Creative Ships HS-1200 X-Fi USB Gaming Cans
Creative intends their HS-1200 2.4Ghz wireless boom-mic-equipped cans to appeal to the hardcore gamer who’s tied up in knots by irritating wires. However, while it’s true that the full duplex operation and USB connection are both pluses that mean that you can use the HS-1200 without worrying about a soundcard, its profile does not mention one crucial feature that any set of gaming headphones should have: surround sound.
This is where X-Fi comes in. Creative’s proprietary CMSS-3D can upmix stereo sources up to 7.1 channels, offering virtual 3D during headphone mode - obviously activated all the time for the HS-1200. As with other X-Fi offerings, these cans are also able to restore compressed audio quality through 24-bit Crystalizer. Result is largely a matter of perception, and depend on the type of audio being played. Creative didn’t specify whether these X-Fi exclusive functions are implemented with the aid of DSP or in software, the latter of which could take a toll on the CPU resource. This HS-1200 headset has dedicated earcup VoIP control buttons on the right can, and its Li-ion battery can be fully recharged via USB in 2.5 hours for up to 8 hours of non-stop playback. You’ll get up to 22m range in open space. Creative HS-1200 gaming headset is available now for $99.99 (MSRP).Permanent Link