Gaming: Plantronics RIG 400HX Headset Review

Plantronics RIG 400HX Headset Review

Plantronics was founded during the early 1960’s, and they had the opportunity to design NASA Astronaut Neil Armstrong’s headset as he went up to the moon and spoke his iconic words “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Since then they’ve been making and designing audio equipment, having diversified and are now in the gaming arena with headsets for the Xbox One, PS4, and PC. Recently, I had the opportunity to test one of these Xbox One headsets. Let’s take a closer look in this Plantronics RIG 400HX headset review.

RIG 400HX Design, Features, and Fit

The RIG 400HX is an entry-level gaming headset, designed primarily for Microsoft’s Xbox One, and is available in two patterns: all black or camo. With most of its components being plastic, they are much lighter compared to other headphones within their category. Due to their slightly smaller sized earcups, some users will and just barely have their ears fully enveloped. If you’re someone with above average sized ears, the earcups will protrude a bit.

This entry-level model itself is very basic. The earcups have a good looking pattern to them, nothing to get excited over, but way better than if it was a plain design. One neat feature is that the earcups are detachable, allowing them to be adjusted using a three-notch system. In this design, the lowest notch is the biggest while the uppermost notch up is the smallest. Because of this system, the earcups have a lot of ‘give’ which allows for the headset to conform better to your head. An interesting note is instead of one cable coming down from the headset; there are two cables just like those of ear buds.

The microphone is attachable (or detachable) and very adjustable. I was surprised that it was so easy to bend. One concern is that I’m worried about this mic’s bendability over time as it might start slipping and not retain its position. The cord itself is on the short side, about 4′ long. This is because the headset is made primarily for Xbox One. As you plug it in directly into the controller, it will never be far from your hands if you’re a real gamer.

The ear pads are made from memory foam. Whether you’re touching it with your finger or you’re wearing, they’re very soft. I haven’t had a pair of headphones this comfortable in a quite a while. These are fit for extended use.

The RIG 400HX has an inline volume control and microphone mute, efficient noise canceling and 40mm dynamic sound drivers. It has an overall weight of 7.4 ounces.

Overall Performance and Final Thoughts

For an entry-level product, the Plantronics RIG 400HX gaming headset has good sound quality. When it comes to gaming headsets, there are plenty of things to remember when making comparisons. Don’t make the mistake of comparing entry-level gaming headphones to ones that are two, three, or greater times the price. There are reasons why an Audio-Technica or Sennheiser gaming headset lists for $200 or more. Entry-level gaming headsets must be compared with their peers only.

The main takeaway here is the RIG 400HX does a phenomenal job at being a budget pair of headphones while still retaining features the high-grade headphones have. Currently, on Best Buy and Newegg, the Plantronics RIG 400HX headset goes for $50. Oddly enough, the camouflage patterned RIG 400HX CAMO headset is priced a bit less, available for $45 at Walmart. At this price, and with the great features such as stereo audio, interchangeable cups, and more, what’s not to love?

If you just took a $300-400 hit to your wallet from purchasing your new Xbox One and need a comfortable headset to game for hours, then the Plantronics RIG 400HX may be just what you’re looking for. This 40mm-driven gaming headset with a $50 list price is worth a long look.

The Plantronics RIG 400HX gaming headset come with a one-year limited warranty.

Have you tried the RIG 400HX headset? Do you agree (or disagree) with any part of this Plantronics RIG 400HX headset review? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

Feel free to follow Plantronics on Twitter and Facebook as well as this very blog on Twitter and Facebook. And don’t hesitate to head over to the Plantronics Gaming website to see their latest gaming gear.

FTC Disclosure: Plantronics provided Beantown LLC with one (1) RIG 400HX headset sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

Editor’s Note: My nephew (the author/reviewer) and his younger sibling (see images) liked this gaming headset so much that it’s highly unlikely that I’ll ever see them in my home again.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC 2016.