficiency, this means it's using 1.067W from your battery. Your MBP battery is 10.8V, so that means it's drawing ~99mA from the battery. A two hour movie will consume 198mAh, and your battery capacity is 5600mAh, which means that for a 2 hour movie, the mixamp will consume about 3.5% of your laptop battery.

What surprised me is that if you do things like charge your ipod/iphone, or do other high powered USB tasks, it can consume almost 5% of your batter per hour.

agreed.

On the off topic, I just got a pair of Grado SR-80i's in the mail. First time hearing Grados. I need to get to a tucked away spot at the office to really open them up, since they're open air and will bother my co-workers ;) But the clarity is really good so far at low levels.

Great headphones for the price. You should check out the modding thread on Head-Fi for Grado headphones. Had pictures of my tear down and rebuild there.

LOL I actually directed the comment towards SWZ but I will also await your opinion as well!!!

I may have to get me a pair!

Pretty good. They're light. Cushion is soft, but your ears do become sore after an hour or more. I just adjust them a little and continue on. Typical of most supra-aural headphones. Though, with more use... I'm starting to like them more (and they sound good).

The one issue that I kind of noticed though, is with music... the bass is a little weird. Only noticeable on
music with deep artificial bass, you notice a drop out. With games and my typical music... not noticed. It must b something to do with them trying to be good for music and games.

Great headphones for the price. You should check out the modding thread on Head-Fi for Grado headphones. Had pictures of my tear down and rebuild there.

yeah I couldn't pass up $99 to have a set of Grado's to check out. And they'll hold their value.

I've been checking out the head-fi boards every day for the past month, been buying way too much ;) "sorry about your wallet" is right!