Post by UntowThet on Nov 30, 2009 22:01:37 GMT -5
Bluetooth mics are now available in a multitude of brands, prices, types etc. However, don't be fooled and buy a dud. Do some homework on what you're purchasing. Here's a few tips to be mindful of:
Quality
Some cheap headsets can be downright awful, but others can be almost as good as an official PS3 Bluetooth mic. Do some investigation and Google the brands. Read reviews and especially user feedback. There’s nothing worse than playing with someone that has huge scratchy static coming through their headset so invest smartly.
If you're looking for a quality mic, then get the official PS3 Bluetooth microphone. They come with a High Quality mode (usually enabled by default) that attempts to identify the in-game sounds and music and lower them, allowing for your voice to be primarily captured. The only downside is that these can be really uncomfortable over time as the ear clip has a non-adjustable curve that can peg your ear a bit too hard.
Gaming Experience
Headsets allow you to strategise in-game. I tend to information-share with my team mates and give them a heads up of any possible enemies and there’s nothing more amusing than chastising the opposing team.
USB vs. Wireless
It generally comes down to user preference. There is no real difference between the official Bluetooth headset and USB headsets. If you’re happy to have a wire dangling over you, buy the USB headset. In some cases, these are a cheaper option and usually superior to non-Sony Bluetooth headsets.
Compatibility
The PS3 tends to support most Bluetooth headsets but if you’re ever unsure, again – Google and check reviews and feedback.
Some third party and multiplatform titles have terrible voice chat support (e.g. LOTRC, Battlefield, CoD 4 and 5) while others have excellent support. Unlike Xbox360, the PS3 does not have cross-game chat. Voice chat support is dependant on the game title
General Setup
For non-Sony Bluetooth headsets, you’ll have to “pair” the device to your PS3. The pairing process is pretty standard across all brands. Once it’s charged, switch the Bluetooth device on and it will begin to search for other Bluetooth devices.
On your PS3, go to “manage wireless devices” in your cross-bar menu and search for the device. You should then be asked to enter a code for the device. The standard code is usually 0000 but check the packaging as this may vary.
If paired correctly, the speech meter starts to move up and down. Ensure that your PS is set to output voice volume to the Bluetooth device and the microphone is set to the Bluetooth device. Check you’ve turned your mic up as anything below level 4 can be difficult to hear.
For the official PS3 headset, all you need to do is charge the device and turn it on. Your PS3 should recognise it straight away by prompting you with a little on screen display advising the device is now active.
So there you go, some food for thought if you're thinking of "mic-ing up".
Quality
Some cheap headsets can be downright awful, but others can be almost as good as an official PS3 Bluetooth mic. Do some investigation and Google the brands. Read reviews and especially user feedback. There’s nothing worse than playing with someone that has huge scratchy static coming through their headset so invest smartly.
If you're looking for a quality mic, then get the official PS3 Bluetooth microphone. They come with a High Quality mode (usually enabled by default) that attempts to identify the in-game sounds and music and lower them, allowing for your voice to be primarily captured. The only downside is that these can be really uncomfortable over time as the ear clip has a non-adjustable curve that can peg your ear a bit too hard.
Gaming Experience
Headsets allow you to strategise in-game. I tend to information-share with my team mates and give them a heads up of any possible enemies and there’s nothing more amusing than chastising the opposing team.
USB vs. Wireless
It generally comes down to user preference. There is no real difference between the official Bluetooth headset and USB headsets. If you’re happy to have a wire dangling over you, buy the USB headset. In some cases, these are a cheaper option and usually superior to non-Sony Bluetooth headsets.
Compatibility
The PS3 tends to support most Bluetooth headsets but if you’re ever unsure, again – Google and check reviews and feedback.
Some third party and multiplatform titles have terrible voice chat support (e.g. LOTRC, Battlefield, CoD 4 and 5) while others have excellent support. Unlike Xbox360, the PS3 does not have cross-game chat. Voice chat support is dependant on the game title
General Setup
For non-Sony Bluetooth headsets, you’ll have to “pair” the device to your PS3. The pairing process is pretty standard across all brands. Once it’s charged, switch the Bluetooth device on and it will begin to search for other Bluetooth devices.
On your PS3, go to “manage wireless devices” in your cross-bar menu and search for the device. You should then be asked to enter a code for the device. The standard code is usually 0000 but check the packaging as this may vary.
If paired correctly, the speech meter starts to move up and down. Ensure that your PS is set to output voice volume to the Bluetooth device and the microphone is set to the Bluetooth device. Check you’ve turned your mic up as anything below level 4 can be difficult to hear.
For the official PS3 headset, all you need to do is charge the device and turn it on. Your PS3 should recognise it straight away by prompting you with a little on screen display advising the device is now active.
So there you go, some food for thought if you're thinking of "mic-ing up".
