Gadgets :: February 6, 2019
by Gregg Ellman
(@greggellman)
I’m not a gamer so I always defer to some gaming friends when I review something in that category.
After giving the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless gaming audio system to a friend, I checked in the next day and got an instant two-word reply: oh wow. Obviously I had to follow up because that response can be taken in either direction.
Upon further review, he thought they were awesome and had a few of his gaming friends try them. All were in glowing agreement on what SteelSeries calls the World’s First High Fidelity Gaming Audio System.
My gamers had fun using their PS4 and a PC connected to the Arctis Pro headset and raved about some of the many aspect including wireless connectivity options, the comfort, sound, battery life and looks.
Along with the gaming features, the wireless headphones are premium 40,000 Hz speaker drivers, which to me sounded awesome just for music. Each airweave fabric ear cushion sits on your ear with breathable comfort with an adjustable elastic headband while delivering crystal-clear sound.
The dual wireless headphones give you Bluetooth and 2.4G wireless, enabling users to listen to gaming audio with the 2.4G and chatting use a Bluetooth connection to a mobile device. The connections can be used independently or together. The retractable boom microphone is bidirectional noice canceling.
A transmitter base station allows you to adjust the audio, which can also be done from the headset. The base station also lets you answer calls and has an onboard equalizer for getting the perfect sound to your ears.
The battery life is great, with up to a combined 20 hours using the swappable dual battery system. This lets one battery be used while a second is charges in about an hour inside a transmitter.
https://steelseries.com $329.99
Jaybird’s Tarah wireless sport headphones won’t do much for your gaming life, but will be a great companion for a run, workout or just listening to a playlist.
The category of sport wireless earbuds has grown substantially over the past few years and while many are great, they are also costing a bundle.
With the Tarah earbuds, it’s nice to see a set of sport wireless earbuds with all the features you need but with a reasonable price.
Inside each silicone ear gels (multiple sizes are included) is a 6mm driver to deliver solid sound with built-in passive noise isolation. Each ear also has an ear fin, which tucks in your ear and is a big help in keeping the sound in your ears.
The Jaybird app helps you customize the sound and also gives you access athletes’ playlists.
The Bluetooth earbuds have inline controls with an omni directional microphone for handsfree calls. With an iPX7 rating, they are sweat and waterproof and give your six hours of play time before a USB charge is needed.
www.jaybirdsport.com $99.99
The Niteize Orbiter Dash Mount Kit s one of the better handsfree hardware options for easy on/off smartphone dashboard mounting.
A low profile metal plate attached to the back of your phone or phone case, which attaches to the Orbiter Magnetic Socket. These give you an easy connection with the neodymium magnet power connecting to the dash mount.
The kit includes strong 3M VHB adhesive to hold the mount to your dashboard, which can also be cleanly removed if needed. 3M 300LSE adhesive is also included for attaching the metal plate to your phone.
Adjusting and rotating your smartphone with the mount is smooth and easy and holds in position well while driving. A thin high-friction ring is designed to prevent movement.
www.niteize.com $30.63
