Comparison Razer Kraken X vs Razer Kraken Tournament Edition

The specific connection interface provided in the headphones. At the same time, some models may provide several options at once - these are either combined devices (see "Type of connection"), or wired headphones equipped with additional adapters or replaceable cables, or wireless devices connected via a radio channel or infrared port (in the latter case the characteristics additionally specify the method of connecting the complete adapter).

- micro-Jack (2.5 mm). A wired connector similar to the popular 3.5mm mini-Jack (see below), but smaller. Equipment with such a connection is rare - mostly these are miniature devices, where there is simply no room for a 3.5 mm jack. Accordingly, this interface has not received distribution among headphones either: it is almost never found in its pure form, models with such a plug are usually supplemented with an adapter or cable for mini-Jack.

- mini-Jack(3.5 mm). Perhaps the most popular modern type of audio connector; if a device has a headphone output, it is most likely a 3.5 mm jack. Accordingly, most headphones with a wired connection use this type of connector. It is worth noting that headphones with a microphone designed for such a connection are equipped with a special plug for a combined headphone + microphone audio jack (such connectors are popular in portable gadgets and laptops). But with a socket designed only for “ears” without a microphone, such a plug may not work cor...rectly. An alternative would be headphones equipped with two separate mini-jack plugs; see below for more details on this option.

- mini-Jack (2 x 3.5 mm). Models with two 3.5 mm mini-jack plugs. This option is guaranteed to mean that we are not talking about classic headphones, but about a headset with a microphone: one plug is used for headphones, the second for a microphone. Such models are convenient when used with equipment that has separate 3.5 mm jacks for “ears” and a microphone - for example, for a PC.

- Pentaconn (4.4 mm). It is a 5-pin balanced output. Pentaconn uses a larger than the mini-Jack plug, its size is 4.4 mm, it is stronger and more reliable than the 3.5 mm connection. The Pentaconn's balanced connection makes it possible to handle higher power audio signals. Thanks to this connection, it is possible to transmit a signal over a fairly long distance. Accordingly, such a connector is relevant for headphones of the highest category.

- Jack (6.35 mm). The largest type of Jack type audio connector found in modern technology. Outputs of this type are found mainly in stationary audio equipment - they are too bulky for portable devices, it is easier to use a 3.5 mm mini-jack there. At the same time, a 6.35 mm jack is considered to be a more suitable interface for professional and audiophile-class equipment: it provides a more reliable connection, greater contact density and, accordingly, less likelihood of interference. Therefore, although relatively few headphones are equipped with their own Jack type connector (mostly premium solutions), many models with a 3.5 mm mini-Jack plug are equipped with a 6.35 mm adapter.

— XLR. A characteristic round connector with a lock-lock and 3 contacts (there are other options in quantity). As a rule, it is used to transmit an analog signal through a balanced connection. This connection provides high resistance to interference, typical for professional applications; at the same time, the plug itself has rather large dimensions. In view of all this, the presence of XLR is relevant mainly for headphones designed for use with advanced stationary equipment.

— Bluetooth. The most popular wireless connection option in today's headphones. This is due to the fact that built-in Bluetooth modules are available in almost any modern smartphone, tablet or laptop, and appropriate adapters can be produced for devices without this module (for example, a PC). True, the sound quality with a traditional Bluetooth connection is relatively low, but special technologies such as aptX and aptxHD are increasingly being used to remedy the situation (see "Codec Support").
It is also worth noting that Bluetooth modules can correspond to different versions (the latest for 2022 is Bluetooth 5.0, Bluetooth 5.1, Bluetooth 5.2 and Bluetooth 5.3) this moment does not affect the sound quality, however, it determines a number of additional nuances - the range and reliability of communication, the ability to work through walls and other obstacles, resistance to interference, etc. In modern "ears" you can find the following versions of Bluetooth:

