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Epos H6Pro wired headset review
7:35 pm | April 6, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Tags: | Comments: Off

It’s tough to compete with the Epos H6Pro in its mid-range price bracket. With its crystal clear, punchy audio, a high quality microphone and plush ear cups, the H6Pro nails the fundamentals of what makes a great gaming headset. If you’re interested in buying the H6Pro for yourself, however, you’ll have one key choice to make.

That’s because the Epos H6Pro has two variants: open and closed. The former boasts a clearer and more accurate sound, with a tradeoff of leaking more audio. That means folks in your vicinity will likely be able to hear what you’re listening to, and you’ll hear your surroundings much clearer. Meanwhile, the closed variant has slightly muddier audio, but does a much better job of blocking out ambient noise and leaks far less. That makes it a great choice for outdoor listening, commuting or for busy households.

More great news: the Epos H6Pro supports all platforms. Whether you’re on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, last-gen consoles or PC, the wired headset will work perfectly. No need to worry about buying a version of the headset that supports your system of choice.

Epos H6Pro: price and availability

You can buy the Epos H6Pro for $179 / £149, either directly from Epos’ online store or from most big box retailers. That’s significantly cheaper than wireless Epos H3Pro Hybrid, and puts it in the ballpark of the Nacon RIG 800 Pro HX. That price point goes for both open and closed variants of the headset, as each share the same build and specs, with the only difference being in acoustics. 

Epos H6Pro: design and features

Epos H6Pro

(Image credit: Future)
  • Very comfy
  • Good build quality for the price
  • Sturdy, adjustable mic

The Epos H6Pro has an unassuming, yet rather pleasing design upon closer inspection. Both open and closed back variants come in three distinct colorways: Green, White and Black (which is actually closer to an indigo shade). Your choice of color purely comes down to aesthetic, with no technical differences here. As a result, feel free to choose a headset based on your favorite color, or one that matches your system of choice.

Both versions of the Epos H6Pro have a near-identical silhouette. The only major difference is the ventilated pads added to the open back variant. These help to keep your ears cooler over long term use. Though as mentioned, this has the tradeoff of leaking audio to your surroundings, as well as making background noise more audible.

The closed back variant doesn’t feature this additional ventilation. That both keeps in and blocks out audio, but your ears will feel warmer – perhaps uncomfortably so for some – during longer sessions. If comfort is a priority for you, then, you may be better served with the open back headset. However, both are perfectly comfortable for shorter listening of gaming sessions.

Both headsets include two separate 3.5mm headphone jack cables. A shorter one for controller use (or for plugging into the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck handhelds), and a longer cable with a splitter that separates audio and microphone input. This can be a little irksome for PC gaming with friends, but it’s certainly nice to have the option available.

One last thing to comment on is the quality of the microphone. Featuring a sturdy, flexible design similar to the H3Pro Hybrid, it’s impressively durable. That’s a good thing, as the mic can be removed from its magnetic attachment if you’re taking the headset out and about, or simply have no need for online voice communication. The headset also comes with protective magnetic plates that fit over the mic slot, so you won’t need to worry about damaging its port.

Epos H6Pro: audio quality

Epos H6Pro

(Image credit: Future)
  • Crystal clear, punchy audio profile
  • Both variants offer slightly different sound
  • Audio leaking makes the open back variant limited in use

Regardless of whether you choose the open or closed back variant, the Epos H6Pro delivers a joyful audio experience that’s richly detailed. Audio is incredibly clear, and also offers accentuating lows for a punchier, impactful sound. The open back H6Pro offers a nice balance here, but as mentioned above, is best enjoyed in an isolated environment due to that leaking audio.

By comparison, the closed back H6Pro offers slightly bassier audio, really leaning into the lows of any given track. This helps certain genres of music, like metal and EDM, absolutely shine. It can lead to an overall muddier soundscape, though; those lows often risk drowning out the mids and trebles. 

Still, the closed back variant does a great job of locking sound into the headset, leaking far less than its open counterpart. It’s the one to buy if you’re after a headset to take out and about as a result.

Having an audio profile of such clarity means the H6Pro is a fantastic headset for gaming, too. Wearing a top-notch headset is a great way to improve your online multiplayer experience, as they can help you become more aware of your surroundings by highlighting distant footsteps, vehicles and gunshots. I found this to be the case in PUBG: Battlegrounds. Over in Gran Turismo 7, the H6Pro helped me listen out for rival motorists trying to cut me off at the apex, and I was able to defend my position much more effectively as a result.

