Product Details
 | Tritton AX Pro Dolby Digital Precision Gaming Headset |
| List Price: | $169.99 |
| Price: | $162.16 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details |
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Product Description
Introducing the AX Pro - the most versatile gaming headset in the world. Finally, a true Surround Sound headset with a microphone that will work with your PS3, Xbox 360, and PC/Mac. For the audio or movie enthusiast, the AX Pro is also compatible with any device that features a digital optical or 3.5mm analog 5.1 outputs. Built on the successful AX360 Platform, the AX Pro features hardware Dolby Digital decoding and eight independent speakers to deliver true 5.1 surround sound audio. Upgraded speakers have been repositioned to provide crisper sound and more accurate 3D positioning. The vibration feature of the AX360 has been replaced by a new subwoofer that delivers improved low end punch and skull rattling bass. Other advancements include an easy to use illuminated inline controller with a microphone mute switch, independent volume control for game chat, and the ability to custom tailor volume levels. With the ability to connect the microphone via the Xbox 360 controller port, USB, and analog 3.5mm inputs, the AX Pro is the most versatile headset on the market and the only headset you'll ever need.Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #701 in Video Games
- Color: Silver
- Brand: Mad Catz
- Model: TRI-GA611
- Released on: 2010-08-13
- Platforms: Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows XP, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Format: CD
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: .43" h x .97" w x 1.24" l, 6.00 pounds
Features
- True 5.1 Digital Audio Headset
- Dolby Digital and Dolby Prologic Certified
- Digital audio connection for DVD, PC, Mac, PS2, PS3, XBOX, XBOX360, and all other audio sources with digital audio output
- 8 precision speakers, 4 in each ear cup
- Includes soft velvet type ear pads and faux leather pads
Editorial Reviews
From the Manufacturer
| Introducing the AX Pro - the most versatile gaming headset in the world. The AX Pro features hardware-based Dolby Digital decoding and eight independent speakers to deliver true 5.1 surround sound. Communicate over Xbox LIVE and the PlayStation Network with seamless integration. Adjust game volume independently of chat volume, and adjust independent sound fields through the backlit in-line controller. For the audio or movie enthusiast, the AX Pro is also compatible with any device that features a digital optical out port. Whether a casual or hardcore gamer, or just watching a movie, the AX Pro provides the ultimate personal audio experience. | ||
 | AX Pro True Dolby® Digital 5.1 Surround Sound3D Directional Precision Gaming HeadsetOptimized Two Way Communication For Xbox LIVE®, PlayStation® Network and PC/Mac | |
 |  Detachable
microphone
compatible with Xbox LIVE,
PlayStation Network, and
PC/Mac | |
8 Precision Speakers With Individual Sound Field ControlsEight (8) precision speakers have been strategically placed to provide maximum accuracy, clarity and heart thumping bass. |  | |
 | Digital Audio Control Box
| |
Inline Audio ControllerOptimized for two way communication for Xbox LIVE, PlayStation Network and PC/Mac, the AX Pro allows the user to adjust communication volume separately from game volume. The backlit digital inline audio controller can be seen in any lighting condition and allows the user to adjust the individual sound fields independently.
|  | |
Customer Reviews
Great product, great price
There were two main reasons
why I wanted to pick up this headset: The first was so I would not
disturb others in my household who are not gaming insomniacs like myself
and the other was to get an advantage over friends and foes so I can
hear where they are coming from and where they are going. The Tritton
AxPro satisfies both needs perfectly.
I am currently using the
headset to play the game Left 4 Dead on my Xbox 360. The difference in
sound quality from my TV speakers (nothing shabby mind you) and this
headset is astounding. I can hear the little audio details I otherwise
would have missed and the louder effects such as a shot gun firing booms
into my ears and rattles down my spine. Most importantly I can hear
where someone, or some thing, is. I can hear that hunter zombie growling
and scratching off to the left or right in some unseen location just
waiting to pounce. When he does pounce his wailing screech makes me want
to do one of my own, it freaks me out. I can hear the obese Boomer
zombie up ahead belching and waddling getting ready to spew his bile all
over me, bile which serves as nectar for the lesser zombies who will
feed on me if I am covered in it. I can hear the Smoker zombie shuffling
along somewhere behind me, coughing and hacking, just waiting to snag a
straggler and drag him off to do bad things to him. This head set has
intensified my gaming experience tremendously. My only complaint with
the audio, which shouldn't come as a surprise, is that I can't hear if
someone is directly behind me. This would be hard for a head set to do
and it does do a good job at least of suggesting that a creature might
be behind me.
