Headphones vs Gaming headset

AshB1989 · 27 Jun 2020 at 08:36

Hi all,

I am sick of buying gaming headsets and being disappointed with the sound. I have tried Razer X Kraken tournament, Turble Beach 200 and now SteelSeries 5. I haven't been overly impressed with any of them so now in considering getting some Senheiser 4.50 headphones and a standalone mic.

Would Seinheser headphones be suitable for gaming?

bazzabear · 27 Jun 2020 at 08:47

I can't directly answer your question, but this might be helpful nonetheless:

If you want Sennheiser stuff, check out their outlet store. Sells supposedly B grade stuff, but I've bought two items from there and they've both (in terms of the item and the packaging) been indistinguishable from brand new. Some very good deals to be had there.

AshB1989 · 27 Jun 2020 at 09:02

I've found some new Hd 4.50 BTNC wireless for 55£, but want to be sure they're good for gaming.

GTiPUG · 27 Jun 2020 at 18:12

Beyerdynamic DT770/1770 with modmic or clip on mic for me. Every day of the week.

Tried same headsets as you and they always suck, especially that whole "yeahhhhhh bro 7.1 surround for da gun fights!! Super accurate!!". Nothing a good stereo setup can't beat.

EsaT · 27 Jun 2020 at 22:35

AshB1989 said:
I've found some new Hd 4.50 BTNC wireless for 55£, but want to be sure they're good for gaming.

They're tuned more for fashion and "warmer" sound than accuracy and have lacking upper end.
https://www.innerfidelity.com/images/SennheiserHD450BTNCWiredPassive.pdf
https://www.innerfidelity.com/images/SennheiserHD450BTNCWirelessNCoff.pdf
So not great for details in gaming.

Also they aren't full size "circumaural" cans, but smaller putting pressure on ears and probably aren't that comfortable for long term listening.

Ryanr1987 · 28 Jun 2020 at 00:54

I've never heard them but apart from a few phones, Sennheiser stuff isn't great, especially their recent stuff. Those measurements suggest very warm, thick so not ideal for spaciousness, mid-treble clarity and focus for gaming, for music it's to taste.

I'll keep it simple, aim for a DT770 for closed. Open K701/702 or if you want easy to drive, X2, KSC75, HD598(599 was crap the last time I heard it)

Guest2 · 28 Jun 2020 at 11:40

Budget and what headphone amp/soundcard/DAC do you have?
What environment will you be in? i.e. to determine if closed headphones are needed or open.

Open (leak sound) so you may not want to use them if you are in the same room as someone trying to be quiet or if they are being really noisy, as you can hear outside noise.

Closed (do not leak sound) but sound stage is not as wide and for me at least tend to boil my ears which get really hot from wearing closed headphones. The latter may just be the type of cups though

I personally have AKG K702 with a VModa BoomPro mic.
Xonar Essense ST soundcard (to drive the headphones)
I have also fitted some foam under the headphone band to spread the pressure on my head

Smithy18 · 30 Jun 2020 at 19:56

Depending on your budget, Astro a50 gen 4 are absolutely incredible. When paired with Dolby atmos you will not be disappointed. Your computer will require an optical out port.