Overall, besides the differences with each variant that’ll come down to personal preference, there’s very little to complain about when it comes to the H6Pro’s sound design. It’s simply one of the best in this department at its mid-range price point.

The only real drawback is that the headset is wired only. However, this does eliminate the possibility of latency or disconnections.

Should I buy the Epos H6Pro?

Epos H6Pro

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You like to have options
Two distinct variants of the H6Pro mean that you can buy the one that suits your preferences. And both sport the exact same price tag.

You’re after fantastic audio
The H6Pro excels in providing a high quality listening experience, no matter which variant you opt for.

You have a mid-range budget
While not exactly cheap, the H6Pro has a competitive price point in its region.

Don't buy it if...

You’re looking for something cheaper
If the H6Pro is a little out of your price range, consider the Sony Inzone H3, another excellent wired headset that comes in under $100 / £100.

You’d prefer a wireless headset
The H6Pro is wired only, so you may wish to consider the brilliant RIG 800 Pro HX or the Epos H3Pro Hybrid if you want to go wireless.

Epos H3Pro Hybrid headset review
12:50 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

There’s very little that the Epos H3Pro Hybrid gets wrong. It delivers on its relatively high price bracket with a suite of high-end features that you typically won’t find with cheaper gaming headsets. It nails the fundamentals, offering superb audio quality, backed up by 7.1 surround sound support, strong active noise canceling and an acoustic seal to blot out unwanted background noise.

If you prize immersion from the best wireless gaming headsets, and indeed the best PS5 headsets, the H3Pro Hybrid is a frontrunner in this regard. It’s supportive of long gaming sessions, too, thanks to cushioned cups and adjustable headband resting snugly on heads of various sizes. Battery life is a standout here as well, offering up to 38-40 hours depending on connection type and features enabled.

Add in a detachable mic that offers crisp vocal output and you’ve got a headset that justifies its asking price. The H3Pro is so good that its only real drawback is that it’s slightly lacking in overall build quality, which is apparent when stacked up against more affordable headsets like the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro or the SteelSeries Arctis 9. Even still, the H3Pro Hybrid won’t easily break under normal circumstances, and is serviceable in this area.

Epos H3Pro Hybrid: price and availability

The Epos H3Pro Hybrid will run you $279 / £239 / AU$399 at retail price, and is available from Epos’ official store page. Separate versions for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S compatibility are available to buy, and both also work with Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth connectivity as well as PC and mobile.

Epos H3Pro Hybrid: design and features

Epos H3Pro Hybrid

(Image credit: Future)
  • Slightly above average build quality
  • Extremely comfy
  • Robust, yet simple button layout

Out of the box, you’d be forgiven for thinking the Epos H3Pro Hybrid isn’t much to write home about. Build quality isn’t quite up to par with competing headsets, and its lightweight nature lends an initial feeling of cheapness. That weightlessness ends up working in the headset’s favor, though, as it rests gently on your head and never irritates. That’s also helped by the cushioned cups and adjustable headband, providing a supreme level of comfort that’s hard to beat.

The box also contains a USB dongle for wireless connectivity, a USB cable, USB-A extension cable and a 3.5mm jack for wired play. It’s a no-nonsense package offering a variety of methods of connectivity that should suit both wireless and wired preferences.

On-headset features aren’t particularly busy, which is great for those looking for a plug-and-play headset. You have the power button, a circular volume slider, ANC (active noise canceling) toggle and ports for wired connectivity. Most interesting is the Bluetooth connectivity button, which doubles as a smart button. By pressing instead of holding, you can switch between multiple EQs. Downloading the Epos Gaming Suite app will also let you switch the smart button’s behavior to a surround sound toggle.

Lastly, the detachable mic can be removed and reconnected magnetically, and an included cover plate will hide the port, keeping the headset looking presentable when you want to go micless. The mic itself is durable and adjustable, making it versatile and doesn’t obscure your view when not in use.

Epos H3Pro Hybrid: audio quality

Epos H3Pro Hybrid

(Image credit: Future)
  • Exceptional sound quality
  • 7.1 surround sound support
  • Top-shelf ANC

Sound quality is certainly the chief reason to buy the Epos H3Pro Hybrid. Not only is the overall auditory experience fantastic, the amount of options the headset grants is seriously impressive.

