In 2023, PlayStation has been actively releasing hardware products, a trend that has garnered attention. The “PlayStation Edge” Pro controller was launched in January, followed by the “PlayStation VR 2” in February. In November, the company introduced the “PlayStation Portal”, and early December saw the release of the “PlayStation Access” controller designed for individuals with disabilities, concluding with the highly anticipated “PlayStation Pulse Explore”. The Japanese manufacturer continues to achieve its goals by developing a robust technological ecosystem around its PS5. Today, we will provide our evaluation of these striking wireless headphones and determine whether they are worth the 220€ price tag for an unparalleled PlayStation audio experience.
Since the introduction of the PS5, Sony PlayStation has significantly altered its approach, a change that is evident to all. The Japanese brand has been endeavoring for over three years to adopt Apple’s strategy across various products and particularly in marketing efforts. This philosophy has enabled Apple to build an increasingly loyal community willing to spend considerable amounts on the latest high-tech devices, even if it means compromising their financial stability or taking out loans. Sony PlayStation faces substantial criticism for this shift, with some altering the well-known “4 the Players” slogan from the PS4 era to “For the Payers” upon the PS5’s arrival. Regardless of personal opinions about this new direction, it is undeniable that success is apparent, and Sony PlayStation has never been in better standing, especially concerning PS5 console sales. However, other accessories have not met expectations, disappointing certain users.
For now, we will focus on the design, which can indeed be described as audacious. Yes, they sport a rather futuristic look, quite close to the PS5 and Sony’s overall artistic direction since the console’s launch. We may like it or dislike it, but one must admit there is genuine consistency in terms of design, and a quick glance tells us these headphones belong to the PS5 family. Each headphone features a small button for volume control, along with a Link button to switch from one paired device to another. The headphones come with a compact and elegant charging case, but long in shape, opened on the side. A USB-C cable is included for charging. However, there are no Play/Pause buttons, no Next/Previous functions, no automatic content pause feature when removing an earbud, no active noise cancellation, and the features are surprisingly limited, especially if used with a standard device outside of PlayStation Link.
A LINK TO THE PORTAL
These wireless headphones feature compatibility with Sony’s PlayStation Link technology. What is PlayStation Link? It is a technology developed by Sony that enables a wireless and lossless connection, particularly with very low latency – which Bluetooth cannot achieve. For example, the PlayStation Portal incorporates PlayStation Link directly into its hardware, allowing for quick connections with PlayStation Pulse Explore headphones. For other devices, users need to plug in the included dongle to establish the connection. The dongle is easily identifiable as a USB key featuring the PlayStation logo and symbols such as Cross, Circle, Square, and Triangle. To use PlayStation Pulse Explorer headphones on a PS5, for instance, one must insert the dongle into the console. This applies similarly to PCs and Macs, except for the PlayStation Portal where the technology is natively integrated – unlike Bluetooth, which is not available on this device.
For those wondering if these PlayStation Pulse Explore wireless headphones are compatible with iPhones and other Apple devices, they are indeed compatible. Simply hold down the “Link” button on the charging station for 8 seconds until the device starts blinking blue, then check your iPhone to confirm that the connection has been established. This process also works with any other smartphone, allowing for standard mobile use.
NOT FOR ALL EARS
Certainly, it is evident that these headphones are notably larger than most wireless earbuds on the market. Despite their size, the PlayStation Pulse Explore fit comfortably in the ears once the correct orientation is found. Initially, due to their unconventional design, one might misalign them, but this becomes clear with use. Once accustomed, these headphones remain surprisingly lightweight and initially comfortable; however, prolonged use can become challenging. Indeed, given their upward-facing design, they may cause friction for certain ear shapes, as I experienced after several hours of wear. Consequently, the overall experience is heavily dependent on one’s ear shape, making it difficult to recommend universally.
A HOME USE FIRST AND FOREMOST
Regarding sound quality, these headphones demonstrate excellent performance, particularly in a quiet home environment and within the PlayStation ecosystem. While some might have doubted it, it is important to remember that this is a Sony product, known for its craftsmanship evident in these headphones. The bass presence is quite satisfactory, with a well-balanced sound that prevents excessive low frequencies from becoming bothersome over time. For instance, I find Beats headphones too saturated in bass and lows. Here, there is real clarity in the sound, balanced so that the bass is clearly localized without overpowering the higher frequencies. This makes for a very pleasant listening experience. However, this balance is immediately disrupted when used outside in noisy environments like on the street or public transportation, due to the lack of noise cancellation. Consequently, the subtle bass becomes insufficient against external noise, which is paradoxical and disappointing. Additionally, there are no adjustable features available. These limitations become apparent as these headphones have been designed primarily for home use in a quiet setting to enjoy Sony’s PlayStation Link technology. However, distinguishing by ear between Bluetooth sound and non-compressed PlayStation Link sound presents minimal differences, almost imperceptible.
