When it comes to gaming peripherals, aesthetics do really
matter. Gamers can be a fickle bunch and they expect a certain look for their
products. Therefore it is not a surprise that CM Storm has paid close attention
to the aesthetics of their gaming headset, the Pulse R.
The dominating feature of this product is aluminum plating
on each of the ear-cups, as well as an aluminum headband, which can be seen
peeking out from under a black plastic body. The use of aluminum not only keeps
the Pulse R lightweight but also gives it strength. Users will also find two
screws on the aluminum plates which can be used to replace the part with one of
the gamer’s choosing, thereby completely changing the look of the headset.
CM Storm Pulse R
The Pulse R can be plugged in via USB or 3.5mm connector.
Connecting via the former also provides juice to light up the edges of the
ear-cups for further visual dazzle. On the cabling, gamers can find a rather
chunky remote control pod. Gamers can mute or unmute their microphone, or
adjust volume levels, with the help of two sliders. There is also a detachable
microphone arm for communication purposes.
While the microphone cannot be stowed
away, it can be completely removed when not in use
The ear-pads for the Pulse R come in an ergonomic,
pentagonal shape. The cushioning is quite thick and hence the ear-pads are
deep, which is a plus. Synthetic leather is used for the covering of the
cushions. Unfortunately though, the Pulse R exerts a lot of contact pressure.
This makes the headset feel like a clamp when worn. This also contributes to
overheating. Overall, this isn’t a headset you’d be comfortable wearing for
long durations.
While the Pulse R may look the part, it fails to deliver in
practice. The headset only supplies stereo sound; in comparison, virtual
surround sound, whether 5.1 or 7.1 channel, is now a common feature in the
gaming headset space. Making matters worse is the fact that the soundstage is
neither wide nor roomy. When playing FPS titles, like Battlefield 3,the
direction of audio could not instantly be determined, and the gaming headset
did not provide any significant advantage.
The results from testing with music were also as
disappointing. The Pulse R has strong mids which were on show with its
rendition of Melt My Heart To Stone. On the other hand, subdued highs and
loose, undefined bass mean that audio came off as unbalanced. Trebles in
particular feel missing from the mix, and their absence was sorely felt on
tracks such as Hotel California by The eagles, and Sail On Soothsayer by
Buckethead.
Jack and button control of CM Storm
Pulse R headphone
If you are looking for a gaming headset you will be able to
find competitors offering virtual surround sound, such as the logitech G430, in
the same price range (the Pulse R is priced at $118). With low comfort levels
and no versatility, you’re better off looking elsewhere for a gaming headset.
Specifications
·
Driver size: 42mm
·
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20,000Hz
·
Impedance: 50 Ohms
·
Connector: USB, 3.5mm
·
Cable Length: 3m
·
Features: Removable microphone, Aluminum shell, control
Pod
·
Microphone Frequency Response: 100Hz to 10,000Hz
·
Price: $118
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