Headphones, earphones, headsets, external speakers – for the gamer any or all of these are essential. Therefore, it is imperative to know what to watch out for and after looking at the Kunai Stereo Headset from Mad Catz recently, Tech Up! had the chance to try out a new piece of hardware from INNODEVICE. Welcome to the INNOWAVE Headphones
Style over substance is a phrase often banded around – and justifiably so – for instances where it is highly apparent that more care has been given to the actual aesthetics than the quality of the device itself. With the INNOWAVE, though, whilst extremely trendy in appearance, sporting vibrant colours, it is the power of the sound that impresses the most, not disturbing others in the process as well. This is definitely a case of having both style and substance, making it a product that should not be overlooked. Prepare for the new wave…
The main designer, YoungSe Kim, says, “Design is an expression of the designer’s heart” and the whole team exude ‘love for Korea’ as shown in the various other products this company produces. For the INNOWAVE to be a success outside of South Korea, though, where it currently retails for 149,000 Korean Won (roughly £86), there needs to be some intriguing appeal. Thankfully this is where the ‘wave’ aspect comes into play, with top part of the headphones being in a ripple shape, rather than the standard smooth arc of nearly all other headsets on the market.
It is unique and looks very snazzy indeed, which mixed in with the superb performance when used with all manner of devices – Android, BlackBerry, Windows and Apple phones/tablets, as well as both the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U GamePad – makes this a long-term prospect, and the perfect alternative to the ever-popular Beats by Dre. It also comes in five colours to suit each individual’s style: orange, purple, olive, blue, and beige. Not bad, right?
Interestingly enough, whilst some headphones may put a slight bit of pressure on the user’s head, no matter how adjustable the arms are on each side, the ‘casual curve’ angle taken here works well to decrease this, making for a greater comfort factor (yes, it still has the option to extend on either side for those of different head sizes, never fear!). Making the INNOWAVE even more comfortable are the soft cushioned ear pieces that, although not as gentle as on the Tritton Kunai model from MadCatz, are miles better than other options on sale now, and the moderate angular change possible on the ear cups factors in irregularities between ear shapes, making for an even more pleasurable experience when using them over prolonged periods of time. The only possible downside is that the ear cups themselves might be too small for some users – a feature in which the Kunai wins out, with its bigger cups that cover all ear lobe sizes.
Offering deep, rich bass, crystal clear high tones, flawless on speech-led audio – thanks to its large calibre 40mm driver – this is one of those ‘must buy’ products. Sadly, though, without a European or US distributor at the moment, the only way to buy the INNOWAVE is to email the company directly. A small effort for a great product, though!
Finally, here are some technical details for those interested:
- Driver: 40mm Dynamic
- Frequency Response: 10Hz ~ 23,000Hz
- Impedance: 32 Ohms
- Output Sound Pressure Level: 103dB
- Maximum Input Power: 100mW
- Weight: 170g (excluding cord)
- Plug: 3.5mm gold-plated stereo mini plug (L-shaped)
- Cord Length: 1.2m (Y type)
- Size: 188mm high, 184mm wide (front profile); 25mm (band), 69mm (ear cup – side profile)
- Extras: INNOWAVE Pouch (245x250mm)
