Turtle Beach Ear Force headset recommendations

[whataboutbob?]

Im looking to get a new headset for my 360 and was thinking about giving Turtle Beach another try. About a yr ago I bought the X2, the first wireless version that they released and was extremely disappointed. The headphones seemed to hiss often or were extremely "staticy".

Ive since moved my 360 into a smaller room and now wired headphones would be an option. I was wondering if someone could give me their take on the X1 series and tell me if the sound quality is any better than the X2's, how long the cord is, etc... or any info on the X3's. If they are quality and worth the money i might shell out the $100 for those. However, I'm not even gonna consider the X4's...paying more for headphones than the system you're using them for just doesnt make sense to a non-audiophile like me . Looking forward to hearing some CAG feedback.

 

[Scobie]

Hey Bob... I just picked up the X1's, and they're fine. I've got enough cable to snake over to my A/V receiver to pick up the audio jacks from my component cable... the cable is 16', which should cover most applications. It's probably worth emphasizing that these won't work with and HDMI set-up.

In terms of audio quality, cranking the volume will produce severe static that even explosions and loud music from the games can't completely mask. However, I've had no problems running them at lower volumes, which is really about all you need... can't imagine turning them up louder than I do for long sessions... the volume would turn your brain to jelly.

The interface with the Xbox mic is slick and works as advertised -- complete control over incoming voice levels, separate from the volume control over the game soundtrack.

Be prepared to live in cable city with these things, though. You'll have one cable from the headset and one cable from the control box (about a foot or so down from the headset) which goes to your Xbox controller.

It's only two cables and only one more than what we've all been used to with a wired headset, but somehow it seems to feel like more.

All in all, I'm pleased with the purchase. For price, performance, functionality, and comfort, the X1's hit the sweet spot. The wireless version for $99 may be appealing to some, but I prefer to avoid wireless audio as it never seems to fulfill the promises on the box.

Hope this helps!

 

[whataboutbob?]

Thanks for the info Scobie. Good to hear feedback about them from a trusted CAG member. I found a site http://www.gamernuts.com/turtle-beach-ear-force-x1-headset-xbox-3601360.html where you can get them for $25, so what the heck I'll give them a try. Thanks!