On test: Xbox 360 headsets from Tritton and Plantronics

We've been putting two xBox 360 headsets to test over the last month, so in order to give you the low down on each of them and make a comparative decision we've done a head to head overview - giving you both the positive and negative points of these two headsets.

So let's begin - the two headsets in this test are the Tritton AX 120 and the Plantronics GameCom X95

So let's give you the run down and overview of the Tritton AX120 first:

The Tritton AX 120 is powered by USB, the AX120 outputs the game and chat audio through the two tuned speakers. You can adjust your chat volume and voice volume separately on-the-fly allowing you to optimise your audio-experience.  

The Tritton AX 120 works with the Xbox 360 and PC for gaming but can also be used to attach to your MP3 player (adapter dependant), the mic is removable so this doesn't look stupid when listening to music. 

If you want to connect to any of the above, the box contains multiple wires and more than likely will contain the wire you need.  It has an audio input adaptor for Xbox which you use if you connect by HDMI cable, a cable to split the audio into AV for connecting to Xbox or TV. 

I tested this on both my Xbox and my PC and for the most part it worked well - although the mic wouldn't work on my PC and the top volume however, shouldn't be used as it produces a volume the headset just can't cope with and quality is lost. The headset still works if you take out the high volume which is OK if you're playing a game where low volume will suffice and if you like to play your music at a decent level - not ear blasting. . 

If you've chosen to buy a wired set of earphones then I guess the wires issue won't be the same for you, but in days of wireless connectivity it bothered me a little. The big plus about this set of headphones is that Tritton have kindly proved you with all the additional leads you need to connect to other devices, so no additional expense. 

So overall here's the key points of the Tritton AX 120 gaming headset for the Xbox 360.

Positives

·          - What you need is in the box

·          - Works on more than just your Xbox

·          - Fully adjustable head strap

·          - Mic volume and sound volume are separate.

·         -  Mic is detachable so can be put away when not in use

Negatives

·         -  Its wired. You connect the headset and Xbox controller to a little box giving you 2 wires to contend with when playing.

·          - Distance you can sit from the xbox is limited by the wire

·          - Highest volume isn’t needed as the headset can’t cope with it.

·          - Couldn’t get the mic to work on my pc but worked fine on Xbox.

      So onto the second set that was tested the Plantronics GameCom X95 - it's a wireless headset for the Xbox 360. Technically it's not a wireless headset as it plugs into the Xbox controller, but it is wireless from the console.  

 

      

      The freedom from the console did mean that I enjoyed using these headphones that and the fact they are also comfortable to wear. I could sit back on my sofa and play without tying myself up in leads - although I am looking forward to testing a wireless headset and controller is created for the Xbox  - like that for the PS3. I did almost fall asleep whilst watching a film with these on, which shows how comfy they are. Although the mic isn't detachable like that of the Tritton it can be very well hidden inside the head strap for easy, discreet storage when not in use.      

      What does let this down quite a bit is the fact that if you want to connect via HDMI which most of us does - you have to purchase an additional audio input to get sound.

Positives

·         -  Wireless (away from the console) and I did manage to walk in next room before loss of sound

·          - Sound quality good

·          - Comfy on the ear.

·          - Mic stores in head strap

·         -  Controls on the ears to decrease and increase volume

  

Negatives

·        - If you connect by HDMi cable you will need to buy an audio input for the Xbox to get sound.

·        - If you like very loud to ear bleeding volume your out of luck.

·         -  Batteries are required for the headset but it is wireless so you have to expect this.

So which of the two did I prefer  - well I have to give it to the Plantronics GameCom X95. I liked these and the ease they give to walk around and over react without fear of injury from a wire was great. Having to buy an additional part to use was a bit of a let down as a lot of people will connect by HDMI cable. However the wireless freedom gives greater benefit that a small additional outlay so out of these two headset my recommendation goes to the Plantronics GameCom X95 but the Tritton AX 120 is a great starter headset for anyone who doesn't move too much when playing the Xbox. 

Prices vary depending on outlets and whether you buy in store or online but generally the Tritton AX120 comes in about  £35 - £55 from places such as GamingZap and Argos and the Plantronics from £50 - £75 from play.com and other online outlets.