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PLYR 2 - Black/Yellow
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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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Gaming: Skullcandy PLYR 2 Wireless Headset
December 24, 2012
SOURCE: GSTYLEMAG.COM
"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."
Read More...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. 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.
Design and Build Quality
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.
Usage
Using 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 Thoughts
Overall, 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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PLYR 2 Choosing a wireless gaming headset
December 20, 2012
Stunning high-definition graphics hog most of the attention when discussing PC or console video games, but quality sound can be equally important. From footsteps in the distance during a session of Call of Duty to the roar of a crowd in Madden, audio enhances every video game experience.
Read More...Stunning high-definition graphics hog most of the attention when discussing PC or console video games, but quality sound can be equally important. From footsteps in the distance during a session of Call of Duty to the roar of a crowd in Madden, audio enhances every video game experience.
In situations where your TV doesn't pack a punch, or you are seeking a late-night gaming experience without waking up the family, there's always the option of investing in a gaming headset. While there are several wired choices, opting for a wireless headset is your best bet.
Fortunately, video game players have a great selection at a wide range of prices. We break down five wireless headsets available now (ordered from lowest to highest price).
Skullcandy PLYR 2
Price: $129.95
Compatible With: PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Set-up: Similar to the PDP model, standard AV connections are required, so setup is easier with component cables or if your TV supports a separate HDMI audio input. A transmitter plugs into a PC or console device, with an additional input for a charging cable.
Details: When you stack up the PLYR 2 against other wireless headsets, it kinda looks cheap. Once you flip it on and start playing, the sound quality is powerful for the price. Instead of buttons or a dial to control volume, it features a thumbstick on the right earpad that players flick up and down. They can also go left to right to balance chat and game audio. It's easy to find while playing, but not as responsive.
