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Plantronics Launches Its Dolby Atmos Gaming Headsets
It's official, I've seen it all now. Plantronics announced the worldwide availability of its new RIG LX family of gaming headphones featuring Dolby Atmos.
This special audio enhancement for Xbox One and Windows 10 lets gamers hear sounds with three-dimensional clarity - from above and below, in front and behind - giving them increased advantage in nearly any gaming scenario. Dolby Atmos for Headphones activation is available with Plantronics RIG 400LX, RIG 600LX and the wireless RIG 800LX, which was recently revealed to be a CES 2018 Innovation Award Honoree in the gaming category.
This is the tenth consecutive year that Plantronics has been recognized by the Consumer Technology Association for its innovative audio solutions. Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, independent engineers and members of the trade media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 28 product categories.
"I've never met a gamer who wasn't looking for some sort of competitive edge," said Tanguy Leborgne, Vice President of Consumer Solutions at Plantronics. "Our newest RIG line with Dolby Atmos enables multi-directional, fully immersive audio cues like nothing else in the market today. Combine that with a long-lasting battery life and signature lightweight design, and the choice becomes obvious. If you want a true 360ᵒ competitive edge, Plantronics RIG with Dolby Atmos has you covered." (Change per region as needed)
The new RIG 400LX, RIG 600LX and the award-winning RIG 800LX give gamers three different headset options that all bring the heightened realism of Dolby Atmos for Headphones to life. Individual headset features include:
Plantronics RIG 800LX Wireless Features
- Dolby Atmos for Headphones Activation: Provides gamers with full, 3-D audio by changing the way developers treat sound in-game. Instead of placing audio in a flattened 2D circle, Dolby Atmos technology creates a full sphere of sound that moves around the gamer - above and below, in front and behind.
- Performance Audio: Amplified audio with matched 40 mm drivers brings the soundstage to life. Low frequency resonators reinforce bass and limit distortion. When done talking, just flip up the mic to mute it.
- Precise Controls: Analog dials help you quickly adjust the balance between game and chat audio, as well as master volume. Choose an EQ setting to isolate pure highs, intensify the mid-range, enjoy seismic bass or enhance vocal focus.
- Advanced Battery: Wireless headset with a 24-hour battery life that allows players to focus on gaming without worrying if the headset will lose power. When the headset needs to be charged, the enhanced quick-charging battery provides three hours of gaming per 30 minutes of charge.
Plantronics RIG 400LX and RIG 600LX
RIG 400LX and RIG 600LX also feature Dolby Atmos for Headphone activation. RIG 400LX features 40 mm drivers which deliver explosive game audio that puts you right in the middle of the action. The noise-cancelling boom mic is always ready for chat and ensures your teammates hear you loud and clear. RIG 600LX delivers a balanced soundstage with distortion-free bass that helps you immerse in the experience without masking the subtle audio cues you must hear to stay in the game. Both models include the RIG LX1 pro level amp with three audio EQ modes, dual analog control-wheels for game/chat balance and an aux input for music.
Dolby Atmos requires an Xbox One or Windows 10 compatible device, and a Microsoft account and login. Activation for one device only.
Availability and Pricing
RIG 400LX, RIG 600LX and RIG 800LX for use with Xbox One and Windows 10 are available at plantronics.com and major retailers for $99.99, $129.99 and $149.99 respectively.
alanm
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#5494123 Posted on: 11/20/2017 07:31 PM
Dolby Atmos is the most ridiculous gimmick ever when its virtualized thru a 2 speaker system let alone a headphone.
Dolby Atmos is the most ridiculous gimmick ever when its virtualized thru a 2 speaker system let alone a headphone.
Toss3
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#5494145 Posted on: 11/20/2017 08:51 PM
Why? I often see people claim that virtual 5.1/7.1 is somehow bad without giving any real reason for hating it. I find microsoft's own virtual 7.1 to be a lot better than dolby atmos (this is specifically meant for headphones), and would definitely recommend it for movies and games. Pretty sure most people that claim it isn't great don't actually know how to set it up properly.
Dolby Atmos is the most ridiculous gimmick ever when its virtualized thru a 2 speaker system let alone a headphone.
Why? I often see people claim that virtual 5.1/7.1 is somehow bad without giving any real reason for hating it. I find microsoft's own virtual 7.1 to be a lot better than dolby atmos (this is specifically meant for headphones), and would definitely recommend it for movies and games. Pretty sure most people that claim it isn't great don't actually know how to set it up properly.
alanm
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#5494156 Posted on: 11/20/2017 09:32 PM
Why? Didnt think anyone had a need to ask. Dedicated multi-channel speaker setups are SUPERIOR to virtual surround sound period! Are you basically suggesting that virtual multi-ch or dolby atmos can be virtualized to an acceptable level vs dedicated multi-ch speaker setups? I can only imagine you havent experienced the latter if you have to argue otherwise. Virtual thru headphones (or 2 speaker setups) sucks ballz in comparison.
