Shipping from Plantronics is always done with care and security in mind. Shipping filler is plenteous and locks the unit package in the box for a super snug fit, ensuring that your unit arrives in perfect condition. I was a little intimidated by the bubble style packaging of the product itself. However upon closer inspection, I saw that they got it right with some simple tabs and adhesive to hold them. Typically, most companies use the thermal-seal around the entire package, which to be honest, makes it a pain to open. Also, it becomes a safety hazard creating sharp corners when you attempt to cut open the bullet-proof package! Not so with this one. The headset package was colorful and very awesome to look at. This will catch you eye on the shelf of your local electronics retailer for sure. All specifications were clearly printed on the inside presentation card. With a clear plastic package design, this works well, and looks good too.













Features

This headset has many features that will appeal to the gamer, casual user, and music buffs alike. Let’s start with the speakers. 40mm drivers with an open ear design to let you hear others in the room that you are gaming with. The frequency response is 20 Hz -20 kHz allowing for you to “feel” deep bass, putting you at center stage of your favorite artists, or right in the battle of your favorite FPS. The microphone frequency response is 100 Hz-8 kHz, so you will sound like you are standing next to the person you’re talking to. It also comes with a 6.5 foot cord with gold plated 3.5mm plugs. I know it is advertised as a USB headset, but the Surround Module is USB, with 3.5mm ports for the headset and microphone. I like this setup, because you can now hook these babies to your mp3 player, stereo, or other equipment you might need to rock out on. This gives you options that USB only headphones fall short with. I like options! The USB Surround Sound Card gives you the surround sound effects of a five-speaker setup by using digital signal processing that electronically simulates five speakers in a virtual room. The effect is great, but of course it is not true surround sound.

The cushions on the headset are Xtremely comfortable. They are covered in a soft velvety fabric that is incredibly gentle and breathable. The headband portion of the headset is also covered in the same material and padding. Prolonged use will really allow you to appreciate the quality of the padding and material. The microphone features a design that allows it to be flipped up into the headset concealing it completely. It’s a great idea that seems to be perfectly designed. The microphone also extends out an extra inch so you can adjust its location to suit your needs. Volume control and a mute switch for the mic are located on the heavy duty headset cord. Need to mute your mic real quick? Flip the switch. Need to adjust the volume? No problem, as the control pad is a 1.5” x 2.5” size, making it easy to get a hold of and set.

Construction

This headset is built to last, and the construction proves that. The material for the headset cushions are made of a non-allergenic material designed for those who may have sensitive skin, or if prolonged use causes some perspiration, you won’t break out with an anti-gaming rash. Plantronics states on their website that this headset is constructed from rugged, military-grade standards. I made parts as a military assemblies sub-contractor for over 2 years. The Mil Spec standards are a challenge to maintain but once achieved, you have a top notch product that will stand the test of time and use. My hat is off to Plantronics for taking on this badge of quality. The overall “feel” of this product is studio quality. You pick it up and you can feel that this is well made. Wearing it, listening to the quality, and using it for long periods of time certainly enforce that feeling.

Installation

Plug it in and it works. It's that simple. It uses a basic sound card driver and installs upon insertion. There is some word on the internet about some Vista 32 bit compatibility, but I tested mine on Vista 64 bit, and XP Media Center with absolutely no issues at all.


Performance
The sound performance was incredible, and the simulated surround sound was absolutely a must have playing Modern Warfare. Gun battles make you feel like you are really there with the action all around you. This is something that only can be conveyed through getting your own and experiencing it for yourself. I tested this headset for 5 days with 8-10 hours of straight usage, stopping for meals and other brief breaks. Taking it off, is a sad experience due to the amazing effects you get using it. Real life is less exciting (that would be a great slogan for this headset, hint hint!)

Final Thoughts

Wow!!! That sums it up. Take my advice, if you spend ANY amount of extended time on your PC for gaming, chatting, music, movies, or surfing listening to your favorite artist, this headset will make whatever you do, more enjoyable. I wish there was something I found that I didn’t like so that you would not think this was a one sided review, but to be honest there isn’t. You spend thousands on your computer , hundreds on the most up-to-date video card, why would you play on a cheaply made headset? Go out and treat yourself to the Plantronics 777. It retails for $109.95 direct from Plantronics. It is worth the investment hands down. It would be nice to see someway of integrating an LED into the mic to show when it is muted. This is a feature on one of my USB only headsets. It’s nice to know when the mic is shut off without having to look at the switch.

You W I L L run out and buy one today.....


Overview

Performance: 10/10 - This headset performed better than I anticipated. It will blow your mind! Just remember to use it at a safe level, your hearing is important, so be safe!

Packaging: 10/10 - Packaging displayed the headset clearly and included all specifications on the back. Well done and informative for the would-be customer.

Features: 9/10 - Features were awesome. This is a one way headset however. The microphone is located on the left side only. I’m not sure how many people mind, but I know some people who may like it on the right side better. If you could integrate the option to switch it in future models, there might be some feature appeal there. Maybe integrate the mute LED someway…

Construction: 10/10 - Build to last! Xtremely comfortable. Enough said.

Price: 8/10 - The price is $109.95 from Plantronics. This is an investment that will last longer than your current PC. This headset will carry over from upgrade to upgrade like your favorite mouse or keyboard.

This headset earns a 9.4/10, and gets the Xtreme Clubhouse Reviews Platinum Award!!

__________________


“If I have seen farther than others, it is because I was standing on the shoulders of giants.” -Isaac Newton