Mad Catz CoD: Black Ops 5.1 ProGaming Headset Review

Mad Catz, famous for their console peripherals, has been making the spotlight in the PC gaming market with their innovative designs. Mad Catz's recent acquisition of audio manufacturer Tritton shows their intentions to establish a firm foothold in the PC peripheral business. This time they bring us the Mad Catz Call of Duty: Black Ops Dolby Digital 5.1 Gaming Headset. Benchmark Reviews will test how well this headset delivers surround sound, and decide whether it's worth the $149.99 price tag.

Unlike many surround sound headsets, the Mad Catz CoD Headset supports true surround sound with distinct speakers for each audio channel. No software or driver installation is required for use, only a compatible sound card with analog output is needed. The lack of surround sound emulation may be a turn-off for some since most content are stereo-only, but for movies and games that support 5.1 surround sound, the CoD Headset can deliver the real deal.

The CoD branding for this headset has no real functional benefits, other than its unique design. Timed with the release of CoD: Black Ops, Mad Catz intends to attract some attention to their new line of products. Delivering high quality audio is no easy feat, and with such a high price Mad Catz is clearly competing against the big players in the industry. The Mad Catz CoD Headset cannot be classified under any category other than enthusiast gaming equipment. Benchmark Reviews will determine if this headset should be packed in a gamer's bag.

5.1 Surround Headset Features

True Discrete 5.1 Audio - Eight precision speakers provide true 5.1 3D audio without emulation. Strategically placed to provide maximum clarity and heart thumping bass, the Call of Duty: Black Ops True 5.1 ProGaming Headset for PC will put you in the middle of the battle.

Removable and Flexible Microphone - The removable and flexible microphone provides crystal clear communications. Keep in contact with your clan as you dominate at Team Deathmatch or any other game mode. Works with any PC voice communication software.

Convenient Inline Audio Controller - The inline audio controller with 'break away' safety feature allows complete control over the audio environment. Individually adjust the volume levels for the front, rear, center, and subwoofer channels or adjust the overall volume with the master volume controller. A microphone mute switch provides convenient voice muting, right at your fingertips.

USB Powered, No AC Adapter - USB power saves valuable power strip space and reduces cable clutter. No AC adapter means there's one less thing to carry when headed to a LAN party.

No Drivers Required - By connecting directly to the computer's 5.1 sound card, the Call of Duty: Black Ops True 5.1 ProGaming Headset for PC will take full advantage of the sound card's advanced audio and doesn't require any drivers.

CD79051100A1/02/1 Specifications

• True 5.1 3D Directional Audio with no Emulation
• 8 Precision speakers with adjustable volume for front, rear, center, and subwoofer channels
• Limited Edition Black Ops Ruggedized Hard Case, braided cables and gold-plated connectors
• Connects directly to your 5.1 sound card - no driver required
• Detachable Flexible Microphone with Mute
• Breakaway In-line audio controller with 12ft (3.7m USB Powered - no AC adapter required
• Precision-balanced audio drivers
• Includes interchangeable ear pads and headrail pads

Manufacturer: Mad Catz, Inc.
Product Name: Call of Duty: Black Ops Dolby Digital True 5.1 ProGaming Headset
Model Number: CD79051100A1/02/1
Price As Tested: $149.99 at Amazon

Full Disclosure: The product sample used in this article has been provided by Mad Catz.

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