Aside from in game audio such as music and sound
effects and environmental sounds I also wanted to make sure this headset
served as a good Xbox Live communicator. It does. I can easily adjust
the volume the voices of those talking or mute them with the controls on
the same volume box that the buttons and dials for the other audio
(front, rear, center, sub speakers) is on. Some have complained about
not being able to hear their own voice while speaking (like you do when
talking on a telephone) but I personally don't care about this. I rather
focus on what others are saying and the ambient sounds of the game
world than hear myself. I have talked to plenty of people and nobody has
accsued me of sounding like a mumbling drunk or anything. Not yet
anyway. The minor complaint I have with the speaking aspect is that
sometimes I get a buzzing sound through my mic and must fiddle with the
plug on the volume control box quickly to get it fixed. It is a bit of a
nuisance but it could have something to do with the fact that I haven't
really found a good place to rest the volume control box yet. I could
clip it to my shirt, it is small and sleek, but I end up resting it on
my lap where it gets knocked around now and then. I'll work on its
placement later, but that buzzing is a nuisance when it happens.
The
set up was relatively simple and painless. The only problem I had here
was getting the mic to work at first. You really have to jam that sucker
into its jack on the headset or else it won't recognize it is plugged
in. Make sure the frame is lined up properly with the indentations on
the jack and push, push, push like you're in labor. Then turn the mic
slightly so it is in there good. I ended up calling their customer
support thinking I was doing something wrong (I shouldn't be so hard on
myself) and they were very nice and sent me a new mic out in the mail,
no hassle. I ended up getting my mic to work a few minutes after that
call, but hey, an extra mic couldn't hurt? Other than the wrestling with
the mic, the rest of the set up went pretty smooth. There are a number
of wires and parts though. first there is the headset itself which is
sleek, stylish and of a tough build quality. It feels well made and I
love it for that. Then there is the power box which is a small box with
power buttons on it that everything plugs into. Then you have the volume
control box which is pretty small and controls the headset speaker and
voice volume. There are also, count it, TWO AC adapters you need to plug
in. Make sure you have enough outlets or a powerstrip nearby. Get rid
of that night light, you're too old for it anyway. Getting everything
set up is quick and straightforward.
The headset itself is well
made and comfortable. As mentioned earlier, it is of a good build
quality. Put it on your head and the ear muffs cover your entire ear. At
least they did on my average sized 28 year old male head. I don't know
how ear sizes go but look at it this way, Barack Obama has a pretty big
pair that stick out from his head; he would have no problem shoving
those aerials into these ear muffs comfortably. The headset is
adjustable as well. The muffs or ear covers come with a soft fabric
covering as well as a padded leather covering in a separate box if you
prefer the leather. Normally I like leather, just not near my ears. One
time in college I drank too much and passed out on someones leather
couch, when I woke up later that hot morning, my ear was stuck to the
leather. I now keep my ears away from leather. The fabric is quite
comfortable and though the headset seems a little on the heavy side
(just work out those neck muscles) it has no effect on your gaming at
all. My head, ears and neck felt great after a 7 hour marathon session
of Zombie hunting. The rest of me however did not, which reminds me, I
need a gaming chair or something to lean back in.
I highly
recommend this headset. It does its job well and better than many sets
which retail for hundreds of dollars more. The main competitor of the
Trittons are the Turtlebeach headsets. Turtlebeach does not have true
5.1 Dolby Digital but a replicated version. The knock off is not as good
as the real thing. Many people like Turtlebeach because they are
wireless but I prefer wired because the sound is always better and I
don't have to worry about batteries (just where I'm going to plug those
two AC Adapters in). Also, Tritton has a cool name, it sounds like
"Triton", the name of the cool blue moon of the cool blue planet
Neptune. There are volcanoes on Triton which spew crystalized no2, a
very nice sight to think about. Turtlebeach on the other hand makes me
think about a beach covered with snapping turtles. Not something nice to
think about.
I vouch for these Trittons, they are wonderful.
Never underestimate the importance of sound in your games, it can add
much to your gaming experience. This headset will not only provide you
with exceptional quality but the surround sound will give you an
advantage when playing with and against friends, and won't wake up the
wife/hubby, dog, neigbors or dead when you crank it up.
EDIT:
November 7th, 2010; I just wanted to add that this set is still working
great and still one of the best headsets on the market. Sounds is as
crisp as ever for both voice chat and in game effects, music is crystal
clear now that I tried out my CD collection and the build quality has
proven itself to be rock solid. Needless to say, I love this head set.
