Description
It has finally arrived. We were blown away by the stereo audio performance of Logitech’s crimson-clad G230 headphones, so we’re back with the 7.1 surround version. They don’t have the same beautiful red-on-black pattern.
However, the new Logitech G430 Dolby surround headphones are quite impressive—though they may benefit from a more unique design. When forced to wear little bro’s hand-me-downs, big brothers stomp and sulk. They do, however, provide better sound and functionality in a very similar package. Also, make sure to read our assessment of the best gaming headset.
The Logitech G430 is a vibrant topaz blue, whereas the G230 is red. The same spot on the headband right above the ear piece where the G230 gaming headset has its model number engraved in chrome writing is also where the G430 has its model number splashed in chrome lettering. This style and initial visual design are identical to the stereo audio G230 offering. The same comfort comes with a similar style. The G230 may be used for lengthy periods of time without experiencing any discomfort.
The material around the ear cushions is permeable and effectively combats ear and head moisture. They are also removable for cleaning. Like the G230, you may lay the ear pieces flat when not in use since they can swivel for increased comfort. The mic swings up and out of the way, which is convenient. However, it does not muffle while doing so. Instead, a switch can be located on the in-line control. It’s adequate, but it can be accidentally hit, confounding users and listeners alike.
The design is lovely, but we’ve seen it before on the G230. Performance is where these two fantastic items meet a fork in the road. The collaborative journey comes to an end here, as the G230 is severely outpaced. The G430 is a high-end 7.1 surround sound system. Logitech uses 40mm drivers with a frequency response of 20Hz-20Khz and an impedance of 32 Ohms. The microphone is a Pressure Gradient Electret Condenser with a pickup-pattern unidirectional pattern. To make all of that technology work in 7.1 Surround, you’ll need software help. Unfortunately, the headphones themselves are capable of far more than the free program with my inbuilt sound would allow.
Logitech Gaming Software may be downloaded from the company’s website. The program is the same for their G19s and G510s keyboards. The software is more sophisticated than that available for the Macatz F.R.E.Q. 7 Dolby Surround headphones. Overall volume, bass, treble, 7 distinct speaker levels, and EQ sliders may all be adjusted. Despite this, the headset still uses your system’s volume control, which is a potentially inferior alternative to, for example, an aftermarket amplifier or soundcard.
It’s worth noting that the Logitech G430 may be used in two ways. Connect the mic and headphone jacks to the relevant stereo connectors on your computer or soundcard. Alternatively, you can use the provided USB adaptor. Insert this into a free USB port, then plug in the 3.5mm stereo jack and mic jack. Each of these methods provides access to the Logitech Gaming Software. However, I discovered that my SoundBlaster Z soundcard or the 7.1 THX amplifier/receiver included with the Sound Blaster Recon 3D Omega wireless headphones were both superior 7.1 processing alternatives to the software available on the internet.
Don’t get me wrong. The G430 headset is a fantastic solution.
It’s reasonably comfortable and simple to use. While the total volume was lower than I desired while utilizing onboard sound and the Logitech Gaming software, the all-encompassing surround effect was fantastic. As a result, games now have a more comprehensive soundstage. It completely immerses the user in the playback sound, which is remarkably balanced across games, music, and movies. There are no settings for these three use cases. However, the enhanced EQ allows you to make considerable adjustments. In terms of music, the G430 may compete with other headphones designed exclusively for music. Nonetheless, it is evident that games are their bread and butter. Explosions give punch and depth, and positional audio is handled quite effectively, with more attention paid to detail in ambient noises than to precise pitch across low-to-high ranges. Furthermore, this headset has excellent active noise cancellation performance.
When utilizing a high-performance soundcard or another amplifier, all of this is boosted with more volume and precise clarity. The microphone, albeit conspicuous, flips up and out of the way, which is convenient. However, it does not muffle while doing so. Instead, a switch can be located on the in-line control. It’s adequate, but it can be accidentally hit, confounding users and listeners alike. Having said that, the unidirectional mic works pretty well and helps to filter out some of the ambient noise from the office’s fans and other buzzing equipment.