Why? I often see people claim that virtual 5.1/7.1 is somehow bad without giving any real reason for hating it. I find microsoft's own virtual 7.1 to be a lot better than dolby atmos (this is specifically meant for headphones), and would definitely recommend it for movies and games. Pretty sure most people that claim it isn't great don't actually know how to set it up properly.
Why? Didnt think anyone had a need to ask. Dedicated multi-channel speaker setups are SUPERIOR to virtual surround sound period! Are you basically suggesting that virtual multi-ch or dolby atmos can be virtualized to an acceptable level vs dedicated multi-ch speaker setups? I can only imagine you havent experienced the latter if you have to argue otherwise. Virtual thru headphones (or 2 speaker setups) sucks ballz in comparison.
nhlkoho
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#5494161 Posted on: 11/20/2017 09:52 PM
True...but not everybody has the desk space for a full 5.1/7.1 setup.
Why? Didnt think anyone had a need to ask. Dedicated multi-channel speaker setups are SUPERIOR to virtual surround sound period! Are you basically suggesting that virtual multi-ch or dolby atmos can be virtualized to an acceptable level vs dedicated multi-ch speaker setups? I can only imagine you havent experienced the latter if you have to argue otherwise. Virtual thru headphones (or 2 speaker setups) sucks ballz in comparison.
True...but not everybody has the desk space for a full 5.1/7.1 setup.
vbetts
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#5494162 Posted on: 11/20/2017 09:52 PM
I've got 7.1 virtual through my Logitech G230 using the Software equalizer in the SupremeFX audio codec and DAC, which considering it's a 2 channel headset I notice a huge difference not having it on. There are 7.1 headsets, basically they have great frequency rates from the low end to the high end. Makes it easy for full virtual 7.1 audio.
Basically, to each their own.
Why? Didnt think anyone had a need to ask. Dedicated multi-channel speaker setups are SUPERIOR to virtual surround sound period! Are you basically suggesting that virtual multi-ch or dolby atmos can be virtualized to an acceptable level vs dedicated multi-ch speaker setups? I can only imagine you havent experienced the latter if you have to argue otherwise. Virtual thru headphones (or 2 speaker setups) sucks ballz in comparison.
I've got 7.1 virtual through my Logitech G230 using the Software equalizer in the SupremeFX audio codec and DAC, which considering it's a 2 channel headset I notice a huge difference not having it on. There are 7.1 headsets, basically they have great frequency rates from the low end to the high end. Makes it easy for full virtual 7.1 audio.
Basically, to each their own.
GroinShooter
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#5494177 Posted on: 11/20/2017 10:51 PM
"Dolby Atmos requires an Xbox One or Windows 10 compatible device, and a Microsoft account and login. Activation for one device only."
so if i actually go and buy their atmos licence i can only use it on one device total?! what if i change the device, the licence goes away? what happened with paying a license with your hardware, like that and that product supports that and everything is included in the price?
i have dolby atmos capable receiver, just waiting for the day when its gonna ask for $$$ to play anything
god damn capitalism is getting really cruel (like it wasnt cruel enough already)
As far as I know it's usable on as many devices as you've got as long as you use the same account you purchased Atmos on for each device.
"Dolby Atmos requires an Xbox One or Windows 10 compatible device, and a Microsoft account and login. Activation for one device only."
so if i actually go and buy their atmos licence i can only use it on one device total?! what if i change the device, the licence goes away? what happened with paying a license with your hardware, like that and that product supports that and everything is included in the price?
i have dolby atmos capable receiver, just waiting for the day when its gonna ask for $$$ to play anything
god damn capitalism is getting really cruel (like it wasnt cruel enough already)
As far as I know it's usable on as many devices as you've got as long as you use the same account you purchased Atmos on for each device.
alanm
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#5494184 Posted on: 11/20/2017 11:13 PM
I've got 7.1 virtual through my Logitech G230 using the Software equalizer in the SupremeFX audio codec and DAC, which considering it's a 2 channel headset I notice a huge difference not having it on. There are 7.1 headsets, basically they have great frequency rates from the low end to the high end. Makes it easy for full virtual 7.1 audio.
Basically, to each their own.
Compare it to dedicated multi-ch speaker setup (not computer speakers) with 7.1ch AV receiver. Sorry, I just dont think there is a comparison. I can understand many peoples preference for virtualized due to space constraints, not audio wise. Virtualized headphones just cant deliver the scale, impact and immersion of a full multi-ch speakers/sub setup. Especially with explosions, jets, trains you can feel and rattle your chair. Each to their own if you say so.
I've got 7.1 virtual through my Logitech G230 using the Software equalizer in the SupremeFX audio codec and DAC, which considering it's a 2 channel headset I notice a huge difference not having it on. There are 7.1 headsets, basically they have great frequency rates from the low end to the high end. Makes it easy for full virtual 7.1 audio.