Typically, my first port of call with any headset is to get a feel for its soundscape. I put the headset through its paces with a few tracks before jumping into a game. I’m happy to say that the H3Pro Hybrid excels for general music listening. The rich, multi-layered electronic sound of mobile game Punishing: Gray Raven sounds divine here, with the headset able to pick up on even the subtlest notes. Similarly, the sweeping overworld melodies of Genshin Impact feel vibrant and alive; the headset’s spatial audio lending an embracing layer of immersion.

The H3Pro Hybrid’s ability to pick up on even the faintest notes works wonders in-game, too. It’s a fantastic headset for absorbing yourself in the hustle and bustle of Cyberpunk 2077’s Night City; its busy streets and back alleys benefiting greatly from 7.1 surround sound. Over to Resident Evil 4’s remake, I’ve never felt more placed into the action than here with the H3Pro Hybrid. The dread-filled ambience of the castle and subtly menacing village sections really come alive here.

Of course, a solid gaming headset is practically a requirement in more competitive environments. And once again, the H3Pro Hybrid is an excellent pick here. The headset’s bespoke BrainAdapt technology hones in on quieter, distant sound effects like footsteps and gunfire. It’s excellent for games like PUBG: Battlegrounds and Warzone 2 where situational awareness is paramount to success.

During use, you may want to enable ANC , too. This helps to almost completely eliminate ambient background noise, allowing you to focus on gaming or listening to music. The feature is excellent on the H3Pro Hybrid, and well worth using if you’re looking to maximize your immersion.

EPOS H3Pro Hybrid: Performance

Epos H3Pro Hybrid

(Image credit: Future)
  • Strong battery life in all modes
  • Near-instant connectivity
  • ANC battery life could be slightly better

The EPOS H3Pro Hybrid puts on yet another strong front in regards to battery life. Via Bluetooth connection with no extras enabled, you’ll get roughly 35-40 hours on a full charge. If you’re using the dongle instead, that drops slightly to around 30-35 hours.

If you want to enable active noise canceling while using the headset, you’ll incur a pretty steep hit to overall battery life, but you’ll still get around 20-25 hours via Bluetooth and approximately 18 hours with the dongle. Overall, battery life is very impressive, but I do wish the headset could squeeze a little more with ANC enabled.

Via both dongle and Bluetooth, I was impressed by the headset’s ability to pair and connect quickly in both scenarios. Headsets like the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 Max and the RIG 800 Pro can take a good few moments to recognize the pairing. But the process was close to instantaneous on the H3Pro Hybrid.

I found that you’re able to walk a good distance away from your connection without audio cutting out, too. A good barometer for me is to walk to my kitchen and make a coffee with the headset on, as it’s a few rooms apart from my home office. Thankfully, the H3 Pro Hybrid maintained connection throughout this process, without cutting out even slightly. I’d say that makes the headset an excellent choice if, say, you’re doing other things at home like chores or preparing food.

Should I buy the EPOS H3Pro Hybrid?

Epos H3Pro Hybrid

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You’re after a seriously powerful gaming headset
The H3Pro Hybrid sounds fantastic, has a good quality mic and a strong wireless connection.

You want an immersive multiplayer experience
With a crystal clear mic and strong directional audio performance, the H3Pro Hybrid works wonders in online multiplayer environments.

You like ANC
The headset’s active noise canceling is some of the best in the business, cutting out unwelcome background noise almost completely.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a tight budget
The H3 Pro Hybrid is an expensive bit of kit. You’ll certainly get your money’s worth, but you may wish to look for a cheaper option if money is an object.

Sony Inzone H3 headset review – Strong sound, flawed design
6:45 pm | March 27, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Tags: | Comments: Off

If you’re after an affordable, workhorse gaming headset then the Sony Inzone H3 is well worth considering. But you will have to do a bit of work to witness the headset at its best. That’s because the Inzone H3’s default sound profile is flat straight out of the box; its lows, mids and highs blending together for an unsatisfying output.

However, when paired with the brilliant Inzone Hub app or the PS5’s 3D audio, the Inzone H3 starts to come alive. The headset boasts fantastic spatial audio for its relatively low price. And the app’s EQ settings, like bass boost and music/video focus, add some much-needed punch for general music listening or immersion and awareness while gaming. Combine that with a crystal clear mic and the Sony Inzone H3 becomes a sound choice for online multiplayer with friends.

It’s a shame that Sony hasn’t sent its best in regards to overall build quality. The headset’s plastic shell feels cheaply made, and the cups dangle in sway in a rather flimsy fashion when not worn. On the flipside, the Inzone H3 does offer a high level of comfort thanks to its headband cushion and soft padding around the cups. Overall, then, the Inzone H3 is a flawed headset that nonetheless continues Sony’s penchant for seriously good sound quality under the right conditions.