I
also wanted to correct myself on something I wrote previously in the
review about not being able to hear someone directly behind me, after
some tinkering with the individual speaker volume, I got it to the
perfect setting where I actually can hear footsteps or breathing right
behind me; this is true surround sound in every sense.
My review
centered around Left 4 Dead but I have since used these with Left 4 Dead
2, Metro 2033, Dead Space, Battlefield: Bad Company 2, Mass Effect 2
and now Halo: Reach (just to name a few). If you want to increase the
experience in atmosphere heavy games like Dead Space or Metro 2033 or if
you want the edge in competitive multiplayer like in Halo: Reach, pick
these up as they are worth every penny!
DETAILED
COMPARISON: Tritton AXPRO, Sony MDR-DS7000 + Audio Technica ATH-A900 w/
Astro Mixamp
After finding a disheartening
lack of comparative reviews online I decided that I would write about
my own experiences with the above headphones. This review is targeted
only at headphones for gaming based on sound from a PS3 slim connected
via Monster Ultra Fiber Optic and set to Dolby Digital. I understand
there are significantly more options than those I have tested. However,
my wish is to give a first-person detailed and reliable account
regarding the phones I currently or have previously owned. For a summary
of what I found just scroll to the bottom of the review.
As a
sidenote I have watched just about every youtube video, read every
gaming website review, and scanned through every forum in my search for
audio bliss. This is the cumulation of my knowledge and experiences.
Originally
I had wanted an all in one processor for DTS and Dolby Digital with a
simulated surround sound. I watch most movies and play most games at
night, and was trying to "kill a few birds with one stone" on this one.
After round 1 of extensive research I settled on the Sennheiser RS130s. I
bought two sets. The sound was pretty good. I could not detect ANY
simulated surround, but for watching movies the dialogue was VERY bright
and enjoyable. In addition there was no interference with my Wii or PS3
due to the RF and the charging system was a good setup. Unfortunately,
the wireless was also the problem. I tried switching through every
single channel and resetting the base unit. I consistently got a weird
"modem" buzzing and clicking sound in the background. Some people might
be able to overlook it, but I definitely could not. Back they went and
back I went to burning my eyes reading everything online.
Round 2
I decided to bite the bullet, and ordered the Sony MDR-DS7000
headphones from Japan, complete with a second set of phones. They cost
me a pretty penny. Once they arrived I tested the voltage coming through
the adapter from Japan and found it was much higher than the 9V
required for the processor and phones when plugged into a US 120V
outlet. After shelling out another $120 for 3 adapters from the Sony
MDR-DS6000 series available in the US (courtesy of Sony Style) I was
finally able to make sure I hadn't been ripped off from overseas. (The
headphones each use 1 adapter to charge the lithium ion batteries. The
3rd is for the Processor.) I was quite satisfied to learn that my
bluray, ps3 and wii could all be connected to the same unit. Also, the
sound was absolutely crystal clear without a single beep or incoming fax
noise. Lord of the Rings sounded great and the VPT surround sound
cinema mode made the movie sound like it was being played in a large
theatre room. Pretty cool, but not really the "surround sound" I had
hoped for. Still....it was an improvement from the Sennheisers. And so I
proceeded for a few months before deciding that I'd like to get a
system more suitable for the PS3. The large hall effect didn't really
seem like it was cutting it anymore. So I considered: Should I try
ordering the newly improved MDR-DS7100? Hmm...probably not since they
just increased the battery life by 3 hours, and increased the drivers
from 40mm to 50mm. The surround effect would be the same. I also
considered the Pioneer SE-Dir800c once again, but decided against it
based on a few factors. The headphones break in nearly 60% of consumer
reviews at a swivel point, the batteries (AA) must be charged separately
from the unit, the system only has 1 fiber optic input, and additional
headphones are only sold in Japan (unless you want to buy a 2nd
transmitter as well). It seemed like a lot of trouble, even though I've
read almost 2 million times by now that Dolby Headphone technology is
vastly superior to Sony's Virtual Phone Technology. And so we come to
Round 3: The Tritton Ax Pros.
A long time ago, before my head was
filled with all sorts of useless information on headphones, I owned the
Tritton AxPros. This was back when people cared less about how they
sounded and more about getting sent the wrong set from Amazon or having
to look for places to plug in 2 adapters. OMG! 2 adapters! Yeah...I have
a surge protector...not a big deal. Back in those times I was very
impressed with the quality of the Trittons for 3d mapping in games.
