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PLYR2: Skullcandy PLYR 2 Gaming Headset review – Good audio, lacks features
June 7, 2013
It’s amazing how feature-packed and luxurious gaming headsets have become.
Not to date myself, but in the early morning years of my youth, a gaming headset was something that only PC gamers used, and unless they were “ballin,” it wasn’t much more than a cheap pair of headphones with a microphone attached. Time and technology, however, have dramatically changed the gaming headset landscape. Not only have features and designs improved, but prices have soared to almost ludicrous heights.
Read More...Enter Skullcandy, with its new line of gaming headsets. Although it has recently acquired the mighty Astro Gaming, Skullcandy is creating its own lineup of gaming headsets aimed at players who might not want to burn all of their holiday money on just a headset. The collection is comprised of three headsets: the wired SLYR, and the wireless PLYR 1 and PLYR 2. I’m taking a look at the $129.95 PLYR 2.
The PLYR 2, with all of its Web 2.0 naming, is a solid headset, but lacks the some of the features and the flair of some other over-$100 units. Within the slick package is the following:
PLYR 2 headset
Wireless audio transmitter
2x USB to mini USB cables
3.5 mm to L/R (red and white) RCA pass through cable
2.5 mm audio patch cable for Xbox 360The PLYR 2 is made almost entirely of plastic. That keeps cost down — and we all love that — but it doesn’t make the headset feel like it’s worth the $130 price tag. That’s not to say that the PLYR 2 feels like it’ll snap in your hand, but its build is something to keep in mind if you tend to hurl headsets across the room after getting pwned in Halo 4.
The bulk of the review unit’s earcup is matte white that’s highlight with glossy white lines and glossy black skulls. The top band is the same matte white with the word “SKULLCANDY” in glossy white. The plastic used to adjust the position of the earcups is a very bold matte red. The bottom portion of the earcups, where most of the hand interaction takes place, is also glossy white. The mic boom is a matte black rubber.
The pads on the PLYR 2 are soft, plush material that’re wrapped in simple black cotton-like cloth. The headband pad is much softer than the pads in the earcups – to the point where the headset felt like it wasn’t being fully supported and the excess pressure pushed down a bit too much on my ears. It wasn’t enough to make me stop wearing them immediately, but it was certainly enough to make its presence known.
Feature-wise, the PLYR 2 hits most of the necessary points, but there are few that are conspicuous by their absence. Let’s start with what this headset gets right: it comes with a built-in Li-On (lithium-ion) battery that’s rechargeable via USB. I’ve looked at more expensive headsets that have many more bells and whistles, but they lack this essential feature. This is a big thumbs up for Skullcandy.
PLYR 2 has a number of features, too. On the outside of the right cup lives a 4-way analog nub that controls volume levels and game-to-voice ratio. For those that aren’t familiar with game-to -voice, it’s a control that adjusts the level of incoming chat to sounds that are coming from whatever media you’re taking part in so it’s easier to hear all of your friends trash talk. It’s a cool, useful feature.
Built into the left cup is an upright, rubber-coated boom mic. Pulling it down 90 degrees turns it on, and flipping it back up instantly mutes it. The last quarter of the mic is also flexible, so you can bend it closer or further away.
The wireless base puck has two USB ports on the rear side: one mini to power the puck and one full size to run a cable to the headset to charge it. The headset is fully functional while charging. A 3.5mm audio jack resides on the back of the puck. What I really would have like to see here is a digital audio jack like TOSLINK. In an age where most, if not all, media we consume is digital, a digital jack would be welcome.
On the backside of the right cup is the EQ3, a sliding switch that lets you select one of three built-in EQ presets: Bass Mode, Supreme Mode, and Precision Mode. The presets are permanently set and are not replaceable or editable, which is regrettable as the ones built-in mostly let you choose how hard the bass hits. Being able to adjust the bass is a handy tool as Bass-Mode feels like a sub-woofer strapped to your head. Fine-tuning would have been much appreciated.
