Setup, Design & Observations
Setup is easy, though not as simple to explain to due being multi platform compatible. in 3.5mm mode, the headset is compatible with practically every device, including Xbox ONE, PS4 and mobile devices, but can also be used in PC mode for PS4 and PC. As we primarily tested with mobile and PC, the PC mode was used, followed with the installation of the software drivers.

I had to extending the earcups more than usual released the tight grip allowing me to find a comfortable fit, once over the ears the soft padding on the headband and earcups did a great job. They certainly feel on the heavy side of headsets but this never felt like a problem at any stage, though others may want to bare this in mind. Accessing the microphone boom was easy, though took a little getting used to, while the rear side buttons are noticeably well thought out and ergonomically formed. The most used features at the back are likely to be the volume control and microphone mute, which too are easy to access. Something worth noting is that the earpads are removable and hand washable.

Using the mixed input was quite awesome, meaning I could be in game while having my mobile phone connected, giving my direct alerts to messages and calls. The included 3m USB to microUSB cable is great as well many of these cables tend to be rather short.



Multimedia
In subjective listening tests, used a default flat EQ and set windows sample rate to 96K. There is a decent amount of creamy bass but seems muted compared to the strong mids while the treble seemed to be a little sharp, making listening to music from the 1975 sound quite messy. Changing the settings and using 48K sample rate made a slight noticeable difference when using the DTS Headphone, which actually helped improve things to a much more enjoyable level. Ultimately, the best sound quality came from use with a discrete sound card via the jack.

In games the Dolby Surround widened the audio but at the trade off of is with a slightly muted audio. The bass didn't give the best rumbling sensation but its presence was still noted in the thick of action while the highs gave decent separation for clear footsteps and in game effects.

Microphone
The microphone has good pickup and volume to it though does have a little background hiss. Enabling the noise reduction makes the microphone of great quality, with just a tiny amount of static received by others in the conversation, allowing for a warm natural sounding voice. The in-line remote microphone allows for high quality phone calls and voice messages, but not quite to the same standard as the boom.