With the Audio 770, Plantronics launches its first microphone headset destined to the world of gaming.  It’s equipped with virtual surround sound (SRS), which is supposed to offer better immersion in video games.  With its open design and adjustable microphone, it seems like an ideal solution for gamers.

Ergonomics : Once out of its box, we can’t really say it was love at first sight.  The headphones are bulky and the black lacquer and gray plastic wasn’t too convincing.  The same went for the microphone whose foam looked rather unrefined.  Once placed on the head, it wasn’t much better.  Certainly, the headphones are light but the padding of the earcups is much too big and leaves quite a bit of play between your head.  We did like the remote which enables quickly changing volume levels as well as activating/deactivating the microphone.

Audio quality : Here you have the choice of using the SRS function by connecting the USB adaptor.  What does this function add? To be honest, not much.  It is supposed to give a larger dimension to video games but a sound card (even in the entry level) fulfills this role by offering (and it seems like the minimum) EAX support.  In listening to music we do not recommend you use this function which distorts sound production.  Still in the domain of audio quality, the Audio 770 produces a rather dry and clear sound.  Basses are powerful (to say the least !) while highs are overaccentuated and grating at high volumes.  This means that mediums are largely ignored.  All in all, however, sound is satisfactory.