I have tried many of the solutions including the Turtle Bay stuff and the JVC surround processor. My personal conclusion is just to use Stereo out with a set of good headphones and take the 360 headset and put it around my neck with the mic pointed up near my mouth. Then you just set the voice to over the speakers. This seems to do the best with directionality and location while maintaining very good sound quality. I wish I saved all the money spent on some of this stuff considering I already owned everything I am using now before I started this voyage.
Interesting...

I have the Pioneer 800C receiver that does DD, DTS and DH. For games and movies, when i switch from DD-DH to digital stereo there is a SIGNIFICANT loss in sound quality and sound positioning. The sound stage is decreased by 10 fold, and i have no idea of depth perception or sound coming from behind. I wonder if the JVC receiver is the problem, here?

I used to also put the 360 headset mic around my neck and point the mic towards my mouth... and while this works, it is a pain in the butt. I have since switched over to a zalman clip on mic that attaches to headphones cord. This works MUCH better.

I also have no problem hearing people, or visa versa. The only time it does get difficult is when there is a lot of action going on in game... but most games have different game volume controls that can be turned down, example: CoD4, of which makes it much better.

That is precisely what I did and it works great for me. With the advice from someone in this thread, I bought the Sennheiser HD201 for $19.99.
Another smart, satisfied customer. You cannot beat that bang for the buck.;)

Interesting...

I have the Pioneer 800C receiver that does DD, DTS and DH. For games and movies, when i switch from DD-DH to digital stereo there is a SIGNIFICANT lose in sound quality and sound positioning. The sound stage is decreased by 10 fold, and i have no idea of depth perception or sound coming from behind. I wonder if the JVC receiver is the problem, here?

I used to also put the 360 headset mic around my neck and point the mic towards my mouth... and while this works, it is a pain in the butt. I have since switched over to a zalman clip on mic that attaches to headphones cord. This works MUCH better.

I also have no problem hearing people, or visa versa. The only time it does get difficult is when there is a lot of action going on in game... but most games have different game volume controls that can be turned down, example: CoD4, of which makes it much better.

I am guessing it's the JVC surround processor also... I still like using it for movies so all is not lost but in gaming I have a real tough time with direction. Depth I would agree is 10 fold but when gaming especially online in COD4 it definitely makes it hard to locate enemies IMO... I also lose the power of the receiver when using the JVC processor (It's bypassed completely) which hurts it's overall sound. I have to look into the clip on mic for convenience sake, I feel like I am connected to the Matrix when i have all of it on. LOL.

Alright, I've read through 753 posts, let me summarize what I think I learned related to gaming headphones...at least as it pertains to my situation.

1. 5.1 all in one sets - decent for gaming only, but the sound quality is not nearly what you could get from other dedicated hifi cans.

2. Many of you are very high on the 555s or 595s, or more recently the AD700s as well. These are good options to use that seem to provide very good spacial differentiation when gaming online MP FPS type games.

3. A clip on mic or cellphone handsfree set can be connected to the 360 controller to take care of MP communication. Although, there seems to be some differing opinions as to how well these options allow you to hear others talking in game. Was this mostly H3 related?

4. Dolby headphone technology seems to add even better 5.1 type capability, increasing the ability to detect sounds spacially in online gaming. This feature is available either through an AV receiver (although it doesn't seem that there are very many receivers with this feature, reasonably priced at least) or through one of those mixers, like that JVC device, or the Astro A40 mixer...

-------------------------------

Alright, on to my situation and questions:

I game down in my basement. I want a good headset to use for late night when I want good volume but don't want to piss off the wife. This would be for online MP gaming COD4 etc... but also games like GH2. I want the ability to have voice communication as well. I don't really use it now, but may in the future.

Right now I'm running my 360 through my CRT tv (only RCA inputs/outputs) and then running the audio from the tv to an old kenwood receiver, it's not really even an AVR. Doesn't have optical outs or anything of that nature.

I think what I want to do is get a set of 555's or maybe the AD700s to use for this purpose. I read that FPS review, has anyone else tried both the 555s and the 700s? Is one better than the other? I'm not a big audiophile, so I'm guessing one of those will be more than enough, as opposed to shelling out another 60 or 70 bucks for 595s...

How am I going to best connect these to get my sound. I guess they just need to go to the reciever phono output, but will that mute the sound from my tv speakers? Do I need to change where the audio out from the 360 is going? I don't think the cords are long enough to run video to the tv and audio directly to the receiver are they? What I'm trying to say is that if I plugged the cans into the receiver, it'd run that volume into my headphones, but the tv speakers would still be outputting and I don't want that.

Getting something like that A40 mixer could be a possibility I guess. Then I'd get the audio optically from the 360 right? Just not sure I want the additional cords running all over, not to mention the extra $130 bones. Would the dolby headphone tech be worth the $$ ?



Hope I summarized this correctly, looking forward to some help..... Please!

I spent a good bit of money to upgrade from Trittons. I bought a new AVR (with Dolby Headphone) and 555's. And even though this is a lot more money than the JVC+Heaphones, I have NO REGRETS!! The only MINOR problem I have is it is sometimes hard to hear voice chat on live. I think I may just need a better ear bud. I am considering the A40's but not sure they will be worth it just to improve voice chat.

On a side note: I have been using my 555's more and more the last few weeks, gaming during the middle of the day with them even and LOVING them. I am more into COD4 with these on I think. My 5.1 system is good, but I REALLY hear things better with the cans on.

Coyote5- my personal opinion is to get something with Dolby Headphone and toss a coin for the headphones. I love the 555's, but wish the bass was a little better. On the other hand, the spacial aspect these things give you is nothing short of amazing! I was even wearing to watch the Bucs and Giants game the other day, sounded good there too. If it will not cost you TOO much more, I would try the A40's. They look like a really nice all in one package. I think the masses will agree with me on this one

I haven't seen anyone mention the use of the wireless headset so far, so I'll post my impressions. I actually didn't even consider this as an option, but I received my new set of 595's and decided to give it a shot. The 595's fit over the headset easily and with no discomfort. I had a couple hour gaming session and many times forgot that I was even wearing headphones. The setup worked great, the wireless headset doesn't actually enter the ear at all, it kinda just sits close to the ear so the sound from the headphones comes through pretty well. I had no trouble hearing voices and locating danger was easy. The people I was playing with said they had no problems hearing me either, of course the mic actually sticks out of the phones so it isn't hindered by anything. Anyway, just wanted to let you know that this is also a working option and a fairly cheap one.

BTW, are those of you having trouble hearing chat setting the xbox AND in game settings to voice over speakers instead of headset? For me, the voices actually are playing through the headphones, not the earbud of the headset. Actually, the only part of the headset in use is the mic. I mean, I can actually take the xbox headset off, and still hear voices through the headphones then just put the mic near my mouth to talk. So for me, the earbud isn't even in use.

Let's see if I can help a little.

How am I going to best connect these to get my sound. I guess they just need to go to the reciever phono output, but will that mute the sound from my tv speakers? Do I need to change where the audio out from the 360 is going?
At the present, do you have sound output from both the TV and the speakers connected to the receiver (if any, I noticed you didn't mention them)? Maybe you have some earbuds around to give it a try.

I don't think the cords are long enough to run video to the tv and audio directly to the receiver are they? What I'm trying to say is that if I plugged the cans into the receiver, it'd run that volume into my headphones, but the tv speakers would still be outputting and I don't want that.
The cable that comes with the 360 isn't too long, so I doubt it. You can get an RCA to stereo headphone adapter for cheap, or if you want to use the receiver, won't muting the TV speakers work?

Getting something like that A40 mixer could be a possibility I guess. Then I'd get the audio optically from the 360 right? Just not sure I want the additional cords running all over, not to mention the extra $130 bones. Would the dolby headphone tech be worth the $$ ?
If you get the mixer or the JVC, you can connect them with an optical cable to the 360. If I'm not mistaken, the first has a regular TOSLINK cable input, the second one has a mini TOSLINK input. These can be had for very cheap online, so it shouldn't be a factor when deciding which one to buy (the only difference will be the TOSLINK to mini adapter). About the quality of DH, I've read of many people that find it amazing, even Foe-hammer over here.

Personally, I'm about to go with the AD700's + JVC. Even though I don't have any other headphones to compare them, I'll write back with my opinion regarding the use of DH.

BTW, found this forum review while searching Google: AD700 Review (http://www.headphones.com.au/forums/viewtopic.php?t=10). There's a mention of both the Sennheiser HD-555 and HD-595 on it.

I saw the 700's in a store today. NYC now has a audiocube store. Was going to pick up the jvc box but they don't carry it in store so i guess i'll have to get the battery powered one from JnR tomorrow. But back to the 700's omg they are freaking huge. I was not expecting them to be that size. But all the reviews say they are comfortable. Right now i only have some sens 515's but i might jump the 700 bandwagon.

Alright, I've read through 753 posts, let me summarize what I think I learned related to gaming headphones...at least as it pertains to my situation.

1. 5.1 all in one sets - decent for gaming only, but the sound quality is not nearly what you could get from other dedicated hifi cans.

2. Many of you are very high on the 555s or 595s, or more recently the AD700s as well. These are good options to use that seem to provide very good spacial differentiation when gaming online MP FPS type games.

3. A clip on mic or cellphone handsfree set can be connected to the 360 controller to take care of MP communication. Although, there seems to be some differing opinions as to how well these options allow you to hear others talking in game. Was this mostly H3 related?

4. Dolby headphone technology seems to add even better 5.1 type capability, increasing the ability to detect sounds spacially in online gaming. This feature is available either through an AV receiver (although it doesn't seem that there are very many receivers with this feature, reasonably priced at least) or through one of those mixers, like that JVC device, or the Astro A40 mixer...

-------------------------------

Alright, on to my situation and questions:

I game down in my basement. I want a good headset to use for late night when I want good volume but don't want to piss off the wife. This would be for online MP gaming COD4 etc... but also games like GH2. I want the ability to have voice communication as well. I don't really use it now, but may in the future.

Right now I'm running my 360 through my CRT tv (only RCA inputs/outputs) and then running the audio from the tv to an old kenwood receiver, it's not really even an AVR. Doesn't have optical outs or anything of that nature.

I think what I want to do is get a set of 555's or maybe the AD700s to use for this purpose. I read that FPS review, has anyone else tried both the 555s and the 700s? Is one better than the other? I'm not a big audiophile, so I'm guessing one of those will be more than enough, as opposed to shelling out another 60 or 70 bucks for 595s...

How am I going to best connect these to get my sound. I guess they just need to go to the reciever phono output, but will that mute the sound from my tv speakers? Do I need to change where the audio out from the 360 is going? I don't think the cords are long enough to run video to the tv and audio directly to the receiver are they? What I'm trying to say is that if I plugged the cans into the receiver, it'd run that volume into my headphones, but the tv speakers would still be outputting and I don't want that.

Getting something like that A40 mixer could be a possibility I guess. Then I'd get the audio optically from the 360 right? Just not sure I want the additional cords running all over, not to mention the extra $130 bones. Would the dolby headphone tech be worth the $$ ?



Hope I summarized this correctly, looking forward to some help..... Please!
IMO, DH will really up your immersion & gaming experience, & will get the best audio that you can at the moment, since all 360 games are optimized for 5.1 DD. The 555's have surround reflectors which Sen claims make them great for movies, I'm sure it translates into gaming as well.. I'd get the 555/700 & a JVC 5.1 adapter 80.00 or so, or the Mixamp.. I highly recommend quality headphones & DH..

Thanks for all the responses!

joseraul regarding your question about the sound currently comes out of my setup: I have the RCAs running from the xbox to the tv and then from the tv outs to the receiver. When playing volume comes from both my tv and the stereo speakers. If I adjust the volume on the tv, the volume of the stereo speakers will also adjust. If I mute the tv, the stereo speakers volume is also muted. I don't have any headphones with the standard 3mm or whatever it is to plug into my receiver to test what would happen, but I'm guessing the volume from the stereo will go to the cans, but the tv volume won't mute.

Does anyone have any suggestions about to run my connections to cure this? Do I need to run the 360 audio RCAs directly to the receiver? Then I guess I'd need to buy some sort of extenders for those cables...

Of course if I get one of those mixers this issue goes away, but let's just *pretend* I won't give in to that temptation for now....

Does anyone have any suggestions about to run my connections to cure this? Do I need to run the 360 audio RCAs directly to the receiver? Then I guess I'd need to buy some sort of extenders for those cables...

Of course if I get one of those mixers this issue goes away, but let's just *pretend* I won't give in to that temptation for now....

Exactly what I was going to say... with the mixamp or JVC, you wouldn't have that problem, plus you'd get 5.1 DD.

You can get the RCA extension very cheap online. Not sure I can mention an online store, so PM me if you want/need a suggestion.

"The Sennheiser HD555? The AD700 makes the HD555 sound like a tired old man who's just run a 200m race"

yikes. and i know the 555's are good cans, so the AD700's must be pretty damn good.

"The Sennheiser HD595? I just did this for kicks and was very interested to note that the AD700 even outdoes the HD595."

"The Beyer DT440? Well, the DT440 isn't anywhere near as comfortable for a start Otherwise I'd say the DT440 is halfway between the HD595 and AD700 in overall sound signature, but I'll definitely reach for the AD700 before I reach for the DT440. I'll also be quicker to recommend the AD700 as the established AT design doesn't have any glaring flaws that are likely to cause me grief in the future. Overall the DT440 still has a sound that some people will like, but I think the price difference between it and the AD700 will make it hard to justify getting the 440."


"got the ATH-AD700's yesterday and am a pro-level source player, they're awesome for games, better than anything i've used. you won't be disappointed"

looks like i may pick up the 700's instead. i mean it's hard to base a decision off of one or two reviews, but they sound like a pretty sick pair of cans.

i wonder how the sound stages compare?

Now i'm wondering if i should have gotten the AD900s (the headband looks so damn comfy!), rather then the AKG k601s? Blah! I hate Head-Fi and AVS Forum. lol!

LOL know the feeling

Being that I recently had to sell my system I have now gone through this thread several times (phew!). I still have my XBox 360 which is now connected to my 20" Samsung 206BW computer monitor. That works well.

In terms of sound I am still debating. I didn't sell my RXV2500 and might not being that it doesn't have HDMI it's not really a hot item. It does however, have Silent Cinema...anyone tried this or familiar with it? Is it comparable to DH?

Right now I'm using silent cinema on the rxv2500 coupled with Sennheiser eh150 (I know these aren't stellar, just what I already had lying around). The sound quality is good, and I like that I can cycle through all the DSP effects that yamaha offers, however the imaging isn't too great. I'm looking at getting the A900 (I prefer closed ear)...do you think these cans and the receiver will provide better imaging/SS?

Stepping down from such a nice system to headphones I realize will be a big change, but I'm using these simply for gaming and most important to me is imaging/location for FPS'ers so I know where enemies/nades/etc are in relation to me.

The AX360s seem to have good reviews of imaging? But from what I read, since I already have the receiver I might be better off getting the A900s?

Sidenote- Anyone know if the calibration settings in the receiver (increasing Front levels, center level, etc) translate over to Yamaha's Silent Cinema? Thanks!

Being that I recently had to sell my system I have now gone through this thread several times (phew!). I still have my XBox 360 which is now connected to my 20" Samsung 206BW computer monitor. That works well.

In terms of sound I am still debating. I didn't sell my RXV2500 and might not being that it doesn't have HDMI it's not really a hot item. It does however, have Silent Cinema...anyone tried this or familiar with it? Is it comparable to DH?

Right now I'm using silent cinema on the rxv2500 coupled with Sennheiser eh150 (I know these aren't stellar, just what I already had lying around). The sound quality is good, and I like that I can cycle through all the DSP effects that yamaha offers, however the imaging isn't too great. I'm looking at getting the A900 (I prefer closed ear)...do you think these cans and the receiver will provide better imaging/SS?

Stepping down from such a nice system to headphones I realize will be a big change, but I'm using these simply for gaming and most important to me is imaging/location for FPS'ers so I know where enemies/nades/etc are in relation to me.

The AX360s seem to have good reviews of imaging? But from what I read, since I already have the receiver I might be better off getting the A900s?

Sidenote- Anyone know if the calibration settings in the receiver (increasing Front levels, center level, etc) translate over to Yamaha's Silent Cinema? Thanks!

