Tritton AX Pro 5.1-channel gaming headphones

Audio dynamite

Given that any kind of surround sound headphone experience is going to involve a level of compromise, the AX Pro does a surprisingly job of keeping things real. The benefit of using individual drivers for each channel, rather than rely on DSP processing, quickly becomes apparent.

The Dolby Digital 5.1 routes the console's digital audio feed to the 'phones

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 is a standout example of surround-sound game audio. It skillfully throws everything into the mix, from watery submersion and firefights, to heavy artillery and strafing runs – and the the XP Pros rejoice in the confluence. The result is an undeniably intense sonic experience.

An illuminated in-line remote controller allows you to easily adjust the level of each channel: you can raise the dialogue, bump up the rears or goose the bass, using a simple colour-coded system. It’s tempting to over-egg the LFE, simply because you can – with the result that things can get a little concussive.

There's an in-cable volume control too

However, while the headset does a great job of steering 5.1 channels, overall fidelity is not a strength. The phones have a tendency to sound unrefined and thuddy. Music-only listening certainly suffers – I ran through a selection of albums and concluded that I’d never use these for anything other than gaming.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a genuine multi-channel gaming headset, then give the AX Pro an audition - the authenticity of the 5.1 experience is compelling. However, the drivers could stand a quality upgrade. These ‘phones won’t begin to satisfy anyone with audiophile aspirations. ®

More Headphone Reviews
Creative Sound Blaster Tactic 3D Sigma	Razer StarCraft II	Creative World of Warcraft	Ten... over-ear headphones	Marshall Major