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The HS1A arrive in a beautifully designed box, reminiscent of their subtle, yet dramatic power supply artwork.
The headphones are well protected inside heavy duty cardboard packaging. The bundle includes a black folder which contains literature on the product and warranty terms.
Corsair include replaceable, interchangeable fabric and synthetic leather earpads to suit a variety of listening and user demands.
The HS1A look almost identical to the HS1 which is not a bad thing as they are a traditionally styled pair of headphones which will appeal to a wide cross section of users.
The closed back design has generous, and comfortable earpads which house 50mm drivers. They come fitted with the microfibre pads, although they can be changed in a matter of minutes. This closed back isolates the wearer from external noises, meaning that your gaming sessions will be free from distractions. The ear pieces can be rotated 90 degrees on their axis.
Each of the pads has a thin layer which attaches to a rim on the headphones. By carefully tugging on the pad, they can be removed without problem.
When the pads are removed, the earpieces are exposed. They are 50mm drivers, larger than many gaming headsets, which are normally 40mm. Obviously larger drivers, if they are quality designs, will be harder to overload at high volumes.
Above, we have fitted the synthetic leather earpads, which are surprisingly comfortable. The HS1 baffle design is recessed and tuned to align the audio with the ear canal, which in effect minimises azimuth errors and helps provide optimal spatial audio positioning.
One of the main selling points of the HS1A will be the unidirectional noise cancelling microphone which means they are classed as a ‘headset'.
The microphone is fully flexible and can be adjusted into a variety of positions to suit various head sizes and shapes.
Cleverly, if you don't wish to use the microphone, it can be rotated and tilted into the shape of the phones, keeping it firmly out of the way. this rotating boom makes it very easy to position. It can't however be removed completely.
One of the main differences between the HS1 and the HS1A is the cable. The HS1A features two 3.5mm (nickel plated) connectors, for microphone and headphone connection to a PC soundcard. Obviously this means that all processing is handled before the audio reaches the headset. The cable is braided which in theory means it will last longer, especially under rough handling conditions. This cable is a generous 3 meters long, which should help if your PC is under a desk a fair distance away from your chair.
Corsair have also changed the appearance of the in-line volume control which also now is home to a mute switch for the microphone. Is is coated with a soft rubber material which means it is easy to grab, even with sweaty hands. Everything is positioned for easy accessibility, without needing to look at the controller.