Also sorely missing is surround sound in any form. At roughly $130, I don’t expect legit 7.1 or even 5.1 surround sound, but give me something. Even virtual 5.1 surround sound would have done the trick. The Playstation Pulse, which retails for just $20 more than the PLYR2, has virtual 7.1 surround.
I ran into a few head-scratching moments during setup and testing. To connect the puck, you plug the mini USB into the system for power and, get this, you need to connect the 3.5 mm to RCA cables to the composite A/V cables that came with the PS3/Xbox 360.
That raises a question: does anyone use or even have the composite cables that came with their system? Chances are no, and just about everyone with either of these systems is using HDMI exclusively. Fortunately, I had my PS2‘s combination component/composite cables on hand which worked as the PlayStation business-end hasn’t changed between the two systems. The only situation where I could see this as a necessary connection option is for those who own the first-generation Xbox 360 that doesn’t have HDMI.
Next, you plug the RCA cables into the pass-through cables, but you don’t actually plug the pass-through cables into anything. In my case, they just hung about as my TV — and newer slim LED TVs — either use dongles for composite or have ditched it all together. That’s not the kind of solution I’m willing to pay $130 for until I win the Powerball.
Setup on the PS3 and Xbox 360 are nearly identical with the exception that the Xbox 360 requires the use of the 2.5 mm patch cable to connect the headset to the controller for chat. Technically, that does render the headset wired instead of wireless, but we’re not going to nitpick. Setup to a computer is a little simpler and much cleaner. The 3.5 mm to RCA cable is replaced with audio patch cable that’s 3.5 mm male on either end. Of course this cable isn’t actually included, but a quick trip or a dollar store yielded a six-foot version of exactly what I needed.
Aside from the highly questionable puck setup/connection, the PLYR 2 headset has good audio quality. It’s not great, but unless you’re listening to studio-quality music, you might not notice. I found that the bass heavily unbalanced and hit way too hard, especially with the EQ in Bass-Mode. The Precision EQ mode is the only one that comes pretty close to balanced.
The PLYR 2 cranks the audio. There are about 40 clicks from being mute to full blast and unless you play your games at a concert, on a subway platform, or next to a jet engine, you’ll never need or want it to go that high. Hell, I never put it past half and that blocks out nearly all outside noise.
I tested the PLYR 2′s mic works on both the PS3 and PC and it worked quite well. I didn’t hear complaints from anyone that I talked to using it. When I performed some recordings and played them back, they sounded as clear as one would expect from a phone call with good reception.
The battery-life on the headset is good, but during my testing was nowhere near the claimed 15 hours of use. I could see that working if that amount of time was broken up into smaller chunks. The PLYR 2 lasted roughly 8 hours of continued use before I heard the beep of a dying battery (the headset beeps when the battery gets to 15%, just like a dying cell phone). So given that I had 15% left at 8 hours, I would say that 9-10 hours should be expected of continuous use.
At the end of the day Skullcandy has managed to deliver a workable wireless headset in the PLYR 2. The unit does what it’s supposed to do fairly well, but there are some serious faults and glaring omissions that don’t warrant a price tag of $129.99. If the PLYR 2 were at the same price point as the SLYR, which is $89.99, then most of the missteps could be overlooked. I would almost like to hope that the PLYR 1 will fix all of my gripes with the series, but fixes to an existing product shouldn’t cost consumers an extra $50.
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PLYR2: Skullcandy PLYR2 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
June 7, 2013
“Skullcandy!” I’ve always liked that name. It suggests something fiendishly delicious and dares you to take a bite. So we did. The makers of audio head treats has expanded its offerings. Skullcandy products include many varieties of headphone styles and even more color options. They even dabble in stylish kicks, apparel and smartphone accessories. What we have today is their new gaming ambassador, the Skullcandy PLYR2 Wireless headset for Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and PC.
