Conclusion:

Whether your headphone use is for gaming, music, or movies, the Cooler Master Storm Sirus 5.1 gaming headset is a great choice. The sound quality is impressive; providing solid bass reproduction, while the other channels are clear and crisp. Using the control pod, the sound quality can be adjusted to meet any need. In addition, the microphone is easily able to pick up your voice to allow for clear voice chat while gaming. Finally, the build quality of the Sirus headset is exactly what I expected from a Cooler Master product; it is solid and heavy duty.

The circumaural designed earcups do a good job of blocking out background noise. This is a great feature for playing games or watching movies, but they work so well, that anybody could easily sneak up behind you while you are wearing these.



There were a few physical issues with the review sample, which may be attributable to them being a pre-release version. The first issue was with the control pod. I expected the headphone indicator to light up, and to turn off when the button is pressed to mute it. On the review sample, this did not happen. On the boom microphone, the in-use indicator light is extremely dim, and at first I didn't think it was lit up at all. These two issues are relatively minor, and I would expect them to be fixed on the final version.

Another physical issue seems to be more intentional, and that is the cable from the control pod to the headset being just four feet long. With the control pod sitting next to me on the desk, if I were to turn around in my chair it would drop to the floor. One final thought, is that it would be really nice if there was a way to wind the control pod cable into the control pod. Many gamers take their gear to LAN events and keeping cables neat helps speed up the set-up.

Taking in to consideration that the Cooler Master Storm Sirus 5.1 gaming headset provided for review were a pre-release sample, the two issues with the lights will not be held against them when it comes to the final verdict. The 5.1 surround sound stereo audio and build quality are top notch, and they are comfortable enough to wear for prolonged periods. However, they are heavy and the cable is a little short for me. All things considered, the Cooler Master Storm Sirus 5.1 gaming headset receive the Bigbruin.com "Recommended" and "Gaming Approved" awards.



Pros:

» Very comfortable ear pads
» Impressive sound quality
» Fabric and leather ear pads included
» Nice braided cables
» High quality construction
» Heavy control base

Cons:

» Short cable from base to headset
» Can't turn earpiece away from ear
» No "tick" marks when extending earpieces
» Microphone light very dim
» Heavy

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