Creative SXFI AIR C Headset Review

How Much Does it Cost?

The Creative SXFI Air C USB Headphones with are currently on Amazon UK for around £119.99, which is what their original MSRP was. I suspect stock issues are pushing that up though, as they’re available direct for £74.99 and the wireless model is currently £119.99 direct (down from £149.99) too. If you want their full-fat premium Theater ones, then you’ll be looking at £189.99, making the wired Air C model a bit of a bargain right now.

Overview

The Creative SXFI amplifier is by far one of the best gadgets of the last decade in my opinion. I love it as I can use ANY wired headphones with it and make them SXFI. After that, Creative started to certify headphones as “SXFI Approved” and now they’re basically releasing all their best headphones with the technology built-in. In-ears, over ears, wired, wireless, they’ve got just about everything covered. It’s even showing up in their soundbars!

The Air C are about the cheapest model they have, and honestly, there’s very little compromise compared to their flagship models. About the only sacrifice with the Air C is that it HAS to be wired via USB to get the SXFI technology to work. Considering how much lower the price is, that’s a small price to pay for such amazing audio; literally.

Build Quality

They’re really well made, easily competitive with anything else in this price range. They’re mostly plastics and synthetic materials, but what headset isn’t under £100. What matters is the fit and finish, it looks and feels premium, the lines are clean, and the matte finish is a far cry from the glossy cheap crap that filled the market even just a few years back.

Added Value

The additional of being able to use these over a 3.5mm cable is nice. You don’t get SXFI, but they’re still great headphones in their own right. It’s enough should you need to hook up a handheld gaming device, or an old iPod for a bit, it never hurts to have options. Plus, the 3.5mm cable is a 4-pole, allowing you to use the included microphone on devices such as your mobile phone.

Should I Buy Them?

If you’re looking to dive into the world of SXFI and Audio Holography, this is where you start. For me, I think the wireless model is the best entry point, as you can use them with 3.5mm, USB and Bluetooth, which is great for travelling too. However, at about £50 cheaper, the Air C sound just as fantastic, so it’s really a cost thing. I’ll say one thing though, you won’t find a more comfortable or better sounding headset for anything close to this price. Truly stunning!