****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
First of all, any review written about this headset must take into consideration one basic fact: it's a truly wireless headset for $100 or less (depending on deal or source). With that in mind, let's begin!The GoodThe sound from the earphones is a real highlight for the price. When I mention sound, I'm referring to their primary function: gaming. While they come with a standard audio cable for your phone, MP3 player, etc., they will not compete with a set of cans in the same general price range. I don't expect them to, since the resources that go into them at this price point include the wireless and voice chat technology required to serve that aforementioned primary function. The sound, for gaming, is exceptional for the price.The headset's "Mode" button switches between what PDP refers to as "pure" sound and a bass-boosted sound. For my taste, the bass boost works best. My main game of choice on Xbox One is World of Tanks, and the guns, explosions as well as engine rumble really come alive. The pure sound is fine, but I doubt I'll ever turn the bass boost off now.Some will complain that the AG9 is a stereo headset as opposed to (simulated) 7.1 surround. Again, let me emphasize, this is a truly wireless headset for $100 or less. To be honest, the stereo works really well, and does give a general sense of surround sound. Case in point, when a tank rolls behind mine, it sounds like it's behind me. This has as much to do with sound mixing by the software developers as it does the headset, but I have no complaints whatsoever for the price.So with sound established, let's move to the wireless capability. So far it's been flawless. Once synced with the USB dongle (which should already be paired out of the box, by the way - mine were), it's really as simple as pressing and holding the center button on the left ear cup to turn the set on. A tone will let you know they're on, as well as the green light on the USB dongle. The ear cups also light up green, but you won't see that if you're wearing them! I actually tested these by going downstairs to grab a drink while chatting to a friend in my Xbox party, and there was no difference from being in the room with the Xbox.The BadThere is one thing I would classify as bad on this headset: the mic. I have not found it to be as bad as others have, but it needs improvement. Some have stated that the mic isn't flexible, or that they can't flex it much because they're afraid to break it. It's true that the flexibility is limited. That is to say, it takes more effort to conform it to your preference than it should. However, the only threat of breaking it is if you try forcing a bend with the mic plugged into the left ear cup (it is removable). I simply unplug it before bending it, then plug it back in. This is not an effort to dismiss the design - it is flawed - but it is a note to those who presently own or are considering this headset: if in doubt about the stress at the mic's connection, unplug it and make your adjustment.The flexibility, though, is actually a secondary issue. The primary issue with the mic is its sensitivity and sound quality. My friends say they have to turn me up to hear me properly. Moreover, the sound is said to be "tinny". The included (in my set, anyway - I've read others who say the set didn't come with one) foam mic cover helps with the noise cancellation, but doesn't completely solve the sensitivity issue. Perhaps a firmware update will address this like they did with the AG7 before it.In my opinion, the mic is where the compromise rests for the price. It isn't terrible, it does the job, but it could really be improved. That's where the headset loses a star.The RestThe headset glows green from the ear cups, which may or may not be your thing. You can disable this feature if you prefer, which is a considerate touch. Personally I let them glow their little hearts out. Those same lights, conversely, are your indication of charge. When charging, they pulsate. When fully charged, they glow steadily.The comfort level of the headset is moderate. They have a fair amount of padding and I've worn them a few hours at a time so far. I haven't experienced fatigue or soreness. I have noticed that my ears begin to get hot around the 2 hour mark, and a short break alleviates that. As a closed set of phones, this is not much of a surprise.The build quality is good for the price. I have no worries about breaking anything on it, but I'm also not particularly rough with my electronics in the first place. All my headphones are treated respectfully and this headset is no different.I hope this review is helpful. For the price I have no problem recommending them.