Read More...The PLYR2 Wireless headset package stirs fond memories of the A50 wireless gaming headset from Astro Gaming. The package includes the PLYR2 wireless headset with mic, GMX transmitter, Xbox Live chat cable for controller, USB power cable, USB charging cable and audio coaxial cable for direct connection to TV’s or PS3. To connect to PC a 3.5mm audio cable is required but not included. I was surprised by this, but these cables are a dime a dozen, easy to find and chances are you have a spare around somewhere. Because of such, there is literally no reason not to include one, especially at the current MSRP.
We’re rocking out to the white patterned versions. But Skullcandy also has a really cool black and gold model and a softer black and teal design. My favorite is the black and gold. But this version in white, with the red and black accents is pretty sharp looking too. The logos appear to be etched on the outside of each earpiece. The head padding and ear cushions are also black and provide ample comfort.
The unit can sustain hours and hours of gaming. In doing so I experienced no discomfort. The headband expands to fit various domes. Plus the entire headset rests comfortably on the head without unwanted ear pinching or other overly tight nuances.
Setting up the PLYR2 is simple enough. The GMX wireless transmitter sucks power via USB from a spare USB port on your PC or game console. Like the A50 I have this cable connected to a USB enabled AC wall adapter, so the transmitter–subsequently the PLYR2 headset–can continue to charge even if my computer or console is powered off. Then connect AV cables or a 3.5mm cable to the corresponding audio jacks on your console or PC.
Once I got it ready for the digital war zone, I was surprised at the quality. Very impressive for a wireless stereo offering. Bass is solid with great lows and mid-range sounds, minus any unneeded hollow sounds or tinny effects. Playback is very smooth and even. The mic is nice and works as it should. Nothing special here! I wish it were retractable. I don’t prefer flip-mics. Yet the flip-up feature mutes the mic nicely. There are volume controls and a 3-feature equalizer for music, game and movies. You can also dial down game sounds in favor of voice chat sounds. Plus the distance for the wireless signal surpasses that on the 5.8hz. Unfortunately we don’t have documentation on frequency or the max wireless range distance. But the signal remained intact spanning two-stories in a multi-level office space. At that same distance the A50 set would sputter in and out.
So the Skullcandy PLYR2 Wireless gaming headset is pretty solid. The price may cause some to pause, if only momentarily. But the performance is worth the cost of admission. There are others headset that sound better on the market but not many that are strong wireless performers at the same price.
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PLYR2: Review: Skullcandy's PLYR 2 Wireless Gaming Headset offers plenty of bang for the buck
June 7, 2013
There are a lot of great choices out there when it comes to video game headsets, including Sony's definitive Pulse set-up for PS3/Vita and Astro Gaming's stellar A50's. But for those looking for a somewhat reasonable pricing – or a tendency to lean towards Skullcandy's brand set-up – you've got another great choice with the PLYR 2 Wireless Gaming Headset, which is compatible across the board for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC.
Read More...As part of a new gamer-oriented line-up with support from Astro Gaming (that also includes a PLYR 1 headset, as well as a SLYR model), the PLYR 2 is actually quite good, even with an overcrowded market filled with quality headsets.
Upon cracking open the box, the first thing we noticed was the quality feel of the headset. The cups feel comfortable sitting over the ears, and the headset itself doesn't force any strain on your skull while you're playing. Its black/yellow coloring leaves a little something to be desired, but other choices are available if you aren't out to look like a gaming bumblebee.
As for the quality of the headset itself, it's very good. It's set up using wireless 2.4 GHz technology with a GMX stereo transmitter, which makes for a unique balancing of both game and chat sounds. Like with other headsets, you can tone down one over the other, if you prefer, through an easily accessible function on the side of the headset. In fact, everything is easily within reach, including the EQ3 sound settings and a boom mic that's simple to access and use. (And like other headset models, it mutes when you flip it up.)
