A good headset can provide a very big edge in gaming, and Asus have demonstrated their understanding of this concept in the form of the Strix Pro Gaming Headset. It joins the Strix range of components and peripherals (for those who like uniformity) as a multiplatform stereo headset that really delivers the goods.
And it looks good too. The Strix logo (owl eyes and eyebrows, essentially) has been cleverly worked into the design; the powerful 60mm neodymium drivers are housed behind clear panels in the ear cups, are accented with a bright orange. When the ear cups are folded down (they rotate a full ninety degrees) and the headset is laid flat, this element, combined with the shape of the ear cups, looks just like the logo. It’s a nice touch when all is said and done, and one that speaks volumes about the design approach taken for this product.
The Strix Pro features large, generously padded over-ear cups, and a padded suspension style headband. The great degree of cup rotation adds to the comfort of the headset, but they can get a little tight after protracted periods of use. The orange accents and overall design of this headset make it look the part of a serious piece of gaming equipment.
The left ear-cup also has an interface to handle a removable mic, which is fully positionable. Unfortunately, volume controls are not present here. Rather, they form part of an inline system which, while really good, is excluded when the headset interfaces with other devices. It is fully compatible with a wide variety of devices, thanks to an interchangeable cable. It’ll even work with a PS4, which is a brilliant bonus for those that game on multiple devices.
It’s inline volume control doesn’t require power, buta USB plug on it provides power to an integrated noise cancelling system. It also allows for mic muting, and has an oversized volume knob that makes adjustment easy. Unfortunately, the mic muting, volume control and active noise cancellation are not really viable for anything put PC use. Then again, Strix is chiefly a PC brand… and added versatility really is a bonus.
When it comes to audio quality, the Strix Pro is great. It offers great sound across the full range, with crisp and clear audio enhancing any gaming experience. Its versatility is great, too, although some aspects could have been handled a bit better. That said, you won’t find the performance or aesthetics of this device disappointing. It’s a great headset, when you get down to what’s important, and it’s tie in with the overall Strix look is an added bonus that helps not only create a striking piece of equipment, but develops a strong brand identity too.