Xbox 360: Wireless Headset

The Xbox 360 wireless headset, makes sense right? You've got that fancy wireless controller so why be tethered to it and look like a complete moron when you can go cool. I never understood the design of the 360 wired headset, it has taken a step backwards in terms of design. The orignal Xbox headset was sporting the now popular behind the head look and was somewhat concealing, the new one has my fiance asking me if she can get fries with her #2 combo meal.

Starting off with design, this headset is a sexy beast. It is up there with the Plantronics and Motorola bluetooth headsets for cell phones in terms of looks. On the outside it has a chrome power button, 2 volume buttons [+ and -] and a short "arm" to talk into. On the inside of the arm there are 4 lights, they correspond to whatever controller you are using. There is also a small sync button on the inside of the arm similar to the one on the console and controller. The piece doesn't actually go in your ear, but it sits over it and a gray rubber "C" fits around your ear to hold it in place. The headset comes in 2 sizes of the "c" depending on the size of your ear. The default works fine for me.

Connecting to the system is a breeze, the first time you use it you have to press the sync button in conjunction with the system. It'll then sync up and light up the first light, indicating you are good to go. Every other time after that you just have to power up the system, and then the headset and it'll auto sync for you.

I've been reading a lot of reports that the sound quality and range have been piss poor and that many have had complaints from other users that a loud buzzing noise was coming from their mic. For me, the sound quality is a lot better than the wired headset, my friends all agreed. The range is very limited though, I couldn't walk more than 10-12 ft. without it cutting out. When you walk back it goes back on but it is kind of disheartening. Now, if I have to run to the bathroom I could miss out some important conversation.

I did experience the buzzing noise everyone is reporting and my friend said it sounded like I was standing next to a microwave. I simply turned off the headset and then turned it back on again and the noise went away. Hopefully Microsoft can fix this issue. MS is claiming an 8 hour battery life but I just charge it every night [charger is included and plugs into the wall, not your system] so I haven't had a problem with it.

Is this headset worth $60 USD? For me, it is, but if you are on a tight budget I would save the money and buy a game instead. The wired headset works just fine but the wireless is just a little more convenient.

Final Score: 7 out of 10