tldr; Gaming headset done right. HD5XX sound, great mic. Best mic'd gaming headphone.
$169.00 on AmazonScores based on sentiment analysis of topic-related comments
Best praise vs top criticism for Sennheiser PC38X
“For good directional audio and low clamp force open back headphones are recommended and if you really want good sound it's highly recommended to buy headphones and microphone separately with very few exceptions (Sennheiser PC38X). What is your budget? And where do you live? Prices can vary from country to country. Around 100$ you can have great directional audio with the Sennheiser HD560S they need to be loosened up though, because the can be clampy. They sound more analytical. For something less clampy you can look at prices for the Beyerdynamic TYGR 300R, they are another favorite for spatial audio and really comfortable. They sound more fun, maybe a bit closer to what you're used to, but lots more detailed. I got a pair for 70€ used like new, they tend to cost more than twice as much though. For a microphone you can get a modmic or a 20-30$ fifine mic, the samson meteor mic can be bought used for like 15$ too, both are great.”
12 Reddit opinions analyzed • Last updated 4/5/2026