Resistance: Fall of Man and other games from way back in the long long
ago sounded significantly better when played through the headphones. The
only problem was that finding the proper EQ was a pain and my neck felt
like I was wearing Rampage Jackson's chains around my neck after
playing. After contacting customer service and adjusting the delay to
+10, and decreasing the rear speaker and sub (which felt like it would
blow out my eardrum on normal) I was satisfied. Looking back I can
safely say that my complete satisfaction was, in part, due to my lack of
anything to compare sound quality towards. Fast forward to now. After
not quite getting the full experience from the Sony headphones, I
decided to repurchase the "newly improved" Tritton Axpros I had been so
fond of. When I got my new set I looked over it for a long time. The AC
adapter is definitely "cheaper" than both of the older ones (lighter
less durable plastic), even though there is now only 1. The break-away
cable is a good feature, although you still have to roll it up the same
as if you just disconnected it from the decoder box. The microphone has
gotten a MUCH needed improvement and is now rubberized/bendable and
works a lot better. The headphones still shine a halloween orange glow
through the Tritton logo. They also still induce serious headaches from
squishing your head like a vice. Funny enough, they actually do not
weigh much more than my Sonys. The difference is that Sony has a second
band to turn the headphones on that takes most of the pressure off from
the top and sides of your head. Tritton has no such feature, but feels
much sturdier (like it was carved from a plastic tree). The Tritton also
has the individual speaker adjustment, as before, with different colors
for different sound levels. This works fine, but a digital +1, +2, +8
numerical readout would be much better. Each color level has 3 or 4
levels before bumping to the next color. Between white and red (medium
and max) is "cyan" which is the high volume level. This would be fine if
you could ACTUALLY TELL a difference from the white. I believe the Cyan
simply leaves the white light on while simultaneously turning on the
blue. The problem is that the white light completely overpowers
everything else. It looks like the volume goes straight from white to
red after about 8 clicks. Pretty dumb. Use purple or yellow or a black
light. Don't try to combine colors to cut costs Tritton! The newer model
also has the feature of being able to turn off the inline controller by
holding the "mute and front speaker" buttons for a few seconds. Here's
the problem with that: 1.)when turning the system back on you're usually
holding the mute button so it mutes everything. The way the mute/volume
is set up you usually end up also raising the volume as you unmute it.
You probably shouldnt have the headphone on when turning the inline
controller on anyway since it makes a HUGEEE POP noise when powering on
that almost makes your ears bleed. This doesn't even power the unit
itself on though. It just powers up the phones. The Dolby decoder box
has a completely separate power on button. So.....they took away one AC
adapter, but actually made it just as much of a pain in the A*$ to turn
on and off. Here's the rub though - when you turn off the main decoder
box, it resets your settings. That's right. All of the DRC, Sound Delay
(Center and Surround) and master volume settings you pulled out the
decoder box to program have all been reset. At first I kept thinking to
myself, dang...the game sounds different everytime I turn it back on
again...I must have not put the time delay on the right setting. After
testing it though...I found the cause. Maybe mine's defective because I
don't remember my old unit ever doing this. Must be an "improvement" eh?
Now for the sound quality.
Discrete sounds and directions. This
is where the Tritton Axpros start to do something right. I switched the
fiber optic input from my Sony MDR-DS7000 into the Pros back and forth
about 50 times. I tried it with Uncharted 1 + 2, God of War 3, God of
War Trilogy, Infamous, Killzone 2, Modern Warfare 1 and 2, Battlefield:
BC2 and Bioshock 2. Results were surprising. The AxPros actually blew
the Sony's out of the water. In Battlefield, when I swung the knife I
could hear it echo in the winter mountains and the fires flickered on
different sides as I walked. Riding the vehicles sounded like I was
right there. Modern Warfare 1 and Uncharted 1 were actually the most
remarkable. In Modern Warfare 1 I could hear the helicopters flying
overhead and DIRECTLY pinpoint where they were. I tried about 10 times
to close my eyes and see if I could locate a circling helicopter. I was
right 9/10 times. The Sony headphones (playing on the dedicated PS3
"game" mode) were extremely muffled. Gunshots sounded tiny and shallow.
