Headphone News

I4U News have a review of the Genius HS-04U gaming headphones and rate them as a pretty good 7 out of 10. Designed to connect to a spare USB port for use without a sound card, the Genius headphones are a budget choice at $39.99.

The review mentions some nice features like the back-lit volume control and they are described as being comfortable to wear. The sound is also rated as decent but a bit lacking in the bass department. Overall they seem a reasonable purchase for those short on money but there are better options for those willing to pay a bit more.

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The Tech Lounge are the latest to review the Razer Barracuda HP-1 gaming headphones, and like the CNET review find the sound quality to be lacking on these ‘phones.

Although both reviewers were disappointed by the non-gaming sound of these full size cans, the Tech Lounge review had a much bigger problem with the in-game sound finding it subdued and weak. Based on these two reviews, it might be advisable to try the Barracuda’s before you buy them, if at all possible.

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Headphones for gaming are quite a different beast from headphones for listening to music. If you’re looking for a new set of headphones to use for playing games here are some of the features you should look out for:

Comfort - Perhaps the most important thing about gaming headphones is that they are comfortable. The last thing you want to do during an intense gaming session is to have to stop due to uncomfortable headphones. Padding is vital here, but at the same time you don’t want them to be too warm. It’s a difficult compromise but, if it’s done right, you should be able to wear the ‘phones for hours without discomfort.

Bass - Although all-round good sound quality is important in gaming, for me it’s the bass that really makes the experience. High-quality, powerful bass can immerse you in a game. There’s nothing like really feeling the bullets fire during a first-person shooter.

Cable length - The length of your headphone cable seems a strange thing to mention but for gaming it really is important. If it’s too short you’ll be too close to your screen but if it’s too long then tangling may become a problem. For me, 2 meters works well but headphones with a number of variable length detachable cables is ideal.

Adaptability - If you’re only using the headphones for gaming then this isn’t really a consideration. However if, like a lot of people, you’ll also be using your headphones for music and watching movies, you’ll need a good all-round performer. Some headphones even have separate gaming and non-gaming modes to ensure the best sound in all circumstances.

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