Basically, to each their own.
Compare it to dedicated multi-ch speaker setup (not computer speakers) with 7.1ch AV receiver. Sorry, I just dont think there is a comparison. I can understand many peoples preference for virtualized due to space constraints, not audio wise. Virtualized headphones just cant deliver the scale, impact and immersion of a full multi-ch speakers/sub setup. Especially with explosions, jets, trains you can feel and rattle your chair. Each to their own if you say so.
RealNC
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#5494185 Posted on: 11/20/2017 11:21 PM
Directional sound has nothing to do with chair rattling.
Directional sound has nothing to do with chair rattling.
alanm
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#5494189 Posted on: 11/20/2017 11:35 PM
Neither does your comment in the fuller context (of virtual vs multi-ch speakers). Directional sound is still superior with dedicated speaker systems than virtualized psychological trickery. The impact, rattling and huge scale of it all is just a MASSIVE bonus that pisses all over virtual *in comparison*.
Directional sound has nothing to do with chair rattling.
Neither does your comment in the fuller context (of virtual vs multi-ch speakers). Directional sound is still superior with dedicated speaker systems than virtualized psychological trickery. The impact, rattling and huge scale of it all is just a MASSIVE bonus that pisses all over virtual *in comparison*.
MorganX
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#5494194 Posted on: 11/21/2017 12:00 AM
Without a doubt you are correct, physical multi-ch speakers are superior to virtual. That's a no-brainer. However, I must say, I'm running the Atmos trial on Windows 10 and it actually sounds pretty awesome. For $15 for Windows and the X1X, I'll probably buy it. Hellblade and Horizon 3 sound awesome. Def not the same as a physical setup.
Neither does your comment in the fuller context (of virtual vs multi-ch speakers). Directional sound is still superior with dedicated speaker systems than virtualized psychological trickery. The impact, rattling and huge scale of it all is just a MASSIVE bonus that pisses all over virtual *in comparison*.
Without a doubt you are correct, physical multi-ch speakers are superior to virtual. That's a no-brainer. However, I must say, I'm running the Atmos trial on Windows 10 and it actually sounds pretty awesome. For $15 for Windows and the X1X, I'll probably buy it. Hellblade and Horizon 3 sound awesome. Def not the same as a physical setup.
RealNC
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#5494214 Posted on: 11/21/2017 01:41 AM
That's not actually true. The best surround audio is achieved through stereo headphones with binaural encoding. We just haven't found out a really good algorithm yet to do real-time binaural audio generation (as opposed to pre-recorded binaural audio.)
Without a doubt you are correct, physical multi-ch speakers are superior to virtual. That's a no-brainer.
That's not actually true. The best surround audio is achieved through stereo headphones with binaural encoding. We just haven't found out a really good algorithm yet to do real-time binaural audio generation (as opposed to pre-recorded binaural audio.)
uKER
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#5494241 Posted on: 11/21/2017 04:36 AM
I was about to kill myself when I thought they were making headphones that claimed to reproduce a 5.1.2 or 7.1.2 setup, but these headphones only add a third "height cue" channel, for a "2.0.1" setup (I just made that up, meaning stereo + no subwoofer + 1 height speaker).
Could be worse, I guess.
And yes, 5.1 and 7.1 headphones are stupid and a lie. Get over it.
I do wonder what's keeping them from making headphones that take digital multichannel and apply realtime HRTF.
Now that would be something.
I was about to kill myself when I thought they were making headphones that claimed to reproduce a 5.1.2 or 7.1.2 setup, but these headphones only add a third "height cue" channel, for a "2.0.1" setup (I just made that up, meaning stereo + no subwoofer + 1 height speaker).
Could be worse, I guess.
And yes, 5.1 and 7.1 headphones are stupid and a lie. Get over it.
I do wonder what's keeping them from making headphones that take digital multichannel and apply realtime HRTF.
Now that would be something.
Wrinkly
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#5494263 Posted on: 11/21/2017 08:13 AM
Sounds more miss than hit.
I have been using the old Plantronics Gamecom 780/788 (simulated 7.1 Dolby over USB) for years and see no reason to change. Friends and family also enjoying this old timer which can be had for as little as £30 now.
Sounds more miss than hit.
I have been using the old Plantronics Gamecom 780/788 (simulated 7.1 Dolby over USB) for years and see no reason to change. Friends and family also enjoying this old timer which can be had for as little as £30 now.
Snorgrind
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#5494291 Posted on: 11/21/2017 10:41 AM
And what about that windows sonic thing in win10 ? Seen ppl claim it is better than atmos for gaming with headphones.
And what about that windows sonic thing in win10 ? Seen ppl claim it is better than atmos for gaming with headphones.
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MS account to use Dolby Atmos