[Originally posted to my PC gaming column at Examiner.com]
The Tritton Kunai is a simple stereo headset that delivers good sound in a reasonably portable and comfortable package, although its durability may slightly undermine its portability.
Features & Specifications
The Kunai features 40mm Neodymium drivers (fairly typical for most headsets in the PC gaming space), and an inline controller with a simple volume roller and mic mute toggle switch. The inline controller connects to your PC or other device through standard 3.5mm stereo and microphone connectors.
The Kunai connects to the inline controller through a unified mobile 3.5mm connector, so you can also disconnect the Kunai from the controller so you can connect it to your smartphone, laptop, or other device.
Other specifications (courtesy of Mad Catz) are as follows:
- Cable Length: 3.3ft
- Speaker Diameter: 40mm
- Ear Coupling: Supra-aural (On-ear)
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 25Hz–20kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <1%
- Resistance: 16 ohms
- Connector Type: 3.5mm
Comfort & Design
The Kunai’s ear cups and headband are lined with ½” thick, soft faux-leather, which provides a pretty comfortable fit that also does a good job of sealing out unwanted distractions. For cubicle jockeys the Kunai is a perfect headset for turning up the tunes and tuning out the co-workers or taking a Skype meeting, and it’s fairly comfortable for extended use.
And if duty calls, or you need to take a break from Call of Duty you can remove the Kunai, turn the ear cups 90 degrees, and rest it comfortably around your neck and on your chest.
The biggest potential ‘issue’ with the Kunai is its construction. The nylon-sheathed cables are very thin and the adjustable headband is made entirely of plastic (including the extenders sheathed within the headband). In addition, the Kunai doesn’t fold up into a smaller package, like the Nox Audio Specialist (still a favorite, albeit more expensive) or TekNMotion Intruder. In short, although the Kunai is mobile-friendly by virtue of its connectors, its construction and durability make it a relatively fragile traveling companion. Pack it securely and treat it gingerly.
Performance
Despite its small size, the Kunai puts out good quality audio, even when cranked to maximum volume levels. No distortion, buzz, or extra noise ever reared its ugly head during raucous tune playing or gaming. And the Kunai gets plenty loud for its small size—I won’t say I wouldn’t mind if it got a little louder, but it does well enough. The high and mid-range tones are perhaps a bit muted, but the bass is nice and thumpy.
The detachable microphone is highly flexible (like a twist-tie), and performed its duties flawlessly in several Skype calls and games. (No complaints of poor audio, reception, etc.)
Overall: 4/5 stars
At about $50, the Tritton Kunai is a pretty solid value if you’re looking for a simple and (mostly) mobile-friendly headset. However, its lightweight construction and inability to fold up into a more portable (and more easily protected) package make it less suitable for frequent travelers.
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