I debated so much before ordering these PC38X. I was going to buy headphones but the more I looked the more exasperated I became. Some need a dac or amp, some don't. I also needed a mic. Then purchasing a secondary microphone and down that rabbit hole. Eventually I went with these for sheer convenience. I think maybe that's who these are designed for. Upgrading my Astro A40 TR
22:28 - surprise, surprise ... this applies to lots of other things you need, including chairs - where an office good quality chair will be more comfortable than a gaming chair with lots of useless pillows in the same price range.
Love the review and what I’m hearing. What would stop me from getting the HD58X over the PC38X? Cause I’m about to get the 38s. Is their staging or sound better for gaming?
For one the 38X will be easier to drive. If you plan on connecting directly to your controller or PC, you'll probably want to stick with the 38X. 58X does offer some benefits to performance, particularly in bass representation and vocal timbre, but at 150ohm you'll have a much better experience using a standalone amp.
@@MasterMarslander ok cool. I’m planning on getting a small amp (maybe Audient iD4 or Evo4) to power my speakers (Kali LP6’s) and any headphone I plug in. I have an Elgato Wave mic so I don’t need one on the set (other than having possibly utilizing a dedicated stream mic and game chat mic). I’ve never gone open back so I’m very curious.
@@voidboi0 If you don't really need the microphone from the 38X and you have some kind of amplification, then you'd probably have a bit of a better time with the 58X, assuming you can get it on sale.
awesome review I think the PC38X is very similar to the Game One and I have 2 pairs of those (loved the sound and comfort so much I bought a backup pair😁) I also tried the Game Zero not realising they are closed back and I really didn't like them - appreciate the swivel on the headphones so they can go flat around your neck but the sound is just not for me. also pleased to see mention of the Jubilees which I have been using as a sound step up for music over my beloved Game Ones. wanted to ask your advise on the next step up from the HD58x Jubilee's please. I can get HD660S2 relatively cheap or do you think the HD6XX would be a better jump than the Jubilees?
@thomashoskins8817 a more linear upgrade from the Jubilee would be the HD6XX. The 660S2 would be a pretty different sort of listening experience from the Jubilee, which may or may not be what you're looking for. If you want to play it safe, 6XX would be the closest. If you want some a little different and more refined, try the HD600, and if you want to try a wild card, then go with the HD660S2.
I really enjoy my jubilee and am seeking a noticeable improvement Am very torn between all of the 6 range 600, 650, 660 1 or 2 and 6XX. At the time I got the jubilee they were what I could afford and now I have some extra cash and want a real upgrade 😊
I have a Sennheiser PC38X. I have it hooked up to a UGREEN USB-C to 3,5mm jack. It sounds fine, but it doesn't get very loud. I want to add more volume to my headphones and use Dolby Atmos. I'd imagine that this will be more than adequate to give me more volume given the very low impediance (32 ohms) of my PC38X.
Late to the party here...not sure if you're still rocking these. What after market earpads would you recommend from dekoni or wicked cushions for better sound quality. Comfort is second place.
Still rock then for sure. Wicked Cushions is pretty decent, but for my money, I'd go Dekoni if given the choice. I have some wildly comfortable sheepskin pads from Dekoni that are extremely comfortable, but when it comes to sound performance, I actually recommend sticking with velour.
@@MasterMarslander velour was my gut instinct. They're kind of my go to after being so used to beyerdynamic dt 770 and 900 pro x i use for music recording. The reason I ask is because people reviewing the ear pads on amazon seem to have issues with them changing the sound in a negative way. More bass with sheepskin and more of a closed back less open feeling. Thanks for the reply and sick you're still rocking them. I recently got the maxwells and now finally a dac/amp for my wired sets. A lot of a/bing going on over here.
@Justin-bm7zn yeah, anything other than the velour does change the sound. So it's a balance of comfort and sound you mind off have to gamble with. You have Maxwell too? You're freaking set, bruv.
Your channel is going to be gold! Would you recommend that we avoid DTS and Atmos when using these? Would love to see a more detailed video about that since a lot of us who are trying to understand better audio need some guidance. Would it be possible for you to explore if we can eq these with atmos for 3rd person non competitive immersive games? Thanks bro !
Ah, interesting. I don't think that Atmos will yield any significant results, and likely the same story with DTS - though I have not had as much experience with DTS. You can EQ them, of course, but I honestly don't find that very necessary for the PC38X. Their stock sound signature allows for an already immersive and natural listening experience. I know I talked competitive games in the video, but I'm more of a narrative driven gamer myself and love them for that. Played all through God of War and Ragnarok with these things and loved every minute of it. DTS and Atmos are worth exploring though. I'll try them out myself and if it's mind bending I'll come back to it.
