As mentioned above, the Plantronics RIG 400HX is a budget gaming headset, and deemed an entry-level gaming headset. This headset was designed primarily for the XBox One console, but naturally, you can use it with other platforms as well. Plantronics prides itself on bringing their customers lightweight headsets that deliver good quality audio, and this headset is no different.

Budget for Quality

Like I mentioned, the Plantronics RIG 400HX was designed primarily for the XBox One. You will find the PS4-centric equivalent RIG 400HS with a mere style difference, but this headset can still be used comfortably with your PlayStation 4 and even your Laptop/Desktop Computer. Seeing as the Headset has a single 3.5mm cable connector, in order to make use of the Mic on PC, you will need to buy the Y-Splitter extension cable, which is sold seperately. Some laptops or PCs have Audio Hardware that can detect if a mic is built into the audio jack, which would then allow you to make use of the mic without the Y-Splitter, but not everybody is fortunate enough to have that. Xbox One Controllers without a 3.5mm stereo headset jack require the stereo headset adapter, which is also sold seperately unfortunately. The length of the cable is relatively short though, ranging about 150cm. It’s understandable since this was designed for the wireless controllers.

Regardless of these little nitty-gritty things, the quality of the sound that the Plantronics RIG 400HX delivers is impressive! The frequency response is a standard 20Hz-20kHz, with high-sensitivity 40mm drivers that deliver incredibly clear audio, whether you are listening to music or focusing on the sounds occuring around you mid-game. Unfortunately, those looking for an all-around thumping bass experience won’t find that in these headsets. The sound quality is great as a whole, though there were times when I noticed a lack in bass on PC, yet in other cases, the low bass frequencies sounded deeper than other headsets. As far as an entry-level headset goes, this one has impressed me more than others. Using the headset with my mobile devices, I tested how it handled the frequency ranges on that, and it performed flawlessly depending on the quality of the track.

Gaming in Style

The frame is simplistically stylish, although the only flaw I can find with the frame is how you need to adjust the size of the headband, which is in my opinion a small issue that I find to be an advantage, because I hate adjusting my headset by accident when I remove my headset. The earcups are detachable from the frame, which is also how you adjust the headband size, and though I find this design prevents accidental adjustments from happening, it can also be a little off-putting when you have to adjust it for use by a friend, and with repeated detachment, I fear it could wear out the plastic slots.

The Microphone is attachable/detachable as well as easily adjustable, giving way to some rather impressive bending with no compromises to the quality it delivers. Regardless, and this goes without saying, the microphone is not a toy, so to prevent possible wearing on the “bendability” of the mic, merely adjust it to where you want it and when you need a bit of space, adjust it out of the way. The headset cable also has an inline volume control and microphone mute. I was impressed the most at the quality of the microphone. The playback of my own voice sounded better than my webcam mic, which was already a crisp and clear sound. The microphone on this headset outperformed even that, making it the best entry-level microphone I have heard, until another headset comes along with a better mic. The noise-cancelling in the microphone is also efficient, not compromising the quality of your voice input whatsoever.

Lastly, the earpads, made from a soft memory foam. The earpads are round in shape, and I generally cannot stand round earcups – because after some time, they hurt my ears – but because of the material that the earpads are made of, I was able to sit for hours with this headset without any discomfort. The light weight of the headset coupled with the comfortable material made for a great experience during gaming, and there is no risk of heat build-up either.

Conclusion

The Plantronics RIG 400HX has done a brilliant job, surprising me that it is an entry-level headset. It is lightweight (weighing in at 210 grams), comfortable, and versatile in its use, delivering great sound quality and clear mic sound. The plastic frame is stylish, and though the detachable earcups makes me feel paranoid, it feels sturdy enough to not wear out as quick as I think. It was mainly designed for Xbox One wireless controllers, but is still compatible with other devices, which makes it a good “all-rounder” to have. I enjoyed my experience with these headphones, and I am sure you could too. You even get the headset in a Camo style! At the time of this review, you can get your own at Takealot.com for R719.