The wireless technology is a little bit better in the Astro Gaming set-up when it comes to responsiveness (it's just a hint higher on the technical level, especially the A50's), but the PLYR 2 headset performs admirably well under pressure, as we tested with thorough sessions of Black Ops II and a little bit of Tetris Splash. (Yes, people still play Tetris Splash, quiet.)
The EQ3 settings differ into three different modes – bass, supreme and precision. We couldn't really tell major differences between supreme and precision, but you might toy around with them using various games to see what fits right for you. Overall, each one offers strong Dolby-style quality, with hardly any lag in performance. And again, it's comfortable for long sessions, always a good thing with a bulky set like this.
The mic does stick out a bit of ways from the headset, so it might get in the way of your view if you have it in a certain position. But outside of that, everything seems to work quite properly.
Now, the PLYR 2 isn't as cheap as, say, most $50-$70 headsets, as it sits more in the $130 range. But if you can't afford the deluxe Astro Gaming models, and want something that's adequate for long-term gaming sessions, you can't go wrong with this. It's a fine debut by Skullcandy, and we'll probably see better ones come along as they move forward.
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PLYR2: Skullcandy PLYR 2 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
June 7, 2013
Gaming headsets are a huge business these days with tons of different manufacturers competing for your business. They range from low end headsets to more expensive high end headsets and in the end, the ones you choose are mainly based on what you can afford
Read More...Why are gaming headsets big business? Well, because most consoles these days don’t include headsets unless you buy an Xbox 360, and the ones included with that are crap. They only allows for chat and don’t immerse you in the game. If you are an avid gamer, the first thing you’ll want to invest in is a good gaming headset, one that not only allows for chat, but also allows you to hear the games as if you were actually in the games. One such company that makes gaming headsets is Skullcandy and their latest headset, the PLYR 2 is what I’m looking at today. What makes these quite interesting is that Astro Gaming had their hand with the design of these and it shows. As a disclaimer, I love Astro Gaming headsets and own not only the critically acclaimed A40 headsets, but the A30headsets as well. That’s why I was excited when I heard about the PLYR 2 and even more excited that I would be able to get my hands on a pair.
The Skullcandy PLYR 2 features wireless technology, Skullcandy’s proprietary Supreme Sound technology, 3 separate equalizer modes, an adjustable boom mike, and the ability to be used on an Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PC, and most mobile phones, tablets, and MP3 players.
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Skullcandy PLYR 2 headsets id that this is not a typical Skullcandy design. In fact, I’d say they are completely different from anything Skullcandy has made in the past. Again, this is probably attributed to having Astro Gaming as part of their family now and the influence they are having in their designs. The PLYR 2 headsets are very clean looking, with a design that is very attractive, functional, comfortable, and sleek. The PLYR 2 headsets are available in 3 different color combinations, the ones I received were the matte black pair with yellow accents.
Unlike the previously mentioned Astro Gaming A30 and A40 headsets, the PLYR 2 headsets do not need a separate wireless adapter in order to function wirelessly. Instead, they are built into the headset itself, similar to the new A50 headsets. All you need to do it connect the wireless receiver to your TV and gaming console and you’re pretty much set to use them. On the wireless receiver, you need to plug in the audio cables first that connect to your television set that goes between the audio cable from your gaming console to your TV. The connect the included USB cable to your video console for power. I like this setup because it does not require a separate AC adapter which takes up space. There is also another USB cable you can connect to the wireless receiver that will charge your headset when not in use. Yes, the PLYR 2 headsets are rechargeable and do not require batteries. Huge plus here in my book as batteries don’t come cheap. On the right ear piece, you’ll find the power button to turn on the headset as well as the volume control “joystick” which I’ve never seen this type on control on a headset before. Basically each tirection o nthe joystick either lowers or raises the volume as well as allows you to adjust game or chat volume. It’s pretty ingenious actually.
