Tested – Work and Gaming Headsets That Don’t Break the Bank

XPG PRECOG Gaming Headset

I actually reviewed this headset two years ago, and back then, it would have been too expensive to consider for this list. It was the best part of £180, and let’s be fair, that’s a lot. However, it was a bloody damn fine headset, and recently, it’s seen some drastic price reductions that put it back in the running. In terms of features and performance for under £100, this one is going to be extremely hard to beat.

Features

• Dual Drivers including (Electrostatic and Dynamic)
• Hi-Res Audio Certified
• Built-in FPS / Virtual 7.1 Surround Sound / Music Modes
• Environmental Noise Cancellation Technology for Microphone
• Ergonomic Ear Cushions & Auto-Adjust Band
• Rotatable Ear Cups
• Cross-Platform Compatibility

Specifications

Performance

The XPG PRECOG is a pretty rare beast for a gaming headset as it comes equipped with dynamic electrostatic and dynamic dual drivers. This means it can deliver a much broader range of audio response than most headsets. It’s Hi-Res Audio certified with a frequency response of 5Hz to 50,000Hz, which is frankly insane! That’s above the broadly 20 Hz to 40,000 Hz required for certification. It also means the headset can accept 24-bit audio at 96 kHz.

It comes with a lot of interesting features to get the most out of your audio, but firstly, it’s a stunning looking thing too. Ergonomic ear cups with memory foam and an angled foam design for long-term comfort. They also fully rotate for improved fit and comfort.

There’s a dual-band headband with suspension adjustment for a perfect fit every time, and it also looks pretty great too. Admittedly, this headset is quite “gamer” looking, so it’s likely one I wouldn’t wear while sitting on the train as it’s a little flashy for me… at home though, I couldn’t care less.

The audio is just jaw droppingly good. Incredibly low distortion and crystal clear response from the lowest bass notes to the highest highs. Furthermore, it has some very impressive virtual 7.1 surround processing thanks to its included USB Type-C audio interface. However, there’s also a 3.5mm jack connection box, should you wish to use it on legacy devices too, ensuring you always have a way to get connected.

Value for Money

This is by far one of the best value for money headsets out there right now, albeit, I suspect such a deal will only last as long as whatever stock is left in the market so you may want to move swiftly if you want a fairly unique Hi-Res Audio gaming headset at such a price. With the USB-C sound card, 3.5mm cable, removable ear pads, and included carry case, it’s a bargain.

Price

The XPG PreCog is available now for just £80, down from the MSRP of £180 just two years ago!

What XPG Had to Say

“The XPG PRECOG is the world’s first dual-driver pro-gaming headset, equipped with dynamic electrostatic drivers, preset audio modes, and an insanely ergonomic design. The XPG PRECOG is designed for epic sound quality and long-session comfort. The XPG PRECOG is the world’s first gaming headset equipped with dual dynamic electrostatic drivers. The drivers are designed to cover high and low frequencies, giving you clear, distortion-free audio. Don’t get caught off guard! Hear footsteps and gunfire clearly and know which direction they’re coming from. Virtual 7.1 Surround Sound and Music modes also provided. XPG PRECOG detachable microphone is equipped with Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology, so your comrades will hear you loud and clear without unwanted ambient noise.” – XPG