• Bluetooth v4.0. An update in which the capabilities of version 3.0 (classic + high-speed Bluetooth) were supplemented with a third format - Bluetooth LE (low energy). This communication standard is intended mainly for the transmission of small amounts of information - in particular, service data packets to maintain a connection. At the same time, the creators managed to combine economical energy consumption and a long communication range - it can reach 100 m. This has a positive effect on the stability of the connection.
• Bluetooth v 4.1. Development and improvement of Bluetooth 4.0. Speaking specifically about headphones, the key innovation for them in this version was improved noise immunity when working near devices with 4G (LTE) mobile communication devices (in earlier standards, Bluetooth and LTE signals could overlap, which led to failures). So for use with a 4G smartphone, headphones with Bluetooth support of at least v 4.1 are definitely recommended.
• Bluetooth v4.2. Further, after 4.1, the development of the Bluetooth standard, which mainly introduced a number of general improvements in reliability and noise immunity.
• Bluetooth v5.0. Massive Bluetooth update released in 2016. One of the most notable innovations was the introduction of two additional Bluetooth LE operating modes: high speed mode (due to reduced range) and extended range mode (due to reduced speed). In the case of headphones, the main significance of these innovations is to improve the overall reliability of the connection, increase its range and reduce the number of gaps.
• Bluetooth v 5.1. Update version v 5.0, which, in addition to general improvements in the quality and reliability of communication, has such an interesting feature as determining the direction from which the Bluetooth signal is coming. Thanks to this, a smartphone or other gadget that supports this standard is able to determine the location of connected devices with an accuracy of up to a centimeter; this can be useful, for example, to search for lost sight, but still working headphones.
• Bluetooth v5.2. The next, after 5.1, is the Bluetooth 5th generation update. The main innovations in this version are a number of security improvements, additional power optimization in LE mode, and a new audio signal format for synchronized parallel playback on multiple devices.
• Bluetooth v5.3 was introduced at the dawn of 2022. Among the innovations, it accelerated the process of negotiating the communication channel between the controller and the device, implemented the function of quickly switching between the state of operation in a small duty cycle and high-speed mode, improved the throughput and stability of the connection by reducing the susceptibility to interference. In case of unexpected interference in the Low Energy mode of operation, the procedure for selecting a communication channel for switching is now accelerated.

- Radio channel. A wireless radio connection that does not use Bluetooth technology (see above). Such headphones are usually equipped with an adapter that connects to the signal source by wire - for example, via USB or mini-Jack 3.5. This connection method is more versatile than Bluetooth, it can be used even with devices that do not have wireless modules. In addition, the radio channel provides a long range (often up to several tens of meters), and the sound quality is quite high even without the use of special technologies. The disadvantage of this option is the actual presence of an adapter, which is not always appropriate: for example, it is easier to use Bluetooth headphones with a tablet or smartphone.

- IR channel. Another method of wireless connection, a feature of which is that it does not use radio waves, but infrared radiation. Theoretically, the advantage of such a connection is resistance to electromagnetic interference, the disadvantage is that it only works in the line of sight. In practice, the situation is such that in most cases it is easier to use Bluetooth or a radio channel for a wireless connection. So this option is found only in specialized devices for equipment equipped with its own IR outputs - in particular, among headphones for car monitors.

— USB A. Wired connection to a standard (full dimensions) USB connector. This option is found exclusively among headphones designed for computers / laptops or gaming consoles. One of its advantages is that sound via USB is transmitted digitally and is processed not by the computer's audio card, but by the built-in headphone converter; such a converter often provides better sound quality than the said audio card. In addition, multi-channel audio can be transmitted via a USB connection - this point will be especially appreciated by gamers. Another advantage is that when using USB-headphones, specialized audio outputs remain free, and you can connect other equipment to them - for example, computer speakers or a vibrocap.

— USB-C. A relatively new type of USB connector, used in both desktop computers and portable devices - as the heir to microUSB. It does not differ much in dimensions, but it has a more advanced design - in particular, it is made double-sided, which makes it easier to connect. Most often complemented by other connection options (they can be both wired and wireless).

— Lightning. A universal connector used in Apple portable equipment - iPhone smartphones and iPad tablets - since 2012. Not used by other manufacturers. Accordingly, models with such an interface are designed specifically for "apple" technology (primarily iPhone and iPod touch players). This type of connection is especially relevant given the fact that in the latest iPhones, the manufacturer has completely abandoned a separate audio output, and the only way to connect headphones is the Lightning port.

- Corporate outlet. A connection connector that is not related to generally accepted standards and is used to a limited extent in the equipment of one or more manufacturers. Such connectors are found mainly among headphones for mobile phones. However, in connection with the general standardization, this option has practically disappeared from the scene. Theoretically, the proprietary connector is also the Lightning described above, but it is separated into a separate category due to the popularity of Apple technology.

The type of cable provided in the design or package of the headphones. Note that this parameter is relevant both for wired or combined models (see "Type of connection"), and for some wireless models - in particular, earbuds and in-ear headphones without attachment, where the wire connects one earphone to another.

- Round. Classic round wire - straight, without braid and other additional devices. It is inexpensive and in most cases quite practical, which is why it is found in most modern headphones. The disadvantage is that with a small thickness, the round wire tends to tangle; therefore, this option is considered not very convenient for compact headphones, such as in-ear or in-ear headphones (see "Design"), which often have to be carried in a pocket or bag.

- Flat. The main advantage of a flat cable is that it is not as tangled as a round one, and in which case it is much easier to unravel. This is especially important for earbuds and in-ear headphones, which are often rolled up for storage or portability. However, larger overhead models can also be equipped with a flat wire.

- Drawstring around the neck. A wire adapted in one way or another to be worn around the neck - for example, having the form of a loop from which two separate headphones depart. The main advantage of this design is the convenience for constant wear: if necessary, you...can remove the headphones and leave them hanging on a cord, and then quickly put them back on. It is worth noting here that this option is found mainly among liners and in-ear models, for which the mentioned advantage is especially relevant.