The best stereo headphone I heard that gives a nice SS effect are the Beyers DT880.. It has a out of head presentation.. Audio seems to come from the walls instead of your ears.. It still is not 5.1.

The best stereo headphone I heard that gives a nice SS effect are the Beyers DT880.. It has a out of head presentation.. Audio seems to come from the walls instead of your ears.. It still is not 5.1.

only problem with them, aside from the cost (which isnt THAT much though) is fatigue, i've read they are fairly tiring and uncomfortable after a few hours... any take on this?

only problem with them, aside from the cost (which isnt THAT much though) is fatigue, i've read they are fairly tiring and uncomfortable after a few hours... any take on this?
Uncomfortable?? No way. It's like have pillows on my ears.. Fatigue & tiring?? Maybe if you are treble sensitive.. But its the smoothest sounding headphone I have heard. For music I find them boring & un invloving. These aren't musical cans.. I tend to analze the music instead of enjoying it.. Still sounds great though.. & my fav movie can..

I ended up with the DT770s...will write a little review later on after they've broken in.

I'm using them with Silent Cinema on my Yammy RXV2500

I ended up with the DT770s...will write a little review later on after they've broken in.

I'm using them with Silent Cinema on my Yammy RXV2500

The 2003s or 2005s?

ATH-AD700's ordered w/ overnight shipping from amazon, i'll let you guys know how they check out.

& a JVC 5.1 adapter 80.00 or so...

where did you find it at this price?

ATH-AD700's ordered w/ overnight shipping from amazon, i'll let you guys know how they check out.



where did you find it at this price?

refurbished from amazon.com..

refurbished from amazon.com..

hmm, not seeing any refurbs, just some new ones.

antonline has it for 93.79 shipped, or i can get it from amazon with 2 day shipping (prime) for 95.48

just found the JVC on buy.com, 81.99 shipped if you use a new google checkout account.

Wow... this thread still alive?!
Anyway, a few months later and I still swear by my earlier conclusions:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11801587#post11801587

I keep reading about people not being able to use the Zalman clip-on and XBL. However, for me it works absolutely perfect! Got me up to level 43 in H3 so far...

Wow... this thread still alive?!
Anyway, a few months later and I still swear by my earlier conclusions:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11801587#post11801587

I keep reading about people not being able to use the Zalman clip-on and XBL. However, for me it works absolutely perfect! Got me up to level 43 in H3 so far...

i didnt like the clip on, i HAVE to use an earbud to ensure i can always hear my teammates (though a lot of the time just a clip on would be ok)


also, i wish i could find a list of dolby headphone capable receivers, you could probably throw down 100 on a used one and get way more functionality out of it opposed to just spending 100 on the JVC SHUD1

i didnt like the clip on, i HAVE to use an earbud to ensure i can always hear my teammates (though a lot of the time just a clip on would be ok)


also, i wish i could find a list of dolby headphone capable receivers, you could probably throw down 100 on a used one and get way more functionality out of it opposed to just spending 100 on the JVC SHUD1

lowest I seen was 300 or 400.. A harman Kardan model.. DH is expensive to lic.. Thats why they won't be found on cheap receivers..

The 2003s or 2005s?

Not quit sure, how do I check this?

Not quit sure, how do I check this?

05's look like this..

http://www.headphone.com/productPhotos.php?icn=0020110770

i didnt like the clip on, i HAVE to use an earbud to ensure i can always hear my teammates (though a lot of the time just a clip on would be ok)
Are you using the zalman mic, or some other one? I ask, because the zalman works better then most. I have no problems at all with it. People can hear me perfectly.

Not quit sure, how do I check this?
What does the headband look like?

Does it say 'Pro' on it?

What is the ohms?

Did you spend less then $225 on a new pair?


Anyone, for the most part, will tell which version you have.

Are you using the zalman mic, or some other one? I ask, because the zalman works better then most. I have no problems at all with it. People can hear me perfectly.


What does the headband look like?

Does it say 'Pro' on it?

What is the ohms?

Did you spend less then $225 on a new pair?


Anyone, for the most part, will tell which version you have.

Theres a new 770 out.. Its 770 M.. All black. Looks really cool.. & easier to drive then the regular 770's at 80 ohms..

You shouldn't pay more then 150 for a pair of 03 770's..

Are you using the zalman mic, or some other one? I ask, because the zalman works better then most. I have no problems at all with it. People can hear me perfectly.


no, they hear me fine with just the clip on, the point is, without the earbud i cant hear THEM over the score, action, explosives, etc. because the "play voice through speakers" mode isnt loud enough.

this is why i ditched the plain clip on mic for a 2.5mm mono headset w/ earbud.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/3930/cimg5153fd6.jpg

i wish my AD700's were here already, i cant wait to try them out

Theres a new 770 out.. Its 770 M.. All black. Looks really cool.. & easier to drive then the regular 770's at 80 ohms..

You shouldn't pay more then 150 for a pair of 03 770's..
I am aware of the 770M's, but they are for drummers, and supposed to suck.


no, they hear me fine with just the clip on, the point is, without the earbud i cant hear THEM over the score, action, explosives, etc. because the "play voice through speakers" mode isnt loud enough.

this is why i ditched the plain clip on mic for a 2.5mm mono headset w/ earbud.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/3930/cimg5153fd6.jpg

i wish my AD700's were here already, i cant wait to try them out
True, when a lot of action is going on, i cannot hear teammates. I tried using one of those phone mic along with my headphones, but not only did it get uncomfortable for me after extended periods of play, it also hindered my pin point hearing of other players in the the ear for which it was in.

The zalman mic is extremely convenient, with the only drawback of not being able to hear others when there is a hell of a lot of action going on. But for the most part it doesn't bother me all that much.

The zalman mic is extremely convenient, with the only drawback of not being able to hear others when there is a hell of a lot of action going on. But for the most part it doesn't bother me all that much.

I concur. That's what works for me. Even in H3 coop mode I could hear the others quite well. I haven't played other multiplayer games (like COD4) so I dont know how it works for those.

I do like the simple 2.5 mono headset w/ earbud solution. Probably the mic works as well as the Zalman mic and the earbud could be used when really necessary. Does it have a mute button as well? Is there a weblink? (Sorry... I think I contributed enough to this thread to ask this question without going through the last 20 pages... :))

I concur. That's what works for me. Even in H3 coop mode I could hear the others quite well. I haven't played other multiplayer games (like COD4) so I dont know how it works for those.

I do like the simple 2.5 mono headset w/ earbud solution. Probably the mic works as well as the Zalman mic and the earbud could be used when really necessary. Does it have a mute button as well? Is there a weblink? (Sorry... I think I contributed enough to this thread to ask this question without going through the last 20 pages... :))

yea, the bud is there, and i can also drop it out of the cup if i feel like not using it, and also you dont have to put the bud IN your ear, mine just rests outside, and acts as another little speaker, which adds to the voice volume that i'm already getting from the L/R headphone cups.

that earbud i got at target, it has a mute button, but you have to hold it, so i dont ever mute it, lol, but i'm sure there are plenty of others with dedicated mute buttons, and maybe even volume controls. i just grabbed something cheap and quick in a pinch.

also, i havent noticed any loss of being able to hear the game sounds in that ear, not with the way i place the earbud. which was my first concern when the first person posted about using an earbud.

Are you using the zalman mic, or some other one? I ask, because the zalman works better then most. I have no problems at all with it. People can hear me perfectly.


What does the headband look like?

Does it say 'Pro' on it?

What is the ohms?

Did you spend less then $225 on a new pair?


Anyone, for the most part, will tell which version you have.


They are the DT 770 PRO 80ohms, $180 @ my local guitar center. They are black, except the internal ear cuff is silverish

They are the DT 770 PRO 80ohms, $180 @ my local guitar center. They are black, except the internal ear cuff is silverish

03 models..

Since a lot of you guys bought audiophile headphones do you notice air around the instruments, fingers sliding down on guitars, or artist breathing licking their lips, when listening to music?

Since a lot of you guys bought audiophile headphones do you notice air around the instruments, fingers sliding down on guitars, or artist breathing licking their lips, when listening to music?
ya, bugs the hell out of me. lol.

ya, bugs the hell out of me. lol.

one of the weirdest was listening to the song kiss by Prince.. He was wearing a necklace or something, & I could hear it dangling.. Was pretty cool..

I concur. That's what works for me. Even in H3 coop mode I could hear the others quite well. I haven't played other multiplayer games (like COD4) so I dont know how it works for those.

I do like the simple 2.5 mono headset w/ earbud solution. Probably the mic works as well as the Zalman mic and the earbud could be used when really necessary. Does it have a mute button as well? Is there a weblink?

yea, the bud is there, and i can also drop it out of the cup if i feel like not using it, and also you dont have to put the bud IN your ear, mine just rests outside, and acts as another little speaker, which adds to the voice volume that i'm already getting from the L/R headphone cups.

that earbud i got at target, it has a mute button, but you have to hold it, so i dont ever mute it, lol, but i'm sure there are plenty of others with dedicated mute buttons, and maybe even volume controls. i just grabbed something cheap and quick in a pinch.

also, i havent noticed any loss of being able to hear the game sounds in that ear, not with the way i place the earbud. which was my first concern when the first person posted about using an earbud.

I'm using a Voice Star VS110 earbud that has both volume control and a mute switch. I picked it up at Radio Shack for $6 or $7; been using it for about 6 weeks playing COD4 as well as a little H3 and its been great. Like Forumlanerd I don't insert the bud into my ear it just kind of rest there and I don't feel like it takes away from the sound of the headphones enough to matter. I can still tell the direction of sounds in games plus my teammates come through as loud and clear as I want.

I've seen them in stock at Radio Shack locally as recently as this past weekend but for some reason they don't list this item on their website or I'd give you a link.

I'm using a Voice Star VS110 earbud that has both volume control and a mute switch. I picked it up at Radio Shack for $6 or $7; been using it for about 6 weeks playing COD4 as well as a little H3 and its been great. Like Forumlanerd I don't insert the bud into my ear it just kind of rest there and I don't feel like it takes away from the sound of the headphones enough to matter. I can still tell the direction of sounds in games plus my teammates come through as loud and clear as I want.

I've seen them in stock at Radio Shack locally as recently as this past weekend but for some reason they don't list this item on their website or I'd give you a link.

So you guys saying you just have the bud hanging inside of the other headphone, do you then set the voice setting to play through speakers and headset. I wired an earbud and zalman mic to my controller but haven't used the earbud much. The mic works good, but I found the earbud would always fall out when I put on my HD555s. Then I couldn't hear good enough from it. I usually just set the voice to speakers and this works good for H3 multiplayer and COD4(Cod has game volume adjustment). Only problem is H3 coop.

So you guys saying you just have the bud hanging inside of the other headphone, do you then set the voice setting to play through speakers and headset. I wired an earbud and zalman mic to my controller but haven't used the earbud much. The mic works good, but I found the earbud would always fall out when I put on my HD555s. Then I couldn't hear good enough from it. I usually just set the voice to speakers and this works good for H3 multiplayer and COD4(Cod has game volume adjustment). Only problem is H3 coop.

Yes, that's how I am using the earbud. I've got the bud inside my 595's sort of up against, just barely in (if at all) my ear. I try to get it so it's firing directly towards my ear. The 360 is set to default voice settings like I was using the XBL headset without the 595's. Voices play just through the earbud, not through the 595's.

Yes, that's how I am using the earbud. I've got the bud inside my 595's sort of up against, just barely in (if at all) my ear. I try to get it so it's firing directly towards my ear. The 360 is set to default voice settings like I was using the XBL headset without the 595's. Voices play just through the earbud, not through the 595's.

i run mine exactly the same way, except i use "play through both" because sometimes i'll drop the earbud out of the cup, leaving just the mic, and i also like to have voice in both ears, but that's just personal preference.

well i got my ATH-AD700's today... the fit, finish, build quality, and comfort are miles ahead of any headphone i've personally worn/tried.

SQ is really good, but i'm kind of disappointed because they're only a small step above the panny cans i have now, but my panny cans were highly reguarded a few years back, so i guess its no surprise to me, maybe i was just expecting too much... the AT's are definitely better though, and at $50 more than what i paid for my panny's, the other pluses are more than worth it.

man, the purple looks ugly in pictures, but in person these things look sweet.

well i got my ATH-AD700's today... the fit, finish, build quality, and comfort are miles ahead of any headphone i've personally worn/tried.

SQ is really good, but i'm kind of disappointed because they're only a small step above the panny cans i have now, but my panny cans were highly reguarded a few years back, so i guess its no surprise to me, maybe i was just expecting too much... the AT's are definitely better though, and at $50 more than what i paid for my panny's, the other pluses are more than worth it.

man, the purple looks ugly in pictures, but in person these things look sweet.

Very nice to hear that. I'm anxiously waiting for mine.

On another note, do you guys think this behind the ear headset would fit well under headphones? I prefer the volume control and mute button on the controller instead of on the cable, and don't like to direct voice through speakers.

http://i.pricerunner.com/prod/16_12_10_15_854403l/Body_Glove_Earglove_Contour.jpeg

The only review at Amazon is low basically because it doesn't fit tight. I think that's a plus in this case.

Okay I used the earbud solution (tucked into the over ear headphones) last night... definitely better then the play through headphones mode. Now I just need a Dolby Headphone capable receiver and I will be all set.

Okay I used the earbud solution (tucked into the over ear headphones) last night... definitely better then the play through headphones mode. Now I just need a Dolby Headphone capable receiver and I will be all set.

Check Ebay for all the HK AVR's from Harman Direct. These are all factory refurbs, but the prices are GREAT (got my 147 for a little under 200bux) and they come with a warranty as if they were new. I couldn't even tell mine was a refurb. It was like it was brand new, blister package of batteries for the remote and all was package like new. I was VERY surprised!

Thanks Wilson... I will check it out

no, they hear me fine with just the clip on, the point is, without the earbud i cant hear THEM over the score, action, explosives, etc. because the "play voice through speakers" mode isnt loud enough.

this is why i ditched the plain clip on mic for a 2.5mm mono headset w/ earbud.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/3930/cimg5153fd6.jpg

i wish my AD700's were here already, i cant wait to try them out

What brand is that earpiece/mic combo and where did you get it? I need something like this as I have the same problem not hearing everyone with all the action in game

What brand is that earpiece/mic combo and where did you get it? I need something like this as I have the same problem not hearing everyone with all the action in game

it's GE, from target, about 5 bucks.

Very nice to hear that. I'm anxiously waiting for mine.

On another note, do you guys think this behind the ear headset would fit well under headphones? I prefer the volume control and mute button on the controller instead of on the cable, and don't like to direct voice through speakers.

http://i.pricerunner.com/prod/16_12_10_15_854403l/Body_Glove_Earglove_Contour.jpeg

The only review at Amazon is low basically because it doesn't fit tight. I think that's a plus in this case.

i think that will work great, better than what i use, is that body glove? they have pretty good products as far as headsets go.

Found a preview on the Astro's. I'm really considering them now as my sens are messed up and i was gonna buy the jvc adaptor so i might really pick these up if i can find a few more positive previews and reviews on them.

http://www.gamingnexus.com/Default.aspx?Section=Article&I=1713

Found a preview on the Astro's. I'm really considering them now as my sens are messed up and i was gonna buy the jvc adaptor so i might really pick these up if i can find a few more positive previews and reviews on them.

http://www.gamingnexus.com/Default.aspx?Section=Article&I=1713

The Astro's & beyers MMX300 gaming headsets are the only ones I'd fully recommend.. & Beyers Head zone..(which comes with the MMX300) A high end multi media 5.1 DSP..Doesn't use Dolby technology..But..

Reproduces virtual game worlds completely realistically
• Surround simulation using the same audio set that sound designers worldwide employ to produce and program effects and soundtracks for games

From the reviewers quotes, they think the SS is jaw dropping accurate..

http://www.beyerdynamic.de/cms/Gaming-Multimedia-Headsets.2028.0.html?&L=0&tx_sbproductdatabase_pi1[showUid][showUID]=2109&tx_sbproductdatabase_pi1[showUid][backPID]=2028&cHash=ef5d94e830

Well i left my zalman mic at my other place of resident, so i went and bought another earbud mic at ratsack... and after a few hours of play, i hate it. It was uncomfortable, it hindered my hearing in the ear it was in and i can barely hear anyone through the speaker. Back to the zalman mic for me.