What's up Marslander. So just an update on this, I got the PC38X and they are 100% better without VSS for FPS gaming (such as Warzone as you stated earlier) and I actually find the bass to be really pleasant so i'm not gonna EQ that. The one thing I feel might need EQing is the footstep ranges in Warzone as footsteps aren't as clear as they are on other headsets. I'm assuming this is on the 125khz range. Just thought I'd get your thoughts on that since that's a mid-low frequency isn't it (yes- I am still an audio noob). And I saw elsewhere that apparently th Velour Pads are apparently superior for audio than the Mesh ones. Is this snake oil or can pads legitimately change the way we perceive the audio? Cheers!
Awesome review, I mainly play on PS5 do you I require a DAC or can I connect the headset to the PS5 controller and still get the same audio experience you mentioned? thanks
@zemab1nks haven't used it myself so I can't say, but I also don't think any additional dac is really necessarily. Mine sound fabulous straight from the PC/console.
Do you need an Amp for the pc38 playing pc? And as far as sound, are these really bright at high volume ? I’ve had the Arctis pro and find them way to bright, it’s uncomfortable to listen to
You do not require an amp, no. I plug them directly into my PS5 controller or PC and they work just fine. That being said, they will benefit from a dedicated amp. I don't find them fatiguing in the high end at all. It is good shimmer, sparkle and detail without being too much.
@ronald0122 I prefer the velour pads for just about any occasion. The HD560 is an overall more neutral sound with brighter highs than the PC38X, whike the PC38X offer more mid bass presence and generally better imaging for gaming.
Not one that I've heard, though there are some closed back Sennheiser/EPOS gaming headsets out there. For a high-end closed back gaming headset, I recommend looking into the Audeze Maxwell.
I just bought these and maybe my ears aren't audiophile enough 😂 but these coke off as kinda meh. They are not very exciting. The bass is lacking. I'm gonna connect them to a dac amp and see if it improves. Also its very plasticy this should not be $180. I got them for $130 and still feel like it's over priced. No software, no side tone, no EQ software, etc.
@SofaKingA they aren't a very dynamic headphone. You're not going to get big punchy bass from them. They target a neutral sound signature, which often times can seem a bit blad to some folks. I'd suggest giving them a shot for a while, say a week, and if you still don't like how they sound, go ahead and return them. If big bass and energy is more to your liking, you might better enjoy the Fidelio X2HR.
@@MasterMarslander I tried them again and do think they sound great now. I am still considering the SS Nova Pro Wired version. I have heard the sound quality is pretty amazing as well.
@@MasterMarslander The Nova Pro Wired version comes with a dac/Amp for $180 (I think you're referring to the wireless which are closer to $300). I considered the Maxwells as well but they are very heavy from what I understand. I also don't want to spend that much money 😂. Open to other suggestions at $250 or less but I believe the wired nova pros have excellent sound and features.
@@MasterMarslander just not sure if they were as good as some reviews made them out to be for gaming in terms of watching movies and music I love them have them connected to a dac but when playing tarkov where a lot of players use audiophile setups sometimes the small details seemed to blend in and long range gun shots where hard to direct
If you feel like you're getting a loss in fine details then maybe you want less soundstage. Maybe you'd be better with a closed back? Or sure, IEMs would accomplish the same. Just be careful not to listen too loud, take it from me.
These are awesome. Wanted something similar to my HD599 but with a mic. These fit the bill perfectly!
Great review. I love when you get passionate about a headphone set.
I debated so much before ordering these PC38X. I was going to buy headphones but the more I looked the more exasperated I became. Some need a dac or amp, some don't. I also needed a mic. Then purchasing a secondary microphone and down that rabbit hole. Eventually I went with these for sheer convenience. I think maybe that's who these are designed for. Upgrading my Astro A40 TR
nice video bro
22:28 - surprise, surprise ... this applies to lots of other things you need, including chairs - where an office good quality chair will be more comfortable than a gaming chair with lots of useless pillows in the same price range.
Learned my lessons on gaming chairs a good while ago. Ergonomics all the way!
Love the review and what I’m hearing. What would stop me from getting the HD58X over the PC38X? Cause I’m about to get the 38s. Is their staging or sound better for gaming?
For one the 38X will be easier to drive. If you plan on connecting directly to your controller or PC, you'll probably want to stick with the 38X. 58X does offer some benefits to performance, particularly in bass representation and vocal timbre, but at 150ohm you'll have a much better experience using a standalone amp.