- Round, braided. Round wire, supplemented with an outer braid - usually fabric. See above for more details on round wire. And the presence of a braid gives such a cable a number of advantages over the classic, in "bare" insulation. So, the wire turns out to be more durable, reliable and resistant to kinks and pressures, less confused, has a solid appearance, and in some models the braid also provides shielding from external interference. The reverse side of these advantages is the increased price.

- Spiral. Round cable, coiled in the form of a spring. The main advantages of spiral wire are that it practically does not tangle and can be noticeably stretched relative to its original length. The latter is very convenient if in the course of using the "ears" you have to change the distance to the signal source. The disadvantages of a spiral cable are bulkiness and relatively high cost. Therefore, it is often used in headphones of medium and top levels (including professional models).

- Round, braided. Cable in the form of two wires twisted into a spiral. Do not confuse this option with a spiral wire - in this case we are not talking about a spring. Such a cable is notable primarily for its unusual appearance; for greater originality, the wiring can be made multi-colored. It is also slightly more tangle-resistant than the classic round, although much depends on the thickness here. At the same time, individual wires can be noticeably thinner than a solid round wire, which somewhat reduces reliability.

- Zipper. Reversible wire (see "Cable entry"), in which the individual wires are hidden inside the halves of the zipper. The fastener does not cover the entire length of the cable, but usually takes up half, or even more. The headphones themselves with a similar wire most often belong to miniature varieties - in-ear or in-ear. Such models are very convenient in “packing” and “unpacking” for storage and carrying: by zipping up, you can connect two wires into one, and when you need the headphones again, you can unzip them by separating them. At the same time, the fastened zipper is very resistant to tangling. Yes, and this accessory looks quite unusual.

- In the form of a lace. A wire that looks like a lace - like tech used in shoes or clothing. Do not confuse such a cable with a cord around your neck (see above) - in this case, we mean not the way the wire is worn, but a specific type of braid. Such a wire is comparable in width to a flat wire, due to which it resists tangling well. However, the main advantage of this option is still the original appearance: “laces” are often made in bright colors, can be painted in several colors, complemented by a pattern, etc.

The diameter of the speaker installed in the headphones; models with multiple drivers (see "Number of drivers"), usually, the size of the largest speaker is taken into account, other dimensions can be specified in the notes.

In general, this parameter is relevant primarily for over-ear headphones (see "Design"). In them, emitters can have different sizes; the larger it is, the more saturated the sound is and the better the speaker reproduces the bass, however, large emitters have a corresponding effect on the dimensions, weight and price of the headphones. But in-ear "ears" and earbuds, by definition, have very small speakers, and rich bass in them is achieved due to other design features.

The sensitivity of the headphone's own microphone.

The more sensitive the microphone, the higher the signal level from it, at the same sound volume, and the better this model is suitable for picking up quiet sounds. Conversely, low sensitivity filters out background noise. At the same time, we note that these nuances are important mainly in professional work with sound. And for simple tasks like voice communication over the phone or via the Internet, sensitivity does not really matter: in headphones of this specialization, it is selected in such a way as to ensure that the microphone is guaranteed to work.

This feature usually means that the microphone is attached to the headphones using a special flexible arm. The flexible design gives additional possibilities for moving the microphone relative to the user's mouth and makes it easier to choose the optimal position that provides the best sound quality.

An external sound card is included with the headphones.

An external sound card is usually a kind of adapter connected to the USB port of a computer or laptop and equipped with standard audio outputs (usually of the 3.5 mm mini-Jack type). In fact, this is an external digital-to-analogue converter (DAC), created specifically for a specific model of headphones. This feature is found mainly in two types of headphones — gaming and office (see "Purpose"). In the first case, the purpose of an external DAC is, first of all, to provide high-quality sound with the maximum immersive effect (a PC / laptop's own audio card is far from always able to cope with this task). In addition, a separate sound card can come in handy if your computer's own audio outputs are busy or not available at all. As for office models, they use external converters mainly to simplify work with special software or equipment for telephony. Note that in both cases, external sound cards often also perform the functions of remote controls — for this they are equipped with keys or other controls (sensors, wheels, etc.).

The total weight of the headphones; for true wireless models (see "Cable Type"), the weight of each individual earbud is listed.

This parameter is directly related to the design (see above) and some features of the functionality. Thus, the mentioned true wireless devices are very light, their weight does not exceed 25 g. More traditional in-ears and in-ears can be noticeably heavier, up to 50g for in-ears and up to 100g for most in-ears. Overhead models, for the most part, are quite massive: among them there are many models weighing 200 – 250 g, 250 – 300 g and even more than 300 g. It should be noted that a significant weight for false ears is often not a disadvantage, but an advantage: it allows them to stay on the head more securely, creates an impression of solidity and reliability, and most often does not create significant inconvenience.