Foe-Hammer i just found a xbox-scene discussion that you were apart of. You picked up the creative headphones. What did you think of them? I know it was way back in 2006 but i see they do support dolby headphone also.

Nevermind i see you didn't even like the headphones and was only using the decoder.

Foe-Hammer i just found a xbox-scene discussion that you were apart of. You picked up the creative headphones. What did you think of them? I know it was way back in 2006 but i see they do support dolby headphone also.

Nevermind i see you didn't even like the headphones and was only using the decoder.

Actually, the creative headphones that come with the DH unit have very good sound. They just are not all that comfortable, or built good. But for around $100 for headphones plus receiver, you cannot beat it.

Actually, the creative headphones that come with the DH unit have very good sound. They just are not all that comfortable, or built good. But for around $100 for headphones plus receiver, you cannot beat it.

Yeah comfort is a concern for me. As i had to return the x3's as they made my ears hurt and hot.

Well while reading up on headphones tonight i came across this microphone
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v287/HoodedSoldier/CAL-CM-316-300-300.jpg
http://www.schooloutfitters.com/catalog/product_info/cPath/CAT1_CAT135/pfam_id/PFAM1217/products_id/PRO3843

Actually, the creative headphones that come with the DH unit have very good sound. They just are not all that comfortable, or built good. But for around $100 for headphones plus receiver, you cannot beat it.

been looking for a set of those or the thrustmasters used for a while now... i figure when i find a set, i'll get them cheap and just use the dh box.

Well while reading up on headphones tonight i came across this microphone

3.5mm jack :(

Well while reading up on headphones tonight i came across this microphone
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v287/HoodedSoldier/CAL-CM-316-300-300.jpg
http://www.schooloutfitters.com/catalog/product_info/cPath/CAT1_CAT135/pfam_id/PFAM1217/products_id/PRO3843

Not bad (all that is needed is a 2.5mm mono adapter). A good alternative to the zalman mic.

Picked up the 555's today. Just listening to some music right now with them. So far so good. Alot better than the 515's i have that i need to send in for repair and will sell off. Next week i'll pick up the jvc adaptor. But i really want to try the Beyer 770's pro's but the only place i can get them locally is guitarcenter which has them for over 200 bucks.

Picked up the 555's today. Just listening to some music right now with them. So far so good. Alot better than the 515's i have that i need to send in for repair and will sell off. Next week i'll pick up the jvc adaptor. But i really want to try the Beyer 770's pro's but the only place i can get them locally is guitarcenter which has them for over 200 bucks.

You can get then for 150.00 if you look hard enough.. Those are the 03 version.. I hear they have a bit more bass then the revised 05 770's, but the new 770's are more refined, especially in the midrange which is pretty recessed in the 03 model.. The 05 version is also harder to drive at 250 ohms & cost 270.00 new.. Street value..

Yeah i saw them on ebay for around 150.00 but the thing is i want to get them from a local retailer so i can try them out and if i don't like them i can return them or i would of got them from ebay. Even bhphoto has them for ever 200. I'm running out of local places.

Yeah i saw them on ebay for around 150.00 but the thing is i want to get them from a local retailer so i can try them out and if i don't like them i can return them or i would of got them from ebay. Even bhphoto has them for ever 200. I'm running out of local places.

yeah..

Picked up the 555's today. Just listening to some music right now with them. So far so good. Alot better than the 515's i have that i need to send in for repair and will sell off. Next week i'll pick up the jvc adaptor. But i really want to try the Beyer 770's pro's but the only place i can get them locally is guitarcenter which has them for over 200 bucks.

You could always try haggling... I didn't even try haggling and the dude sold me the headphones with a 2 year warranty for 200 (guitar center).

You could always try haggling... I didn't even try haggling and the dude sold me the headphones with a 2 year warranty for 200 (guitar center).

Ahhh i didn't know they would drop the price. Hmmmm Guess i'll have to head down there on tuesday and see what i can do. Thanks

Ahhh i didn't know they would drop the price. Hmmmm Guess i'll have to head down there on tuesday and see what i can do. Thanks

AC has opened a store in NY.. If you are in the area check it out.. Audio Cubes. The 900 limited edition TI is only 429.00:)

AC has opened a store in NY.. If you are in the area check it out.. Audio Cubes. The 900 limited edition TI is only 429.00:)

Yeah i've been there. I went looking for the japanese version of the jvc box but they didn't have it. I only work a few blocks from it. I have a post somewhere in this thread about a page or 2 back saying i've been there. Nice little store. They had the technica 700 airs in there. Man they are huge.

Yeah i've been there. I went looking for the japanese version of the jvc box but they didn't have it. I only work a few blocks from it. I have a post somewhere in this thread about a page or 2 back saying i've been there. Nice little store. They had the technica 700 airs in there. Man they are huge.

Lucky. I wish there was one in CA..

Hi all:

First, thanks for all the great advice and reviews. I am looking to make a headphone plunge, mostly for playing games after my 18 month old is in bed. However, I also want to use them music and movies on occasion, and I want a pair to grow old with. My headphone collection currently consists of a 10-ish year old pair of Grado SR-225s, which I use at work plugged into an old portable cd player (would a headphone amp be worth looking into for this setup?), a pair of iGrados that I use with my iPod when working outside (mowing lawn mostly), and a pair of Etymotic ER-6is that I use when flying.

I’m pretty into music. For my home stereo rig, I recently got a Krell KAV-400xi Integrated amp that I use with an older Pro-ject turntable and Bellari phono stage, along with an older pair of NHT 2.5is. This might not be the best matched combo of stuff in the world because I usually just get one nice upgrade for this system every 5-10 years. The reason I mention this setup is to convey that I appreciate good stereo sound and when compared to my home theater setup, this stereo system is my priority. I also would like to use any set of cans I get with this system as well as with gaming/movies.

Regarding my home theater/gaming setup, I have a Denon AVR-3803 (no Dolby Headphone :-() that drives a set of 6 Paradigm in-wall speakers, along with a Paradigm sub. My 360 is connected to the 3803 via the optical-out of the 360. In the next year or so I plan on getting a PS3 as well – mostly for the blu-ray drive because I can’t bring myself to buy regular DVDs anymore. I play a lot of Rock Band, all the Guitar Hero games and decent FPS games (CoD4, Halo3, Bioshock). I play online sometimes, but not that often, so I figure I will do the clip-on thing at some point, but it is not a priority.

So there is the background, now onto a set of questions I’m hoping one or more of you might be able to help out with.

1. I am interested in the JVC surround sound Dolby Headphone adapter, but not really sure how to hook it up. My 3803 does have an optical out, however; the manual (typical crappy Denon manual) implies the optical out only passes out 2-channel audio. If I were to hook the JVC to this optical out, I assume I would only be getting stereo and thus not inputting all 5.1 channels to the JVC and therefore the JVC would not be able to create simulated 5.1 sound for the headphones, correct? In other words, does the JVC need 5.1 input in order to work correctly?
2. Assuming I can’t use the optical out on my 3803, I would then need to hook the optical out from the 360 to the JVC. But then when I want to use my speakers, I would need to swap the cable – a big pain. I know there was a mention in this thread of using an optical splitter to solve this issue, but I have read elsewhere that they don’t always work. Anyone actually use one of these with success? I’m surprised more people don’t have this general issue.
3. If I were to add a PS3 to the mix, or for that matter, just use my DVD player, how would I feed the JVC with multiple sources? Would I need to pull the cable out from my receiver from the other component (DVD, PS3, or whatever), and then plug it into the JVC? Or perhaps an optical switcher of some sort?
4. Now, onto the actual Headphones. Based on all I have read in the thread and elsewhere (thanks again for everyone’s thoughts) I have narrowed it down to a group of cans that I realize vary quite a bit. I’m thinking HD595, DT880, AD700, or AD900. The DT880s are on the list due to statements that they provide the best SS, however, I worry about the statements that they are not very musical due to them being a bit too accurate (but you will notice I have a Krell integrated and I preferred it to a Mcintosh when I choose to buy it), and the need to also get an amp for them. The HD595 are on the list because they seem pretty popular, and gamers seem to dig them. The AD700s are on the list because they seem like a great value for how well reviewed they are. The AD900s are on the list to counter the DT880 because they are similar in price and performance, and sounds like they don’t need an amp. I’ve also gathered they are more musical than the DT880s (but I can’t really pinpoint why I think this.) Regarding comfort, I have heard mostly good things regarding all these choices. Any advice regarding these statements?
5. My last question has to do with headphone amps. If I went with the DT880s and the JVC, would another headphone amp be required? If so, would the mini^3 be sufficient? And one more dumb question about this setup; would adding an amp to use along with the JVC just require you to turn the volume on the JVC all of the way down, run the headphone out from the JVC into the amp and then hook your cans up to the amp?


I should also mention that all the headphones I considering are open because I am really jumpy, like when my wife comes over and taps on my shoulder and scares the hell out of me when I’m playing a game over the speakers. I figure a closed headphone would make this problem even worse than an open one will.

I do not believe that most of these questions have been answered, and my apologies if they have been and I missed them.

Thanks again.

Hi all:

First, thanks for all the great advice and reviews. I am looking to make a headphone plunge, mostly for playing games after my 18 month old is in bed. However, I also want to use them music and movies on occasion, and I want a pair to grow old with. My headphone collection currently consists of a 10-ish year old pair of Grado SR-225s, which I use at work plugged into an old portable cd player (would a headphone amp be worth looking into for this setup?), a pair of iGrados that I use with my iPod when working outside (mowing lawn mostly), and a pair of Etymotic ER-6is that I use when flying.

I’m pretty into music. For my home stereo rig, I recently got a Krell KAV-400xi Integrated amp that I use with an older Pro-ject turntable and Bellari phono stage, along with an older pair of NHT 2.5is. This might not be the best matched combo of stuff in the world because I usually just get one nice upgrade for this system every 5-10 years. The reason I mention this setup is to convey that I appreciate good stereo sound and when compared to my home theater setup, this stereo system is my priority. I also would like to use any set of cans I get with this system as well as with gaming/movies.

Regarding my home theater/gaming setup, I have a Denon AVR-3803 (no Dolby Headphone :-() that drives a set of 6 Paradigm in-wall speakers, along with a Paradigm sub. My 360 is connected to the 3803 via the optical-out of the 360. In the next year or so I plan on getting a PS3 as well – mostly for the blu-ray drive because I can’t bring myself to buy regular DVDs anymore. I play a lot of Rock Band, all the Guitar Hero games and decent FPS games (CoD4, Halo3, Bioshock). I play online sometimes, but not that often, so I figure I will do the clip-on thing at some point, but it is not a priority.

So there is the background, now onto a set of questions I’m hoping one or more of you might be able to help out with.

1. I am interested in the JVC surround sound Dolby Headphone adapter, but not really sure how to hook it up. My 3803 does have an optical out, however; the manual (typical crappy Denon manual) implies the optical out only passes out 2-channel audio. If I were to hook the JVC to this optical out, I assume I would only be getting stereo and thus not inputting all 5.1 channels to the JVC and therefore the JVC would not be able to create simulated 5.1 sound for the headphones, correct? In other words, does the JVC need 5.1 input in order to work correctly?
2. Assuming I can’t use the optical out on my 3803, I would then need to hook the optical out from the 360 to the JVC. But then when I want to use my speakers, I would need to swap the cable – a big pain. I know there was a mention in this thread of using an optical splitter to solve this issue, but I have read elsewhere that they don’t always work. Anyone actually use one of these with success? I’m surprised more people don’t have this general issue.
3. If I were to add a PS3 to the mix, or for that matter, just use my DVD player, how would I feed the JVC with multiple sources? Would I need to pull the cable out from my receiver from the other component (DVD, PS3, or whatever), and then plug it into the JVC? Or perhaps an optical switcher of some sort?
4. Now, onto the actual Headphones. Based on all I have read in the thread and elsewhere (thanks again for everyone’s thoughts) I have narrowed it down to a group of cans that I realize vary quite a bit. I’m thinking HD595, DT880, AD700, or AD900. The DT880s are on the list due to statements that they provide the best SS, however, I worry about the statements that they are not very musical due to them being a bit too accurate (but you will notice I have a Krell integrated and I preferred it to a Mcintosh when I choose to buy it), and the need to also get an amp for them. The HD595 are on the list because they seem pretty popular, and gamers seem to dig them. The AD700s are on the list because they seem like a great value for how well reviewed they are. The AD900s are on the list to counter the DT880 because they are similar in price and performance, and sounds like they don’t need an amp. I’ve also gathered they are more musical than the DT880s (but I can’t really pinpoint why I think this.) Regarding comfort, I have heard mostly good things regarding all these choices. Any advice regarding these statements?
5. My last question has to do with headphone amps. If I went with the DT880s and the JVC, would another headphone amp be required? If so, would the mini^3 be sufficient? And one more dumb question about this setup; would adding an amp to use along with the JVC just require you to turn the volume on the JVC all of the way down, run the headphone out from the JVC into the amp and then hook your cans up to the amp?


I should also mention that all the headphones I considering are open because I am really jumpy, like when my wife comes over and taps on my shoulder and scares the hell out of me when I’m playing a game over the speakers. I figure a closed headphone would make this problem even worse than an open one will.

I do not believe that most of these questions have been answered, and my apologies if they have been and I missed them.

Thanks again.

1/2 JVC needs a optical connection to get 5.1 DD.. Best solution would be to hook up your JV to the 360 & use headphones, since the JVC 5.1 was meant more as a portable device then home device. I'd actualy recommend the mixamp wich does the same as the JVC but has more inputs & functions, supports USB so keep it plugged into your 360 to keep it charged. Was made for the 360 as well...

3. Splitter most likley..

4. The DT880's are the best for gaming from my experience.. I own/owned several hi end headphones.. & the DT880's out of head presentation & 3D imaging is fantastic.. They are hard to drive at 250 ohms, but many use it with their sound card & still enjoy the sound.. I'm using it with my DAC1 which has a built in headphone amp that compares with 300.00 dedicated headphone amps on the market. To me the DT880 sound lifeless with music, but thats my opinion. The 900's everyone is talking about is the closed model.. They have a open model 990 which cost like 25.00 more.. & open headphones give you a wider Soundstage..

Thanks for the quick response, KBI.

Read about the mixamp on this thread, but forgot about it. I think I put it out of my mind because their website states they won't be shipping any product until March.

Based on another couple of hours or reading reviews on headfi, I have taken the HD595s off the list because it sounds to me like people are digging the AD700s more than the HD595s and the AD700s are cheaper (approx. $100 on newegg.)

I'm confused on your statement regarding the AD900s. I have been seeing plenty of stuff out there on the open AD900 (I realize the A900 is the closed version. They are listing for 250 on audiocubes. Are these the ones you are referring to as the model 990?

Back to the DT880s. Do you think the mixamp's amp will drive them properly? How about the headphone jack of my Denon 3803 for stereo while I wait for the mixamp? The AD900s eliminate this worry because it sounds to me like they don't need to be amped unless you are pretty into tweaking them. It also sounds like a tube amp is the wasy to go with the DT880s (my Bellari phono stage is tube, and it has has a headphone jack - I wonder how it would handle the DT880s...)

Thanks again.

I got my AD700s last week, along with the JVC SU-DH1. It's my first purchase of quality headphones, so I have nothing to compare them to, but suffice to say that I am amazed at what I had been missing! Yes, they are big, but they are even bigger in comfort.

I've only used the JVC unit with stereo (waiting on the optical cable), but that alone is so good, I can't imagine how 5.1 will sound. The DH modes make a significant difference even in stereo, which I didn't expect.

After giving them a quick try with music, I decided to play Xbox for a while. I put on the headphones, switched to the DH2 setting and then had the voice routed to the speakers. On the Halo 3 lobby, a friend joined and he began talking. I took off the headphones because I thought the speakers were on. Right then and there, I knew what a great purchase I had made.

Now, to wait for that optical cable...

BTW, Thanks to everyone that has contributed to this thread! It's a great read, lots of useful info, and it helped me a lot in getting a good set of headphones.

Don't count out the AKG K501s and K601s. They are excellent for gaming. The 5 best headphones in the $250 and under category that i'd recommend for gaming and movies, are:

1) AKG 601

1) Beyerdynamic DT880s - 2006 version

2) AKG 501

3) *Audio Technica ATH AD-900

4) *Audio Technica ATH AD-700


*Don't confuse the Audio Technica's with the A-900 and A-700 (those are closed cans, and not as good imo)

Thanks for the list, Foe-hammer, and thanks to joseraul for your impressions of the AD700s.

