EXSOUND™ Conch™ is a headset designed for enjoying DVD videos. Therefore, it has integrated Dolby Digital AC-3 and DTS (Digital Surround Sound) with a 5.1 channel sound: front right, front left, rear right, rear left, center & subwoofer.

I tested this headset by watching a DVD video and I have to admit that this is a really good quality of sound! It is not like all the other normal headsets with stereo sound only; you will hear the difference, because of the Surround sound. You can hear exactly where the actions of the movie take place and you feel much more integrated in the movie and its happenings.

The Surround sound in combination with the removable microphone is a good recommendation for people who like playing computer games such as ego shooters on the internet or on the network, because they can locate their enemies much better and also have the option to speak with their teammates through the microphone.

If you want to listen to music with stereo sound this is no problem, either, because this headset recognizes when there are only two channels in use and changes to stereo sound automatically, which means that only the front right and front left channels are used. In addition at the cable of the headset there is a control for the different channels, where you can adjust each volume. There is also a master box where you can adjust the volume of all the channels together or just mute it completely. While using this headset, you could easily get lost in another world and everyone around you would be oblivious to your current sound experience.  From the outside, virtually no sound escapes the headset, so even when you are listening to your music or playing your video games at the highest volume, those around you will not be disturbed.

Before you rush to the store to buy this headset you should know that it only has a USB plug, which means that you have to use the EXSOUND™ Conch™ with either a pc or a notebook. Another drawback of this product is that I felt it did not fit comfortably. It took me a while to put it on and even then I had the feeling that it didn't fit correctly. I would prefer it to be a little bit bigger. Then again, its compactness is great when traveling or when packing space is limited.

Last but not least, the cost factor. Priced at around $199.95, I think it is a bit expensive for a headset, but definitely fair for its quality and its functions.  I would not recommend this product to those who do not watch a fair amount of DVDs or play computer games.  But for those who are tech junkies, and those who travel a lot with a laptop, the EXSOUND™ Conch™ is a worthwhile investment, especially if you appreciate the drowning yourself in quality audio.

You can get more information on www.knowledgetech.com.tw/Conch.htm
and buy it on www.intervideo.com/jsp/EXSoundConch_Profile.jsp