Unboxing + Contents
Unboxing + Contents
If you've seen the packaging of any of Corsair's previous gaming headsets, then the HS60 will be absolutely nothing new. Yellow and black dominate the box's color scheme almost entirely. The unit is displayed on the front of the box, and we see the unit's key features advertised in a row at the bottom. The side gives us a hint as to the new CUE software, and the back gives us another view of the unit, some more features, and the tech specs. So far, so good. It looks to have all the makings of a decent enough mid-level gaming headset, but only time will tell if it's also a unit that could satisfy a mini audiophile.
Inside the box, we see another very standard packing affair. A basic plastic tray reveals the headset, as well as the USB adapter and detachable microphone in a separate compartment. Below this, hidden away, we have the quickstart guide as well as warranty information. Readers of my Fusion 500 review will note that the unboxing experience of that was somewhat sublime, and be approaching Apple levels of premium. This, however, is half the price (essentially). If paying 60-70 USD/EUR less gets me a product that sounds almost as good or as good, without or without RGB, I'll take it. Whilst we'll wait till' later to actually use the CUE software, there is also little stopping you from using the headset with just the 3.5mm jack + some 3rd party EQ software. This is even easier nowadays, considering most mainboards come equipped with Realtek's ALC1220 codec, providing a very reasonable audio experience for 99% of users across the board. Today, however, we will use what Corsair gave us. It would be rude not to.
Bit of a gripe here, but I'll live with it. The attached cable is rubber, and not braided. That aside, it is plenty long and should happily reach from behind a tower a good way away from where you're actually sitting. However, to counteract the gripe, Corsair does include a velcro strap to keep it tidy and out of the way when not being used. A little thing, but a welcome one. The detachable microphone is unidirectional and noise canceling, and - as a small spoiler alert - I really couldn't complain about the clarity or quality. My argument here for an embedded microphone being 'ok' is exactly the same as it is for every other headset review. Headset first, mic second. If you want a decent standalone mic, spend some money on a standalone. Job done.
Naturally, the higher you go up the price chain, the less forgivable mistakes or lapses in wise design decisions are, but so far I feel as though the HS60 has ticked all the boxes, and this particular bit of the review was written even before I had put the headphones on. Next, we will give you a little showcase of the product, followed by an assessment of the unit's performance in games, music, and the 'bundled' CUE software. Finally, please note that there are no additional sets of earcups, only the faux leather ones provided as is by Corsair. Whilst a small issue for me (I have, a hot head, literally), I can't really complain too much. Ultimately I think Corsair can well justify that price by the adapter and software integration. Extra pads would, in mind, be going an extra mile. As a final point, I do try my best to be measured and impartial in my reviews, and also remember that headsets/mice/keyboards are inherently highly subjective, so take what I say with regard to the wearing/audio experience with a pinch of salt.