The Trittons just made it seem like I was right there in the
environment. In Uncharted I kept restarting the 2nd scene in the jungle
and testing the sounds while running through the creeks, in and out of
the waterfall, and through the group of birds. With the Trittons it
sounded like I was right there. With the Sony's it sounded like I was
listening through a set of headphones. Then---slowly---as I listened to
Sully talk about finding his "bride in a brothel" for the 20th time, I
realized I was missing a vital part of the puzzle. Dialogue. Take this
into perspective. The Sony's have 2 dedicated 40mm drivers. The Trittons
have 8- 30mm drivers. Usually dialogue is only going through 1 set of
speakers (center or front) on the Trittons, depending on the game. The
driver quality is also considerably lower than the neodymium found in
the Sony's. I went back and listened to Modern Warfare 1 and Bioshock 2.
Then I listened to dialogue on Infamous and on God of War 3. Holy Jeez!
The Trittons were cutting out some of the dialogue or seriously
distorting it. This wasn't during key story moments when everything was
evenly balanced. Rather, it is when multiple things are going on at
once. Funny enough, this is one of the MAJOR things that all the Astro
supporters were talking about when discussing potential missteps with
multiple drivers. In a helicopter scene on Modern Warfare I could barely
make out what people were saying over the radio. On Bioshock 2 the
radio feeds were slightly distorted. On Infamous all of the "S" sounds
in dead drops or phone calls came across like static on a radio. On God
of War 3 on the ending fight (as Zeus is floating down towards Gaia's
heart) he shouts "Hmmm....Kratosss..." in this weird almost comical way.
When playing through on the Sonys I could hear it clearly and it always
made me laugh after I died for the 50th time. When using the
Trittons...I couldn't even hear him say it. I could faintly hear
"Hm....SSS." I tried adjusting all of the sound levels individually and
could not bring out that line of dialogue. So, after all of my research I
started asking myself, would I be missing more dialogue on other games
if I stuck with the Trittons? I can't look past the fact that while
multiple drivers does = better immersion, it also means less clarity. I
also agree with the claim someone else on some distant site said: Sound
has a few dead zones on the Trittons. When turning you will clearly
notice a sound jump from one speaker to the next. It's not a terrible
thing. Some might even like it due to its similarity to real 5.1 setups.
But in a video game, if you have that right spot the sound starts to
vanish unless you keep turning. I was told that decreasing the surround
effect negates this effect, but that comes at the cost of reducing the
3d effect. This is what got me thinking about the Dolby Headphone
systems.
I read all about using the Astro Mixamp with other
headphones: Beyerdynamic 880s, Sennheiser 555s, 595s, Audio Technica Ath
AD700s, AD900s. I wasn't so into researching the Turtle Beach wireless
because it uses infrared and has a mic that will not connect to a PS3.
If I wanted a standalone infrared processor...I'd just go with the
Pioneer SE-DIR800c which are also great for movies even though they'll
be duct-taped in about a week due to their fragility. I looked at the
JVC dolby processor, but read in a few places it has a small lag between
what you see and hear. The Astro Mixamp seems quite good, and a LOT
more accessible/user friendly than the AXPROs. Most reviews have stated
that the Astro headset is fairly comparable to the Tritton Axpros, so I
cannot justify spending an extra $100 for such a slight upgrade. The
exposed wire on the Astro set also seems like a bad design flaw. Most
websites give the Astros a 9.0 and the AxPros an 8.8. If I truly wanted
an upgrade in soudstage and quality, I'd have to purchase an audiophile
set of headphones such as those listed above. So that's exactly what I
did.
I ordered the Audio Technica ATH-A900 headphones in addition
to the Astro dolby mixamp. After connecting them together I ran
extensive tests using all of the same games as before: God of War 3,
Uncharted 1 +2, Infamous, Call of Duty MW 1 +2, Killzone 2, and
Battlefield BC 2.
First and foremost, the setup was MUCH simpler than
the Trittons. The mixamp is powered by AND provides voice chat through
the single USB cable. The ATH-A900s are also lightyears ahead of the
AXpros in terms of comfort (using a wing stabilizer to decrease weight).
