Audio can be a very subjective area, some prefer heavy bass, others enjoy clear vocals and high tones. Conveying 'best audio quality' can sometimes be difficult for writers, especially for those lacking in a varied audio experience. On top of this subjectiveness, regardless of xAudio Science proof showing how clear audio signals are, there are some people who may not actually be able to understand, define, or hear that much difference from one headset to another, or low quality audio source to high quality audio source or even the difference in quality between traditional integrated motherboard sound processing to a discrete sound card. The point is, the CM Storm Pulse-R is heavily geared towards gaming audio and some may love it others may hate it. For my judgement, it seems to have gone well over the top. The bass provided by the 42mm drivers is actually pretty good quality and can provide a very pleasurable rumble of bass centric audio. However, this alone does not provide a good audio experience and in many ways, ruins it by muddying the mids and highs. If in doubt, balance is always key and the Pulse-R missed that balance, even in regards to 'gaming orientated' audio.
Considering the design and quality of the construction, the Pulse-R has a lot of potential and could have easily out classed many others in its price range. The modular cable and microphone are huge positives while the aesthetics are distinctive, modern and aggressive yet understated enough to retain class, on top of this the LEDs amplify the badassness! Everything about this product screams quality, except for the two most important factors when considering a headset, comfort and audio quality. This could be that I have an extraordinarily large head and ears with poor taste in sound quality. Contemplating that, if you want a pure gaming headset and have a small head, small ears and love booming bass, this is likely to be the best headset you can buy. In all other situations, unless you love how it looks, there are better options out there.
The CM Storm Pulse-R is a great looking headset with a host of unique features that displays the potential to be a definitive gaming headset.
Pros.
+ Modular cable and microphone
+ Good quality construction
+ Attractive design, even better with LEDs
+ Thumping bass
Cons.
- Uncomfortable
- Poorly balanced audio
+ Modular cable and microphone
+ Good quality construction
+ Attractive design, even better with LEDs
+ Thumping bass
Cons.
- Uncomfortable
- Poorly balanced audio
Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net. Thanks to Cooler Master for providing today’s review sample.
