Thanks to PlayStation Spain we have been able to test the Pulse Explore wireless headphones, compatible with PS5 and PlayStation Portal

Join the conversation

The PS5 is being a generation in which hardware is being especially important. After the console's initial problems launching onto the market due to a lack of components, Sony is achieving a high sales rate, which consolidates a very solid generation, despite the absence of big games on the calendar. For this reason, the Japanese company has been betting on allowing players to enjoy new ways to play, as happened with the launch of PlayStation Portalthe device that we were able to analyze at the end of the year.

However, parallel to its arrival there was also the launch of a new line of headphones compatible with PS5 and with the PlayStation Portal itself to get even more out of the playable experience in an absolutely immersive way. Are the Pulse Explorethe new in-ear headphones in format premium that I have had the opportunity to try during the last week and the truth is that it has left me with very good feelings. Is it worth its high price? Well that's what I'm going to tell you in The most complete review of the Pulse Explore headset for PS5.

Technical specifications

Pulse ExploreCompatible with PS5, PlayStation Portal, PC, Mac and mobile devices3D audioUSB pin connectionAI noise reductionExclusive PS Link technologyBluetooth compatibleBuilt-in microphoneBattery life: 5-10 hoursExclusive charging case

Pulse Explore headphones are the new range of premium Sony devices to bet on the highest quality from Sony on PS5 and other compatible devices such as PlayStation Portal, PC, Mac and mobile devices via Bluetooth. With an original design, they have support for immersive 3D audio, in addition to making use of AI noise cancellation to improve calls and gaming experience. In addition, it also makes use of the brand's exclusive technology, PS Link, to facilitate connection processes with different devices.

Box contents and first impressions

First impressions with the new Sony headphones are tremendously positive. After taking them out of the box and discovering the robust case in which they can rest, you already realize the care that has been put into them. the use of materials and the preservation of the headphones. Of course, elegance is one of their dominant notes at first glance, which is why they impress from the first moment. its beautiful design and bet on something different from the rest of the proposals on the market, although this does not have to be positive, as I will explain later.

Of course, At a chromatic and design level, everything breathes the essence of PlayStation, with well-defined black and white tones and the brand logo in several places. I appreciate the use of a case with this design, since it is easily located and largely protects such a delicate product that is easy to lose due to its size, making it perfect to leave next to your console, in case it is going to be its main use. This is everything that includes the box:

PULSE Explore wireless earbuds PlayStation Link USB adapter Recharging case 6 different sized earbuds caps USB charging cable

Once the first visual impact is overcome, it is time to configure them on the different devices with which they are compatible. In the case of PS5 you have to connect them via cable and inside the case for relevant updates to occur. Once the process is finished, using the USB stick connected to the console they will be automatically detected with just press the dedicated PS Link button in the headphones themselves. It's a quick and easy processso no time is wasted.

In the case of PlayStation Portal, the process is even more easysince through the PS Link technology They can be connected directly and without the use of any other connection, opting for the absence of latency while playing. If your plan is to use it with your mobile device, they also have Bluetooth network to connect them like any other headphones of this style, so you will not have any problems in setting up, wherever you want to use them. You can even connect them to two devices simultaneously to vary its use without any type of change in the configuration.

The perfect complement for PS5 with some other but

But let's get to the really important thing, are these PS5 Pulse Explore so good that it's worth spending 220 euros on them? It is difficult to answer that question without taking into account the economic situation of each user, but what is clear is that it is a device that bets on enormous sound quality and that he performs wonderfully in practically everything he proposes. As you well know, PS5 includes the option of enjoy immersive 3D audio and the manufacturer has been able to include this technology in the Pulse Explore.

The result is magnificent, with Superlative, crystal-clear audio quality that produces an immersive sensation at all times. During these last few days I have been able to test them mainly with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and it has given me an impressive experience. The dialogues are heard much more clearly, especially when they are mixed with other sounds in the environment, while in the action of the title it is always identified where the sounds of the enemies, the voices of the companions and everything that is reproduced at the sound level are coming from.

Of course, the quality of the melodies also improves noticeably, so it is a perfect complement to play if you do not have adequate audio devices on your television. They do the job of a premium quality sound bar, but directly in your ear. However, it would have been appreciated if they had been included customization options for that audio outputsince they play by default and the only thing you can really control is the volume.

Beyond this, the result is tremendously surprising, something that is carried over to all the devices on which I have tested them. Stands out greatly on PlayStation Portal, fulfilling the promise of zero latency and performing perfectly, just as it does on the home console. Pulse Explore makes use of a perfect treble and bass system that adapts to any situation, making it the best way to enjoy your favorite games without having to rely on cumbersome peripherals, since it manages to compact all the technology of the best headphones in the most compact design possible.

But, if your plan is not to use them to enjoy video games or you also want to use them in your daily life, the Pulse Explore also offer a superb call quality. Thanks to the AI noise cancellation It makes communication totally fluid and clear, as confirmed to me by the people with whom I was able to test it during these days. Both in calls from the phone and in online games from the console, The experience has been tremendously positive.so the built-in microphones also work amazingly.

However, not everything is positive about Sony's Pulse Explore, since Its bizarre design makes it one of the least ergonomic products that I have tried on this type of peripherals. They give it personality, yes, but its shapes and design do not generate total comfort when using them, especially during long gaming sessions, where they are appreciated. mild symptoms of discomfort. Additionally, in terms of usability, the plates that protrude from the ear can be an impediment to pressing the buttons on the headphones themselves to regulate the volume or connect them to a device. Furthermore, this design prevents noise cancellation from being completeso it subtracts more than adds in this sense.

On the other hand, the headphones suffer from the same endemic evil as the PlayStation controllers for the last two generations: the battery life. Outside the case the Pulse Explore have a short duration of 5 hourssomething that is similar to that of the DualSense at maximum performance, while if you decide to use the case constantly, can be increased up to 10 hours. Therefore, they are not an ideal model for long trips, since the battery will not last long enough to guarantee its use at all times. The no fast charging It is also a burden at this point, since they require an excessive amount of time to reach the maximum level.

Final valuation of Pulse Explore for PS5

With the Pulse Explore you will find really efficient headphones in what is important: sound quality. The contribution of 3D surround sound is an absolute marvel to be able to enjoy your best video games on both PS5 and PlayStation Portal. However, it also has other Shortcomings that must be taken into account when paying 220 eurosas the ergonomics or battery lifetwo factors that can be key.

Are the Pulse Explore headphones for PS5 worth it? In favor Very elegant design and high-quality materials that justify its premium design. The inclusion of 3D audio, a big leap in in-ear headphones to enjoy video games with greater immersion. The fast connection and compatibility with computers and mobile phones, allowing you to use two devices at the same time. The noise cancellation through AI, which provides great sensations, especially on calls. ConsThe ergonomics can be improved, since due to their shape they are somewhat annoying .The battery has a short life compared to what other headphones with similar characteristics offer.Its high price can be an impediment for many pockets.ConclusionsThe PlayStation Pulse Explore are very efficient headphones that have powerful sound quality to get the most out of you. the best match for any type of content. A premium product that more than meets the requirements at a technological level, but fails in certain aspects of usability that in the long run cause minor discomfort.

Join the conversation