subject: Xbox 360 Bringing Science Fiction To Life [print this page] An Xbox 360 Wireless Headset really adds to the immersive gaming experience offered by the many titles which accept such devices. Wireless headsets are almost a must in multiplayer games, particularly online. After all, who's going to take keyboard taunts seriously? (And who would want to type while busy fighting for their onscreen lives?)
No, an Xbox 360 wireless headset is a must-have accessory that's really not an accessory at all, if you think about it. There's really no way to enjoy many of today's complex, sophisticated games without a headset, with wirelessness making for increased convenience. Indeed, wireless is the way to go, and you might as well add in an Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. Especially with the amazing games available now that incorporate human kinetics into the gameplay itelf, it's almost a necessity for freedom of movement and range of motion.
In the wireless headset department, however, Turtle Beach's Ear Force line has matured into a solid option, with its X4 model featuring improved sound quality, especially with digital optical connections. It's a high-end pair of headphones, rivaling the cost of the Xbox console itself, but it's very popular and highly rated. The Ear Force X4 is made up of the headset, transmitter, power cable, a cable for the Xbox controller, and a digital optical audio cable. It runs on two triple-A batteries that are usefully included. There are inputs on the transmitter digital optical audio as well as outputs to your audio-visual receiver (or just the TV). This particular Xbox 360 wireless headset is heavy and bulky compared to earlier versions in the series, but it's the kind of thing that's set up somewhere and left alone, so size shouldn't prove to be too much of a problem. The headphones themselves are similar to earlier models of Ear Force, with internal springs that pinch your head, but they do seem more comfortable in general, however. The ear-cups are covered in fabric this time, which absorbs sweat - which would be pretty cool if the covers were replaceable! Otherwise, they're not as easy to wipe clean as regular vinyl, for which you don't need to worry about water soaking in. Battery life is going to be a concern with anything wireless, however, so keep a steady supply handy for those weekend power sessions! It would be bad enough for your communications to be interrupted mid-game, but with wireless controllers you might just end your game right there if you run out of juice!
