Face Off: Speakers vs. Headphones

3D: Best from Stereo?

Kenn
Well, that's one issue where I'm going to have to agree with you. Stereo speakers aren't the best way to render 3D sound through HRTFs, and while I found surround-speaker setups optimal, it's unrealistic to assume most people going to have access to them, especially around their computer or at a live event. I'm not the world's greatest fan of HRTF technology (yet), but it does work well (and only works well) with headphones. If 3D audio becomes a big thing, then headphones are definitely the most convenient choice. However, I'm definitely not going to give up my quad-speakers any time soon, and I figure as long as you have your lobes sealed in those massive headphones, it really doesn't matter how loud I turn them up�

Thresh
Sure, I can deal with that you self-righteous bunghole. And hey, next time you do, make sure someone hasn't accidentally crossed your speaker cables. ;) Well, it's pretty clear to me that headphones are not only going to be around for the long run, but as games become more complicated, they're going to become more and more prevalent in the gaming scene altogether. That's not to say that I don't enjoy the pounding bass from a pair of awesome boxes, but there's more to PC audio than just stereo, and when it comes to practicality, you KNOW where it's at.

Kenn
Yeah, I KNOW it's definitely NOT between those headphones of yours. When you say there's more to PC audio than just stereo, you're forgetting that there's also more than just games. If you're in an office environment, I'd agree that you're more or less stuck with headphones, but some of us enjoy more than just the snapping of bones or the wet thud of buckshot in flesh. Take for example that novelty called "music." In a high-quality recording on good speakers, it's possible to sit back and make out apparent physical locations of instrumentals and vocals in a three-dimensional soundstage - sounds appear as definitive 3D objects in space, rather than emanating from two small boxes in front of you desk. A good pair of speakers should disappear behind the soundstage, allowing you to concentrate on the music rather than the speaker. You simply can't get the same experience from a pair of headphones. End of story..

Thresh
End of story? Since when did you become the definitive judge of audio quality? Personally, I've had no problems relaxing after a hard day to music from a good pair of headphones, and not having to involve everyone. Some purists will disagree, but the multiple advantages of headphones make them almost ideal in not only the gaming scene, but the PC world in general. The next time I have to spend hours at a time in a soundproof room with only my PC and MP3 collection, I'll consider switching to a pair of speakers. But for those of us firmly anchored in the real world, the practical benefits of headphones can put them head and shoulders above the competition. Besides, I'm beggin' you to buy a decent pair of headphones -- I'm sick and tired of hearing your private collection of sex .avis through our thin office wall.

Kenn
Well at least it's a heterosexual act, unlike the petite little outfits you like shopping for...