Whether action-adventure or shooter, on solo paths or in multiplayer - optimal sound also plays a major role in video games. Skullcandy wants to offer exactly that with its PLYR headphones. ntv.de tested the device.
Anyone playing in front of the console or PC knows: the sound has to be right. The demands on a good headset are correspondingly high. The Skullcandy PLYR offers a great entry-level model to enjoy the full gaming experience. ntv.de took a closer look at the gaming headset.
Although the PLYR headset is the wireless variant, it comes with a 3.5mm aux cable, plus a USB-C cable to charge the device. The boom microphone that is included can be easily attached and detached using the AUX connector. However, there is a small disadvantage: although it is flexible, it cannot be bent. In terms of design, Skullcandy remains true to itself, a pixel pattern suggests the gaming reference, large ear cups and a thin, adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit. At less than 300 grams, the PLYR is also light, the foam processing on the over-ear cups has a memory effect, is breathable and moisture-repellent - everything stays dry on long nights of gaming.
Pressure points with a mute function are attached to the left ear cup, along with the aux connection and a volume control. The Bluetooth function can also be switched on and off there. The PLYR has Bluetooth 5.2, which should enable a better connection to consoles and end devices. And in practice, too, this works without any problems, with the new generation of consoles the headphones are quickly recognized via the Remote Play app.
The PLYR offer a clean sound in all areas. The Clear Voice AI ensures that the sound from the microphone is also clear on the other side. However, the transmission in streaming or conferences starts with a small delay, sound and lip movements are not synchronous in the first few seconds in the default setting of the headset. But that levels off - or you adjust it right away. Because the PLYR have the opportunity to switch to other modes with the Skull HQ app. Film, podcast and music modes offer an even better sound experience for the respective media format. However, the flexibility of the settings is above average for the price range, so there should be something for most audio profiles.
For gamers, there are special treats with the RPG mode for role-playing games and the FPS mode. Especially in FPS (frames per second), the sound is even more detailed, which is even an advantage for shooter fans. In the test, we tried "Call of Duty" and found that the footsteps of opponents can be heard even more clearly. In a hectic firefight, this can sometimes be a real game changer.
Aside from the great app, the Skullcandy PLYR won't revolutionize the market, but at €139.99 it's what you'd expect for a wireless headset in its price range. If you are looking for a special gaming headset, we can only recommend the PLYR. If several purposes are to be fulfilled at the same time, there are devices that are better suited as all-rounders without having to switch modes, as is the case with the PLYR. In addition to the PLYR, Skullcandy offers two other offshoots of the series, the SLYR and SLYR Pro. At 59.99 euros and 99.99 euros, the two devices are cheaper, but have fewer functions and are wired.
