It's a good first try, BUT... - Sony INZONE H3 and H9 Headphones
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Promos
Thanks to MANSCAPED for sponsoring the video! Get 20% OFF + Free Shipping at manscaped.com Sony's been around for a long time, but now they're not only bringing games to the PC space, they're also releasing new PC peripherals! At this price point, is Adam sold, or should Sony stick to making Playstations? Buy Sony INZONE H9 Wireless Noise Canceling Gaming Headset: geni.us Buy Sony INZONE H3 Wired Gaming Headset: geni.us Purchases made through some store links may provide some compensation to Linus Media Group. Want us to unbox something specifically for a video? Make a suggestion at lmg.gg ► GET MERCH: lttstore.com ► AFFILIATES, SPONSORS & REFERRALS: lmg.gg ► PODCAST GEAR: lmg.gg ► SUPPORT US ON FLOATPLANE: floatplane.com FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE --------------------------------------------------- Twitter: twitter.com Instagram: @shortcircuityt TikTok: @linustech Facebook: @ShortCircuitYT CHAPTERS --------------------------------------------------- 0:00 Intro 0:34 WARNING: NSFW 0:56 INZONE H3 Unboxing 1:35 Build quality and fit impressions 3:24 Audio quality impressions 3:52 Microphone test 4:04 Sony INZONE software 5:03 Subscribe to Floatplane! 5:17 Taking ear pics 6:02 Spatial audio test 6:48 Sponsor - Manscaped 7:16 INZONE H9 unboxing 8:29 Build quality and comparisons 9:39 Feel impressions and ANC test 11:03 Audio impressions 11:44 Software issues 12:13 PS5 Spatial audio test 13:31 Overall thoughts 14:44 Outro
The video opens with an overview of Sony's INZONE H3 and H9 gaming headsets, framing them as part of Sony's broader push into PC peripherals alongside PlayStation 5. The host immediately compares the entry-level H3 at a $99 price point to the higher-end H9 and notes two distinct use cases: wired versatility for the H3 and feature-rich wireless versatility for the H9, including 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth. The unboxing sequence for the H3 highlights its all-plastic construction, a heavy headband with a surprisingly soft cushion in some areas, and a bundled USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter that is described as bulky. The host tests comfort, clamp force, and isolation, finding the H3 acceptable for its price but noting that the fit and padding may be less than ideal for long sessions, while the audio signature remains lively with a V-shaped tilt and bright highs. He then walks through the on-headset controls, the boom mic, and the lack of wireless connectivity on the H3, suggesting that this model is best for PC users who want a budget wired option rather than a wireless PS5 headset. The discussion shifts to the H9 unboxing and build, where Sony shows an overall more premium feel with better materials, a sturdier hinge, and a larger, more comfortable ear cup design. The H9’s additional features are explored, including Dual Noise Sensor technology, a longer battery life with noise cancelling on and off, and the presence of a dedicated USB-C dongle for easy PC/PS5 pairing, emphasizing the value of dual connectivity for multitasking scenarios. Finally, the host assesses the sound quality and spatial audio capabilities of both models through practical tests on PS5 and in stereo mode, concluding that the H9 delivers stronger overall sound and imaging at its higher price, while the H3 offers a solid, budget-friendly entry with caveats around comfort and software reliability. The episode closes with practical recommendations, noting that for many players the H9 represents a substantial step up in comfort, sound clarity, and feature set, whereas the H3 remains a reasonable first headset in Sony's INZONE lineup, with caveats about portability and software stability. The host teases a future review of the INZONE monitor, invites viewers to compare against competitors like Razer and HyperX, and signs off with a lighthearted note on the sponsorship and upcoming content.
Topics · technology · audio · gaming peripherals · design and build · headphones · playstation
Questions answered
- What connectivity options do the INZONE H3 and H9 offer and how do they affect usability with PS5 and PC?
- The H3 is wired and lacks wireless connectivity, which makes it simple to use with PS5 and PC via the included 3.5 mm adapter but limits mobility. The H9 supports dual connectivity, including 2.4 GHz wireless for PC/PS5 pairing and Bluetooth, enabling easier multitasking across devices, which improves versatility but consumes more battery life.
- Does spatial audio significantly improve the gaming experience on these headsets?
- Spatial audio provides noticeable directional cues and a wider soundstage on the PS5 with the H9, enhancing immersion in some titles, though the reviewer notes that the perceived benefit can vary by game type and personal sensitivity. In general, the effect is more pronounced with 3D audio-enabled content and when using the dongle connection rather than Bluetooth.