On the design side of things, the PLYR 2 headsets are full of little details. Padded ear surrounds as well as padded head support, an intricate design etched into both side ear pieces, and even on the inside of the ear pieces themselves, Skullcandy has their logo somehow burned into the padding. It really is a gorgeous design and the yellow accents just make it stand out even more. The boom mic on the left side is also a very elegant piece. It’s entirely surrounded in rubber and very solid feeling. You’re able to bend it to almost any position and it actually stays in position. It even includes a very handy feature. Flip it down to chat in-game or flip it back up to mute chat. Very simple to use and again, ingenious.
UsageUsing the Skullcandy PLYR 2 gaming headsets couldn’t be more easy. Basically you just hook up the wireless receiver between your TV and gaming console and then sync the headset to the receiver. That’s an easy process as well as you just hold down both power buttons and wait until they stop flashing. Very simple and pain free. On the PlayStation 3 and PC, you’re pretty much set to go after but if you’re using this on an Xbox 360, you’ll have to hook up another cable from the headset to your game controller. This obviously is less elegant, but blame this on the Xbox 360 for making you do it this way. It’s the same way for all headsets used on the 360, but mainly if you plan to use it for chat.
To control the volume on the PLYR 2 headset, use the 4-way control stick on the right earpiece. Up and down control the volume globally while left and right adjusts the amount of in-game volume in relation to in-game chat volume. On the right earpiece, you’ll also find the 3-way toggle for EQ modes. This is used to switch between game, movie, and music sound profiles. To recharge your headset, just plug it into a USB cable and you’re good to go. It doesn’t take that long either to fully recharge them.
The PLYR 2 headset can also adjust to pretty much any head size. They are adjustable height and they are springy enough where they can also adjust to head width. Again, I find them to be very comfortable to wear for long periods of time thanks to the heavy padding and I like the fact that the ear pieces fir around your ears and don’t sit on top of them. The padding used is very soft allowing them to easily mold itself to your head.
Final ThoughtsOverall, the Skullcany PLYR 2 headsets are a great alternative to the more expensive Astro Gaming headsets. They may not feature the advanced Dolby Digital 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound, but for the casual gamer who wants something better than the stock headsets, these are definitely a step above the rest. I would say these are just as good as the Astro Gaming headsets in terms of quality and build and the wireless feature is certainly a huge plus. They might not have the high end sound quality that the Astro Gaming headsets have, but in my opinion, they still sound great and again, the average gamer will be very happy with these.
The price of the Skullcandy PLYR 2 gaming headsets are around $129.95. That is very competitive pricing considering most others are a bit more or around the same price range for similarly spec’d wireless headsets, but with these, you get headsets that very comfortable, well made, easy to set up, and despite just being stereo headsets, they sound very good.
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PLYR2: Review: Skullcandy PLYR 2 Wireless Gaming Headset
June 7, 2013
Skullcandy’s past stabs at gaming headsets weren’t exactly memorable, and that’s putting it diplomatically. Then the company acquired Astro Gaming and the game — pardon the pun — suddenly changed. Based on the performance of the affordable SLYR gaming headset, which received a positive review on this site just recently, the fruits of the alliance seem to be bearing fruit.
Read More...Despite being a budget headset, the wired SLYR still served up excellent sound and features for the price. Now we’re taking a look at the SLYR’s wireless cousin, the Skullcandy PLYR 2.
Right off the bat, it’s obvious that both headsets share the same DNA. The designs have some obvious similarities, including the same plastic material overall as well as the same fabric-covered padding used on the upper headband and inner cups. The overall feel and lightness is also the same, with the PLYR 2 sporting a nice, snug fit as well. Still, there are some notable differences between both when it comes to their design. Unlike the SLYR, which uses a more angular, modern look, the PLYR 2 uses a more traditional rounded design. The same thing can also be said about the mics, with the PLYR 2 using a longer more traditionally shaped microphone while the SLYR employs a more rectangular one. The PLYR 2 also uses a more solid-colored trim (yellow in the case of the unit I reviewed) compared to the transparent plastic highlights of the SLYR.
