Headphones - Is more expensive really better?

[pcstru]

The 5 bit yes, but the .1 means subwoofer, as in 1 subwoofer. I think it would make the headphones a bit uncomfortable if they strapped a sub to them. My point is why insist on using "buzz words/numbers" and just call it what it is; [simulated] surround sound.

 

While 5.1 tracks might mix specific track for a sub, bass isn't directional and subs are simply a way to minimise cost and to some extent size in a set-up. A decent set of cans will reproduce bass better than most subs and you still only have two ears!

[Dos_Box]

5.1 surround sound from a pair (as in 2) of headphones. Yep sure. Yet another meaningless number the masses fall for.

 

I have a pair of Speedlink 5.1's (Speedlink SL-8793-SBK-02 Medusa NX 5.1 Surround Gaming Headset: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories)

They are actually quite good and although sold as a gaming headset are excellent for late night DVD watching when the kids have gone to bed and in the office for music and Skype duties. The surround works very well TBH and the in-line volume control gives you the freedom to set the volume over all channels independently and the audio quality cannot be grumbled at given the price.

[Pete10141748]

I have a pair of Skullcandy Hesh, think I paid about £45 from HMV for them

http://www.mytrendyphone.co.uk/images/S6HECZ-079-Skullcandy-Hesh-Shattered-Blue.jpg

 

The noise cancellation is great - I never hear a word my missus is saying while I game on my PC

Wear them for hours at a time, no discomfort at all, plus lifetime warranty from SC if they break

 

The sound is far better than the £10 earphones I got from some-electrical-shop.

[Domino]

The Hesh's aren't actually noise cancelling.

 

what they do have is great isolation, and big fat 50mm drivers.

 

...just sayin'

[exim]

Yes, in my experience expensive is generally better... BUT you have to avoid the silly features, once they start putting useless 'fancy' things like in-line volume controller which add to the cost and add to the wearing out potential, that's where you get trouble.

[Domino]

 

Says it all

 

that chart is missing "makes you look a complete berk" with "Yes" in both columns...

 

Also, if it can't take a 5.1 input then it's not 5.1 IMHO, it's simulated. a stereo jack connection can't provide that.

[Dos_Box]

Mine does have 5.1 connectors, and USB to power it!

[pcstru]

Also, if it can't take a 5.1 input then it's not 5.1 IMHO, it's simulated. a stereo jack connection can't provide that.

 

So me, with only two ears and all, am I getting 5.1 or simulated?

[john]

I have a pair of Speedlink 5.1's (Speedlink SL-8793-SBK-02 Medusa NX 5.1 Surround Gaming Headset: Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories)

They are actually quite good and although sold as a gaming headset are excellent for late night DVD watching when the kids have gone to bed and in the office for music and Skype duties. The surround works very well TBH and the in-line volume control gives you the freedom to set the volume over all channels independently and the audio quality cannot be grumbled at given the price.

 

I have an earlier version of them with the seperate Pre-Amp, was a great set of cans and loved them to bits, but the in-line remote and seperate pre-amp let them down as both broke easily Keep thinking about getting another pair as the surround was brilliant

[pcstru]

So me, with only two ears and all, am I getting 5.1 or simulated?

 

And how might that compare to simulated stereo from a single speaker?

 

Enquiring minds want to know!