This gaming & microphone headset presents the best quality/price ratio in our comparison

The GSP 500 is part of Sennheiser’s new range of high-end gaming headsets, also made up of its almost twin brother the GSP 600. If the second is a closed headset, the first, which interests us here, is an open headset which therefore promises to trade the excellent sound insulation of its brother for a wider sound reproduction. Let’s see what happens.

Despite a few small flaws, the GSP 500 delivers an extremely solid overall performance. Comfortable (except for a pronounced clip effect), equipped with a microphone of absolutely remarkable quality, it also benefits from very immersive sound reproduction, in particular thanks to very ample and precise spatialization. The latter, however, is expressed mainly on games and films; for listening to music, the GSP 500 is noticeably less comfortable. So, even though it is one of the best headphones gaming available, this relative lack of versatility will have to be taken into account before any purchasing decision, especially at its very high launch price.

Strong points

• Natural and immersive sound.
• Responsive and controlled bass.
• Good level of sound detail.
• Excellent stereophony, ample and precise spatialization.
• Microphone of remarkable quality.
• Nice build quality.
• Very comfortable…

Weak points

• …despite excessive pressure around the ears.
• Slight coloration in the treble, neutrality could be improved.
• Slight imprecision in the midrange, slight lack of sound delivery.
• Proprietary connector between cables and headset, volume wheel integrated directly into headset.

The second best quality/price ratio

The GSP 600 marks a very successful entry into our comparison. It offers everything you expect from a closed-back wired gaming headset: a robust and careful design, great ease of use, a comfortable fit, incredibly effective isolation, very clean and clear voice pickup as well as ‘precise, balanced and above all immersive sound reproduction. However, its small clamping effect and its weight can be off-putting, especially if you have a large head or are looking for a headset that can be forgotten. We then advise you to take a look at the HyperX Cloud Alpha which is, moreover, much more affordable.