“Skullcandy!” I’ve always liked that name. It suggests something fiendishly delicious and dares you to take a bite. So we did. The makers of audio head treats have expanded their offerings. Skullcandy products include many varieties of headphone styles and even more color options. They even dabble in stylish kicks, apparel, and smartphone accessories. What we have today is their new gaming ambassador, the Skullcandy PLYR2 Wireless headset for Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and PC. If you’re looking for the best wireless microphone headset on the market, read on! If you’re nostalgic for retro gaming, you’ll want to read our Eightarc Fusion review. And if you want to know our pick for the best gaming headset, read our review.
The PLYR2 Wireless headset package stirs fond memories of the A50 wireless gaming headset from Astro Gaming. The package includes the PLYR2 wireless gaming headset with mic, GMX transmitter, Xbox Live chat cable for controller, USB power cable, USB charging cable and audio coaxial cable for direct connection to TV’s or PS3. To connect to PC a 3.5mm audio cable is required but not included. I was surprised by this, but these cables are a dime a dozen, easy to find and chances are you have a spare around somewhere. Because of such, there is literally no reason not to include one, especially at the current MSRP. If you especially like to play racing games, take a look at our review of the Logitech G27 racing wheel: too cool for the X-Box 360 to upgrade your gaming experience.
Related: If you like this wireless headset, you might be interested in our Sony Playstation Wireless Stereo Headset review.
We’re rocking out to the white patterned versions. But Skullcandy also has a really cool black and gold model and a softer black and teal design. My favorite is the black and gold. But this version in white, with the red and black accents is pretty sharp looking too. The logos appear to be etched on the outside of each earpiece. The head padding and ear cushions are also black and provide ample comfort.
The unit can sustain hours and hours of gaming. In doing so I experienced no discomfort. The headband expands to fit various domes. Plus the entire PLYR 2 Wireless headset rests comfortably on the head without unwanted ear pinching or other overly tight nuances.
See also: Our Sennheiser PC 363D 7 1 Dolby Gameset review.
Setting up the PLYR2 is simple enough. The GMX wireless transmitter sucks power via USB from a spare USB port on your PC or game console. Like the A50 I have this cable connected to a USB enabled AC wall adapter, so the transmitter–subsequently the PLYR2 headset–can continue to charge even if my computer or console is powered off. Then connect AV cables or a 3.5mm cable to the corresponding audio jacks on your console or PC.
Once I got it ready for the digital war zone, I was surprised at the quality of the PLYR 2. Very impressive for a wireless stereo offering. Unlike the PLYR 1, the Skullcandy PLYR 2 does not have Dolby’s virtual surround sound, but instead uses the Skullcandy Supreme Sound technology. Bass is solid with great lows and mid-range sounds, minus any unneeded hollow sounds or tinny effects. Playback is very smooth and even. The PLYR 2 mic is nice and works as it should. Nothing special here! I wish it were retractable. I don’t prefer flip-mics. Yet the flip-up feature mutes the mic nicely. There are volume controls and a 3-feature equalizer for music, game and movies. You can also dial down game sounds in favor of voice chat sounds. Plus the distance for the wireless signal surpasses that on the 5.8hz. Unfortunately we don’t have documentation on the frequency or the max wireless range distance for the PLYR 2, but the signal remained intact spanning two-stories in a multi-level office space. At that same distance the A50 set would sputter in and out.
So the Skullcandy PLYR2 Wireless gaming headset is pretty solid. The price may cause some to pause, if only momentarily. But the performance is worth the cost of admission. There are others headset that sound better on the market,t but not many that are strong wireless performers at the same price as this PLYR 2 Wireless headset.
Editor Rating:
[Rating: 3.5/5]
Very Good
Bottom Line: For the cost, we have something special in the Skullcandy PLYR 2 Wireless gaming headset. It’s an impressive stereo audio headset solution.
Pros
- Some of the best stereo quality for its class
- Support for PC, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3
- Expansive wireless signal range
- Endless comfort
Cons
- Stereo audio playback only
- No 3.5mm audio cable needed for PC connection
- Mic is not removable or retractable.
- Just a bit overpriced
The Skullcandy PLYR2 Wireless gaming headset is available at Amazon for $149.99
