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In the past I have looked at a number of headsets, some with an attached microphone, which could be classified as being designed for general purpose use.  The latest headset to come my way, however, has been designed specifically for use by hard-core gamers although that should not stop others from making use of this headset.  This product is the GameCom 777 which has been designed by Plantronics in close cooperation with Dolby.

The GameCom 777 is based around a lightweight frame that has the widest headband that I have come across.  At is widest point this headband, constructed of a re-enforced plastic material, measures 55mm.  When fully extended, the headband expands from 49cm in length up to 57cm.  Ensuring that the band sits comfortably on your head, there is a thick cushioning pad.  The same type of cushioning is used on both the ear pads.  These ear pads are the type that has the effect of fully enclosing the ears without cutting off any outside communication although you do get some muffling.

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Conveniently slotted out of the way, when not required, on the left hand side of the headband is a boom microphone.  While of a rigid construction, you can position this microphone at various angles to suit the user.  You can use the microphone to communicate with other players during multiplayer game sessions or with applications such as Skype and Google Voice.  A mute and voice directional control is available of the headset’s cable.

The GameCom 777 gives you a choice of two connection methods to a computer.  The headset’s permanently attached lead, which is a generous 208cm in length, has a pair of 3.5mm jack plugs for inserting into the appropriate headset output and microphone input sockets on the computer.  Taking this route does mean that you are limited to a PC system and you deny yourself the use of Virtual 7.1 Surround Sound and Dolby® ProLogic® technologies that this headset is capable of delivering.

The second method requires the use of a small device, measuring 4 x 5cm (W x L), that is included in the box.  This device provides the various Dolby features.  It carries out this task by sitting between the headset’s lead and the computer.  The device has two 3.5mm sockets at one end to accommodate the two jack plugs while the other end has a USB plug for linking to the computer.  As well as adding the Dolby developed features, this method also allows you to connect the headset to either a Mac system or a PC system.

My first experience with the GameCom 777 was at the launch event held at HMV Gamebar in Central London.  Several headsets were linked to a multiplayer hunt and destroy game.  I have to say that the headset made little difference to my skill at the game as I quickly lost count of the times that other players targeted me as easy prey.  Numerous deaths notwithstanding, the headset certainly helped with the audio aspect.  Sound emanated from every direction while conversation was possible between the combatants. 

While no discomfort was noticeable during the action, my ears did become rather warm and it was a relief to remove the headset at the conclusion of the game.  Testing the GameCom 777 in my own living room, either listening to music or playing solo games, my ears seemed to cope better as any heat build up was less evident.

Overall the GameCom 777 is a well build headset with boom microphone.  It is more suited to the hard-core gamer who wishes totally emersion into various game titles.  The GameCom 777 has been priced at £79.99 which could well put off those looking for a more general purpose device.

It is however available for less. Checking on-line I see you can buy from Amazon for only £46.99 $57.78 €70.86 including free delivery on the following link:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001E42QZ8?ie=UTF8&tag=gadge0a-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003NVMDYY?ie=UTF8&tag=gadge0a5-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789

http://www.amazon.fr/gp/product/B0041SEFKS?ie=UTF8&tag=gadge04-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1642

http://www.plantronics.com/europe_union/en_GB/products/computer/pc-gaming-headsets/gamecom-777-7-1