In recent months, Beyerdynamic has taken aim at the gaming community with a series of high-end audio gear. Game Rantreviewed the MMX 300 Proin August and concluded that it provided a more balanced sound than the typical closed-back headset. Yet, some gamers prefer open-back designs because they provide a natural soundscape or added comfort. To satisfy this audience, Beyerdynamic has just released the wired MMX 330 Pro with a breathable construction. The MMX 330 Pro is now available at retailers for an MSRP of $329.99.
From a distance, gamers would find it difficult to differentiate the MMX 330 Pro from the MMX 300. Neither are the slimmest-looking headsets, but they are deceptively lightweight, with the MMX 330 clocking in at a surprisingly reasonable 318 grams. However, upon closer inspection, the venting on the outside of the newest headset’s earcups becomes visible. These holes would allow listeners to stay more connected with their environments and reduce heat buildup. Because the MMX 330 is less concerned with sealing gamers off from the outside world, ears should experience less clamping force.
Another characteristic the MMX 330 Pro shares with its closed-back cousin is Beyerdynamic’s usual impeccable build quality. The headset makes use of hard plastic to keep its weight down, but sensitive points are reinforced by metal. Also, several of its components, including the ear cushions and headband padding, are replaceable. The MMX 300 Pro ships with an over eight-foot-long shielded cable, but console gamers can replace it with a shorter alternative. Listeners won’t need professional audio equipment to benefit from the headset, as it uses a standard 3.5 mm analog audio connector.
A sufficient number of open-back headphones exist, but traditionally, the mostpopular gaming headsetswith attached mics are closed off. Of course, there are exceptions, like theCorsair Virtuoso, the manufacturer’s first foray into the open-back world. Then, Turtle Beach unveiled the Atlas Air, which seems to float on top of heads. The reason why these types of headsets aren’t as popular is that open-back headsets like the MMX 330 Pro aren’t ideal for immersive spatial audio. This has ramifications for competitive gamers, where pinpointing the position of enemies while playing in crowded arenas is the priority. In fact, Beyerdynamic themselves stress the MMX 330’s prowess in single-player games with cinematic sound, likeStar Wars Outlaws,rather than the standard practice of advertising to competitive gamers.
Buyers who enjoy a mix of single and multiplayer titles shouldn’t dismiss the MMX 330 Pro. The lack of passive noise cancellation makes it undesirable in chaotic environments, but gamers experience sound coming from every direction. This spacious soundscape simply isn’t possible with the confining nature of closed-back headsets. It also packs the same Stellar 45mm drivers as the MMX 300 Pro, which finds a balance of low, mid, and high tones that gaming headsets often struggle to achieve. Beyerdynamic promises even more carefully calibrated bass and treble with the MMX 330 Pro.
German audio giants like Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser produce highly-ratedheadphonespopular with streamers. The problem is that most gamers would rather avoid using a standalone microphone. The MMX 330 Pro solves this issue with a conveniently attached 10mm condenser mic. To address potential crosstalk issues, Beyerdynamic employs a cable that combines audio and mic signals without the risk of interference. If this microphone performs anything like the one on the MMX 300 Pro, it should capture voices with supreme clarity.
Game Rant expects to post a full review of the Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro shortly. Among other things, it will be interesting to see how the MMX 330’s porous design handles spatial audio in competitive FPS titles. Adding breathability to an already comfortable headset could also win over any skeptics.
Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro
With the beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro, gamers can stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying an eerily realistic wide-open soundstage. This open-back gaming headset brings studio-quality sound to players who enjoy cinematic single-player experiences. Steller.45 drivers thrive in this format, keeping bass and treble at optimal levels. Without the confining feel of closed-back headsets, the MMX 330 Pro and its velour ear cushions are exceptionally comfortable for long gaming sessions. The headset’s 10 mm condenser mic also captures voices with extreme clarity, aided by a combined audio cable that reduces crosstalk.
