PlayStation Expands its Ecosystem with Pulse Elite Headphones
In late February, PlayStation unveiled the Pulse Elite headphones, another accessory designed to expand the ecosystem around the PlayStation 5, its latest console. Alongside the professional Dualsense Edge controller, PS Access, and Pulse Explore earbuds, Sony Interactive Entertainment continues what started in 2020 with the Pulse 3D headphones: expanding the range of accessories you can buy for the console, with a focus on gaming sound.
Pulse Elite (€149.99)
At a time when there are several sound options from Sony with the InZone line compatible with PS5, PC, and mobile, we now have options directly from PlayStation, from over-ear to in-ear. Having tested the Sony Inzone Buds, Inzone H5, Astro A50X, and Pulse Explore over the past few months, I’ve gained some experience in gaming sound. Among headphones that excel in sound quality, purity, convenience, balance between quality and price, or comfort, I can say that the Pulse Elite offer strong arguments for the price.
Main Highlights
After spending two weeks with the Pulse Elite playing titles like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, Rise of the Ronin, Tekken 8, and more, I can say that I was impressed by these PlayStation over-ear headphones. I stopped using my Pulse 3D due to discomfort (pressure on the head and hot ears, for example) to the point of regretting the 100 euros spent on them and feeling more inclined towards in-ear options (despite the trade-offs in sound immersion and price), but the Pulse Elite won me over:
- Light and comfortable over-ear headphones
- Planar magnetic speakers for a highly immersive gaming experience
- PlayStation Link technology for lossless wireless connection
- You can connect them to two devices simultaneously
- You can connect them to mobile phones or PC via Bluetooth
- Improved microphone with noise rejection through AI
- Long-lasting battery, up to nearly 30 hours
- Fast charging
Sound Quality
The Pulse Elite headphones showcase the best sound quality in PlayStation-produced headphones. The purity of the sound is very satisfying and can deliver the desired 3D effect that enhances the experiences. You can discern the direction of the sound, even vertically, hear different sounds, distinguish sources, and experiences gain more detail. One thing that stuck with me was playing Rise of the Ronin and hearing the footsteps on the wooden houses as if I were walking myself. We often expect the achievement to come from the grand orchestral compositions in games, but it’s these meticulous details that make the difference.
Comfortable Over-Ear Design
As I mentioned, the Pulse 3D left me unwilling to go back to playing with over-ear headphones due to discomfort, weight, and temperature. The Astro A50X had already won me over, and now I add the Pulse Elite to the list of good examples. They are lightweight, your ears are enveloped in a space that doesn’t cause pressure on your head, and you don’t feel too hot. In addition to conveying the idea of better design and construction, the Pulse Elite can isolate some of the noise around you, in an over-ear format that balances comfort with sound quality.
It’s not a feature that would have convinced me before using it, but now I consider it a small added value. I didn’t imagine needing it, but now I see a lot of usefulness. Having the Pulse Elite connected to the PS5 and a mobile phone simultaneously, for example, may not seem very useful, but the ability to answer a call and keep playing while talking to someone without taking off the headphones is convenient. More than that, in sessions where I’m just farming, playing optional activities in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth or Rise of the Ronin, listening to a podcast on the phone with the same headphones that allow me to comfortably hear the game sound if something important comes up is a small feature that slowly won me over.
The Pulse Elite headphones from PlayStation are truly a game-changer when it comes to audio quality for gaming on the PS5. With a microphone that you can adjust and bring closer to your mouth, compatibility with various devices, and a battery that seems to last forever, these headphones are a top choice for gamers.
Adjustable Microphone for Clear Communication
Unlike the Pulse 3D and Pulse Explore, the microphone on the Pulse Elite can be pulled out and brought closer to your mouth for better voice isolation. When you don’t feel like talking, you can keep it tucked away, but when you want to communicate, simply pull it out and position the microphone near your mouth. This simple yet practical feature is a game-changer for voice clarity.
Endless Battery Life for Extended Gaming Sessions
One of the standout features of the Pulse Elite headphones is their impressive battery life. With over 20 hours of continuous use, you’ll find yourself forgetting when was the last time you charged them. The longevity of the battery is truly remarkable and sets these headphones apart from the competition.
Seamless Compatibility for All Your Devices
Pairing the Pulse Elite headphones with your PS5, PC, Mac, tablets, and smartphones is a breeze. You can even use them with other consoles using a simple jack cable. Whether you’re transitioning from gaming on your PS5 to listening to music on your phone or watching a series on your PC, these headphones offer a seamless and hassle-free setup.
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