G35

The Logitech G35 is a PC gaming headset that connects via USB and outputs Dolby 7.1 surround sound audio. This set of headphones has good sound quality, with the ability to produce strong low frequencies as well as detailed treble notes. The strong plastic and metal construction may mean the headphones are uncomfortable for some users, although Logitech has made concessions for a comfortable fit.

The Logitech G35 gaming headset comes in a well-designed box and is packaged with a quick-start guide, software CD and three different head-band pads. These head-band pads — which are easy to quickly swap onto the Logitech G35 gaming headset — allow for a good amount of adjustability when used in combination with the swivelling ear-cups and length-adjustable head-band. The Logitech G35 headphones remained tight throughout wearing, which may fatigue some users despite blocking out ambient noise.

Instead of having in-line volume controls the Logitech G35 gaming headset has a range of controls on the headset itself. They are situated on the left ear-cup, where the swing-down microphone also rests. A roller-style volume control and a microphone mute button are on the lower face of the ear-cup while three 'G' buttons adorn the top. When the included software is installed these buttons give you one-touch access to your music programs, microphone voice alteration and other features.

The Logitech G35 gaming headset connects to your computer via USB through a three metre long braided cord. This has its ups and downs, as USB headsets install their own drivers and don't require a sound card to work — meaning you can plug your Logitech G35 headset into any computer and get the same sound quality without any fuss or messing with installations. The disadvantage of a USB headset is that you can't use it with a device that uses a 3.5mm headphone plug like an Apple iPod Touch or a computer's internal sound card. The lack of Mac OSX drivers for this gaming headset means that you are also restricted to Windows-based PCs.

Sound quality from the Logitech G35 gaming headset is respectable, but not impressive given its $200 price tag. There are definitely headphones out there that offer better sound quality for less cash, but once you add in the Logitech G35 gaming headset's USB connectivity and built-in volume controls it is a closer call.

The Logitech G35 headphones are able to produce lower frequencies well, which gives music a pleasant rumbling tone and provides a good accompaniment to the explosions and gunfire of video games and movies. Higher treble frequencies are also adequately strong, with significant musical detail audible in our test tracks and games.

The microphone works from the moment the USB plug is connected and is one of the best we have used on a set of PC gaming headphones. It is clear and distortion-free and the rubberised mount allows the microphone to be easily positioned for optimum usage. When the microphone is rotated up out of the way, it automatically mutes itself — a nice touch.