They are VERY large, but since they are closed they keep sound in/out
very well. I would say about the same as the Sony MDR-DS7000 headphones,
and considerably better than the Trittons. If this isn't an issue for
your household I would recommend the AD series since an open sound is
slightly better for soundstage. The mixamp uses a Dolby headphone type 2
configuration preset which is not user adjustable. You get one
surround/delay effect. Depending on your view this can be a pro or a
con. On the one side, you simply plug in your headphones and start up
your game. On the flip side, those who enjoy tweaking surround levels
and speaker volumes will be discouraged. Personally I enjoy having
everything tweaked to standardized optimal settings. For all of the long
hours I spent adjusting the Trittons I still never locked onto what I
found to be a "perfect" setting. Voice chat is also MUCH easier to
control with the single balance knob of the Astro Mixamp. The only
problem is that without an inline volume control you will have to find
your optimal volume level before sitting down to enjoy whatever game you
are playing. The mixamp is "smarter" than the Tritton Dolby box in that
it turns itself off whenever the headphones are unplugged. In addition
if you have it powered via USB it will turn off whenever the USB power
is turned off (in my case the PS3), even though you will have to
manually turn it back on. The portability of the mixamp may also factor
into your decision since it can be powered via batteries, although this
did not affect my review. The first thing I noticed when playing Call of
Duty was that dialogue was very bright and crisp. It was SUBSTANTIALLY
better than the AXPROs, and marginally better than the Sonys. I would
actually say it was most comparable to the dialogue from the Sennheisers
I first owned, although lacking the annoying extraneous noises. Without
the Dolby Headphone mode it sounds exactly like what you would expect:
sound through a pair of quality 2 speaker headphones. However, with DH
turned on the game gives you a very enjoyable out-of-head surround that
easily surpasses the VPT of the Sony Headphones. I will not lie though.
The 3d effect is definitely subpar compared to the effect of the
Trittons. In Call of Duty I could no longer pinpoint circling
helicopters. In Uncharted I could no longer hear strangle ambient jungle
sounds as if they were all around me. HOWEVER, (and this is the most
important part of this review) sounds were distinctly more REALISTIC. It
seems like a strange trade-off. In Battlefield BC 2 crackling fires and
vehicles no longer sounded like they were in-my-face with the Audio
Technicas. Instead they sounded like a normal fire crackling on the
ground. In short, it no longer seemed like sounds were being "forced"
into specific positions coming into my ears. This is no easy task to
convey. The Sony headphones failed to convey the spatial quality of
games in an accurate setting. The Trittons created a very pleasing 3d
effect but with diminishing realism for voice and sounds. The Astro
mixamp/audio technica setup slightly decreases the 3d effect but sounds
EXACTLY like what I believe the sound engineers recorded. Ultimately the
preference is yours. For games like Infamous the Astro/Technica setup
blows everything else out of the water. Not only was dialogue extremely
clear, but the entire soundstage sounded realistically recreated for the
city environment. With the Trittons certain aspects were enjoyable
(fountains, passing cars), while others were abysmal (scuttling trash
monsters, yelling fans, distant gunshots). Using the Audio Technica
headphones I can hear every single detail I was missing with the Sony
headphones, but also enjoy ultra realistic sound for everything else
in-game. Rear noise is easier to pinpoint with the Trittons, but I still
get the same feeling of "being there" with the Audio Technicas. From a
trade-off perspective I would say that the Astro/Audio Technica setup
definitely takes the crown. I can put fifteen mini-speakers around my
head and pinpoint EXACTLY where a crackling fire or babbling brook is
located. Yet if the speakers aren't great, will the sound QUALITY make
it sound exactly like what a brook or fire should sound like? Instead it
sounds like a precisely located yet slightly unrealistic sound
reproduction. This is my best analysis of the Trittons vs ATH A900s. The
A900s sound like "real water, or real fire." The trade-off is yours to
decide between.
Either way, The Trittons or Astro/Audio-Technica
setup is still better than the Sony MDR-DS7000s for gaming. Your
preference will determine what is the best fit for your style of gaming.
Based on my experieces I would say that since the new Tritton AX700
utilizes the same technology as the Astro set, it would be moot to
compare similar technologies. If you enjoy the Dolby Headphone
processing of the mixamp, then it would be wise to get the astros based
on the extent of other relevant gaming features. If you desire an
alternative surround experience, then go with a multi-speaker headphone
setup.
