My Christmas present was a gaming headset. I was a bit worried when I’d heard about it — I’ve always preferred the idea of a separate microphone and headphones, and at the very least the white model looks way better. Having it in front of me has changed my opinion, though — they still look spectacular and the integrated design keeps with my minimalist nature.

It sounds decent (I still don’t know what “good” sounds like — they’re a less shrill than my a-Jays, but I don’t have any real comparison) and I actually can type while talking now which should help with productivity. I love its understated, utility-focussed design but honestly, I haven’t found them comfortable at all.

The reason I’m pleased at the moment is the X-Fi Go! Pro sound card I picked up (another VAIO S flaw). Man, I dig audio processing so much, even if it sounds gross to everyone else. SRS was one of the reasons I really loved my iRiver Clix2 so much… and goddamn, Creative’s THX technology just makes stuff sounds better.

My next post will be better.

Headphones = Intrigue

My next post will be better.

Function over form would’ve had me purchase another set of Shures, but I decided to try these frighteningly stylish headphones instead.

Sound-wise, they’re pretty bass heavy (not as strongly skewed as EX71s), but otherwise adequate enough. The fit and seal is decent, but it’s not foam or anything.

But it’s the lovely rubbery tagliatelle cables that really stand out to me: I really appreciate how well they reduce tangling, even though it’s mainly an aesthetic thing if I’m honest. Points also go to the premium packaging, however superfluous.

Mine now say JAY on each earbud. JJ72¹ are basically the band of my teenage years.

This matte black aesthetic does seem to match items I’ve purchased recently — the Intuos4, Diamondback and Pre all share a similar feel, a specific combination of materials that provide a certain warmth and comfort to using the product.

My next post will be better.