I want to buy some new headphones for my desktop computer, since the ones I've been using since '11 completely fell apart. I never paid USB audio too much attention until now. Some quick research revealed this article. So far, the (possible) pros and cons seem to be:
Pros
- cleaner digital audio signal, they don't pick up interference or static
- compatibility, get audio support on any computer with USB ports, regardless of other hardware
Cons
- they're more expensive than standard 3.5mm ones
- possible decrease in audio quality, depending on the device
- higher CPU usage (a potential problem, my processor isn't that great)
- there's a delay between plugging them and having the OS recognize them (would be okay in my case, they'll be plugged in 24/7)
The lack of interference is very interesting for me, as currently I can hear a faint "preeeeeeeeep" when nothing is being played, and smaller repeated ones when downloading or copying files.
Anyway, your thoughts?
I've already scouted for offers, and if USB is really worth it, a Logitech H390 headset is 350 pesos. Otherwise, I'll go for some Panasonic RP-HT161 headphones costing half as much. In either case, they're both known brands, which means the product should last long - I'm done with generic/brandless ones that break the same year they're bought on.
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