SteelSeries adds two gaming headsets for mainstream

SteelSeries dramatically expanded its gaming headset line today with two new models aimed at mainstream gamers looking to make their first serious uses of positional sound and voice chat. The entry-level Steelsound 3H (shown) is built for general use and is optimized for gamers who enjoy background music while they play, providing just enough directional cues without affecting the more neutral sound balance necessary for other sounds. The 3H is also the most portable of SteelSeries' headsets and folds in for travel. It ships now for $40.

The more committed gamers will prefer the SteelSound 4H, according to the company. While less compact than the 3H, the uprated headset has larger cushions for comfort during longer play sessions. Its sound is also tuned more explicitly for gaming and helps identify events in first-person shooters as well as real-time strategy games. The retractable boom microphone is also more sensitive than on the 3H version. SteelSeries is offering the 4H at the same time as its basic counterpart for $50.