Introduction
LucidSound has been making waves in the gaming headset industry, and its latest offering, the LucidSound LS31 wireless headset, continues the trend of excellence. In this detailed review, we’ll explore the key features, design, performance, and drawbacks of the LucidSound LS31, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for potential buyers.
Design and Comfort
The LS31 boasts a sleek, professional gray design that aligns with LucidSound’s commitment to premium aesthetics. The metallic framework and generous cushioning contribute to a light yet robust construction. The oval over-ear cups, adorned with quality memory foam and leatherette cushions, ensure a comfortable gaming experience even during extended sessions.
Technical Specifications
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
- Speakers: 50 mm neodymium
- Connectivity: Wireless USB dongle, SPDIF optical cable for PS4 and Xbox One audio, 3.5mm for mobile devices
- Features: On-ear controls, Bass boost, Treble boost
- Weight: 355 g
- Price: $94
The LS31 incorporates on-ear controls, with large dials on each cup for independent control of game and chat volumes. Muting is convenient, accompanied by a visual cue with a red LED. The headset’s 15-hour playback time, easily charged with a micro-USB cable, ensures extended gaming sessions without interruptions.
Audio Performance
Equipped with beefy 50-mm neodymium speakers, the LS31 delivers a solid audio experience. While lacking 7.1 surround sound, the headset compensates with compatibility with Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos software solutions on Windows 10 or Xbox One. Tuned for game audio, it provides a well-defined soundscape, accentuating tactical cues such as footsteps and reloads in popular multiplayer titles like Battlefield V and Call of Duty.
The proprietary 2.5GHz USB dongle ensures a strong and reliable wireless signal, even in congested conditions. The headset’s performance in large home theater setups is commendable.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its impressive features, the LS31 is not without flaws. The microphone quality is surprisingly subpar, a departure from the excellence seen in its LS35X cousin. The muffled sound and quiet sidetone mic-monitoring may deter users looking for a comprehensive streaming or content creation solution.
The missed opportunity to leverage the USB dongle for platform-combining, similar to the Astro MixAmp, is another drawback. The need for an extra cable for voice chat on Xbox One, while not entirely LucidSound’s fault, diminishes the wireless experience.
The bass and treble boost features, intended to enhance audio, may not be to everyone’s liking. Some users report distortion with bass boost, and the utility of treble boost remains questionable in various usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the LucidSound LS31 wireless headset stands out as an excellent choice for PC and Xbox gaming. Its superior design, construction, and audio performance make it a compelling option in its price range. While the microphone quality and some additional features could see improvement, the LS31 remains a solid investment for gamers seeking a versatile and comfortable wireless headset across multiple platforms. As LucidSound continues to refine its offerings, the LS31 stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering quality audio experiences.