So, Foe-hammer, does your list change if you add music to the mix? I listen to mostly indie rock, if that matters...

The more I look into this, the more it seems like the decision comes down to if I want to amp my headphones or not. Assuming the mixamp fulfills these duties when gaming, I still need to worry about it when listening to music. Seems like if I want to go the amp route, the AKG 601 (or 701) or the DT880s are the way to go. But it sure is tempting to perhaps sacrifice some SQ to avoid the amp issue altogether and just go with the AD700s or AD900s. After all, I have a new cd player, a new turntable and cartridge also on the upgrade list and I'm not sure a headphone amp will get on there anytime soon.

Thanks.

Thanks for the list, Foe-hammer, and thanks to joseraul for your impressions of the AD700s.

So, Foe-hammer, does your list change if you add music to the mix? I listen to mostly indie rock, if that matters...

The more I look into this, the more it seems like the decision comes down to if I want to amp my headphones or not. Assuming the mixamp fulfills these duties when gaming, I still need to worry about it when listening to music. Seems like if I want to go the amp route, the AKG 601 (or 701) or the DT880s are the way to go. But it sure is tempting to perhaps sacrifice some SQ to avoid the amp issue altogether and just go with the AD700s or AD900s. After all, I have a new cd player, a new turntable and cartridge also on the upgrade list and I'm not sure a headphone amp will get on there anytime soon.

Thanks.

The Beyer 880s and the AKGs are hard to drive headphones. So i'd think that a separate headphone amp would be necessary to go along with the astro mixamp, for the headphones to reach their full potential.

I have the Rockhopper mini^3 portable amp that i use along with my Pioneer 800C Dolby Headphone receiver. You cannot beat the price for $125 shipped.

For music also, i'd go with the AKG 601's or Beyer 880s. Both are good for Metal/Hardrock and classical, imo.

Thanks for the quick response, KBI.

Read about the mixamp on this thread, but forgot about it. I think I put it out of my mind because their website states they won't be shipping any product until March.

Based on another couple of hours or reading reviews on headfi, I have taken the HD595s off the list because it sounds to me like people are digging the AD700s more than the HD595s and the AD700s are cheaper (approx. $100 on newegg.)

I'm confused on your statement regarding the AD900s. I have been seeing plenty of stuff out there on the open AD900 (I realize the A900 is the closed version. They are listing for 250 on audiocubes. Are these the ones you are referring to as the model 990?

Back to the DT880s. Do you think the mixamp's amp will drive them properly? How about the headphone jack of my Denon 3803 for stereo while I wait for the mixamp? The AD900s eliminate this worry because it sounds to me like they don't need to be amped unless you are pretty into tweaking them. It also sounds like a tube amp is the wasy to go with the DT880s (my Bellari phono stage is tube, and it has has a headphone jack - I wonder how it would handle the DT880s...)

Thanks again.

I emailed Astro gaming about the the drivability of the 880's with the Mix amp.. He said something like the 250 ohms are too hard to drive it properly.. I'm assuming it will sound good but not sound its best.. Theres also a amp/DAC in the JVC aswell.. So that might present the same type of problem.. If you tink that will be a problem, just go with the 900's.. & 40 ohms they are easy to drive.. Any device made for headphones have a amp.. But & yes, I was talking about the open 900's.. But oddly enough people who use them for gaming prefer the closed model over the open model.. Thats the 900 thats getting all the praise of being the nest headphone for gaming..

You can check my blog by clicking the link in my sig. I broke down the best gaming headphones based on price to performance wit 3 price categories..

Don't count out the AKG K501s and K601s. They are excellent for gaming. The 5 best headphones in the $250 and under category that i'd recommend for gaming and movies, are:

1) AKG 601

1) Beyerdynamic DT880s - 2006 version

2) AKG 501

3) *Audio Technica ATH AD-900

4) *Audio Technica ATH AD-700


*Don't confuse the Audio Technica's with the A-900 and A-700 (those are closed cans, and not as good imo)

The 501's are a great deal.. Can be had for around 100.00. Must buy used since they are discontinued.. Some say it has a deeper Soundstage then the 701's.. Which is should.. It was tuned for classical..

Hmmmm jr has some akg's i might have to listen to those. They didn't have any on display to listen.

...I was talking about the open 900's.. But oddly enough people who use them for gaming prefer the closed model over the open model.. Thats the 900 thats getting all the praise of being the nest headphone for gaming..

Or it could be because the A900s are a lot less expensive then the AD900s.

I have a practically brand new JVC Surround Sound Headphone Adaptor SUDH1 for sale. The reason I'm selling is because I picked up an audio processor with DH built-in. I also have an extra toslink-mini toslink cable that I can include. PM for details.

Or it could be because the A900s are a lot less expensive then the AD900s.

True.. I'm sure the AT5000 would be great for gaming, but how many gamers would spend 800 on headphones..

The AD900 looks like it $240 shipped from audiocubes (through amazon) and the A900 is $210. Not much of a difference in my mind.

I don't know which is better for gaming, but I think the decision is going to be up to my wife. Would she rather try and talk to me and I don't respond at all (she hates that), or would she rather listen to the sound leaked out of open cans.

I'm still deciding between going amped with the DT880s (or maybe the 601s - 701s have a pretty big price hike) or unamped with the AD900 (or maybe A900). I am leaning towards the unamped options because there is a pretty significant cost jump when the amp is included.

I did preorder the mixamp - supposed to ship late March. I am going this route mainly just to avoid the JVC battery issue, and also like the coax input along with the mic related features. Seemed worth the extra $40 for these things when compared to the JVC. I figure I can suffer a while using whatever headphones I get in stereo.

The AD900 looks like it $240 shipped from audiocubes (through amazon) and the A900 is $210. Not much of a difference in my mind.

I don't know which is better for gaming, but I think the decision is going to be up to my wife. Would she rather try and talk to me and I don't respond at all (she hates that), or would she rather listen to the sound leaked out of open cans.

I'm still deciding between going amped with the DT880s (or maybe the 601s - 701s have a pretty big price hike) or unamped with the AD900 (or maybe A900). I am leaning towards the unamped options because there is a pretty significant cost jump when the amp is included.

I did preorder the mixamp - supposed to ship late March. I am going this route mainly just to avoid the JVC battery issue, and also like the coax input along with the mic related features. Seemed worth the extra $40 for these things when compared to the JVC. I figure I can suffer a while using whatever headphones I get in stereo.

I think you will be pleased either route you take..

i'm i need of some headphones and i don't mind spending the extra $$ for a good set of headphones. there are soo many options and much to learn. let me start out by asking about the headphone amps. i'm guessing they are only required for high impedeance units. is this correct? also i've read about the jVC Su-DH1 unit is this what you all are calling the mixamp? are there any other "mixamps" out there that you all would recommend. I will be using the phones for mainly playing and getting on xbox live

i'm i need of some headphones and i don't mind spending the extra $$ for a good set of headphones. there are soo many options and much to learn. let me start out by asking about the headphone amps. i'm guessing they are only required for high impedeance units. is this correct? also i've read about the jVC Su-DH1 unit is this what you all are calling the mixamp? are there any other "mixamps" out there that you all would recommend. I will be using the phones for mainly playing and getting on xbox live
The Astro MixAmp and the JVC are two separate receivers. The Astro mixamp is the best option for solely xbl, because of the way they separate and mix the live chat with the game's sound.

A dedicated headphone amp attaches to the 1/8" line out jack of the MixAmp or the JVC unit, then from there you'd attach your headphones to the headphone amp. A headphone amp is only necessary for high impedance headphones, but will make any headphones sound better.

The AD900 looks like it $240 shipped from audiocubes (through amazon) and the A900 is $210. Not much of a difference in my mind.
I didn't know that they were that close in price now. They used to be $80 in difference.

My AD700s arrived last week, and they are fantastic. Nice spatial imaging even without DH.

Well, I decided that my budget could not handle getting into the heaphone amp game, so I ordered the AD900 from audiocubes (through amazon). I decided on them instead of the A900 mostly based on advise in this thread and reviews on head-fi (a few people thought they were better for music than the A900s.) I'll let you all know what I think when I get them, but I won't have surround until my mixamp gets shipped late march.

Another dumb question about the mixamp. It will work for movies too, right? I assume that I could just hook up any 'ole 5.1 digital source to it and it will work, right?

i'm i need of some headphones and i don't mind spending the extra $$ for a good set of headphones. there are soo many options and much to learn. let me start out by asking about the headphone amps. i'm guessing they are only required for high impedeance units. is this correct? also i've read about the jVC Su-DH1 unit is this what you all are calling the mixamp? are there any other "mixamps" out there that you all would recommend. I will be using the phones for mainly playing and getting on xbox live
The JVC & Mixamp are totally different. The JVC was built for portable use & the mixamp was built for the 360.. The mixamp has more inputs & supports UBS so you can plug the mixamp to your 360 to play & charge.. It's ideal to use a dedicated headphone amp with headphones with OHMs at 250 & above..

Your headphone amp would still need a digital out though correct? If not you are still sending stereo to the headphones.

what do you all think of the Astro A40 audio system. headphones and mixamp $250. is that a good price for what we get? how good are the headphones compared to the AD700 or the HD595?

The JVC & Mixamp are totally different. The JVC was built for portable use & the mixamp was built for the 360.. The mixamp has more inputs & supports UBS so you can plug the mixamp to your 360 to play & charge.. It's ideal to use a dedicated headphone amp with headphones with OHMs at 250 & above..
Even at 120 ohms, my AKG K601s cannot be driven sufficiently by my Pioneer 800C receiver (or even cheaper headphone amps (Pa2V2)) - distortion in loud/low bass.

Your headphone amp would still need a digital out though correct? If not you are still sending stereo to the headphones.
No it doesn't. As long as your receiver (pre-amp) accepts digital, addition amps do not need to. If that were not the case, then your headphones would also need to support digital.

what do you all think of the Astro A40 audio system. headphones and mixamp $250. is that a good price for what we get? how good are the headphones compared to the AD700 or the HD595?
The Astro Headset is supposably comparable to the 555's. But it also has a built in quality mic. That being said, it probably is not as good as the AD700 or the 595s, or the AKG K501s. Two of which are less expensive, or about the same price as the Astro headset.

OK, Foe-hammer, you seem pretty keen on this stuff. If you were going to spend/invest $250.00 on headphones to be used for playing xbox live and perhaps listen to some zepplin late at night. what do you recommend: include a mic/mixamp/headphones. if you go over a bit not a problem.

OK, Foe-hammer, you seem pretty keen on this stuff. If you were going to spend/invest $250.00 on headphones to be used for playing xbox live and perhaps listen to some zepplin late at night. what do you recommend: include a mic/mixamp/headphones. if you go over a bit not a problem.

ad700, pav2(though an HT receiver should drive them fine), jvc shdu1, and zalman clip on mic

what is a pav2? i have a yamaha rxv2400; has that silent cinema setting. not too sure what it is but i think it has something to do with headphones.

OK, Foe-hammer, you seem pretty keen on this stuff. If you were going to spend/invest $250.00 on headphones to be used for playing xbox live and perhaps listen to some zepplin late at night. what do you recommend: include a mic/mixamp/headphones. if you go over a bit not a problem.

MixAmp = $130

Headphones for $120 and under ($250 - $130 MixAmp) = AKG K501's (they have been discontinued, but can be found for around $100). For $75 more i'd recommend the AKG 601s that can be had for $185 new.

Mic = Zalman

you're gonna need a good amp to power the 501's though. and the lack of bass doesnt make them great headphones for gaming or movies.

Your headphone amp would still need a digital out though correct? If not you are still sending stereo to the headphones.
Headphone amp only digital out if it's combined with a DAC.. I have a headphone amp dac combo, so its very easy to connect to the 360.. Theres a Bresford headphone amp & DAC combo that is really a good bang for the buck.. Under 200.00.. There are others, but the majority cost over 400.00..

you're gonna need a good amp to power the 501's though. and the lack of bass doesnt make them great headphones for gaming or movies. Yes, they are bass shy, but thats a plus if you are a competitive gamer.. My AKG 340's are also bass shy but the quality is very good.. Too bad people generally favor bloated, muddy bass over quality bass..


what is a pav2? i have a yamaha rxv2400; has that silent cinema setting. not too sure what it is but i think it has something to do with headphones. It's a portable amp.. Cost around 60-70.. or lower if you bid on Ebay.. The maker is a outstanding person with great CS.. Mr Ali resides in Canada.. Most receivers headphone jack is very poor as that isa usually just tacked on

OK, Foe-hammer, you seem pretty keen on this stuff. If you were going to spend/invest $250.00 on headphones to be used for playing xbox live and perhaps listen to some zepplin late at night. what do you recommend: include a mic/mixamp/headphones. if you go over a bit not a problem.

My 2 cents.
Zalmen mic
AT700
Mix amp
Total: about 240.00

You can also replace the AT700 with the Sen 555/Beyer 770 pro/AKG 601..

thanks KBI and Foe; i'll be deciding from your recommendations.

thanks KBI and Foe; i'll be deciding from your recommendations.

NP.. It's best to buy from a online retailer with a generous return policy, since it's hard to find audio stores that sell Hi end headphones..

thanks KBI and Foe; i'll be deciding from your recommendations.

I'd just use the RXV-2400 if your keeping that vs a portable amp (unless you need something portable of course). I have the 2500 and have been very happy with the Silent Cinema on it for gaming.

I'd just use the RXV-2400 if your keeping that vs a portable amp (unless you need something portable of course). I have the 2500 and have been very happy with the Silent Cinema on it for gaming.

The mix amp supports DH.. The yamaha doesn't..

you're gonna need a good amp to power the 501's though. and the lack of bass doesnt make them great headphones for gaming or movies.

To get the most out of the 501s, yes. But it should sound fine unamped for most people.

The 501s are no more bass lacking then the senn 555s or 595s, and imo more/better bass then those two. What makes the 501s so great for gaming is the HUGE sound stage, and great mids. You cannot beat it for around $100, imo. My next recommendation in the around $100 category are the AD700's, as KBI has stated.

Headphone amp only digital out if it's combined with a DAC.. I have a headphone amp dac combo, so its very easy to connect to the 360.. Theres a Bresford headphone amp & DAC combo that is really a good bang for the buck.. Under 200.00.. There are others, but the majority cost over 400.00..
I was unaware of that, but it makes sense. Good info. Does the amp also have a digital out? It could be used as a preamp for DH digital wireless headphones, then.

So foe if i can find the akg 501's at jnr should i go for those and return the 555's? I mean i have to go back to pick up the jvc adaptor anyway so its not like i'm making an extra trip.

So foe if i can find the akg 501's at jnr should i go for those and return the 555's? I mean i have to go back to pick up the jvc adaptor anyway so its not like i'm making an extra trip.

If they carry the 501's, by all means. But i doubt they will, seeing as the 501s are not being made anymore. You can find them new, but usually only on the internet.

If you can't, no worries - the 555s are good gaming headphones none-the-less.

You might also think about getting the Audio Technica ATH AD-700s. they are around the same price as the Senn 555s.

Well, I decided that my budget could not handle getting into the heaphone amp game, so I ordered the AD900 from audiocubes (through amazon). I decided on them instead of the A900 mostly based on advise in this thread and reviews on head-fi (a few people thought they were better for music than the A900s.) I'll let you all know what I think when I get them, but I won't have surround until my mixamp gets shipped late march.

Another dumb question about the mixamp. It will work for movies too, right? I assume that I could just hook up any 'ole 5.1 digital source to it and it will work, right?
Good choice of headphones. Yes, movies will work just the same as games do. Any device will work in 5.1, as long as it has a digital connection to connect to the MixAmp.

So I ordered a JVC Dolby Headphone adapter to put into my living room for late night gaming (I already has a Pioneer 800c wireless headphone for my bedroom). The JVC came last evening. I opened it and quickly set it up. I even manage to find the Toslink mini adapter that is hanging on one of my Toslink cables. The JVC is connected to my receiver's optical out. So I fired up my HT and tried to watch some HDTV. Guess what, no sound what so ever from my headphone. Switched to XBox 360 and still no sound. Took the adapter off and plugged into my desktop PC using line-in. Still no sound. I thought I got a bad unit and get all my packaging stuff out and ready to RMA the adapter back to Buy.com. So I decided to try one last time connecting to my laptop. Still no sound. However while I was fiddling with the adapter, my finger touched somewhere on the adapter and all of sudden I can hear music from my headphone. I looked again, there is a vol level dial right there. I looked for it couple times and didn't find it before. JVC did a good job of hiding it :)

Did an hour and half COD4 last night. The JVC performed as I expected. However, the batteries that came with it lasted less than an hour. Maybe I turned volume too loud. But this is really the pitfall of this adapter. Luckily I use rechargeable AAs at home (Sanyo Eneloops) and let's see how long these last.

