review – Sennheiser headphones are my go-to brand for home use. This time, I take a look at EPOS’ PC38X – the new name for Sennheiser’s gaming brand. How is this headset different from the Sennheisers I’m familiar with? Let’s find out.
What is it?
The DROP + EPOS PC38X is an upgraded version of the PC37X, featuring the same drivers as Sennheiser’s GPS 500 and 600 headsets and a noise-cancelling microphone on the boom that doubles as a mute switch.
What’s in the box?
- DROP + EPOS PC38X Gaming Headset
- 2.5 m PC cable, 2 x 3.5 mm split TRS connectors
- 1.5 m console cable, 1 x 3.5 mm TRRS connector
- Second set of pads (velvet)
- drawstring bag
Hardware Specifications
earphone
- Appearance: ear hook
- Transducer principle: dynamic, open
- Frequency Response: 10Hz – 30000Hz
- Impedance: 28Ω
- Sound pressure level: 109 decibels
- Weight: 8.9 oz (253 g)
- Weight (with cables): 10.2 oz (290.5 g)
microphone
- Microphone Frequency Response: 50–16,000 Hz
- Pickup Pattern: Noise Reduction
- Sensitivity: -38 dBV/PA
- Microphone Technology: Electret Condenser
- Microphone pickup mode: two-way
Design and Features
The first thing I noticed about the DROP + EPOS PC38X gaming headset is the second set of ear pads. They’re velvety velvet rather than the smoother fabric that’s already attached to the pads on the headphones. The ear holes are approximately 68mm x 33mm.
The top of the inner headband is padded with the same material as the non-velour earpads.
The microphone is located at the end of the flexible boom. To mute, just swing the boom up. The boom makes a satisfying “click” when the microphone is muted.
The microphone has a nice gold mesh.
There is a volume knob on the right ear of the DROP+EPOS PC38X gaming headset. Remember, this will not modify your device volume.
set up
The headphone cable goes into this deep recessed jack on the left earcup.
The microphone boom is very flexible. Not only can you rotate it up or down, but you can also bend it in or out.
Performance
The DROP + EPOS PC38X gaming headset is an open-back headset, which means you can still understand your surroundings. I like this better. The downside is that your neighbors may hear some sound leakage from your headphones at higher volumes. The PC38X did not disappoint. Music sounds good.
But how does the microphone sound? A mouth mic almost always sounds better than the built-in mic on a laptop webcam. Here’s a recording from my laptop’s microphone in my bedroom office.
Now this is the same room recording, but using a PC38X microphone. Since the mic is closer to my mouth, the echo from the room is less noticeable.
what do I like
- Sennheiser sound quality
- Two sets of ear pads
- The microphone makes a satisfying “click” as you swing the boom up
- The black and yellow/gold color scheme is not too flashy
what would i change
final thoughts
If you’re used to loud and flashy gaming headsets with bright colors and LED lights, skip the DROP + EPOS PC38X. I prefer open-back headphones with solid build quality and a docile look.
price: $139
where to buy: reduce
source: This product sample is provided by reduce.