IN SUMMATION:
Sony MDR-DS7000:
(+) Crystal Clear
Static Free Wireless, Decodes Dolby and DTS, Multiple Fiber Optic
Inputs, Long Battery Life, Very good for movies, Clear Dialogue, Can be
used with a combination of analog and digital inputs
(- ) No
microphone input for voice chat, Poor spatial mapping for gaming, VPT is
a poor surround sound simulator, VERY costly to import from Japan,
Needs alternative power supply or universal adapter
Dialogue:
8/10
Effects: 6/10
Ambient: 5/10
3d Mapping:4/10
Tritton
AXPRO:
(+) BEST 3d mapping, Good integration of voice and in game
volume, In-line volume adjustment, Very User Adjustable Sound Levels
across all fields (speaker volume, delay setting, DRC), Good Immersion
and Ambient Sounds, BEST VALUE for surround experience
(-) Most
UNCOMFORTABLE of headphones tested, Tendency to distort or
unrealistically convey dialogue and certain sounds, Most complicated to
setup and fine tune to enjoyable settings, Poor on/off integration based
on power being separated into decoder box and inline controller, Closed
headphone design with open headphone sound leakage
Dialogue:6/10
Effects:7/10
Ambient:10/10
3d
Mapping:9/10
Astro Mixamp w/ Audio Technica ATH-A900
(+) MOST
REALISTIC sounds of all headphones, EXTREMELY Precise dialogue and
sound effects, Very good out-of head 3d simulation based on Dolby
Headphone technology, Integration of voice-chat and power source through
single USB cable, Extremely simple interface, Highest level of
connectivity and portability for competitive gamers or LAN parties, Most
comfortable of headphones tested
(-) Not quite as good Rear Surround
as Trittons, Less Ambient effect heard in background
Dialogue:10/10
Effects:9/10
Ambient:8/10
3d
Mapping:7/10
Personally, I prefer the Astro/Audio Technica
combination above the others. It is probably the most enjoyable surround
experience I have had when playing a videogame through headphones. As
such, if you do a LOT of voice chat and online play then I would
probably suggest purchasing the complete Astro setup for the use of
their headset microphone (which from what I have read is stellar). If
you care less for voice chat than detailed immersion (but cost is a
factor) then go with the ATH-A700s and Astro Mixamp. If you prefer
extreme 3d mapping and may or may not be on a budget, go with the
Trittons. If you hate wires, then go wireless with Turtle beach or the
Sonys from above. If you are like me and play most games without voice
chat and demand high quality crisp dialogue and effect then go with the
Astro/ATH900 setup.
Hope all of the time I spent writing this
helps you decide what is most important to you.
The only road that matters, is the road ahead... New
version review. + "Trouble" EDIT.
I wanted to sneak in an
edit/update on this review. As of 11/21/2009 I returned the headset to
Amazon. The mic stopped working. I replaced the cord. Nothing. I tried a
different mic... nothing. It broke just in time too. On day 29 I
printed the return label. I googled the mic breaking, and there is a
shocking number of people with the same trouble. Just like the 360, its
not a matter of "if" you'll get the 3 red lights, but when. With the
AxPro the question is when will my mic stop working? And will the
company take it back. I emailed them twice. 3 times really. First was to
see if I could get a second headset just like the Pro. You know, so the
wife could listen in too... Yeah... they sent me a link to their
products page. I do not need a whole complete set, just the phones.
Worthless. Then I emailed twice about the mic, and got zero response.
Back it went. I got the Turtle Beach X41 headset. It is superior in
every way. I am so happy the Trittons broke. The X41's are soooo worth
the extra 40$. They really are. Its hard to compare sounds in words but I
think I can... Imagine a sound that should make a "ping' sound. Say
"ping". Then imagine the same event taking place and you hear a "pud"...
The words are different. So are the sounds in the two sets. The X41's
are so much more- bright. Clear. Crisp. The sounds are more "forward"
more present. The Pro's were more subtle, more muddled. And, if you
don't like it that way, hit a button, and it all changes back to
"pud"... They even play a tone to tell you what mode you are in. And I
can hear myself talking in the headset. = No yelling. Oh, and they are
WIRELESS! Check my review on the X41's. Do not buy the Pros. You will be
sad in a very short time. They sound just fine really, but for a little
more cheese, you can be a much happier mouse! My review still stands
valid. The wireless comparisons I made were to the X4... Not the X41.
The Pro is not a bad headset. They just are not as good as the X41. Soon
the X41 will not be as good as the XYZ Product line. But in the range
of 150-200$ the X41 is the best headset our there. Period. For now.
If
you must have the Pros anyway, please read and enjoy my review. Before I
knew what I was missing, I truly felt that way. Soon, you too will
follow in my footsteps... just as I have to so many others.
BTW, I
try to only buy "big ticket" items from the real Amazon. Mostly cause
of the free S/H. Now, I can say it is because of their outstanding
customer service. It was a joy talking to them on the phone. Every time I
do, they offer so much more than I thought possible. I almost feel like
sending them a Christmas card.
*** End Edit***
*** Start
original review***
I had to create a video to show that I am
not just making all this up... Seeing is believing.
1. The boom
mic IS flexible.
2. There is only ONE power pack for the entire
assembly. You need only ONE outlet.