I am new to using headphones for gaming and I bought a pair of the Sennheiser HD 202's because they were cheap and they had great reviews on Amazon.com. I have a couple of quick questions that I am sure someone here can answer:

1. Does plugging stereo headphones directly into the headphone jack on my TV work as well as if they were plugged into a headphone jack on a receiver (without Dolby Headphone taken into consideration)?

2. Since my Sony LCD TV has SRS TruSurround XT, will the SRS WOW effect help produce surround sound through my headphones better? I read somewhere that SRS WOW is similar to Dolby Headphone in its capabilities. The manual for my Sony S2010 says that the Sound Options have no effect when headphones are plugged in?

3. Will I be able to distinguish sound directionality by plugging my Sennheiser 202's directly into my Sony TV via headphone jack? Will I hear sounds in front, in back, left, right, up, down? What type of sound will I actually be getting?

1. Does plugging stereo headphones directly into the headphone jack on my TV work as well as if they were plugged into a headphone jack on a receiver (without Dolby Headphone taken into consideration)?

Should be same although these days it is rare to find any TV with headphone jack on it.


2. Since my Sony LCD TV has SRS TruSurround XT, will the SRS WOW effect help produce surround sound through my headphones better? I read somewhere that SRS WOW is similar to Dolby Headphone in its capabilities. The manual for my Sony S2010 says that the Sound Options have no effect when headphones are plugged in?


SRS WOW produces fake surround based on 2-channel stereo. It can't obtain the real surround information from its source. Dolby Headphone uses original DD or DTS true 5.1 surround sound input as source in order to accurately reproduce the surround effects.


3. Will I be able to distinguish sound directionality by plugging my Sennheiser 202's directly into my Sony TV via headphone jack? Will I hear sounds in front, in back, left, right, up, down? What type of sound will I actually be getting?

You will get whatever you get today from your TV's speakers, i.e. no true surround sounds.

You need a Dolby Headphone adapter or receiver and original digital audio connection (DD or DTS) in order to get real surround sound from your headphone.

Thank you for the quick reply Foxbat121...

Looks like I am lucky that my TV has a headphone jack because I don't have a receiver! Also, I haven't received my headset yet so I haven't tested anything.

Back to my third question, with my setup being as it is - Just the Senn 202's plugged directly into my TV. Will I have any sound directionality at all? Even if it is simulated or anything else?

does AT700 = Audio Technica ATH-AD700

Back to my third question, with my setup being as it is - Just the Senn 202's plugged directly into my TV. Will I have any sound directionality at all? Even if it is simulated or anything else?

You will have 2-D sound, i.e. from left to right, not 3-D surround. Actually, using a fake surround will make your game sound effects and directions worse. These are meant for playing music, not gaming.

does AT700 = Audio Technica ATH-AD700

yes, i'm pretty sure he meant to say AD700 (not AT700)

excellent cans by the way! sound excellent, easy to drive, bass is present and tight without being overwhelming (maybe slightly lacking depending on who you ask and what they're looking for in a headphone)

does AT700 = Audio Technica ATH-AD700

What he meant, i assume, is either the Audio Technica (AT) AD700 or A700.

So foe if i can find the akg 501's at jnr should i go for those and return the 555's? I mean i have to go back to pick up the jvc adaptor anyway so its not like i'm making an extra trip.

Yeah they don't sell them anymore at jr i asked while i was there picking up the 555's. I'm enjoying the 555's. Hope to enjoy them more tomorrow night when i pick up the jvc box.

Yeah they don't sell them anymore at jr i asked while i was there picking up the 555's. I'm enjoying the 555's. Hope to enjoy them more tomorrow night when i pick up the jvc box.

You can used at headfi.com.. People sell theres quite frequently.. 2 of my headphones I bought used.. No biggie..

You can used at headfi.com.. People sell theres quite frequently.. 2 of my headphones I bought used.. No biggie..

There is also a new pair up for sale on ebay, for $150. A little steep, but the 501s are getting hard to come by new.

There is also a new pair up for sale on ebay, for $150. A little steep, but the 501s are getting hard to come by new.

not bad.. They retail for 200-250..

The 501's also have a great mid range.. My 340's midrange is simply incredible, you can 'see' through the vocalist voice, & feels like they are singing in your ear.. Great for dialog for gaming as well.. Ofcourse they are 30 yrs old & can only buy used.. Bought mine for 190.. They are also very hard to drive at 400 OHM.. My amp doesn't do it justice but still sounds very good.. The 340's are also a hybrid design.. Dynamic & electrostat.. For 120.00 or or less, nothing with top the 501's mid range.. Probably cans costing twice as much as well..

Quick question, I will be receiving Senn 555's as a gift and there has been a lot of talk about the JVC device. From the Xbox360 through the tv's headphone jack I will hear left and right stereo, (a cheap Sylvania 27" crt), but if I run the signal through the JVC I should hear a full sound stage, correct? Most of the games I play are driving games, often late at night, thus the need for headphones with a family. How much would I gain with the JVC for Burnout; Revenge and Paradise, PGR4, and Forza 2? Also I watch a fair number of movies but I have a receiver for that (Maganovox MRD120), and plan on using the headphones for both in about equal amounts. Thoughts, please!

Quick question, I will be receiving Senn 555's as a gift and there has been a lot of talk about the JVC device. From the Xbox360 through the tv's headphone jack I will hear left and right stereo, (a cheap Sylvania 27" crt), but if I run the signal through the JVC I should hear a full sound stage, correct? Most of the games I play are driving games, often late at night, thus the need for headphones with a family. How much would I gain with the JVC for Burnout; Revenge and Paradise, PGR4, and Forza 2? Also I watch a fair number of movies but I have a receiver for that (Maganovox MRD120), and plan on using the headphones for both in about equal amounts. Thoughts, please!

Any genera of games and movies will be improved rather noticeably with Dolby Headphones Tech. In particular, the sound stage will increase drastically - everything will be open, rather then the closed in sound associated generally with headphones. And being able to locate sound positions in a 360 degrees makes everything feel more real. That way you can use 5.1 DD and DTS with any pair of headphones, for after hours playing/viewing.

Quick question, I will be receiving Senn 555's as a gift and there has been a lot of talk about the JVC device. From the Xbox360 through the tv's headphone jack I will hear left and right stereo, (a cheap Sylvania 27" crt), but if I run the signal through the JVC I should hear a full sound stage, correct? Most of the games I play are driving games, often late at night, thus the need for headphones with a family. How much would I gain with the JVC for Burnout; Revenge and Paradise, PGR4, and Forza 2? Also I watch a fair number of movies but I have a receiver for that (Maganovox MRD120), and plan on using the headphones for both in about equal amounts. Thoughts, please!

Racing games & DD 5.1 go great together.. Engines, ambient noise, other cars.. Made me feel all giddy inside..

ok, i took the plunge and bought the dt770/80 beyer. i test drove them at the local guitar center. i heard things from some of my favorite tunes that i have not heard before. so i said wtf, i'll take them. i hope i don't regret it later. the cans are 80 ohm, so now i'm wondering if any amp will do. KBI recommend the "mixamp" but i'm not sure if he was actually talking about the mixamp from Astro or just any mixamp. so i'm 1/3rd of the way done with my quest. amp next and then the mic. Probably pick up a mic at the Rat Shack!
thanks to all.

I'm about to add a pair of surround headphones to my gaming setup, but I need to feed the phones optical input from the Xbox 360 and PS3. Can someone point me to a quality splitter? I looked around and didn't really see what I'm looking for.

Thanks much.

ok, i took the plunge and bought the dt770/80 beyer. i test drove them at the local guitar center. i heard things from some of my favorite tunes that i have not heard before. so i said wtf, i'll take them. i hope i don't regret it later. the cans are 80 ohm, so now i'm wondering if any amp will do. KBI recommend the "mixamp" but i'm not sure if he was actually talking about the mixamp from Astro or just any mixamp. so i'm 1/3rd of the way done with my quest. amp next and then the mic. Probably pick up a mic at the Rat Shack!
thanks to all.
All headphones benefit from better amplification.. Yes, I meant the AStro mix amp..

THANKS again! KBI!

I went to pick up the jvc box yesterday but could not find a mini tos adaptor. I'm not gonna buy the box without the adaptor. Anyone know any stores that carry the adaptor. I'd prefer to pick up locally.

so, when will the bugs be worked out of the mixamp (if they're still there) and when will they be available?

I went to pick up the jvc box yesterday but could not find a mini tos adaptor. I'm not gonna buy the box without the adaptor. Anyone know any stores that carry the adaptor. I'd prefer to pick up locally.

I don't know of any.. I have one lying around the house somewhere. I don't use it. It's yours if you want it..

Originally Posted by DirecTVHDFan
Back to my third question, with my setup being as it is - Just the Senn 202's plugged directly into my TV. Will I have any sound directionality at all? Even if it is simulated or anything else?

You will have 2-D sound, i.e. from left to right, not 3-D surround. Actually, using a fake surround will make your game sound effects and directions worse. These are meant for playing music, not gaming.


Just wanted to update that I received my Senn 202's and I am happy with their quality. I am not an audiophile and I don't have much experience with the science of sound, but these headphones have made me happy.

When it comes to sound directionality, I can clearly hear sound to the left, right, front, and back. <-----This is what I was hoping for when I ordered headphones. I was just using the TV speakers before.

I am curious to see what kind of improvements a device with Dolby Headphone can make.

Since I only bought $25 dollar headphones, I will definitely not be shelling out the cash for the $100 dollar JVC device...but most people in this thread seem to think it can make big improvements.

I am now wanting to hear the difference that Senn 555's can make, along with the JVC device that has Dolby Headphone!

Maybe one day...

Originally Posted by DirecTVHDFan
Back to my third question, with my setup being as it is - Just the Senn 202's plugged directly into my TV. Will I have any sound directionality at all? Even if it is simulated or anything else?




Just wanted to update that I received my Senn 202's and I am happy with their quality. I am not an audiophile and I don't have much experience with the science of sound, but these headphones have made me happy.

When it comes to sound directionality, I can clearly hear sound to the left, right, front, and back. <-----This is what I was hoping for when I ordered headphones. I was just using the TV speakers before.

I am curious to see what kind of improvements a device with Dolby Headphone can make.

Since I only bought $25 dollar headphones, I will definitely not be shelling out the cash for the $100 dollar JVC device...but most people in this thread seem to think it can make big improvements.

I am now wanting to hear the difference that Senn 555's can make, along with the JVC device that has Dolby Headphone!

Maybe one day...

I'd recommend buying a good 80-100 headphone.. Then never buy another headphone again..

Glad I found this thread.

I have realized I am doing alot more of my gaming and movie watching later at night...and I live in an apartment. I have been considering getting myself a good set of headphones. I have never had much luck picking out headphones...they either sound bad or are too damn uncomfortable to wear for any normal length of time..i.e a movie.

I like the looks and reviews for the ATH-AD700 and AKG K601s. Honestly I have never likes Senns...comfort wise. But I have no clue how comfortable the ATH or AKG are?

I have read the talk in the thread about headphone amps. Is that something I need?....I have everything in my system..XBOX 360, HD-DVD, Cable box going thru my AVR...a H/K 247 which has a headphone output and Dolby Headphone DSP "mode".

My needs are mostly for games and music...with the occasional movie. For music I always prefer direct/no-dsp. However the most important factor would have to be comfort...I am going to be wearing this things for 1+ hours at a time....I have yet to ever use a set of headphones I could wear for more than 20min without my ears hurting, itching and turning red.

Can anyone comment on the comfort aspects of some of the $150-$300 headphones?

I might have to reconsider my statement about Senns.

I have read ALOT of people praise the Sennheiser HD-595s for their comfort....

Besides sounding great, the 595s are ridiculously comfortable. Because they surround the ears and don't put pressure on them, I have no problem wearing these headphones for 6-7 hours at a time without discomfort or soreness.

I think pressure on the ears has been the problem with the headphones I have tried in the past...It was probably just a case of my getting exactly what I paid for =P

i don't have a lot of comparisons to make - but in my opinion the 595's are very comfortable.

the worst part is the resulting "headphone hair." they are so comfortable & unassuming that i'll often want to head out immediately after wearing them on an extended session... and forget that my hair is all matted.

but comfort-wise... they are spot on (for me at least).

i don't have a lot of comparisons to make - but in my opinion the 595's are very comfortable.

the worst part is the resulting "headphone hair." they are so comfortable & unassuming that i'll often want to head out immediately after wearing them on an extended session... and forget that my hair is all matted.

but comfort-wise... they are spot on (for me at least).


Hehe thanks for the info. Judging from the last time I took a close look in the mirror...the hair problem will not be an issue for me for much longer =P

Glad I found this thread.
I like the looks and reviews for the ATH-AD700 and AKG K601s. Honestly I have never likes Senns...comfort wise. But I have no clue how comfortable the ATH or AKG are?

I have read the talk in the thread about headphone amps. Is that something I need?....I have everything in my system..XBOX 360, HD-DVD, Cable box going thru my AVR...a H/K 247 which has a headphone output and Dolby Headphone DSP "mode".

My needs are mostly for games and music...with the occasional movie. For music I always prefer direct/no-dsp. However the most important factor would have to be comfort...I am going to be wearing this things for 1+ hours at a time....I have yet to ever use a set of headphones I could wear for more than 20min without my ears hurting, itching and turning red.

Can anyone comment on the comfort aspects of some of the $150-$300 headphones?
The senn 595s were very comfortable. The only thing i did not like about them, was that my outer ear touched the inside of the diaphragm. The most comfortable cans i've tried are the akg k601s. They have the largest, softest ear pads that i've tried. Never have they worn on my ears, even after playing for 8hrs. Plus, the 601's sounded better, fuller, then the 595 to me.

You have a Dolby Headphone enabled AV receiver. There is no need for any amp or anything else. All you need is a good pair of headphones, and you'll be good to go for gaming and movies.

After doing some reading and looking at some very hi-res images of both the 595 and the 601.... I ordered the AKG 601s from amazon. Those looks like they would be the most comfortable for me.


Appreciate all the advice

i consistently wear my AD700's for 12+ hours at a time, i never get discomfort, and when i take them off i dont feel like i've been wearing headphones all day.... they're a dream.

akg601's are nice, but they are nowhere near $100 better than the ad700's. i'd only choose the 601's if they CHEAPER than my ad700's, especially when i could pick up 2 sets of ad700's for that price.

Glad I found this thread.

I have realized I am doing alot more of my gaming and movie watching later at night...and I live in an apartment. I have been considering getting myself a good set of headphones. I have never had much luck picking out headphones...they either sound bad or are too damn uncomfortable to wear for any normal length of time..i.e a movie.

I like the looks and reviews for the ATH-AD700 and AKG K601s. Honestly I have never likes Senns...comfort wise. But I have no clue how comfortable the ATH or AKG are?

I have read the talk in the thread about headphone amps. Is that something I need?....I have everything in my system..XBOX 360, HD-DVD, Cable box going thru my AVR...a H/K 247 which has a headphone output and Dolby Headphone DSP "mode".

My needs are mostly for games and music...with the occasional movie. For music I always prefer direct/no-dsp. However the most important factor would have to be comfort...I am going to be wearing this things for 1+ hours at a time....I have yet to ever use a set of headphones I could wear for more than 20min without my ears hurting, itching and turning red.

Can anyone comment on the comfort aspects of some of the $150-$300 headphones?
Personally I would have recommended the DT 880 05.. I have a lot of hi end phones & they are the best at gaming. A portable amp would improve the sound quality.. & betters the phone jack in your Kardan.. Go Vibe 6 gets hi marks.. Theres a lot actually.. Depends on your Budget.

The senn 595s were very comfortable. The only thing i did not like about them, was that my outer ear touched the inside of the diaphragm. The most comfortable cans i've tried are the akg k601s. They have the largest, softest ear pads that i've tried. Never have they worn on my ears, even after playing for 8hrs. Plus, the 601's sounded better, fuller, then the 595 to me.

