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Written by [t0rc]
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The LTB USB Pro 5.1 Headphone Set is on the review table today. After
thorough testing with DVD's, music, and of course games (all of which
include lengthy wearing time) the verdict is quite good. The USB Pro
allows for the headphones to be used for 5.1 Surround Sound on a PC or
Mac that doesn't even have a sound card. Just grab a system that has a
USB port on it and you're good to go. Check it out.
| Product: | LTB USB Pro 5.1 Headphone Set |  | | Manufacturer: | LTB | | Common Price: | $79.00 USD | | Where to Buy: | Check Here | | Details: | - Weight: 6 ounces w/o cord
- Uses USB Port (no soundcard needed)
- Volume Control and Amplifier
- SafeBass Technology
- 5.1 Surround Sound
- Also works with MP3/CD players, other sound devices
- Detachable Microphone
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Surround Sound headphones are a great invention by themselves but when
you go the extra mile and add compatibility to computers that don't
have sound card support for 5.1 you enter the genius category. The
headphones are perfect for gamers as they not only have distinct
channels and positional 5.1 sound, the headset also has a highly
sensitive microphone. Running through Half-Life 2: Deathmatch I'm able
to pinpoint exactly where my opponent is before I see him just using
the sound of his gun; ah yes, the advantages of good surround sound. If
everyone brought their 500w system to a LAN party it'd not only be
annoying with all the conflicting sound but confusing; even when people
aren't allowed to bring their speakers LAN parties are usually pretty
loud so the fact that the LTB headphones make it very hard to hear
external noise is a blessing.
The drivers behind the headphones perform very well for being so small.
6 Independent Sound Channels divide the multiple speakers to create the
high quality positional audio for output.
Headphones, like other loud accessories, can permanently damage
someones hearing without the user even being aware of it; LTB has taken
a precaution against this with their SafeBass Technology. The bass
channel is combined with the front left and front right channels to
provide clean bass yet it's still converged with the front channels in
order to not harm the ears.
The headset is extremely comfortable, has a secure fit, and you've got
to love the soft cushions for your ears. The earcups also rotate
roughly 110° forward. This helps a lot when they're hanging around
your neck and you don't want them in your way. Very light at only 6
ounces the headset is a great travel companion as they also store very
easily.
The USB Pro adapter box has volume control on it which directly
controls the system volume available in the system tray. Taking these
headphones on a trip half-way across around the world, they remained
comfortable and even allowed me to sleep without any interruptions
(even though people did try to talk with me). The USB adapter isn't
needed to connect the headset to a headphone jack using the other
included adapter. Cables sometimes just aren't long enough but not this
time. With over 7ft of cord, you've got plenty of moving around space
even if you have to plug into a rear USB port. Plain and simple these
headphones rival most other more expensive and well-known brand pairs.
Sound quality and comfort are the two most important factors for a set
of headphones so on to sound quality. Plowing through many DVD’s,
CD’s, games, and other audio sources, we tested the sound thoroughly
and despite our best efforts the sound remains perfect at all except
the highest volume levels. We could hear the pins drop, the swords
clash, and the gunshots rang loud and clear. When we maxed out the
volume (both in game and on the controller) we experienced some
distortion. The bass, even though it uses the SafeBass technology, was
plenty strong; with some songs we use for testing we actually could
feel vibes through our ears! The microphone was also very sensitive and
accurately depicted our voices in games and online chats. Plain and
simple this product is nothing short of impressive. The included
software isn’t too bad; it allows for different modes (EQ as well as
channel modes and room space selection). It’s easy to use and allows
for a lot of different audio and karaoke effects with the microphone
and your music.
Overall the LTB USB Pro 5.1 Headphone Set is a great bundle. It has
everything you need to enjoy great 5.1 Surround Sound without a sound
card. The microphone has very good sensitivity and is easy to position.
The headset is easy to fit, comfortable for long periods of time, and a
great external sound block. Using a USB port for surround sound is
great if you're going to LAN parties, Compatibility with both MAC and
PC makes this set even better, along with a reasonable price. Muddy
sound at high volumes and the lack of sound card support are the only
gripes. For gamers, movie watchers, audiophiles and computer users in
general, especially those on the move, we highly recommend this
product. The LTB USB Pro 5.1 Headphone Set receives a rating of 94% and
a Gold Award.
Thanks to LTB for making this review possible.
| Theater Surround: | Drive-in Movie: | - Good looks and sturdy construction
- No sound card needed
- Excellent sound quality (reasonable volume)
- Reasonable price
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Quality microphone
| - Muddy sound at high volume levels
- No sound card connectivity
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