Please forgive the quality of
the video/audio. I had to get it done in less than 100 mb. I went over
by 16, and I hope Amazon takes it. (They did not. I am now waiting for a
shorter lesser quality video to upload... lame.) Anyway, I love this
headset. Even when I thought the mic was rigid, and there were two power
bricks; I wanted them. Even after Amazon sent the wrong item, I still
had a great experience. The listing I ordered from was significantly
cheaper, it was here on Amazon. After I called, the listing was removed
and my new order reflected a new item, on a new page, with a new price.
Odd. But, long story short, I got the right phones, and a GREAT price.
Awesome customer service. Opened box one... Wrong item. Frantic phone
call = next day shipping of correct item. Printed UPS label(free).
Waited one day for correct item. Item received, wrong item sent back.
Perfection.
They are not "heavy". The entire box, including
packaging and power brick was 2.1 pounds. My scale at home registered a
0.1 lbs change while wearing the headphones. The soft ear cups do not
make my ears hot. I could see how the fake leather ones might. (they do
come with interchangeable cups and top-of-head-pad-thingy) I DO NOT get
static of any kind EVER. Although, if there is no signal going to the
headphones (ie the Dolby light is not lit, no stereo components are on)
and the headphones are on, a very faint beep or tone can be heard about
every 15 seconds- until an audio source is powered on. Then you can sit
in absolute silence.
I do wish the set came with an EQ of some
sort. I like high treble. Everyone always says that they like it lower
than me. I notice how car's stereos I ride in always have it lower than I
like... Perhaps these headphones are set at the "proper" level. I just
prefer a little more "snap" or crisp audio. After about 40 hours of use,
I can tell you I have become quite accustomed to their sound and look
forward to it. The first time I heard the shells of the helicopter hit
the ground in COD4... I was hooked. Yes, I can hear the spent SHELLS
hitting the ground. I can hear rpgs fly from the front of me, to right
over head, to behind. In Battlefield Bad Company, I can hear people yell
out "Medic!" and I can start running in the direction I heard the voice
coming from.
My better half and I live in an older farm house.
We have neighbors below us. I have a true 6.1 surround system, its
Paradigm with two 15" ported subs. They "blow" right into the neighbors
ceiling. I can knock the dishes in the kitchen over. Obviously, I had
this sound system prior to living here. The neighbors finally complained
about my video game noises. The wife has been complaining for years
now. Ha. Everyone is happy I have these headphones, no one more than me.
I
am now on the search for a second "headphones only" to plug into the
second set hole. Then we can watch loud movies on XBOX together! Hurray
for the perfect product!
One last thing... to split the optical
signal: get the purple and silver spaceship looking thing. I got it on a
"well known auction site..." but they are listed here on Amazon too.
You can plug 3 opticals into one hole on a receiver then- more
importantly it works. I have tried 2 others. DO NOT get the cheap little
black ones.
One more last thing... The blue head is glass. I got
it on the same "well known auction site". I believe they are also sold
here. I filled it with sand. Almost all the way... but ran out. :( its
heavy enough now to use as a headphone holder. I had some LEDs in there,
that was fun, but it would tip easily. I take care of my "toys" and I
think these phones will last for quite some time. I would buy these
again, and will tell everyone I can too. They run circles around their
wireless competition. If you turn your TV speakers up a little, and put
some tin cans on your ears... and think that sounds good, get the ugly
wireless ones. Otherwise, get these, and love them. There sure is a lot
of wires. But they are long enough, and there is only the one long that
is visible. I am old enough to remember linking extension onto extension
for some console controllers. This is nothing compared to that.
The
set can be turned off by holding down a button combination, for a few
seconds on the inline controller... However, I use a product called
"SuperSwitch" that comes with 3 outlet "boxes" and a wireless remote.
1.2.3. on the remote and pushing those buttons turn on/off whatever is
plugged into them. I use it for the under cabinet lights, led ambient
lighting, and now my Trittons.
The last, last thing. The single
most outstanding feature of this headset, is the separate voice volume
control. If you set the Xbox to play voice through "both" (headset and
speakers) you can have your party and the "in game" chat at the same
time. You can control the in game chatter with the dashboard volume
slider, and the party chat with the volume knob on the Tritton's "magic
volume box". Join me in Modern Warfare 2, you have enough time to get
these before the game comes out... Or for any game to come in the
future. They all have 5.1 sound. ~XBL GT = BluntAttack I'll be the one
with my ears to the wall, listening for your footsteps. :)
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