You have a Dolby Headphone enabled AV receiver. There is no need for any amp or anything else. All you need is a good pair of headphones, and you'll be good to go for gaming and movies.
I found the 701's to be very uncomfortable, & the 601's share the same design. On a side note, Both were released in 05.. The Beyers DT880, Sony SA5000 are phenomenal in the comfort department..

i consistently wear my AD700's for 12+ hours at a time, i never get discomfort, and when i take them off i dont feel like i've been wearing headphones all day.... they're a dream.

akg601's are nice, but they are nowhere near $100 better than the ad700's. i'd only choose the 601's if they CHEAPER than my ad700's, especially when i could pick up 2 sets of ad700's for that price.
have you actually heard the 601's before? Or just assuming they aren't 100.00 better?

After doing some reading and looking at some very hi-res images of both the 595 and the 601.... I ordered the AKG 601s from amazon. Those looks like they would be the most comfortable for me.


Appreciate all the advice

Yes.. But the 601's are the red headed step child in AKG's top tier line up.. Many prefer the 501's & 701's over it.. They feel it is not a 'reference' can.. As the 501's/701's do somethings outstanding while the 601's does everything well, they were made to make music fun. They do have a wide soundstage, not as big as the 701's, but still big..& they are quality headphones that sound really nice.. You should like them..

Steve from stereomojo.com reviewed the 601's. I actually went to a meet he had.. Cool guy, & very headphone savy..

i consistently wear my AD700's for 12+ hours at a time, i never get discomfort, and when i take them off i dont feel like i've been wearing headphones all day.... they're a dream.

akg601's are nice, but they are nowhere near $100 better than the ad700's. i'd only choose the 601's if they CHEAPER than my ad700's, especially when i could pick up 2 sets of ad700's for that price.
the 601s are in a different league then the ad700s. The 601s have a larger sound stage and much better mids then the ad700s, all of which are very important for gaming. Plus they are a lot better for music. But the 601s are hard to drive.

Plus out of all the 4 headphones (601s, 595s, 880s, ad900s), i found the 601s to be the most comfortable. But all were very comfortable, with the 601s having the largest and softest ear pads.


Yes.. But the 601's are the red headed step child in AKG's top tier line up.. Many prefer the 501's & 701's over it.. They feel it is not a 'reference' can.. As the 501's/701's do somethings outstanding while the 601's does everything well, they were made to make music fun. They do have a wide soundstage, not as big as the 701's, but still big..& they are quality headphones that sound really nice.. You should like them..

Steve from stereomojo.com reviewed the 601's. I actually went to a meet he had.. Cool guy, & very headphone savy..
I think the 601s are way too under appreciated. I personally like them more then the 701s for sound and comfort. The 701s were too analytical, and did not suit my needs for gaming and movies. Plus the 601s had a better sound stage and bass. The 601s have a different ear pad then the 701s. The 701s are flat, and not rounded like the 601s.

the 601s are in a different league then the ad700s. The 601s have a larger sound stage and much better mids then the ad700s, all of which are very important for gaming. Plus they are a lot better for music. But the 601s are hard to drive.

Plus out of all the 4 headphones (601s, 595s, 880s, ad900s), i found the 601s to be the most comfortable. But all were very comfortable, with the 601s having the largest and softest ear pads.



I think the 601s are way too under appreciated. I personally like them more then the 701s for sound and comfort. The 701s were too analytical, and did not suit my needs for gaming and movies. Plus the 601s had a better sound stage and bass. The 601s have a different ear pad then the 701s. The 701s are flat, and not rounded like the 601s.

Yeah. Would like to try a pair..

I'm about to add a pair of surround headphones to my gaming setup, but I need to feed the phones optical input from the Xbox 360 and PS3. Can someone point me to a quality splitter? I looked around and didn't really see what I'm looking for.

Thanks much.It sounds like you need a switcher, not a splitter (or maybe both?). Can you describe in more detail what you're trying to do?

It sounds like you need a switcher, not a splitter (or maybe both?). Can you describe in more detail what you're trying to do?

he can use the 6 dollar splitter from monoprice, as long as only one source is on at a time it will run backwards.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042301&p_id=966&seq=1&format=1#largeimage
http://images.monoprice.com/productlargeimages/9663.jpg

or he can opt for a switch, though he'll have to switch it manually when switching between the xbox and ps3.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2946&seq=1&format=2

I hate to be lazy but I have read tons about wired headphones, anyone have any decent Wireless options? I'm moving into an apartment, and pretty much even though I have downsized my surround sound its still not an option at night, and the tv speakers echo and its even worse, I'm hoping to pick up a nice set of wireless ones for 360 and movies, hopefully with built in mic. Any such animal?

The Pioneer SE-DIR800C make a great pair of wireless infrared headphones. It supports DD, DTS, Pro logic, and Dolby Headphone. You can get them for $250.

The only problem is, the headphones broke on me after 1.5yrs. It snapped just above the left can, at the rotating joint.

http://www.avland.co.uk/pioneer/sedir800c/sedir800c.jpg

Hey guys, a bit off topic, but have a quick question.

In terms of getting surround sound into my headset on PC, how would I go about doing this?

#1, I have the stock on-board sound card with digital audio out via an rca jack (no optical)

So what exactly will I need?
I read great things in this thread about the Senn 555s with the JVC SUDH1..however is that used for my PC as well, or is the JVC adapter for xbox 360 only?

Also, for those that got the Tritton AX360, can I plug it in to my digital audio out rca plug in my computer, or will I need a new sound card that gives optical out?

Thanks!

The JVC processor has two inputs:

1. 3.5mm (female) mini-optical
2. 3.5mm (male) stereo

You need input #1 to use Dolby Headphone technology... however you can use input #2 to get Dolby Pro-Logic. I think your difficulty will be converting your digital RCA into digital optical. It can be done... but I'm not sure how cheaply.

Actually, I may be wrong, as it is not the standard rca jack. I may have used the wrong term.

My digital audio output is a standard output on the back of my PC. Thing is, I don't know if it's 3.5mm or not as my knowlege in this field is limited.

Hey guys, a bit off topic, but have a quick question.

In terms of getting surround sound into my headset on PC, how would I go about doing this?

#1, I have the stock on-board sound card with digital audio out via an rca jack (no optical)

So what exactly will I need?
I read great things in this thread about the Senn 555s with the JVC SUDH1..however is that used for my PC as well, or is the JVC adapter for xbox 360 only?

Also, for those that got the Tritton AX360, can I plug it in to my digital audio out rca plug in my computer, or will I need a new sound card that gives optical out?

Thanks!
Don't get the craptastic trittons, or any other multi-driver 5.1 gaming HEADSET.

Get anything that has DOLBY HEADPHONE TECHNOLOGY in it. Dolby headphone is the best 5.1 headphone option. With Dolby headphone, you can use any pair of headphones to get 5.1. There are PC sound cards that have dolby headphone built into them.

I have read some reviews regarding IR technology and from what I read its line of sight only is this true with the Pioneers? I have my equipment behind the wall as I'm using a projector and wanted to keep it clean, so I'm wondering if I'm going to have issues with that, and it would be a expensive issue to have.

I just ordered the turtle beach x2's. What should i be expecting for 35 bucks?

I just ordered the turtle beach x2's. What should i be expecting for 35 bucks?
You get what you pay for...

But for $35, that's not too bad.

I have read some reviews regarding IR technology and from what I read its line of sight only is this true with the Pioneers? I have my equipment behind the wall as I'm using a projector and wanted to keep it clean, so I'm wondering if I'm going to have issues with that, and it would be a expensive issue to have.
You have to been in line of sight, so behind a wall will not work.

I just ordered the turtle beach x2's. What should i be expecting for 35 bucks?

Depends on your previous headphone listening experience.. If you never heard a decent sounding headphone I'm sure the Tutrles will impress you..

The best headphones i've had is my 11 dollar sonys.

Alright, so I've been reading over the past 10ish pages of this very helpful thread, and i think I'm about ready to get all my system all set up, but i have a few questions and opinions to ask first.
This setup will mainly (99%) be used for xbox and xbl, and i think i've narrowed my headphone search down to the AKG 601's or the beyer DT880's. What are your guys' opinions on the pros and cons of each?
Also, i know that they are hard to drive, but me being a headset newbie, i dont know what kind of amp i should be looking for. And i will also be preordering the mixamp, based on its high recommendations. Is there anything else i am missing? thanks for putting up with me:D

The best headphones i've had is my 11 dollar sonys.

Then the Turtles should be a nice upgrade..

Alright, so I've been reading over the past 10ish pages of this very helpful thread, and i think I'm about ready to get all my system all set up, but i have a few questions and opinions to ask first.
This setup will mainly (99%) be used for xbox and xbl, and i think i've narrowed my headphone search down to the AKG 601's or the beyer DT880's. What are your guys' opinions on the pros and cons of each?
Also, i know that they are hard to drive, but me being a headset newbie, i dont know what kind of amp i should be looking for. And i will also be preordering the mixamp, based on its high recommendations. Is there anything else i am missing? thanks for putting up with me:D
The 880's are more reference then the 601's, & are technically superior in regards to detail.. Both have a large sound stage. The DT880's are a bit analytical, & has a treble spike which some don't like.. The bass isn't big, but it has a lot of weight & has a great bass slam/impact.. Very authoritative. The 880's has a out of head presentation that gives the illusion that sound is coming from space & the walls instead of the headphones.. Still not as good as with 5.1 DD, but for stereo cans they are impressive. my reference for this would be Halflife episode 2.. remarkable. The 601's will probably sound more fun & pleasing to your ear.. & they geared to colorize the sound them being a true reference headphone.. For casual gameplay I'd go with the 601's.. For competitve gameplay I'd go with the 880's. (05 model if possible)

The DT880's at 250 ohms are hard to drive.. I can listen to my DT880's with my DAC1's amp turned all the way without a lot of discomfort & ringing.. Still a bit loud, but nothing ear shattering like some amps that drive them better..

Alright, so I've been reading over the past 10ish pages of this very helpful thread, and i think I'm about ready to get all my system all set up, but i have a few questions and opinions to ask first.
This setup will mainly (99%) be used for xbox and xbl, and i think i've narrowed my headphone search down to the AKG 601's or the beyer DT880's. What are your guys' opinions on the pros and cons of each? Also, i know that they are hard to drive, but me being a headset newbie, i dont know what kind of amp i should be looking for. And i will also be preordering the mixamp, based on its high recommendations. Is there anything else i am missing? thanks for putting up with me:D

I agree with what KBI said. All though, i think the K601s have arguably better mids, and louder bass. Also, the k601s are just as hard to drive as the 880s, despite them being only 120ohms. I like the 601s ear pads better then the 880s - larger and more comfortable, but i like the 880s head band much better - more comfortable, and stays put. Both the AKG 601s and 701s need a lot of juice, despite their deceivingly low ohms.

And you'll need a separate headphone amp, in conjunction with the Astro MixAmp to get the most out of the 601s or 880s. Not completely necessary, but highly recommended. Without a dedicated headphone amp, you'll get distortion during heavy bass or other loud sounds. Plus a good amp really adds to the richness of the sound. The best amp for the money, imo, is the Rockhopper mini^3 for $125 new shipped. You won't find anything better for cheaper. I just bought mine 1 month ago, and after 50 hrs of burn-in, the amp sounds great. But now the upgrade bug has already bitten me, and i'm thinking about getting a CI Audio VHP-2 desktop headphone amp for $400 - mainly for music. If i decide to go that route, i'll sell my Rockhopper amp to you for a very good deal, if you're interested.

I agree with what KBI said. All though, i think the K601s have arguably better mids, and louder bass. Also, the k601s are just as hard to drive as the 880s, despite them being only 120ohms. I like the 601s ear pads better then the 880s - larger and more comfortable, but i like the 880s head band much better - more comfortable, and stays put. Both the AKG 601s and 701s need a lot of juice, despite their deceivingly low ohms.

And you'll need a separate headphone amp, in conjunction with the Astro MixAmp to get the most out of the 601s or 880s. Not completely necessary, but highly recommended. Without a dedicated headphone amp, you'll get distortion during heavy bass or other loud sounds. Plus a good amp really adds to the richness of the sound. The best amp for the money, imo, is the Rockhopper mini^3 for $125 new shipped. You won't find anything better for cheaper. I just bought mine 1 month ago, and after 50 hrs of burn-in, the amp sounds great. But now the upgrade bug has already bitten me, and i'm thinking about getting a CI Audio VHP-2 desktop headphone amp for $400 - mainly for music. If i decide to go that route, i'll sell my Rockhopper amp to you for a very good deal, if you're interested.

That would be awesome, seeing as i was looking for amps online and only found ones around $1k (i must've been looking in the wrong place:rolleyes:) Do you think the rockhopper would be enough to drive the 880's as well, assuming you use it for the k601 now?
Also, I'm looking to see if either/both headphones support 5.1 DD and all those other features that everyone says make the sounds that much more amazing, but i can't seem to find a definitive answer anywhere...any help? Also, i don't have the $$ for an AVR, so that's out of the question.
Thanks for the help guys, I'm still new to the whole audio scene.

any 2ch headphone will support dolby headphone. you just need a source to feed dolby headphone to the k601/dt880. and of course, with those cans you'll need an amp, you can get an amp, and a dolby headphone device like the JVC, or consider the astro gaming mixamp, which is a dolby headphone capable mixer, and amp in one.

any 2ch headphone will support dolby headphone. you just need a source to feed dolby headphone to the k601/dt880. and of course, with those cans you'll need an amp, you can get an amp, and a dolby headphone device like the JVC, or consider the astro gaming mixamp, which is a dolby headphone capable mixer, and amp in one.

Good to hear that, answers that question. So if i have this right....i will run an optical cable from the X360 elite's audio connector to the mixamp, then that with (?) connection to, say, the mini^3 amp, which i'll plug the headphones into? and until i can get the mixamp/amp, since they both seem to be on back order, would there be a way to use the headphones with just the 360 and tv until they came? also, ive heard a lot about the Zalman mic for xbl use, im assuming that goes straight into the mixamp as well? thanks!

you'd just have to use an adapter from headphone to rca if you wanted to pull audio directly from the 360 before you get a mixamp

you'd just have to use an adapter from headphone to rca if you wanted to pull audio directly from the 360 before you get a mixamp

haha, so anyone have any good mRCA->f3.5mm adapters to recommend? (assuming thats what i need, the way i figure)

I agree with what KBI said. All though, i think the K601s have arguably better mids, and louder bass. Also, the k601s are just as hard to drive as the 880s, despite them being only 120ohms. I like the 601s ear pads better then the 880s - larger and more comfortable, but i like the 880s head band much better - more comfortable, and stays put. Both the AKG 601s and 701s need a lot of juice, despite their deceivingly low ohms.

And you'll need a separate headphone amp, in conjunction with the Astro MixAmp to get the most out of the 601s or 880s. Not completely necessary, but highly recommended. Without a dedicated headphone amp, you'll get distortion during heavy bass or other loud sounds. Plus a good amp really adds to the richness of the sound. The best amp for the money, imo, is the Rockhopper mini^3 for $125 new shipped. You won't find anything better for cheaper. I just bought mine 1 month ago, and after 50 hrs of burn-in, the amp sounds great. But now the upgrade bug has already bitten me, and i'm thinking about getting a CI Audio VHP-2 desktop headphone amp for $400 - mainly for music. If i decide to go that route, i'll sell my Rockhopper amp to you for a very good deal, if you're interested.
The VHP-2 is excellent.. I had the VHP-1 & is a great value.. I sold it to help cover my BADA12 tube amp.. But still have regrets on selling it.. Mine was 350.00 last yr.. The dedicated PS is well worth it too.. Really brings the bass to a new level IMO.. plus dynamics..

any 2ch headphone will support dolby headphone. you just need a source to feed dolby headphone to the k601/dt880. and of course, with those cans you'll need an amp, you can get an amp, and a dolby headphone device like the JVC, or consider the astro gaming mixamp, which is a dolby headphone capable mixer, and amp in one.
To safe proof the investment, you can buy a mixamp or the JVC & get a good portable amp with a line out to bypass the internal amp in the Mixamp.. Sounds difficult, but its very easy.. So you'd get better amplification to drive your headphones plus get the 5.1 DD effects..

