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There are more than two dozen gaming headsets you can buy here, but Arctic's "P531" is in the same category as one of my favorites, the Logitech "G430."
Like the G430, the P531 is a mid-range headset, except it's about $35 cheaper than the Logitech.
The set fits very snugly. This for me is a positive, but I was told by a professional gamer that if you're using the headset specifically for long-term gaming sessions, you DON'T want to have the headsets to fit snugly because they become uncomfortable after awhile. The loose fitting G430's are preferable because they don't put pressure on the ears, despite leaking sound.
That being said, the P531 have a very distinguishing style that can't be ignored, such as:
* Sturdy, well-built (definitely not cheaply made)
* A thin, flexible mike (that's unobtrusive)
* A dedicated, "wing" handle on the ears to help adjust the fit
* A large control bar with separate volumes for the channels including the mic.
* USB interface.
* Windows AND Mac compatible.
After having them several weeks, I love the way they fit. But, I also see what the criticism is from experienced gamers. And, that advice should be taken into consideration.
The mic is very, very good. I've been doing voice-over with the headset in place of my computer's (very competent) internal mic and I find with the P531's that I don't get an ambient sound since the headset's mic is barely an inch from me.
When watching Netflix, you definitely hear the surround sound and that also goes for games.
Compared to the G430's, the P531's have
+ 5.1 sound sound
+ Mac compatible
+ feels sturdier
+ $35 cheaper
- Lacks the Dolby Digital circuitry built into the earpieces
- 7.1 surround sound.
- less comfortable the longer you play video games or if you watch more than 1 movie.
So, the P531's stack up very well against the well-received G430's despite not having a 7.1 surround sound and Dolby Digital. But, all of this could be offset by the fact that the P531 is little more than half the price of the G430's... and it's a steal.
