Headsets, Audio Boosters Unveiled For Gamers

By Lisa Johnston On Oct 3 2011 - 4:01am

NEW YORK — Gaming accessories from CTA Digital, Creative Technology were introduced recently, including a USB audio device from the latter.

The Sound Blaster Recon3D from Creative Technology can be used with a number of gaming systems, including the Xbox 360, PlayStation3, PCs and Macs. Shaped similar to a gaming mouse, it’s designed to improve the audio playback quality and experience with THX TruStudio Pro, a suite of audio enhancements developed by Creative and THX audio engineers. It also features Dolby Digital technology, enabled via the optical input, to provide full 5.1 surround decoding over a gaming headset, the company said.

Other features include dedicated controls for instant access to volume, mic boost and THX TruStudio Pro audio enhancement settings; a Scout Mode that lets users pinpoint targets in firstperson shooter games; and a premium headphone/ mic preamp.

Connectivity options include Micro USB , stereo mic in/headphone/line out, and aux in or optical in with Dolby Digital Decoding for headphone surround sound.

Users are not required to install drivers, making it ideal for portable gaming and tournaments, the company noted. Computer gamers can install the included software on their PC or Mac and set up audio profiles using THX TruStudio Pro settings, which can then be saved on the Sound Blaster Recon3D for use with an Xbox 360 or PS3.

The THX TruStudio Pro features THX TruStudio Pro Crystalizer, which reportedly restores low- and high-end frequency curves lost to compression; THX TruStudio Pro Surround, said to provide 360-degree surround sound; and THX TruStudio Pro Smart Volume, which ensures consistent volume levels.

It also has THX TruStudio Pro Dialog Plus to enhance voices in games and movies, and THX TruStudio Pro Bass, which fills in the missing low frequency tones and give the extra impact for a better entertainment experience, according to the company.

The Sound Blaster Recon3D is scheduled to be available this month for $129.

Creative also recently took the wraps off other Sound Blaster products, this time the next generation of its Sound Blaster gaming headsets. All of the headsets are designed for the Xbox 360 but can also be used with the PlayStation3, PCs and Macs.

The Sound Blaster Tactic360 Sigma gaming headset boasts 50mm drivers and a steel core headband design. It has a powered headset amplifier with sepa- rate voice and game audio controls the company said, but still maintains a lightweight design. Pricing is listed as $89.99.

The Tactic360 Ion gaming headset has 40mm drivers and the powered headset amplifier. Pricing wasn’t available.

The Tactic3D Wrath Wireless Special Edition has 50mm drivers, red illuminated ear cups, a steel-core headband, rechargeable lithium battery and a detachable mic. It comes with THX TruStudio Pro software. Pricing wasn’t available.

Finally, the Tactic3D Omega Wireless gaming headset ($199) has 50mm drivers, a detachable noise-canceling microphone and the THX TruStudio Pro software. The wireless transmitter connects via USB or aux-in.

Lake Forest, Calif.-based Compu-Expert also unveiled a gaming headset with its Teknmotion Yapster Blaster amplified universal headset. The universal over-ear headset, which has 40mm neodymium drivers, is powered by XJacker Soniq Rush amplification technology. Frequency range is listed at 20Hz to 20,000Hz.

It features a multi-articulated metal mic boom, in-line volume and mic controls, and standard 3.5 mm jacks and multiple included adapters. Suggested retail is $29.99. It’s currently available.

CTA Digital, based in Brooklyn, N.Y., introduced its Deluxe Power Grip for the Nintendo 3DS. This device intends to pull double duty as both a battery booster and a comfort booster.

The silicone-constructed Deluxe Power Grip snaps on to the 3DS, giving it more of a console-style feel and allowing longer gaming sessions, CTA said. The 3DS controls, headphone jack, sliders and game slots all remain accessible when the Deluxe Power Grip is attached.

It comes with a USB cable for charging, or the original 3DS AC adapter can be used, allowing the 3DS to double its battery life. It also has a lock-on latch to keep the grip mounted to the 3DS securely, and an LED battery indicator light. The stand base snaps into two positions to adjust the game playing angle for player preference, and it features a slot for storing an extra 3DS game.

Pricing wasn’t given. The device is currently available.