Plantronics GameCom 318 PC/Gaming Headset

I've never written an Amazon review before, but I thought these headphones deserved one. I'm hardly a connoisseur when it comes to audio equipment, but these are the best PC headphones I've ever owned, or indeed ever used. I play a lot of FPS games, and the sound quality and 7.1 Dolby surround sound is phenomenal, especially for the price. I was initially tempted by a considerably more expensive pair of Sennheiser or Audio-Technica headphones, but I'm glad I didn't shell out for them.I'm sure that for audiophiles and music lovers who are fussy about their headphones, these are probably insufficient, but if you're a gamer (or casual user) who's looking for a good value headset which gives incredibly specific feedback, I really can't recommend these enough. They're extremely comfortable, and don't hurt my ears or the top of my head after prolonged gaming sessions. The microphone is brilliant, too; I've had several people comment on how clear my voice sounds in-game. They feel like good quality headphones, too; sturdy, solid and not liable to snap in half. The wire is plenty long enough for my needs, and the software that comes with the headphones is minimal and unobtrusive. It gives you the option to have Dolby on or off (I'm not sure why you'd have it off), and on whether you want to set it to Gaming/Movie mode or Music mode.It's worth quickly pointing out two things. 1) You need to install the software BEFORE you plug the headphones in, and 2) To activate 7.1 surround sound, you need to configure it in Control Panel/Sound, as by default it's set to 5.1.For the £39 I paid for them at the time, I feel like I've picked up an absolute bargain. To be honest, if I'd paid double that price, I'd still feel like they were good value. It doesn't feel like you're getting a pair of cheap headphones which do the job; it feels like you've got an expensive pair of headphones at a steal. Highly recommended.

Many users of headsets tend to work in telecommunications and therefore require a basic headset. This can lead many companies of gamer headsets to take the easy route and focus on quality audio and compromise on the microphone or vice versa. I have had many headsets; Logitech, Sony and Creative to name a few. But none have succeeded yet in mastering each basic function never mind surpass it.TILL NOW!1) Audio Quality - This beast pulls out up to 7.1 virtual Dolby Surround Sound. Now some critics say that it's not 'true' Dolby Surround. Yes, but could you tell the difference? I tried to and couldn't. The box includes a CD which has software you will need to install, but I advise those with problems in other reviews to go to the website and download the latest version:[...] (Version 2 at the time of writing) to fix applications switching when using the on board volume function. Yes, this headset has all the necessary buttons to keep you from switching back to desktop to fiddle with settings. A mute switch on the back left earphone, a volume control with nifty differentiating sound so you know when your sound is going up or down, and a blue lit switch which controls the Dolby Surround Sound on or off. (You will need this when talking to friends on skype or if Dolby is enabled they will sound like they are behind you). The audio quality of the actual headphones surpasses my Sony headset which I paid 100 euros for, and that's not even a gamer headset! There is two settings on the program; one for gaming/movie mode and another for music.2) Mic Quality - Absolutely perfect. In tests my voice comes out crystal clear, the microphone succeeds in cancelling out background noise so if you're furiously gaming, your buddies won't get exasperated by the constant tapping. The mic stick can raise up or down (but not backwards dont try that). The stick also has one of the best flexible and staying properties I have ever come across. You will no problem bending it to your mouth and expecting it to stay because it will! Many other headsets lack this vital function.3)Comfort - Be still my beating heart! If hats were this comfortable to wear I'd wear one all the time! You forget to even notice that you are wearing a headset. The plush crushed velvet padding set on both headphone ear piece and top is very thick and beautifully made. This shouts quality from the highest peak. The earpieces swivel 180 degrees so they can lay flat against your chest while wearing them around your neck. They also can extend from the metal arms so even the biggest of heads can enjoy the experience (myself being one).4)Aesthetics - One of the best looking, original headsets I've ever come across. They resemble 60's/70's studio headphones so you will look more like John Lennon than a worker bee at a cold call centre. The black and red design work beautifully, and the wire to USB lead is a nice red and feels of great quality. The squareness of the earpieces really work too, much easier to take off and make a perfect 'enclosing the ear' effect (not of all of us have tiny ears!)10/10. Get one while the Amazon offer lasts, but I would still pay 100 euros easily for this knowing a headset works like this and surpasses its build quality. The 2 year Limited Warranty speaks volumes!