Overall, I actually like the SLYR’s design more though aesthetics are certainly a matter of personal choice. What’s more important is audio quality and the PLYR 2 does a solid job in this respect. Like the SLYR, the PLYR 2 delivers a clean sound with a healthy amount of bass that isn’t overpowering, even when using the “Bass Mode” setting on the EQ. It likely won’t be enough for bass heads though regular folk tend to prefer this kind of clean bass profile more. Speaking of EQ, the PLYR 2 also comes with two more additional presets called “Supreme Mode” and “Precision Mode.” This allows players to use a different audio setting depending on the game genre. Shooters such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, for example, sound better when using Supreme Mode because you can hear and distinguish the various sounds better as opposed to Bass Mode, which tends to muffle some of the audio detail in such games. Precision Mode, meanwhile, seems to emphasize the highs the most.
The biggest differentiating factor between the PLYR 2 and the SLYR, however, is wireless capability and the PLYR 2 also does a good job in this regard. Pairing is pretty easy and requires just a few button presses. Like the Turtle Beach XP400, the absence of wires gives you a lot more freedom of movement compared to the SLYR or the Astro A30 with MixAmp. Unlike the latter two, however, you can’t swap in regular headsets when using the PLYR 2. Still, its wireless capability is quite good. Range is also pretty far and battery life is excellent. It can’t take phone calls like the XP400 but it also costs $90 less with its $130 price tag, which is a pretty fair tradeoff. One result of the lower cost, however, is the absence of an optical out for folks who prefer a digital connection. Instead, the PLYR 2 uses an analog cable, which still gets the job done but requires an adapter if you want to connect via HDMI.
Overall, the PLYR 2 doesn’t have all the features of competitors such as the XP400 or even the headphone swapping capability afforded by the wired SLYR or the A30’s MixAmp. What it does offer, however, is a solid wireless gaming headset experience at an affordable price, making this a good choice for budget-conscious gamers who want a less tangled audio experience.
Final rating: 4 stars out of 5
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PLYR2: With Skullcandy, Look Stylish While Playing Video Games
June 7, 2013
Skullcandy is known for adding youthful flair to audio gear. So when the company acquired Astro Gaming, a maker of premium gaming accessories, it made sense that it would introduce a line of stylish, less-expensive gaming headsets with the Skullcandy brand.
Read More...The new line, introduced over several months, includes three options, Slyr, Plyr1 and Plyr2, which offer different levels of performance. All three are compatible with the Xbox 360 and PS3 consoles and PCs.
The wired Slyr headset (pronounced “slayer”), which runs about $80, features a foldable boom mic and an inline mixer that offers volume control, voice balance and muting. It also has an equalization button that toggles among three modes to enhance your experience. For instance, you get more boom playing games like Transformers: Fall of Cybertron in the bass mode, but the precision mode offers more clarity. The sound quality is pretty good for a relatively inexpensive headset.
But the headset has a couple of audio cables that snake their way to the game controller and the TV, which can leave your living room looking cluttered. The benefit about being wired, however, is that the Slyr can also plug into most tablets and smartphones.
For a cleaner gaming area, consider shelling out $130 for Skullcandy’s Plyr2 gaming headset, which offers better sound without the wires. The controls are on the right cup, making the gaming experience more seamless. The Plyr1, which will be available in March for $180, has the same audio, but is enhanced with Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound.
But the best reason to get Skullcandy headsets are their streamlined design and eye-catching colors, offering more style than their bulkier rivals. There are higher-quality options on the market, but with Skullcandy gear, at least you look good wearing it.
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SLYR: Skullcandy Talks New Gaming Headsets, Astro Gaming & Tournaments
June 7, 2013
Since acquiring Astro Gaming over a year ago, gamers wonder where Skullcandy is headed with its future line of audio products. We did see its subsidiary recently launch the A50 headset, which was met with critical acclaim and stands as the best gaming headset on the market.