Good to hear that, answers that question. So if i have this right....i will run an optical cable from the X360 elite's audio connector to the mixamp, then that with (?) connection to, say, the mini^3 amp, which i'll plug the headphones into? and until i can get the mixamp/amp, since they both seem to be on back order, would there be a way to use the headphones with just the 360 and tv until they came? also, ive heard a lot about the Zalman mic for xbl use, im assuming that goes straight into the mixamp as well? thanks!
All portables have a line out.. All you need is a mini to mini audio cable 1/8 to 1/8.. Connect one side into the line out of the ^3, & the other end into the mixamp.. Using a 1/4 headphone jack adapter. Then plug your headphones into the headphone jack in the ^3.. Volume will be controlled through the ^3..

That would be awesome, seeing as i was looking for amps online and only found ones around $1k (i must've been looking in the wrong place:rolleyes:) Do you think the rockhopper would be enough to drive the 880's as well, assuming you use it for the k601 now?
Also, I'm looking to see if either/both headphones support 5.1 DD and all those other features that everyone says make the sounds that much more amazing, but i can't seem to find a definitive answer anywhere...any help? Also, i don't have the $$ for an AVR, so that's out of the question.
Thanks for the help guys, I'm still new to the whole audio scene.
The Rockhopper Mini^3 amp drives the 880s with no problem. In conjunction with my Dolby Headphone receiver (receivers volume is turned up to the 1 o'clock mark), i turn up the mini^3 volume level between 12 to 2 o'clock... and that is pretty loud. And i still have plenty of volume left.

You'll need a Dolby Headphone decoder (Astro MixAmp, or JVC unit) for 5.1 surround, and a separate Headphone amp (Rockhopper Mini^3) to go along with the 880s or 601s to get the most out of these headphones.

And as mentioned previously, any pair of headphones will give Dolby 5.1 surround when hooked up to a Dolby Headphone receiver. Just stay away from the Multi-driver (speaker) 5.1 headphones. They don't use Dolby Headphone Technology, so they require their specific headphones with the inferior, small multi-speakers. Thereby, you cannot use a quality pair of stereo headphones (880s, 601s) with them.

I just ordered the turtle beach x2's. What should i be expecting for 35 bucks?

Like someone said here, you get what you pay for...IMO return them dont even open it, i bought the x3 couple months ago and they were abosulutely horrific, i am no audiophile but i can still tell the difference between good and bad sound quality.....

looking to order the sennheiser hd 555(going back to wired) aside from amazon and ebay, where do you guys recommend to get these? trying to find the cheapest price possible...

KBI or Foe-hammer,

I am now stuck on choosing between the senn 555 and 595, is there any noticeable difference between the two?

Like someone said here, you get what you pay for...IMO return them dont even open it, i bought the x3 couple months ago and they were abosulutely horrific, i am no audiophile but i can still tell the difference between good and bad sound quality.....

looking to order the sennheiser hd 555(going back to wired) aside from amazon and ebay, where do you guys recommend to get these? trying to find the cheapest price possible...

Can't return them, bought them on ebay. Ugh.. Back to square 1. Its not like a have a bunch of cash, what can you guys recommend?

Can't return them, bought them on ebay. Ugh.. Back to square 1. Its not like a have a bunch of cash, what can you guys recommend?

after reading thousands of reviews on 555 and 595 i pulled the trigger on the 595s almost double the price, but i am hoping to use these for years anyways...

revolt i was in your situation, didnt want to spend a whole lot on headphones but after buying 3 cheap ones and returning them all literally the day after i decided to spend a lil more....."and get what I pay for" hopefully these 595s will do the job...

i think with the 595's at almost double the price, the AD700's would be a better choice IMO

i think with the 595's at almost double the price, the AD700's would be a better choice IMO

dam really, I guess ill try them both out and keep the one i like...80 dollars cheaper...thanks.

I would get the ad700's. But they don't have a mic.

dam really, I guess ill try them both out and keep the one i like...80 dollars cheaper...thanks.
You'll get better detail and mids out of the 595s, but the ad700s will have more bass, and all around more fun for gaming. If music is also something you'll be using with your headphones, then the 595s will be better.

I would get the ad700's. But they don't have a mic.
No quality headphones have a mic, besides the beyer gaming cans... but they are in the $1000+ range with decoder. Just get the cheap $10 zalman cord clip on mic and be done with it. Having a built in mic should not be the determining factor for which headphones to get. 99.9% of all headphones that have a built in mic - HEADSETS are junk. You'd be better off spending $100 on a good pair of headphones, then buy the zalman clip on mic for chat.

Crazy. I'll just keep the x2's.

Has anyone played Oblivion with good headphones? What is the quality of surround sound in this game?

Listen to this one fellaz. It's just freaky. I have to get my dolby box asap now. These clips brought my 555's to life.

Matchbox
http://www.holophonic.ch/archivio/testaudio/Cereni%20-%20Holophonic.mp3

And here are a few more. But i loved the matchbox one.

Blowdryer
http://www.holophonic.ch/archivio/testaudio/phon.mp3

Woman in Ear
http://www.holophonic.ch/archivio/testaudio/voce.mp3

Has anyone played Oblivion with good headphones? What is the quality of surround sound in this game?
I use my headphones with my Dolby Headphone receiver all the time with Oblivion. The surround in the game is very good. I can pin point the position of any enemy, flowers that give off sound, or npc in the game. Plus the overall sound in oblivion is great.

You'll get better detail and mids out of the 595s, but the ad700s will have more bass, and all around more fun for gaming. If music is also something you'll be using with your headphones, then the 595s will be better.

Thanks for clarifying, I definitely want to use it for music as wella nd also for some late night movies when everyone is sleeping. the AD700s seems really good as well, I dont know about the color tho...its purple

Listen to this one fellaz. It's just freaky. I have to get my dolby box asap now. These clips brought my 555's to life.


Sounded cool through my 595's as well. That last one would have caused me to jump out of my skin had she yelled or screamed or something at the end. I was bracing myself for impact the whole time.

Listen to this one fellaz. It's just freaky. I have to get my dolby box asap now. These clips brought my 555's to life.

Matchbox
http://www.holophonic.ch/archivio/testaudio/Cereni%20-%20Holophonic.mp3

And here are a few more. But i loved the matchbox one.

Blowdryer
http://www.holophonic.ch/archivio/testaudio/phon.mp3

Woman in Ear
http://www.holophonic.ch/archivio/testaudio/voce.mp3

I believe those are binaural recording.. If so, they crap all over DD 5.1.. & is what I call Audio 3D or audio on crack. Listen to the Jurassic park T Rex sample.. Made me crap myself..

Jurassic park T Rex sample.. Made me crap myself..

Link?

I'm thinking about going with these Tritton AX360. If this is a no no send me a pm..

thanks

Link?

The link was on headfi.. Maybe you can do a search over there, or google it.. Wasn't the greatest Biaural I heard.. But gave me goose bumps & was very convincing..

Link?

Can't find the T rex sample.. But these should sufice.

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f11/binaural-clips-275131/

I believe those are binaural recording.. If so, they crap all over DD 5.1.. & is what I call Audio 3D or audio on crack. Listen to the Jurassic park T Rex sample.. Made me crap myself..
Binaural recording is the ultimate 3D surround sound. It has infinite 3D positioning. I just wish it was used more.

Can't find the T rex sample.. But these should sufice.

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f11/binaural-clips-275131/



I just had to comment on this. I threw on my 595's and clicked the "virtual haircut" link... it took a few seconds for the sound to buffer in... and while I thought I was waiting I heard a door open and I thought for sure my roommate was coming in unannounced (my door is in the EXACT spacial location of where the in-track door sound appears & the volume was a little higher than expected). But let me tell ya...

Incredible. It was so real.. just wow... It seriously made me jump & spin around. The rest of the track was as expected... but the way it came in. Crazy.

amazing

Can't find the T rex sample.. But these should sufice.

http://www.head-fi.org/forums/f11/binaural-clips-275131/

kbi those are all the clips i linked.

kbi those are all the clips i linked.

Ugh.. Sorry..:confused:

Binaural recording is the ultimate 3D surround sound. It has infinite 3D positioning. I just wish it was used more.

Imagine if COD4 had a Biarual soundrack?:).. Games/movies/DVDs are made for speakers.. Even then they can sound great with headphones..

Imagine if COD4 had a Biarual soundrack?
Games soundtracks have to be generated in real time to match whatever happens in the game. You can't use binaural recording to convey the position of a grenade going off or whatever when that grenade can go off anywhere it happens to be tossed, and you could be looking in any direction when it does. The best a game can do is generate that soundtrack using head-related transfer functions and other processing to simulate binarual recording. However, it is unlikely to see console developers reserving processing power for that when only a small fraction of the market will be using headphones. Aside from that, there is still Dolby Headphone.

yeah - but is it even theoretically possible to artificially generate binaural audio?

granted, we are a FRINGE demographic... so it will never happen, but regardless, i wonder how in-gam audio would even be coded to be binaural. seems to me that all the sound clips were empirically recorded... meaning that they were all done in the real world with sound sources moving in relative space around 2 mic's.

seems to me to be a very "analog" (for lack of a better term) procedure.


* edit, apparently kylebisme & i think alike... and in near real-time :)

more binaural clips... mp3 links, a click should load mp/quicktime, you can also right click/save as


pig pen

http://soundtransit.nl/mp3/0044.Aaron_Ximm.Vinales_Pinar_Del.Tobacco_pigs.mp3

wisdom tooth extraction (man that sounds painful)

http://soundtransit.nl/mp3/0483.Nick_Mariette.Sydney.Wisdom_tooth_extraction_in.mp3

random sounds, metal clanging, etc.

http://soundtransit.nl/mp3/0305.Dallas_Simpson.Isle_of_Barra.Binaural_Environmental.mp3

walking brighton pier, arcade sounds etc.

http://soundtransit.nl/mp3/0616.Simon_James.Brighton.Brighton_Pier.mp3

busy berlin intersection, crossing signals, cars, trucks

http://soundtransit.nl/mp3/0238.Patrick_McGinley.Berlin.Crossing_Signals.mp3

slot machines

http://soundtransit.nl/mp3/0680.Brad_Simpson.Niagara_Falls_NY.Slots.mp3

binaural fireworks, with video

http://www.binaural.nl/vuurwerk%20lapersveld%20high%20end%20audio%202.wmv

binaural music video

http://digdagga.com/revolt.html

cool firework clip, flac audio (recommend foobar to play flac)

http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track11.flac

excellent example for music, feels like im sitting in a room and they're playing just for me

http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track01.flac

and a bunch more from the ultrasone sampler if you like this kind of stuff.

http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track02.flac little drum roll solo
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track03.flac applause
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track04.flac choir
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track05.flac piano (rondo allegro)
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track06.flac water from a stream or light waves (sounds great!)
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track07.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track08.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track09.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track10.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track11.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track12.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track13.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track14.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track15.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track16.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track17.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track18.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track19.flac
http://storage.aerith.nl/Ultrasone/Track20.flac

^ those *.flac files are great tracks to demo a set of headphones. good stuff. the application COG works well in OSX.

the matchbook clip i found to be a good test for sound stage too, i've read that some headphones users say the matches sound close behind but far in front, and vice versa, for me the circle sounds almost like a perfect circle, about 8" or so away from my head, and this is how i imagine it was recorded, though thats all speculation

Games soundtracks have to be generated in real time to match whatever happens in the game. You can't use binaural recording to convey the position of a grenade going off or whatever when that grenade can go off anywhere it happens to be tossed, and you could be looking in any direction when it does. The best a game can do is generate that soundtrack using head-related transfer functions and other processing to simulate binarual recording. However, it is unlikely to see console developers reserving processing power for that when only a small fraction of the market will be using headphones. Aside from that, there is still Dolby Headphone.

Yeah.. Never thought about that.. At least there are Biaural recording to listen to..

i was thinking, not everything in game has to be binaural, but seriously, ALL the atmospheric background tracks could be recorded binaurally, i was thinking about this today in call of duty for on the map "wet work" its pouring down rain with some lightning, sounds very flat and unrealistic, and listening to a binaural storm only makes that sound worse... they could easily lay a binaural track in the background and have you choose "headphone" in the audio menu in the options.

Hi guys -

I'm just being a complete ninny in grasping the concept of how these headphones are hooked up. I just bought a brand spankin' new 1080p Samsung TV, so I moved my 360 out to that TV, with my beautiful surround sound, and,....the wife thinks it's too loud. So I need some headphones. As far as connectivity, do they plug into the 360 controller? Do they plug into my audio receiver? Do they somehow interface with the optical cable going from the 360 my receiver?

And am I understanding correctly that they don't have to specify that they are Dolby certified, or do they?

A wireless set would be nice, I've never owned a good set of headphones, so I don't think I'd be too critical if wireless sounds slightly worse than wired.

It sounds like I should go with a set that doesn't have an included mic - so if I wanted a mic, does that just plug into the controller?

I'm looking to stay under $100.

I don't know why this is confusing me. :confused:

Thanks,
Matt

Hi guys -

I'm just being a complete ninny in grasping the concept of how these headphones are hooked up. I just bought a brand spankin' new 1080p Samsung TV, so I moved my 360 out to that TV, with my beautiful surround sound, and,....the wife thinks it's too loud. So I need some headphones. As far as connectivity, do they plug into the 360 controller? Do they plug into my audio receiver? Do they somehow interface with the optical cable going from the 360 my receiver?

And am I understanding correctly that they don't have to specify that they are Dolby certified, or do they?

A wireless set would be nice, I've never owned a good set of headphones, so I don't think I'd be too critical if wireless sounds slightly worse than wired.

It sounds like I should go with a set that doesn't have an included mic - so if I wanted a mic, does that just plug into the controller?

I'm looking to stay under $100.

I don't know why this is confusing me. :confused:

Thanks,
Matt

Wait for some of the Pros in this thread to chime in for you. but for just under $100 look into the sennheiser hd555 and a zalman clip on mic or what others have suggested here by using an earpiece combo used for cell phones like the voice star(radio shack) I just received my senn hd595 yesterday and simply amazed by the sound quality. and yes any mic/earpiece combo you buy has to plug into the xbox 360 controller to chat on XBL

So I need some headphones. As far as connectivity, do they plug into the 360 controller? Do they plug into my audio receiver? Do they somehow interface with the optical cable going from the 360 my receiver?

I'm no headphone pro, but I'll jump in here. :)


If you are looking to go headphone, they will plug into your audio receiver.
The headphone pros will tell you that you need a dedicated headphone amp, and they are probably right for super awesome sound. But that requires more equipment and more connections...and more than $100 total.
The headphones don't say "Dolby Headphone", your audio receiver does. This means that the reciever will encode the 2-channel output from the headphone jack with the mind-fooling surround info that makes the 2 speaker headphones sound like surround. Even though it's "fake surround" it still sounds pretty good. My Yamaha receiver has it's own fake-surround mode that isn't called "Dolby Headphone", but it still sounds good too. Don't be scared of the "fake surround" moniker. Just because it's a DSP fake it still sounds good.
Your headphones plug into your receiver, not the controller.
Your microphone plugs into the controller.
The consensus around here is that $100 will buy a nice set of cans
If your receiver does not have "Dolby Headphone" or the Yamaha thing or one of it's own, you'll have to spend more than a $100 to get 'er done.

I'm no headphone pro, but I'll jump in here. :)


The headphones don't say "Dolby Headphone", your audio receiver does. This means that the reciever will encode the 2-channel output from the headphone jack with the mind-fooling surround info that makes the 2 speaker headphones sound like surround. Even though it's "fake surround" it still sounds pretty good. My Yamaha receiver has it's own fake-surround mode that isn't called "Dolby Headphone", but it still sounds good too. Don't be scared of the "fake surround" moniker. Just because it's a DSP fake it still sounds good.
If your receiver does not have "Dolby Headphone" or the Yamaha thing or one of it's own, you'll have to spend more than a $100 to get 'er done.


Thanks guys. My receiver is a harmon/kardon AVR120. In looking at the manual online, this is the only wording I could find about the audio format via the headphone output:

When only the two front-channel loudspeakers are used, Harman’s patented VMAx mode delivers a three-dimensional sound space with the illusion of “phantom speakers” at the center and surround positions. The VMAx N, or “Near Field” mode should be selected when your listening position is less than five feet from the speakers. The VMAx F, or “Far Field” mode should be selected when your listening position is greater than five feet from the speakers. The VMAx modes are also available using the Headphones Output. When headphones are being used, the Far Field mode will appear to push the sound field away from your ears, reducing the “inside the head” sensation often experienced when using headphones.

