Gaming Headset Recommendations?

[rerato]

Does anybody have recommendations for headsets for PC gaming? The only thing I have is a blue-tooth headset for cellphones or the mic on my laptop, but clearly that doesn't cut it. I just wanted to see what people like and get their opinions since I'm not sure how much they differ from normal audio headsets minus a microphone. Do people have any preferred brands? What about USB vs normal mic/stereo jacks?

[shK]

Personally, I've always disliked using a headset rather than a pair of headphones on mic. I've had many different brands of headsets, including logitech, plantronics, microsoft, and razer. Each of them have their advantages and disadvantages.

Currently, I use a nice pair of headphones (Sennheiser HD-595) and a USB mic. I feel like the usb mic is a little more clear, but if you buy a decent analog mic, there is really no difference. I believe that this is the best headphone/mic setup I've ever had and would recommend you do the same.

Some of the advantages of headsets:

Mic/Headphones all in one unit
some headsets have surround sounds features
most are closed-ear, so you do not get any background noise from lans, etc.


Disadvantages of headsets:

If mic or speakers go out in the headset, you have to buy a whole new unit. (this happens to me alot)
No control over the quality of the mic
Made for pc only. You would look funny using a headset with an iPod

[fenster]

I, like shK, roll with a set of headphones and a USB mic. I already had a pair of headphones I really enjoy (Sennheiser HD-495), so when I got TF2 and felt the need to grab a mic, I just picked up a decent one on newegg for 20 bucks. Worked great for me, especially since I prefer having a desktop mic as opposed to one coming off of my headset.

If you still want a headset mic, I can't really help you. :(

[Manbearpig215]

Gotta agree with these guys... I use a pair of Sennheiser HD-555's with a usb mic.