Chapter 1: The Audio Experience of Consoles

In this article, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the Microsoft official Xbox headset. If you enjoy discussions about gaming audio, you’re in the right place! For those who are new here, I encourage you to stick around for some intriguing insights. I write independently without sponsorship from console manufacturers, and your support is vital—more on that at the end.

The current landscape of gaming audio is quite exciting, with both major consoles offering advanced 3D audio capabilities that can create a rich auditory environment with virtually any headphones or gaming headset. Sony's Tempest and Microsoft's Windows Sonic technologies are both available at no extra cost, which is fantastic!

However, the official headsets marketed by both companies leave much to be desired. Each brand offers a wireless gaming headset priced at $99, which they promote as the premium choice. Unfortunately, the reality is that neither provides the best audio experience for their respective systems, although Sony comes closer to achieving this.

Despite my reservations, I frequently use both headsets to assess gaming audio and conduct product comparisons. Understanding the official audio output is essential for providing accurate feedback. Since a significant number of gamers likely use these headsets, it’s important to evaluate whether they are receiving a satisfactory auditory experience while playing the latest titles. This knowledge also assists in comparing third-party headsets.

Xbox users, unfortunately, are at a disadvantage with both the official wireless and wired headsets. While both models are surprisingly well-built for the price and offer comfortable ear pads, the sound profile is a significant flaw. Both headsets lean heavily on bass, which is only partially effective for intense gaming. Subtle audio details often get lost in the overwhelming bass, and the wireless model even includes a bass boost feature, which can lead to a frustrating listening experience.

Microsoft could easily rectify this issue with a quick tuning update. With the wireless model's internal digital amplifier, a firmware update could transform it from the worst first-party headset into a competitive option.

In contrast, Sony users enjoy a more favorable audio experience with the Pulse 3D Wireless headset, although it lacks some features found in its Microsoft counterpart, such as Bluetooth connectivity and a boom mic. Nonetheless, the audio quality is superior—though not without its drawbacks. The sound is somewhat flat, yet it offers a significantly better listening experience compared to Microsoft's offerings.

The “3D” designation indicates a tuning for Tempest 3D audio, and indeed, it performs well when paired with Sony’s processing technology. However, it’s worth noting that Tempest can be utilized with any compatible headset, which makes the branding somewhat misleading.

While the Pulse 3D may not deliver the absolute best audio quality, it effectively captures the essence of game soundtracks, allowing players to appreciate the sound designers' intentions. For those seeking superior audio, a higher investment may be necessary.

Sony has recently ventured into the premium PC gaming market with its Inzone headset series, which also boasts excellent compatibility with the PS5. My personal favorite, the Inzone H9, stood out as the best premium wireless gaming headset of 2022, although it comes with a higher price tag.

Every time I use the Xbox headset, I find myself frustrated despite its comfort. Experiencing new Xbox titles through it is often disappointing, particularly for games that don't capitalize on heavy bass.

Microsoft has made several audio missteps over the past two console generations. Their restrictive wireless protocol, burdened with licensing fees, limits the availability of Xbox-compatible wireless headsets, leaving gamers with subpar official options.

Conversely, Sony's headset, while not exceptional, offers a decent audio experience for casual gamers. It serves as a baseline for what an official console headset should provide. I hope to see Sony create an improved Pulse model in the future, possibly at a $149 price point, combining features from their higher-end models while maintaining affordability.

Chapter 2: Evaluating Current Gaming Headsets

In the first video, "The Best and Worst Gaming Headsets of 2019," the presenter reviews various gaming headsets, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to assist viewers in making informed choices.

The second video, "Did They Just Make The BEST GAMING HEADSET Even Better?" explores the advancements in gaming headset technology and assesses whether improvements have truly enhanced the overall experience.