Is this what I'm looking for? Also, my input is 1/4" - is this th standard plug size for headphones?

Thanks.

I have a question, If your using a 3.5mm PC mic like the Zalman mic, should you use a...

3.5mm stereo to 2.5mm mono (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062471&cp=2032058&f=Taxonomy%2FRSK%2F2032058&categoryId=2032058&kwCatId=2032058&kw=1%2F8+stereo&parentPage=search) or a...
3.5 mono to a 2.5mm mono (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062457&cp=&sr=1&origkw=3%2F32&kw=3%2F32&parentPage=search) ?

I've already tried a stereo to stereo adapter (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062470&cp=2032058&f=Taxonomy%2FRSK%2F2032058&categoryId=2032058&kwCatId=2032058&kw=1%2F8+stereo&parentPage=search) that I picked up at radioshack but it doesn't work, probably because I plugged a mic in and not a headset.

Also does anyone know what the three-poles (http://www.jkcomputersystems.com/Assets/Pictures/items/MU-HEA-ZM-MIC1.jpg) are for on pc mics? Are they mics themselves in stereo? I know the xbox 360 headsets are also three-pole and use one line for the mic and one for sound coming back to the earpiece. I'm assuming a three pole mic is different as no sound is coming back, correct :confused:? And which adapter should you use on them to plug into a 360 controller? I have a plantronics gamecom 1 (http://www.progamingshop.sk/images/gamecom%201.jpg) headset I'm trying to use with my xbox. Thanks

Ron

i wouldn't think it matters. either should work. that said, i use a Radioshack mono adaptor.

Thanks guys. My receiver is a harmon/kardon AVR120. In looking at the manual online, this is the only wording I could find about the audio format via the headphone output:



Is this what I'm looking for? Also, my input is 1/4" - is this th standard plug size for headphones?

Thanks.
No. Only 400.00 & up HK models support DH.. I checked a while back.. & it would easily state it in the manual like it Does Dobly 5.1, DTS, etc..
Yes

No. Only 400.00 & up HK models support DH.. I checked a while back.. & it would easily state it in the manual like it Does Dobly 5.1, DTS, etc..
Yes

the AVR147 currently sells for $289 and does dolby headphone. also has 2 hdmi inputs, 1080p capability, and faroudja video processing. it is only 5.1 and 40w per channel though, if you want 7.1 and more power you'll need the AVR247, which costs $397 with the same feature set.

Thanks KBI and nerd. Bummer. So to get Dolby sound out of a set of phones, I'm looking at either a new receiver or a separate headphone amp, correct? I'm not thrilled at the idea of a new receiver, but is that cheaper than a headphone amp with Dolby? Can you point me in the direction of an inexpensive amp?

Thanks.

Thanks KBI and nerd. Bummer. So to get Dolby sound out of a set of phones, I'm looking at either a new receiver or a separate headphone amp, correct? I'm not thrilled at the idea of a new receiver, but is that cheaper than a headphone amp with Dolby? Can you point me in the direction of an inexpensive amp?

Thanks.

http://www.astrogaming.com/equipment/index/ct/3/id/5

The link above is to the Astro MixAmp. It is a small Dolby Headphone Receiver. It is different then a dedicated headphone amp.

Audio Technica AD700's would be a great set of headphones in your price range as well...

the AVR147 currently sells for $289 and does dolby headphone. also has 2 hdmi inputs, 1080p capability, and faroudja video processing. it is only 5.1 and 40w per channel though, if you want 7.1 and more power you'll need the AVR247, which costs $397 with the same feature set.

really? I checked all the HK models at their website. Cool. I stand corrected..

Thanks hammer. It's still getting a little more pricey than I was hoping. If I were to buy a $75 set of phones and use the headphone out on my receiver, without a separate headphone receiver/amp, am I really missing out on alot?

Thanks hammer. It's still getting a little more pricey than I was hoping. If I were to buy a $75 set of phones and use the headphone out on my receiver, without a separate headphone receiver/amp, am I really missing out on alot?
That would work just fine, but you'd be missing the Dolby Headphone 5.1 surround. That makes a huge difference to me. It makes the soundstage 10 fold larger, and 3D sound placement is pin point accurate.

Alright guys, I think I'm ready to throw down for the Beyer DT 880's, the semi-open design is clinching it for me...is there a specific model year/type that is better than others, or anything like that? Looking onling, I've noticed a few different images for supposedly the same item, so it's kind of confusing. Thoughts?

Make sure you get the 2005-06 version. They look like this:

http://www.proaudio.com/images/beyerdynamic_dt880.jpg


Do not get the 2003 version, they look like this:

http://img2.zol.com.cn/product/3_450x337/631/cea8ufZ65J7pM.jpg

Pay notice particularly to the difference in headbands.

So I bought the Turtle Beach X3 headphones. Needless to say I am not impressed. If I was just using them for general gaming they would probably be OK.

I love the general form factor, the wireless with the built-in MIC. But the sound quality sucks.

I play Rock Band. So I am actually mostly listening to music and you can really hear the lacking SQ when listing to songs you enjoy.

Are there better SQ options out there? I need wireless with a built-in mic. I don't want to go the "clip-on" mic route (at least I would rather not).

Alright guys, I think I'm ready to throw down for the Beyer DT 880's, the semi-open design is clinching it for me...is there a specific model year/type that is better than others, or anything like that? Looking onling, I've noticed a few different images for supposedly the same item, so it's kind of confusing. Thoughts?

The 05 model is a nice improvement over the 03 model.. But if cash is really tight the 03 will still deliver & can be had for 150. The 05 beyers 220 or lower..They retail for 489.00..

really? I checked all the HK models at their website. Cool. I stand corrected..

i actually wasnt trying to correct you, and msrp on those models IS over 400 MSRP, but we all know that nobody in their right mind pays msrp.... but my post was mainly in addition to yours, getting info out there, other readers may be interested in dolby headphone while looking for an AVR or the like.

http://www.astrogaming.com/equipment/index/ct/3/id/5

The link above is to the Astro MixAmp. It is a small Dolby Headphone Receiver. It is different then a dedicated headphone amp.

It sounds like the Astro Amp does everything the JVC SU-DH1 does and more:eek:. I just ordered the JVC Dolby headphone receiver from audiocubes - do you think I should return it and instead get the Astro Amp? I'll be using it for 360 mainly, and the mixing of voice and game sound sounds like a really helpful feature......

the mixing of voice and game sound sounds like a really helpful feature......

this is why i chose the mixamp over the JVC, even though the JVC does DTS and i dont think the mixamp does. the ability to mix voice/game sounds on the fly is my main concern for games that dont allow you to adjust volume levels. add in the amplification circuitry for the mixamp, and you can easily justify the slightly higher price, IMO

this is why i chose the mixamp over the JVC, even though the JVC does DTS and i dont think the mixamp does. the ability to mix voice/game sounds on the fly is my main concern for games that dont allow you to adjust volume levels. add in the amplification circuitry for the mixamp, and you can easily justify the slightly higher price, IMO

Agreed. Especially for gaming.

I went ahead and sent an email to audiocubes asking them to cancel the JVC order, and I'll try to call them Monday (although they might not be open for Presidents day...) The order is still processing so it should be okay.

I preordered the A40 Mixamp, I guess they're not available until late March according to their site. I think it will be good as I have a Zalman mic on the way, and I'll be able to use it with my nicest pair of headphones - AKG 240's - to play live, and actually be able to hear voice.

Until then I'll just have to keep using my ipod earbuds with 360 headset ontop of them cranked up all the way :(.

which game are you playing? with most games you should be able to wear your akg's and wear the headset around your neck (for mic functionality)

if you set the voice options to play through speakers, they will play through your headphones, and you only need to turn the game soundtrack down so you can hear the voice.

which game are you playing? with most games you should be able to wear your akg's and wear the headset around your neck (for mic functionality).

i have come to prefer this setup versus my clip on mic.

just got the x2's and for 35 bucks i love em.

which game are you playing? with most games you should be able to wear your akg's and wear the headset around your neck (for mic functionality)

if you set the voice options to play through speakers, they will play through your headphones, and you only need to turn the game soundtrack down so you can hear the voice.

That works OK, but the voice still isn't as loud as I'd like, and when the games get loud it overpowers the voice. I'll try the clip-on Zalman and see how it works. For $5.99 I won't cry too much if it's no good.

I'm looking forward to the A40 mixamp, and seeing how well it actually mixes the voice and game sounds. It will be nice to have the two sounds seperated (not play through speakers) so you can control them independently.

i have come to prefer this setup versus my clip on mic.
The zalman mic works much better then most clip on mic's

I got tired of the MS headset mic slipping down. It is a very ghetto setup, imo. The MixAmp is the best way to go for chat with headphones.

I certaintly prefer the zalman clip on with voice coming through the "speakers," meaning my HD555s, over using the xbox mic around my neck. My Zalman solution just starting having some problems, I think I just have to re-solder the connections, but I have gone back to the headset around my neck. Its just so ghetto and uncomfortable compared to the zalman. I completely forget that the zalman mic is even there usually.

for whatever reason, i prefer having the boom locating the mic near my mouth. it may be just be my mind playing tricks on me - but i would swear i am allowed to talk softer this way.

a large part of the reason i wear headphones at all is discretion & privacy. if i have to "speak with my outside voice" for a clip-on mic to register, it defeats the entire purpose.

Well, I called audiocubes today and they cancelled my order on the JVC SU-DH1 and refunded me the price :).

Now I'm trying to decide if I should spring for the Astro headset/mixamp combo or just get the mixamp by itself and stick with my AKG 240s - or possibly another pair of headphones in the $100-150 price range....

Some people have said the sound on the Astro headset is similiar to the Sennheiser hd555 but I wouldn't know as I've never heard either of them. I don't know how the AKG 240s compare to other sets (especially since they're "studio" headphones), but they are definetly the nicest set I've ever owned.

They were a gift btw - so I don't actually know much about headphones.

I've seen other people recommened Sennheiser HD555s and HD595s as solid choices. How would these compare to the AKG 240s? I'm guessing "studio" means they sound neutral - the AKG website says they "are a good choice for any application requiring uncolored sound".....

...I don't know if this is good or bad for music and games?

I've never tried the AKG 240s, but the AKG K601s are great for gaming. I personally would go with the Astro mixamp along with a quality pair of headphones, instead of the Astro headset.

Interesting ...

http://www.maxconsole.net/?mode=news&newsid=25320


Sennheiser to roll out high end gaming headset for $300

Sennheiser is set to throw out a new high end gaming set at a retail price of £149.99 (nearly $300). The PC 350 headset promises to add a new dimension to gaming with the 'most accurate sound positioning and finest sound quality' available in the gaming business.

PRESS RELEASE: Sennheiser Communications PC 350

Mega High-end Gaming Headset £149.99

The PC 350 headset adds a new dimension of reality to gaming, with the most accurate sound positioning and finest sound quality available in the gaming market.

- Cutting edge advantage for Gamers
- Significantly sharpens reaction time
- Tuned to optimise Binaural Perception
- Closed design to isolate and focus
- Full Sennheiser Hi-fi sound for music use
- Robust high-tech design
- Also use for Skype and all PC communications

A round-the-ear, closed type headset, the PC 350 shuts out disturbing noises from the environment. That combined with the special shaping of the frequency response improves gamers ability to detect where a sound comes from.

This helps significantly sharpen reaction time, giving players a built in advantage over the competition. "When talking with your team or when listening for the enemy, the quality of your headset makes a difference." says an online gamer.

And as practicing for the next match takes a lot of hours, the PC 350 is designed with extra large ear cushions for outstanding wearing comfort during long sessions.

- Closed type, circumaural PC gaming headset
- Superior passive attenuation of ambient noise
- Frequency response optimized for Binaural Perception
- Large 38mm high-power drive unit
- Powerful Neodymium Iron magnets

- Large size ear cups for comfort during long gaming sessions
- Passive attenuation of up to 32 dB
- Large size microphone for highest intelligibility
- Noise-cancelling mic design

- Patented Sennheiser Duofol Diaphragm technology
- Adaptive baffle damping for deep clean bass

- Collapsible for easy transport
- Volume Control with microphone mute
- Connects to virtually any PC sound card

Headphone
- Speaker Type Dynamic 38 mm driver, Nd magnet
- Frequency Response 10 Hz – 26,000 Hz
- Impedance 150 Ohms
- Sensitivity 108 dB SPL
- Distortion < 0.1%

Microphone
- Pick-up Pattern Noise Cancelling
- Frequency Response 50 Hz . 16,000 Hz
- Sensitivity -38 dBV at 94 dBSPL

- Cable Length 3 m
- Connectors Two 1/8” / 3.5 mm plug

i'll pass... expensive, small soundstage (closed cans), small drivers, no DH processor or equivalent, no amp, etc etc etc.

astro gaming comes in cheaper, is available now, would bet that it's more "stylish" if you're into that sort of thing.

i'll pass... expensive, small soundstage (closed cans), small drivers, no DH processor or equivalent, no amp, etc etc etc.

I agree. Seems like too much $ for too little.

i'll pass... expensive, small soundstage (closed cans), small drivers, no DH processor or equivalent, no amp, etc etc etc.

astro gaming comes in cheaper, is available now, would bet that it's more "stylish" if you're into that sort of thing.

Closed doesn't necessarily mean small soundstage.. The JVCX1000 is closed but gulfs the AKG 701 in regards to sound stage & spaciousness.. But for the most part open does give you a better sense of sound stage.

Just my two cents -
I've been using the Trittons for over 4 months now. I was looking for an all-in-one package, something that wasn't wireless and included a built-in microphone. They sound good when turned up to a normal listening level, but some times I prefer to turn them down at night. For some reason, they suffer from a little distortion when turned down. Peaks in audio are completely cut off. However, when dialed back up, everything is fine again.

I can't wear them for too long since they are quite heavy. One hour at the most, but you can chalk that one up to my puny neck. Hopefully you can fare better.

The mic is sends a clear signal. Much more so than the Microsoft headset.

If you really need an all-in-one headset, this is a pretty decent choice. I would probably buy them again, but simply because there isn't much more choice out there.

Just my two cents -
I've been using the Trittons for over 4 months now. I was looking for an all-in-one package, something that wasn't wireless and included a built-in microphone. They sound good when turned up to a normal listening level, but some times I prefer to turn them down at night. For some reason, they suffer from a little distortion when turned down. Peaks in audio are completely cut off. However, when dialed back up, everything is fine again.

I can't wear them for too long since they are quite heavy. One hour at the most, but you can chalk that one up to my puny neck. Hopefully you can fare better.

The mic is sends a clear signal. Much more so than the Microsoft headset.

If you really need an all-in-one headset, this is a pretty decent choice. I would probably buy them again, but simply because there isn't much more choice out there.

http://www.astrogaming.com/equipment/

The Astro Mixamp looks fantastic. Question though... is it only powered through the mini-USB? Doesn't look like they're providing a 110V adapter for it.

Is the USB port on the XBXOX 360 powered? Could that serve as the power supply?

The Astro Mixamp looks fantastic. Question though... is it only powered through the mini-USB? Doesn't look like they're providing a 110V adapter for it.

Is the USB port on the XBXOX 360 powered? Could that serve as the power supply?All USB is powered. You can use the 360 as a source although the cable run might be a pain. You can also use a cheap 110v to miniUSB charger (http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Travel-Charger-Phones-Packaging/dp/B0009H2M1Y).

Yeah the astro's do look really slick, I bet they are really hard to get though. I get the impression from the site they aren't producing very many and the pre-order and shopping cart don't work. Would love to check em out though as the Trittons didn't work out so well for me.

http://www.astrogaming.com/equipment/
Heh, they say:
PC Gamers benefit by offloading surround decoding and voice communication duties to the A40 system.
I'd be warry of any company making such bogus claims.

All USB is powered. You can use the 360 as a source although the cable run might be a pain. You can also use a cheap 110v to miniUSB charger (http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Travel-Charger-Phones-Packaging/dp/B0009H2M1Y).

Wow, that IS cheap... :)

I have noticed though -by personal experience- not all miniUSB chargers charge all miniUSB-devices. I guess some devices require 3.5V, others 5V or whatever. This while they all had miniUSB ports.