Can you recommend a headset that doesn't pick up ambient noise?

February 2, 2011 7:10 AM

Is there a computer headset that has a very limited range of pickup to avoid ambient noise leaking into my Skype calls?

I'm looking for a new headset for my computer. I Skype regularly and between the sheets of ice on my roof crashing into the gutters, and the resultant dog barking, and the other variety of noises that happen throughout the day, my built-in laptop microphone isn't cutting it. It picks up all of those noises. I understand that most headsets will help with cutting out ambient noise, but could any mefis recommend a pair that are especially good at keeping out external noise?

Bonus: price point around $50 US, but I can go up a bit for the right pair. I'd also like to use it for gaming. Thanks!

posted by burnfirewalls to Computers & Internet (7 answers total)

I went through several $30-ish headsets before I landed on the Razer Piranha. My problem with earlier headsets was always that the microphones broke after a couple of months of accidentally swiping the things off the desk. The Razer has lasted me for at least 18 months now.

I use mine for gaming and it's got great sound and people tell me the microphone is good. My wife uses it for her Skype calls. It's marketed as entry-level gamer gear, so the amount of extraneous flashing lights and gadgets is minimized. It still looks a little flashy, but I don't expect that you'll be wearing it around the neighbourhood.
posted by flipper at 7:26 AM on February 2, 2011

I have a Sennheiser ME3 and I love it. It is only a mic, no ear phones. It's comfortable and the cord is long. I have it plugged into a Andrea mic - USB adapter to increase the fidelity. People say that I sound really good on it.
posted by reddot at 7:42 AM on February 2, 2011

Best answer: I use the Plantronics GameCom 777 headset from Best Buy for gaming and Skyping. I am still on my first set, which has lasted me more than two years of daily use and abuse. I like it particularly because it can be used both with a traditional sound card, and as just a USB headset. I also find it very comfortable for extended use, given the padding. You have heard me talk using it, so you can make an educated evaluation of the sound quality/noise cancellation. But from what understand my voice sounds fine with no noise issues.
posted by gemmy at 7:49 AM on February 2, 2011

Response by poster: After taking a look at other customer reviews, I went with the Plantronics GameCom 777 as it is supposed to have excellent sound-canceling capabilities. After I receive it, I'll try to remember to update with a trip report!

Thanks you three!
posted by burnfirewalls at 12:27 PM on February 2, 2011

You could get all "tactical" and look for a "bone conduction" microphone that only picks-up whatever you say and nothing else...

Will not be cheap...
posted by jkaczor at 3:52 PM on February 4, 2011

Or a "throat microphone"... Also, will not be cheap...
posted by jkaczor at 3:55 PM on February 4, 2011

Response by poster: The Plantronics GameCom777 works great! Although external noises can still be an issue, they're now only background annoyances rather than game changers. Thanks everybody!
posted by burnfirewalls at 11:59 AM on February 9, 2011