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CES 2020: JBL gets into gaming headsets with new Quantum devices
At CES 2020, another tech company is getting in on the gaming craze. JBL is launching a line of gaming headsets and a set of PC speakers aimed at giving gamers what it calls “the most accurate and immersive sound experience.” Much like products from companies like Razer and HyperX, JBL’s new gaming headsets adopt a sci-fi-esque name, Quantum, and boast surround sound with pinpoint accuracy.
The company is launching seven new headsets — the JBL Quantum 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, and 800, as well as the flagship Quantum One — many of which support the company’s new surround sound technology. Using the JBL QuantumENGINE software, the Quantum 300 – 800 headsets will gain access to JBL QuantumSURROUND, which adds to height channels to the typical surround sound 5.1 or 7.1 array.
Things get even more interesting with the JBL Quantum ONE, which uses JBL QuantumSPHERE 360, a different surround sound system that uses head tracking sensors in the headset to construct a more cohesive virtual sound stage. If you’ve gotten the chance to use headsets like HyperX Cloud Orbit S or the Audeze Mobius, this sounds similar.
According to JBL, the Quantum headsets will work with PC, Mac, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, mobile, and VR. They all include attached mics for voice chat and memory foam ear cushions that should become more and more comfortable as you use them. The JBL Quantum 600, 800, and Quantum ONE all even use real leather to cover the cushions — very fancy.
On top of the headsets, JBL also announced the Quantum DUO, a PC speaker that uses JBL QuantumSURROUND paired with Dolby Digital to create a surround sound environment without needing headphones. It also comes with colored lighting effects, because this is a gaming peripheral, after all.
The whole JBL Quantum line will be available in April. The headsets will start at a very reasonable $39.99 for the Quantum 100, with prices ascending up to $299.95 for the JBL Quantum ONE. The JBL Quantum DUO will go for $149.95.