USB-headphones for a computer have a number of undeniable advantages over the usual 3.5 mm (mini-jack) models. The latter work in tandem with the internal (in the system unit / in the laptop case) sound card and are limited by its capabilities. While USB headphones have their own / built-in functionality and are connected according to the Plug and Play principle. In this case, it is completely optional to look for drivers or some other software.
Another important feature of USB headphones is the presence of a built-in amplifier with a digital to analog converter. That is, the sound here is transmitted in the "figure", and this is already a kind of independent acoustic system. The advantages of this format are quite obvious - this is the sound quality with volumes, and advanced functionality that can be controlled directly from the headphones, and ease of use in general. In addition, some headphones with a mini-USB port can easily connect to mobile gadgets, which again throws a stone in the garden of the usual 3.5 mm devices.
Such devices are primarily of interest to gamers and those who spend a lot of time at the computer. The compact and wireless USB headphones with microphone enable, for example, video conferencing,presentations and not sit still, but move around the room, showing some graphs with calculations on the board. Well, it is very important for gamers that all the basic settings, including sound ones, are always at hand. And this is exactly what USB gaming headphones provide.
Today's market offers a wide range of devices of this kind, and if professionals still somehow navigate all this diversity, then it is very difficult for beginners to choose the right option. We will try to identify the best models of USB headphones, which are distinguished by their high-quality component and a large number of positive reviews from users. All the options described below can be found both in offline and online stores, so there should be no problems with “feeling”.
Plantronics GameCom 780
These are USB headphones with a microphone for computers from a well-known and well-established manufacturer. This model can be called a full-fledged gaming headset with advanced functionality. Headphones distinguished themselves by quite an adequate price in comparison with competing analogues.
Separately, it is worth noting the surround sound mode. Here it is implemented very qualitatively: all musical parts are well distinguished, and the volume itself is felt in full. Of course, these USB headphones are far from advanced models with exceptional sound frequency, but the price is clearly not conducive to the highest quality.
Ergonomic model at a high level. All the main elements are located on one cup, and manage themvery comfortably. In their appearance, the headphones are like a mixture of the 70s and the future. Color accents are placed quite competently and do not cause hostility. In general, the design was a success, and a good half of the users are delighted with it.
Features of the model
The microphone in the USB headphones works perfectly: it cuts off third-party noise, transmits a sound that is understandable to the interlocutor and has competent control. Actually, more is not required for gaming models. Also worth noting are very comfortable ear pads made of fabric. Ears practically do not get tired of them. Of course, they collect dust and dirt faster than leather options, but they are easy to wipe and clean.
Of the minuses, mediocre sound insulation can be noted. Despite the closed form factor, people around hear the sounds coming from the headphones well. Some users also sometimes complain about the performance of the model: sometimes the cup mounts break or the microphone mute button stops working. But these shortcomings are extremely rare and only after at least a year of use (usually negligent), so it is difficult to call them critical.
The approximate cost of headphones is about 2500 rubles.
Creative Sound Blaster EVO ZxR
This model can be called a full-fledged wireless headset, because the headphones can be connected both via a regular 3.5 mm mini-jack and via a Bluetooth protocol using a USB adapter. All the necessary technical components are here - a sound card and built-in software.
Despite the fact that the manufacturer does not position the model as a gaming one, it looks like a very gaming one, from appearance to functionality. The surround sound mode is fully implemented here, so there are no questions to it. There is also active noise reduction, which allows you to fully focus on what is happening on the monitor screen and not disturb others.
Headphone features
We should also mention the presence of such a useful "chip" as TalkThrough. On the headphone case there is a special key, by pressing which you begin to hear the world around you. Such a decision will come in handy if someone turns to you on the street or if they try to tear you away from saving the virtual world with a lunch break.
Of the minuses, one can note not the most understandable control and selection of tools for adjusting settings. Here we are offered something like an equalizer, coupled with a branded and original application. Those who have previously worked with conventional filters and familiar frequency sliders may not like such “originality”. Moreover, the cost of the model is clearly not designed for the average consumer.
The approximate price of headphones is 12,000 rubles.
Sony MDR-1ADAC
Despite the fact that the brand positions the model as USB headphones for the phone and promotes them in every possible way along with its Xperia smartphones, a good half of users use them with equal success on computers and laptops.
One of the most remarkable features of the device is an extremely high quality, as well as an efficient tandem of an amplifier and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Such a set allows you to calmly digest any music and tracks at the highest bitrate. Music lovers are very flattering about the model and consider it, if not top, but certainly not average consumer.
Distinctive features of headphones
Among the obvious advantages, in addition to high-quality output sound, one can note the exceptional build quality, as well as the practicality of the headphones. The manufacturer prudently included a large number of adapters, adapters and cables in the package. There is the usual 3.5 mm mini-jack, Lighting for "apple" gadgets, a cord for Walkman players and other adapters.
There are no cons as such, and the only critical drawback that cannot be attributed to the technical part is the price. Yes, the model turned out to be far from cheap, but excellent quality has never been distinguished by low prices.
The approximate cost of the model is 15,000 rubles.
Audio-Technica ATH-ADG1
This is already a premium segment, we are talking about a model without any compromises - exceptionally high quality and professional. Full-size headphones with open acoustic design are made on the basis of the last, no less successful generation - ATH-AD700x. Music lovers left completely positive reviews about the latest model, but here we get an excellent base plus work on the mistakes of past series.
The tandem of the DAC and amplifier allows you to fully realize the Hi-Fi sound, which cannot be faulted, can only be praised. The output sound is detailed and natural. The capabilities of the headphones allow you to work with any scene, and without the involvement of some virtual parties, which sin the devices of the middle price segment.
Device Features
Users separately note the convenience of the model. To some inexperienced consumers, the design of the headphones may seem at least strange, but after trying everything on, everything fits just perfectly. They can work, play and chat for hours on end. All external structural elements are thought out to the smallest detail, and the model itself, according to consumers, has very high ergonomic performance.
As a small fly in the ointment here is the function of muffling the microphone. Some users in their reviews complain about this decision. To mute the sound, you must constantly hold the button, instead of pressing it once. The decision is rather ambiguous and some did not like it. Well, the cost of the model, of course, can not be called low. Exceptional quality always goes hand in hand with an exceptional price. And in this case, she is fully justified.
The approximate price of the model is about 21,000 rubles.
Summing up
When choosing devices of this kind, you must first determine your needs. If you are an avid and picky about soundgamer, then the best option would be models in the mainstream segment, that is, more than 10 thousand rubles. Pretentious music lovers without further ado understand that exceptional sound can only be achieved with headphones from the premium segment, that is, the price will be in the region of 20 thousand rubles or more.
Those who need a device for camera work, regular communication via video messengers or just listening to music from mobile gadgets, more mundane options of the budget segment will fit perfectly. At the same time, it is not necessary to overpay for the exclusivity of the DAC and amplifier. But it’s also not worth going down to the ultra-budget segment if you don’t want to burden your ears with cacophony, squeaks and other entourage, which is typical for frankly cheap devices.