@@MasterMarslander ok cool. I’m planning on getting a small amp (maybe Audient iD4 or Evo4) to power my speakers (Kali LP6’s) and any headphone I plug in. I have an Elgato Wave mic so I don’t need one on the set (other than having possibly utilizing a dedicated stream mic and game chat mic). I’ve never gone open back so I’m very curious.
@@voidboi0 If you don't really need the microphone from the 38X and you have some kind of amplification, then you'd probably have a bit of a better time with the 58X, assuming you can get it on sale.
awesome review
I think the PC38X is very similar to the Game One and I have 2 pairs of those (loved the sound and comfort so much I bought a backup pair😁)
I also tried the Game Zero not realising they are closed back and I really didn't like them - appreciate the swivel on the headphones so they can go flat around your neck but the sound is just not for me.
also pleased to see mention of the Jubilees which I have been using as a sound step up for music over my beloved Game Ones.
wanted to ask your advise on the next step up from the HD58x Jubilee's please.
I can get HD660S2 relatively cheap or do you think the HD6XX would be a better jump than the Jubilees?
@thomashoskins8817 a more linear upgrade from the Jubilee would be the HD6XX. The 660S2 would be a pretty different sort of listening experience from the Jubilee, which may or may not be what you're looking for. If you want to play it safe, 6XX would be the closest. If you want some a little different and more refined, try the HD600, and if you want to try a wild card, then go with the HD660S2.
I really enjoy my jubilee and am seeking a noticeable improvement
Am very torn between all of the 6 range 600, 650, 660 1 or 2 and 6XX.
At the time I got the jubilee they were what I could afford and now I have some extra cash and want a real upgrade 😊
Already a fan of Sennheiser. Might need to add this to my gaming setup!
Your way to describe things gave me good mood, as i needed it. Thank you man.
Love to hear it!
I have a Sennheiser PC38X. I have it hooked up to a UGREEN USB-C to 3,5mm jack. It sounds fine, but it doesn't get very loud. I want to add more volume to my headphones and use Dolby Atmos. I'd imagine that this will be more than adequate to give me more volume given the very low impediance (32 ohms) of my PC38X.
Still recommend these?😇
@@darkscoutergamer6168 definitely.
How does it compare to the PC 37x in terms of music sound and FPS Shooter steps and perception and locations of enemies?
Late to the party here...not sure if you're still rocking these. What after market earpads would you recommend from dekoni or wicked cushions for better sound quality. Comfort is second place.
Still rock then for sure. Wicked Cushions is pretty decent, but for my money, I'd go Dekoni if given the choice. I have some wildly comfortable sheepskin pads from Dekoni that are extremely comfortable, but when it comes to sound performance, I actually recommend sticking with velour.
@@MasterMarslander velour was my gut instinct. They're kind of my go to after being so used to beyerdynamic dt 770 and 900 pro x i use for music recording.
The reason I ask is because people reviewing the ear pads on amazon seem to have issues with them changing the sound in a negative way. More bass with sheepskin and more of a closed back less open feeling.
Thanks for the reply and sick you're still rocking them. I recently got the maxwells and now finally a dac/amp for my wired sets. A lot of a/bing going on over here.
@Justin-bm7zn yeah, anything other than the velour does change the sound. So it's a balance of comfort and sound you mind off have to gamble with. You have Maxwell too? You're freaking set, bruv.
Your channel is going to be gold! Would you recommend that we avoid DTS and Atmos when using these? Would love to see a more detailed video about that since a lot of us who are trying to understand better audio need some guidance.
Would it be possible for you to explore if we can eq these with atmos for 3rd person non competitive immersive games?
Thanks bro !
Ah, interesting. I don't think that Atmos will yield any significant results, and likely the same story with DTS - though I have not had as much experience with DTS. You can EQ them, of course, but I honestly don't find that very necessary for the PC38X. Their stock sound signature allows for an already immersive and natural listening experience. I know I talked competitive games in the video, but I'm more of a narrative driven gamer myself and love them for that. Played all through God of War and Ragnarok with these things and loved every minute of it.
DTS and Atmos are worth exploring though. I'll try them out myself and if it's mind bending I'll come back to it.
Thanks! Looking forward if it proves worth it
What's up Marslander. So just an update on this, I got the PC38X and they are 100% better without VSS for FPS gaming (such as Warzone as you stated earlier) and I actually find the bass to be really pleasant so i'm not gonna EQ that. The one thing I feel might need EQing is the footstep ranges in Warzone as footsteps aren't as clear as they are on other headsets. I'm assuming this is on the 125khz range. Just thought I'd get your thoughts on that since that's a mid-low frequency isn't it (yes- I am still an audio noob).
