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Plantronics GameCon 777
7.1 Dolby Technology Surround Sound Gaming Headset
Plantronics release the latest accessory
for the battle hardened gamer... the GameCon 777 which creates
the perfect wildcard for online gamers that will hopefully give them an
edge over their competitors. Not only is the GameCon 777 quite
affordably priced but it offers the user some exceptional sound quality
and more specifically, 7.1 Dolby Technology for some truly immersive
audio.
Firstly, let's get to the design. In terms
of design, the GameCon 777 features a modern design that is relatively
quite light. One issue that I did notice is that headphones are a little
tight around the ears but in turn, this does block a little of the
outside noise which is sometimes an imperative for gaming sessions.
Even so, the cushioning on the headband and
around your ears is quite comfortable. And like the good folk of
Plantronics says... it has a Military style of design which I could
whole heartedly agree. The longest gaming session with the GameCon 777
was around 3 hours for me and although it was not uncomfortable, I was
however glad to take them off for a breather.
The headphones also boast a
noise-cancelling microphone that easily flips down in order to
communicate with your gaming buddies. After testing the title with a few
PC based first person shooters, my team mates had no issues in hearing
me and best of all, it did not hamper the audio experience of the game
itself. I like it how you can easily flip it up or down.
There is also a removal clip on the
microphone cable in order to prevent interference from the cable and an
in-line volume and mic-mute control that is positioned quite well and is
easily accessible. As the headset is an open headset, this allows
outside noise to be heard through the headphones and although there is
no noise cancellation here, it does a relatively good job for an open
eared headset.
In terms of outputs, the GameCon 777 has 2
gold plated 3.55mm plugs which allows it to be connected to other audio
devices such as an iPhone or for more old fashioned PC users, through
the audio out and microphone in connection. Best of all, this cable is
quite long and measures around 6.5 feet which 192 centimetres in metric.
As mentioned, the 3.55mm plugs are ideal for non PC products such as an
iPod or some other device which does not support USB. However when the
USB is connected to your PC, it turns the headphones into a 7.1 Dolby
Sound Card.
This creates the illusion of 7.1 Dolby
surround sound thanks to the USB adapter which connects the 3.55mm plugs
and then into your PC. First person shooters sound great using the
GameCon 777 and you really get this sense of "surround sound" for lack
of better words. Whether it was hearing an explosion going off in the
distance or shrapnel whizzing past your head, it was a rather cool
experience. Need for Speed was another fun experience from the sounds of
tyres skidding on roads to the roar of the engine and that ever so fun
soundtrack.
Apart from gaming, music was another treat
with these headphones and everything sounded quite clear. The lyrics
were crystal clear as were the instruments. The bass of the headphones
are quite good as opposed to some other brands which pump out too much
bass. Overall, for me, it was just right.
With one year warranty and Mac
compatibility, the Plantronics 777 is a good piece of audio technology
that boasts decent sound, some great features and more importantly, good
use of 7.1 Dolby thanks to the onboard sound card. If you're in the
market of an affordably priced headset that offers decent quality, than
you would be hard pressed to find something better at this price.
Definitely worth investigating!
Highlights
- Dolby® Headphone technology
delivers a virtual 7-channel audio experience.
- Dolby® USB sound card is the only
way to get the 7.1 experience.
- Open-ear design keeps you connected
to the game and your surroundings.
- Concealed mic boom stays hidden
until you’re ready to use it.
- Specially designed earpods
redistribute pressure for maximum comfort.
- In-line volume and mic-mute
controls allow for easy audio adjustment
- Noise-canceling microphone lets you
communicate clearly.,
- Rugged, military-grade design and
extra-strength cables make your hardware hardcore.
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