Read More...But the lifestyle headphone brand caught consumers off guard after announcing its latest SLYR and PLYR gaming headsets. Stylish, comfortable, and delivering impressive audio quality—we’re all questioning the brand’s brash move into the competitive gaming market.
Why jump into the gaming headset market? Should we expect a different (or similar) product than Astro’s latest offering? And will we see Skullcandy present at any future gaming tournaments? Inquiring answers, we sat with Skullcandy’s Global Category Manager, Gernard Feril, to get some answers.
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SLYR: SkullCandy PLYR 2 & SLYR Gaming Headsets Preview
June 7, 2013
Don’t call it a comeback. With a bevy of NBA all-star talent endorsements, the acquisition of Astro Gaming, and dope new designs—Skullcandy is making moves and bogarting its way back into the audio elite fold. Having achieved massive success with the release of the Astro A50 headset, the lifestyle headphone brand has focused its efforts towards the gaming market and recently dropped its own line of gaming headsets for the holidays. Ladies and gents, introducing the PLYR 2 an SLYR.
Read More...The stylish and feature-heavy headsets borrow cues from its premium counterpart, such as the three-stage EQ setting and comfortable fit. Not to mention sweet two-toned color schemes and impressive audio quality. During the company’s East Coast promotional trip, we met up with Global Category Manager, Gernard Feril, and had the Skullcandy rep break down both models in detail for EvolveTV. You won’t find a better sounding gaming headset in either price range.
The PLYR 2 ($130) and SLYR ($80) are available now at Skullcandy’s online store.
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Skullcandy PLYR 2 is terrific - and affordable
January 15, 2013
Headsets to use with your video games are notoriously expensive, especially the better quality ones. Skull Candy is changing the game with this quality, yet inexpensive system.
Read More...Skullcandy PLYR 2 will allow you to chat via your gaming system, without braking your bank.
LOVED IT: Fantastic value, tremendous comfort, all features easily accessibleHATED IT: Slightly overpowering highs
GRAB IT IF: You’re looking for a quality headset at an affordable price
The world of the gaming headset just got a bit more crowded. And a bit more affordable.
For years, there have been two varieties of gaming headsets. Companies such as ASTRO have made stunningly brilliant units, delivering phenomenal sound and comfort, but such headsets came at prohibitive prices, far more than your average college student could afford. Sure, there were cheaper units, thanks to the likes of Logitech and even Turtle Beach, but those units felt, well, cheap.
And that’s where Skullcandy comes in. Well-known for its headphones, the company dropped hints that it would branch into gaming when it acquired venerable ASTRO in 2011, then followed by releasing a line of headsets late last year, headlined by the PLYR 2, a wireless unit that won’t kill a college wallet but will be a joy for college ears.
The PLYR 2 headset isn’t flawless, but at $129.99, it’s one of the finest values in a growing market. Skullcandy draws on ASTRO’s experience and technology and makes a few concessions, creating an affordable unit that delivers far more than tinny and pathetic sound.
The stylings are all Skullcandy. The PLYR 2s are available in a bevy of bold colors, with the Skullcandy logo and a random lined pattern adorning the outside of each earcup. The skater crowd is the obvious target of these sets; there’s nothing understated about them at all.
But underneath all that glitz lies plenty of ASTRO influence. The earcups have that same soft and comfortable feeling, and, much like just about everything in the ASTRO line, a thick piece of cushioning lines the headband. The units thus feel much like ASTRO’s brilliant A50s, delivering a nice soft feel that you can wear for hours without dealing with any strain.
The rest of the construction also borrows heavily from ASTRO’s ideas. There’s a movable boom mic, which automatically shuts off when it clicks into the up position, three EQ settings with subtle differences, and a nob that governs both master volume, game volume and voice volume. All of this is easily accessible, and everything handles well, even in the heat of a Call of Duty: Black Ops II battle.
The all-plastic frame may turn some off, even breed concern that the PLYR 2s could break, but the unit still seems sturdy, and it has a fair amount of give.
