Headphones that are easily compatible with Skype and other audio messaging services are becoming very popular as more and more people learn of the financial benefits of using the Internet to communicate. The Logitech ClearChat Pro USB Headset is designed specifically to work with Skype, Yahoo, Windows Live, and AOL Instant Messanger (AIM).

Installing the ClearChat Pro USB on a Computer

Installing the ClearChat Pro is as simple as plugging in a USB cable and putting the headset on. Windows and Mac systems both recognize and activate the ClearChat headphones without any additional software or downloading of files. The headset comes with a nice 8-foot-long USB cable. Luckily the cable itself is very sturdy and should be able to take moderate abuse or the occasional roll over from an office chair without any difficulty.

Using the ClearChat Pro as a Gaming Headset

Many popular online games now incorporate voice chat into their user interface. Rather than using a separate desktop microphone the ideal way to interact with such games is to have the microphone attached to the earpiece of the user's gaming headphones. Unlike many headset that use flexible microphone wires the Logitech ClearChat Pro mounts the microphone on a sturdy, solid plastic boom arm that swivels up when not in use. The microphone has a small red LED light that activates when the microphone is muted so that the user can easily notice and correct the problem.

Controlling the microphone and earpiece volume on the ClearChat is simple and convenient. Most traditional volume controls on headphones are small and difficult to adjust in small increments. Logitech solved this problem by replacing the volume control with a large silver dollar sized rocker switch that is cleanly built into the right side earpiece.

The controls are large and easy to use and also include an adjustment control to switch the headset between gaming, music and voice communication modes. The various modes adjust the earpiece and microphone settings for the best possible experience when performing any of these tasks.

The Logitech ClearChat Pro: The Bottom Line

Most users will benefit from the audio quality produced by the Logitech headphone's laser tuned audio drivers and clear sounding microphone output. Although the audio quality is top-notch, some users may find the headset slightly uncomfortable, especially those with large hat sizes.

The ClearChat Pro USB is a thrifty yet elegant alternative for those in the market for a new set of computer headphones.