Over the past few years, Plantronics has been making a push into the gaming audio space that few can ignore. We finally got the opportunity to review Plantronic’s latest headset, the Gamecom 780. For those who would like a point of comparison, we reviewed the Plantronics Gamecom 777, and while we will mainly focus on this set, there will be some references to the previous model.
Sound: 9
The sound quality of this headset is excellent. The headset features 40mm speakers, which is on par for any quality gaming headset you’ll find on the market. It is worth noting that the same size speaker was used in the 777, 
and it was an excellent choice to keep the same speaker. However, the 780 headset provides a better base response than in previous models. The effect isn’t overwhelming, but it does enhance the lower end of the headset’s range. The bass is deep and rich, and it makes explosions and in game effects sound great. This headset does take advantage of Dolby Pro Logic IIx technology so all the effects are clear and crisp. This set also supports Dolby 7.1 surround when attached to a capable PC. It is a virtual 7.1, but it still sounds great and does a very nice job of mimicking true 7.1 sound. In addition to game sounds, chat sounds came across clear and crisp, as well. All of the chat controls are on the left ear cup behind the mic. There you will find the chat mute and volume control buttons. While we preferred the layout of the 777 with the in-line chat controls, these worked perfectly fine.
Features: 8
The Plantronics Gamecom 780 has plenty of features to keep the PC gamer happy. As we mentioned earlier, this is a virtual Dolby 7.1 surround sound headset. If your computer can push a 7.1 signal, this set can handle that technology. The set also has a noise cancelling mic which makes sure you only hear and transmit the sounds that you are supposed to. This mic does a nice job, and it significantly reduces background noise. When this mic is compared to the mic on the Gamecom 777 it works just, as well. Aesthetically, there are some major differences. The 777’s microphone folded into the headset keeping the mic away from view. The new 780‘s microphone is on the end of the cup and only folds up, but it stays in view. However, the mic boom is longer which may be more comfortable for some users. The mic does feel much more substantial, and that is always a good
thing. This headset has a USB connection at the end of the cord, and though it is necessary to have the USB connection for Dolby sound, it would have been nice to have an analog option like the 777s did. This doesn’t take away from the headset at all, it was just a personal preference. Finally, the cord on this headset is heavy weight, which helps reduce tangles and has a better overall feel.
One of the new features is the headset’s ability to fold the cups 90 degrees. This makes storing the headset much easier. If you had a pair of the 777s, then you knew that it was a very large set of headphones and not having the ability to fold them up made storing them a pain. Plantronics made the right call to make this headset lighter and more portable while maintaining performance and quality. Another new feature is the headsets construction. This headset is much sturdier than previous versions.
Value: 9
The Plantronics Gamecom 780 retails for $79.99 which is an excellent price point for a headset with the features this set has. Though this set is slightly more expensive than the 
777s were, it is well worth the extra money for this type of headset. Getting the ability to decode a 7.1 signal makes this headset worth the money but with many improved functions and features, this headset is almost certainly worth the extra ten dollars. Sure a few little extras could have swung the vote higher, but overall we were pleased with the value provided and we think this is a solid offering at the price point.
Ease of Use / Comfort: 9
This headset is a very comfortable headset. The standard headset has cloth padding on the head strap and ear cups. The padding is very soft and should remain comfortable throughout and gaming session. The ear cups are also a good size, so it won’t press on your ears. The cups do not press hard enough against your head to block out lots of background noise, but the balance between function and comfort is solid. The cups are supported with metal, but they are hinged to make sure they fit any sized head. The metal reinforcement gives this headset a much more solid feel. Now, that the ear cups can pivot, it ensures that no matter what size or shape your head is, you’ll feel comfortable wearing this set. Overall, we feel you’d have a hard time finding a more comfortable headset.
Overall: 8.75
Overall, the Plantronics Gamecom 780 is an excellent headset. It provides plenty of features and a low price which should make any gamer happy. This set was completely redesigned, and we feel this design is more efficient while still maintaining the quality you expect from a Plantronics product. If you are in the market for a new PC gaming headset, look no further than the Plantronics Gamecom 780. You won’t be disappointed.
[xrr rating=8.75/10]