Sound quality, meanwhile, is solid. The cushy earcups cancel out just about all outside sound, delivering an incredibly immersive experience, and you get excellent bass reproduction. Explosions in Black Ops II and crashes in The Walking Dead both reverberated with impact, and voices are strong and potent.
However, high-pitched sound effects and voices are just a little bit too tinny, and the overall effect can be occasionally grating. Overall, sound quality is solid, even if the PLYR 2s are definitely not in the class of higher-end units.
Not that appreciating the PLYR 2s comes easily. Like just about every other wireless headset on the market, the PLYR 2s are a pain to set up. The technology is good – 2.4 gHz transmission and a slick GMX transmitter that comes prepared – but the process of connecting with a console continues to be annoying, especially if you rely on an HDMI connection. Things are even worse if you have a complicated home theater setup, and it doesn’t help that the transmitter lacks an optical pass-through option.
Then again, you can’t fully blame Skullcandy; no company has truly solved the riddle of the HDMI or the home theater. And I’m not sure that the PLYR 2s are geared toward the home theater crowd, anyway.
It is, however, slightly disappointing that Skullcandy still fails to include a 3.5 mm jack. The headset can still be used easily with a PC, but a 3.5 mm option would have opened the PLYR 2 to even greater possibilities, letting PS Vita and Nintendo 3DS users fall for this set. Skullcandy sells a wired SLYR set, but the PLYR 2 could have given a bit more mileage to users with a 3.5 mm jack.
Despite all that, gamers will draw plenty of usage from the PLYR 2s, which deliver tremendous value despite their imperfections. Most other quality wireless options cost upwards of $200, but the PLYR 2s deliver a solid wireless experience for $70 less, meaning you can buy the headset and the game.
And that’s something any budget-conscious gamer can appreciate.
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Gaming: Skullcandy PLYR 2 Headset
December 25, 2012
SOURCE: NEW YORK POST
"This headset is among the most comfortable ones that we have ever used and it sits snugly on your head and does not put and strain or pressure on the ears, a welcome change from many high-end headsets (and headphones in general) that can become uncomfortable during long sessions"
Read More...Skullcandy, known mostly for their non-gaming headphones, has broken into the gaming headset market with their new SLYR and PLYR 2 models.
The headphones, which are compatible with PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PC, bring high-end features to the table with a fairly reasonable price.
The PLYR 2 headset, which is wireless, uses similar technology to the critically-acclaimed Astro line of gaming headsets while providing gamers with a comfortable, stylish set of headphones that can even be used away from gaming (but the setup for that is not ideal).The first thing you’ll notice about the PLYR 2 headset is the comfort. This headset is among the most comfortable ones that we have ever used and it sits snugly on your head and does not put and strain or pressure on the ears, a welcome change from many high-end headsets (and headphones in general) that can become uncomfortable during long sessions.
The same issues that come with all wireless headsets are present with the PLYR 2’s, meaning set up for wireless gaming is a bit difficult and if you connect to your TV through an HDMI, you are going to have a hard time using these. Although these are technically wireless, you will need to connect through a wire for the Xbox 360, but that is just because of the system. For PlayStation 3, it is much simpler.
The convenience of the headset is what makes it a quality product. Gamers can control the volume, switch between game and voice modes, change sound quality/preferences (bass, supreme and precision), as well as turn the headset on or off with simple buttons located on the outside of the earcups. Another great component is the microphone, which despite being a little stiff, has the extremely helpful feature of muting when it is moved into the upright position.Sound-wise, the headset does not have the same quality as the Astro line, but it certainly does match up favorably with other headsets within its price point ($129.95). Communication comes in clearly, the game sounds are sharp and you can change the balance between the two, which is nice depending on what you prefer to use the headset for while playing.
All said, you’ll be hard pressed to find a wireless headset that provides the stylish, convenient, quality featured that the PLYR 2 offers.Final Verdict: Buy it!
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