And I saw elsewhere that apparently th Velour Pads are apparently superior for audio than the Mesh ones. Is this snake oil or can pads legitimately change the way we perceive the audio?
Cheers!
Also, music is so good I wanna spend more $ now... This is going to become a costly hobby.
@@MerlaxMcBahu-lg4zr Ha! Yes, yes it will.
Awesome review, I mainly play on PS5 do you I require a DAC or can I connect the headset to the PS5 controller and still get the same audio experience you mentioned? thanks
No amp or dac is necessary to play on PS5. Plug it right into your controller and game on!
@@MasterMarslanderI wanted to buy the SBX G6 for the PC38X but I got told the mic quality gets very bad using that DAC. Is that true?
@zemab1nks haven't used it myself so I can't say, but I also don't think any additional dac is really necessarily. Mine sound fabulous straight from the PC/console.
I didn't even know I wanted these until now. My Philips SHP9600s are going to be sad.
They need not be a replacement, they can be siblings!
@@MasterMarslander The sibling rivalry will be too much for them. One has to die.
Do you need an Amp for the pc38 playing pc? And as far as sound, are these really bright at high volume ? I’ve had the Arctis pro and find them way to bright, it’s uncomfortable to listen to
You do not require an amp, no. I plug them directly into my PS5 controller or PC and they work just fine. That being said, they will benefit from a dedicated amp.
I don't find them fatiguing in the high end at all. It is good shimmer, sparkle and detail without being too much.
@@MasterMarslander thanks for the reply, I’ll be giving these a chance for sure.
which pads are better for fps games? and is this better or worse then the hd560s?
@ronald0122 I prefer the velour pads for just about any occasion. The HD560 is an overall more neutral sound with brighter highs than the PC38X, whike the PC38X offer more mid bass presence and generally better imaging for gaming.
which is better between this and HD560s?
They basically are the HD560s with a microphone. Same driver, I believe. They sound very similar, with a slight dump in the low-end on the HD560s.
is there a closed back equivalent?
Not one that I've heard, though there are some closed back Sennheiser/EPOS gaming headsets out there. For a high-end closed back gaming headset, I recommend looking into the Audeze Maxwell.
Epos h6 pro or this ? 😅
I'll take the obvious for $200, Mr. Trebek.
I just bought these and maybe my ears aren't audiophile enough 😂 but these coke off as kinda meh. They are not very exciting. The bass is lacking. I'm gonna connect them to a dac amp and see if it improves. Also its very plasticy this should not be $180. I got them for $130 and still feel like it's over priced. No software, no side tone, no EQ software, etc.
@SofaKingA they aren't a very dynamic headphone. You're not going to get big punchy bass from them. They target a neutral sound signature, which often times can seem a bit blad to some folks. I'd suggest giving them a shot for a while, say a week, and if you still don't like how they sound, go ahead and return them. If big bass and energy is more to your liking, you might better enjoy the Fidelio X2HR.
@@MasterMarslander I tried them again and do think they sound great now. I am still considering the SS Nova Pro Wired version. I have heard the sound quality is pretty amazing as well.
@@SofaKingA oof, expensive! If you're going to go for the $300 range, then Audeze Maxwell is going to he the one to beat.
@@MasterMarslander The Nova Pro Wired version comes with a dac/Amp for $180 (I think you're referring to the wireless which are closer to $300). I considered the Maxwells as well but they are very heavy from what I understand. I also don't want to spend that much money 😂. Open to other suggestions at $250 or less but I believe the wired nova pros have excellent sound and features.
@SofaKingA ohh, okay. Seen many folks ask me to review the Nova Pro, but have yet to get anything moving with LG to send me a model.
I have them I play a lot of escape from tarkov don’t love them
Interesting. What about them do you wish was different?
@@MasterMarslander just not sure if they were as good as some reviews made them out to be for gaming in terms of watching movies and music I love them have them connected to a dac but when playing tarkov where a lot of players use audiophile setups sometimes the small details seemed to blend in and long range gun shots where hard to direct
@@MasterMarslander I just think tarkov likes a bigger sound stage trying out the truth ear iems as I’ve wanted to give them a shot
But I seen a review on Amazon of someone who was using the pc38x and switched to the truthear iems and said he liked them a lot better
If you feel like you're getting a loss in fine details then maybe you want less soundstage. Maybe you'd be better with a closed back? Or sure, IEMs would accomplish the same. Just be careful not to listen too loud, take it from me.