ROCCAT Cross Multi-platform Over-ear Stereo Gaming Headset Review

Others by stefan @ 2017-01-17

Cross is a lightweight headset from ROCCAT, compatible with many devices thanks to its Stereo analog interface and features two separate cables: one for mobile devices with an in-line microphone, but also one which includes a boom microphone and two separate jack plugs. The 50mm Neodymium drivers make sure that deep bass can be rendered without distortions, while the mids and highs are well balanced, so Cross is well suited for watching movies or listening to music as well.

Introduction

 

 

At first we would like to thank ROCCAT for offering us a sample of the Cross Multi-platform Over-ear Stereo Gaming Headset for testing and reviewing.

 

 

 

About ROCCAT:

 

“ROCCAT designs the best gaming products in the world. We combine detail-loving German innovation with a genuine passion for what we do. The result is a forward-looking product portfolio adaptable to the gaming trends of tomorrow. The industry-leading experiences we develop are born of a deep affinity with gaming community that we ourselves are very much a part of.

 

We achieve this by having an outstandingly talented team comprised of gamers, visionaries and industry experts. Working at ROCCAT is fun, challenging and fast-paced, with no two days ever the same. Our background in gaming reflects itself in how we work, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, communication and mutual trust. We’re all on the same mission. Are you in?”

 

Product Features, Specifications

Product Features:

 

Unmatched audio quality - 50mm neodymium drivers for studio audio with deep bass

 

Aerodynamic design, low weight - perfect for extended wear, weighs only 185 grams

 

Ideal for every platform - works great with PC, Mac, mobile, PS4 and Xbox One*

 

Detachable dual microphones - swappable: boom-arm mic for PC, in-line mic for mobile

 

Memory foam earpads - max comfort uniquely adapted to each wearer

 

Volume control - quick-access volume control on left earcup

 

 

Product Specifications:

 

 

 

Packaging, A Closer Look Part I

ROCCAT is continuing its line of gaming headsets by releasing the Cross model, which was designed to operate on a large number of devices, thanks to the stereo analog interface. While it does sport a minimalistic design and is very light, it incorporates large 50mm Neodymium driver units in order to deliver good quality sound and deep bass frequencies. The product is shipped inside a medium-sized cardboard enclosure and right from the start we can see the multiple connectivity options advertised:

 

 

 

On one of the box sides, the manufacturer gives more details regarding the main product highlights:

 

 

 

The tech specs along with the box contents are listed on the opposite area:

 

 

 

Even more details can be checked out on the back side of the enclosure:

 

 

 

After removing the contents from the box, we will observe the headset, which is held inside a custom plastic mold for additional protection, a bubble bag that holds the connection cables but also some documentation:

 

 

 

The supplied manual gives us a short explanation on how to use the product, by utilizing the supplied cables:

 

 

 

Speaking of the cables, we have two sets available:

 

 

 

The shorter one (1.2m) was designed to be used with mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and the jack plugs are gold plated for optimal contact:

 

 

 

An in-line remote can be also spotted, which holds the microphone assembly, along with the Mute button:

 

 

 

A Closer Look Part II

The longer cable (2.35m) comes fully braided and was designed to be utilized with desktop computers or other devices that use separate jack plugs for headphones/microphone:

 

 

 

The microphone is integrated with the jack assembly and can be adjusted as needed:

 

 

 

 

An in-line remote is also included here, which holds the microphone mute button:

 

 

 

Further down the cable, we will observe a small plastic splitter:

 

 

 

The jack plugs are color coded for easy identification and gold plated:

 

 

 

The chassis of the Cross headphones features a clean design, without the bells and whistles we usually see on regular gaming headphones:

 

 

 

The left cup holds the well-known ROCCAT mascot:

 

 

 

On the inside of the cup we will find soft leatherette material, which was designed to fully cover the ear lobe:

 

 

 

A Closer Look Part III

The left cup does have a similar design, but on the outside layer we will get to see the ROCCAT logo:

 

 

 

Here the manufacturer has also placed the jack port, for plugging in the appropriate cable:

 

 

 

This is not all! The left cup also includes a carefully placed discrete volume controller that can be accessed faster than an in-line version of it:

 

 

 

The headband is made of soft foam covered in leatherette material:

 

 

 

On the top of the headset we can, again spot the manufacturer logo:

 

 

 

For fitting all head shapes and sizes, the Cross headset can be adjusted accordingly; the metal layer can be spotted here, which reinforces the chassis:

 

 

 

The name of the stereo channel is also written on the inside, in order to wear the product correctly:

 

 

 

Since the cable does also include the microphone, the installation procedure is straightforward:

 

 

 

 

Impressions and Conclusive Thoughts

After connecting the headset to our trusty Creative Sound Blaster ZxR, we have started watching some high-def YouTube video clips, but also some recent TV shows via online services. We felt that the Cross is well-balanced across all frequencies, with a deep but not overpowering bass, as advertised; these features also recommend it for music tracks, where we found that the voices were rendered loud and clear.

 

We weren’t less impressed with the experience in games, when we have tried Black Desert Online, GTA V, DOOM and Dirt Showdown: the soundstage in Black Desert and GTA V was quite impressive, while the weapon sounds along with the soundtrack in DOOM really improved the gameplay.

 

Another aspect that should be taken into account is that the headset is very light (185 grams) so it can be used during long gaming sessions without causing discomfort. We have tested the microphone in both Skype and Telegram and we could say that the person on the other said did hear us loud and clear so no additional hissing or distortion noises were involved.

 

The ROCCAT Cross Stereo Gaming Headset can be purchased online for about 70 Euros.

ROCCAT Cross Multi-platform Over-ear Stereo Gaming Headset is Recommended for:

 

 

 

We would like to thank again to ROCCAT for making this review possible!

 

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