Sony Inzone H3: price and availability

The Sony Inzone H3 wired headset can be bought right now for $99 / £89 (around AU$149) either directly from Sony’s website or at most big box retailers. However, the headset is getting close to being a year on the market, initially launching in June 2022. As a result, you may be able to find the Inzone H3 at decent discounts during big sales periods. 

Sony Inzone H3: Design

Sony Inzone H3

(Image credit: Future)
  • Comfy fit
  • Decently long cable
  • Slightly cheap look and feel

You’d be forgiven for feeling a bit let down by the Sony Inzone H3 out of the box. The headset’s off-white plastic feels cheap, and the cups have a habit of swaying flimsily when not being worn. It creates the feel of a headset that requires a delicate touch to avoid wear, tear and breakages.

Thankfully, wearing the headset is a much better experience than its appearance lets on. The Inzone H3 is very comfortable to wear, owing to its cushioned headband and smooth nylon lined cups. The lightweight design also means you’ll barely feel its presence during immersive gaming sessions.

The package keeps things relatively simple. The wired headset can be connected to various devices via 3.5mm headphone jack or, preferably, can be connected to the included audio box for connection via USB. This has the added benefit of extending the cable, too.

The headset’s microphone is a mixed bag, in terms of design. Its build quality is solid, and flips up and down with ease. The mic is automatically muted when in the upright position; a nice touch that saves you from fiddling with settings on your device. Unfortunately, the mic isn’t detachable, making it tough to recommend for outdoor use if you just want to listen to music.

I would’ve liked to see some on-headset functionality with the Inzone H3, but you’re only getting a single volume slider here. Buttons for quick access to EQ selection and spatial audio toggle would’ve been great additions to the headset.

Sony Inzone H3: Performance

Sony Inzone H3

(Image credit: Future)
  • Fantastic spatial audio
  • Punchy EQs
  • Default sound profile falls flat

The Sony Inzone H3 can be used on a wide variety of devices, including PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch. However, you’ll likely want to stick to PC and PS5 here, as the headset’s default sound profile is extremely flat. Lows, mids and highs all blend together rather unsatisfyingly without its more bespoke features enabled.

Thankfully, the Inzone Hub app on PC really allows the headset to shine thanks to spatial audio and EQ sliders that come with a variety of presets. Over on PS5, the Inzone H3 is aided greatly by the console’s proprietary 3D audio setting, lending spatial audio to the headset without needing the app.

Of particular note are the Music/Video and Bass Boost EQ presets. The former provides an overall richer sound. It’s excellent for listening to multi-layered, high production soundtracks. I took this EQ for a spin listening to some of my favorite records, including Bjork’s Debut and Silversun Pickups’ Carnavas – two albums featuring layered and unique soundscapes. The H3 was simply wonderful here, able to bring out the subtleties in each albums’ high quality track list.

The Bass Boost equalizer preset is superb at emphasizing lows, adding some much-needed punch to the Inzone H3’s output. Sonic Frontiersthumping drum and bass tracks really shine here, making blasting through those Cyber Space stages all the more enjoyable.

I’m pleased to report that the Inzone H3’s spatial audio settings work brilliantly, especially for gaming purposes. For atmospheric single player titles like Elden Ring and Returnal, the added layer of immersion the Inzone H3’s spatial audio is able to create is palpable.

Taking the action online, spatial audio does a great job in heightening the awareness of the player, isolating footfalls and bullet trajectory with pinpoint accuracy in games like PUBG: Battlegrounds. The Inzone H3’s mic shines in this environment, too, outputting your voice with a high level of clarity. 

Should I buy the Sony Inzone H3?

Sony Inzone H3

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You’re after a workhorse gaming headset
The Sony Inzone H3’s comfort and excellent mic make it a top choice if you’re looking for a gaming headset for long term use.

You want strong and robust sound settings
If you’re on PC or PS5, you’ll benefit greatly from the Inzone H3’s superb spatial audio and immersive equalizer presets.

You have a mid-range budget
The headset is a solid choice if you’re buying at a mid-range price point.

Don't buy it if...

You want a wireless headset
You’ll want to look elsewhere if you’d prefer a wireless connection, as the Inzone H3 is strictly wired.

You’re after better build quality
The Inzone H3 does lack slightly in the build quality department, with cheap feeling plastic somewhat dampening the experience.