Polk, a high-performance audio brand with 40 years of sound, engineering and design expertise, has introduced the Striker headset at E3 2014, the Electronic Entertainment Expo. The company only entered the gaming industry at E3 2013.
The Polk Striker, which is designed for next-gen gaming platforms, raises the bar for gaming headsets by offering gamers audiophile-grade sound performance in an affordable design. A lightweight, cushioned headband and plush, pivoting ear cups—the ProFit Comfort system—to ensure a better fit. For gameplay on the Xbox One, Striker will be packaged with a wireless adapter developed exclusively by Polk that boasts improved sound and chat performance. The wireless adapter plugs directly into the Xbox One controller and connects wirelessly to the Xbox One console, giving users complete control of chat and volume at their fingertips.
“With the Striker, our goal is to fill a void in the gaming headset market by offering an affordable headphone option that delivers dynamic sound during all aspects of a game―whether it’s dialogue between characters or an intense action sequence,” said Mark Suskind, VP of user experience at Polk. “As we continue to make significant investments in gaming, all of our supporting innovations will be designed to enhance and expand the rich, multifaceted audio elements within games played on any console.”
Retailing for US$89, the Striker will be available in three colorways―black, grey/blue and white/orange―in early October. Additional features and capabilities include:
- Sound quality – Polk’s Dynamic Balance driver technology reveals a wider and more impressive frequency range with sharp details and no hints of strain or resonances
- Clear chat audio – A built-in boom mic optimises chat; in addition, a 7-cm. flexible extension seamlessly conforms to a gamer’s chat preferences and retracts easily into the ear cup when not in use
- Freedom of movement – Located at the ear cup, a strain-relief cable connector ensures the 46-in. cable always keeps users connected to the game without getting in the way
Turtle Beach, known for its audio in the video games separately launched its first gaming headsets for the PlayStation4 and Xbox One with DTS Headphone:X 7.1 surround sound.
The Ear Force Stealth 500X is a fully wireless surround sound headset for the Xbox One console. The Stealth 500X delivers digital audio from the Xbox One’s optical connection, and separate wireless channels for chat and game audio. Utilising immersive DTS Headphone:X 7.1 surround sound and a completely re-imagined preset system, players can use surround sound modes that are finely tuned for different types of games, movies and music. For example, the game surround sound mode offers presets that have been acoustically tuned for first person shooter, racing, and sports games. The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of playing time, and new high-performance WiFi ensures an interference-free wireless experience. Users can swap out the removable microphone for the included mobile cable and use the Stealth 500X on the road as wired headset.
The Ear Force XO ONE is a lightweight, comfortable stereo Xbox One gaming headset that is packed full of features. The XO ONE features finely tuned 50mm drivers, multi-step Bass Boost and Microphone Monitor. The high-quality flex microphone is removable for use with mobile devices as a headphone.
For PlayStation 4 the all new Turtle Beach Elite 800 sets a new standard for wireless gaming audio, Turtle Beach said. Compatible with the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3, the Elite 800 supports DTS Headphone:X 7.1 surround sound and active noise cancellation to create an immersive audio experience. Both are firsts for console gaming headsets.
A completely reimagined preset system allows surround sound modes to be finely tuned for different types of games, movies and music. Presets can be customised and managed using a new mobile app. Dual invisible microphones provide high-quality chat audio and a clean, boom-free look. Rocker plate controls makes using features easy and keeps the Elite 800 looking sharp. A low profile magnetic charging stand keeps the Elite 800 charged without cables and the rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of playing time. High-performance WiFi ensures an interference-free wireless experience, and Bluetooth connects to mobile devices for phone calls, music and more.
The Ear Force Stealth 400 is a fully wireless stereo headset compatible with PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 consoles. Controls on the ear cup provide quick access to separate game and chat volume, as well as for distinct surround sound presets for games, movies and music. The built-in rechargeable battery provides up to 15 hours of playing time and new high-performance WiFi ensures an interference-free wireless experience. Acoustically angled, large 50mm Neodymium speakers deliver an immersive audio experience. Again, users can swap out the removable microphone for the included mobile cable with inline mic and use the Stealth 400 on the road as wired headset.
The new Ear Force P12 amplified stereo gaming headset provides high-quality digital game and chat audio through a single USB connection for the PlayStation 4. The P12 incorporates features popular with gamers, including adjustable Bass Boost and Microphone Monitor. An inline amplifier provides easy access to volume controls and microphone mute. Large 50mm speakers deliver a full-range of high-quality audio, from crisp highs to thumping lows. The P12 also disconnects from the in-line amp for use on PS Vita and other mobile devices. Available globally on July 10, the Ear Force P12 has a US MSRP of US$59.95.
Turtle Beach has also launched PC gaming headsets. The Heroes of the Storm Stereo PC Gaming Headset is the ultimate headset for fans of Heroes of the Storm, a new online team brawler that draws iconic characters from more than 20 years of Blizzard gaming history, including the award-winning Warcraft, Diablo, and StarCraft franchises, says the company.
The new PC gaming headset features swappable speaker plates, so fans can personalise their headset with designs featuring their favorite Blizzard heroes. Players can download an exclusive in-game skin when they register their headset. Powerful 50mm speakers deliver all the crisp highs and powerful lows. In-line controls provide easy access to volume and microphone mute. Breathable, around-the-ear cushions are optimised for noise isolation and comfort during long play sessions. A fully adjustable, high-sensitivity microphone on a removable boom provides loud, clear chat audio.
The Ear Force Recon 320 brings surround sound gaming to the PC market at a very competitive price. Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound allows players to pinpoint enemy locations and hear accurate, immersive surround sound with any type of content. A new around-the-ear headset design allows for hours of comfort and noise-isolation plus the ability to personalize the Recon 320 with swappable speaker plates. Amplified 50mm Neodymium speakers deliver crisp highs and powerful lows. The Recon 320 uses a single USB connection for a PC or a 3.5mm jack on mobile devices. A high-sensitivity microphone on a flexible, removable boom provides loud, clear chat audio. An included mobile cable with in-line mic and multi-function button for mobile controls ̶ such as answer call, pause music, and skip track ̶ makes the Recon 320 a true mobile headset as well.