Choosing the right gaming headset can significantly elevate your audio experience, especially when diving into immersive worlds. If you’re a Sennheiser enthusiast, you might be weighing the options between two popular models: the PC 373D and the PC 363D.
Both offer premium sound and comfort, but subtle differences can make one a better fit for your specific needs. This comparison will break down what sets the Sennheiser PC 373D and the PC 363D apart, helping you make an informed decision.
We’ll explore their features, performance, and overall value to ensure you get the best audio companion for your gaming sessions.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | sennheiser pc 373d | 363d |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Gaming Headset | Gaming Headset |
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Frequency Response | 15-28,000 Hz | 15-28,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 50 Ω | 50 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 117 dB | 117 dB |
| Microphone Type | Noise-cancelling condenser | Noise-cancelling condenser |
| Microphone Frequency Response | 50-16,000 Hz | 50-16,000 Hz |
| Connectivity | USB | 2 x 3.5mm jacks |
| Cable Length | 3 m | 3 m |
| Surround Sound | 7.1 | No (Analog) |
| Ear Cup Design | Over-ear, closed-back | Over-ear, open-back |
| Weight | Approx. 250g | Approx. 300g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Connectivity
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Features a USB connection, offering digital audio processing and virtual 7.1 surround sound. The USB connection ensures a stable and high-quality audio signal, making it plug-and-play for most modern computers.
- 363d: Uses a 3.5mm jack with a splitter for separate headphone and microphone connections. This offers broader compatibility with various devices, including older PCs, consoles, and mobile devices, but relies on the host device’s audio hardware.
- Winner: 363d
Virtual Surround Sound
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Boasts integrated Dolby Headphone 7.1 surround sound, controlled via the included software. This provides a more immersive gaming experience with better positional audio cues, though some may find it artificial.
- 363d: Does not have built-in virtual surround sound. It delivers stereo audio, which is generally considered more natural and preferred by audiophiles for music listening.
- Winner: sennheiser pc 373d
Microphone
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Features a broadcast-quality, noise-canceling microphone with an automatic mute function when the boom arm is raised. The microphone quality is excellent for clear communication in noisy environments.
- 363d: Also includes a high-quality, noise-canceling microphone with a mute function. It’s known for its clarity and effectiveness in filtering out background noise.
- Winner: Tie
Comfort and Design
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Designed with plush velvet earcups and an adjustable headband for long-wearing comfort. The aesthetic is modern and sleek, fitting well with PC gaming setups.
- 363d: Features large, comfortable earcups with an open-back design for breathability and a more natural soundstage. The design prioritizes long-term comfort during extended use, though the open-back nature means sound leakage.
- Winner: 363d
Audio Quality (Stereo)
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Offers detailed and balanced stereo sound through its USB connection, with the option to engage virtual surround. The digital processing can deliver crisp highs and defined lows.
- 363d: Renowned for its exceptional stereo audio fidelity, delivering a natural and expansive soundstage. Many consider its pure stereo output superior for music and a more accurate representation of in-game audio.
- Winner: 363d
Software Control
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Comes with dedicated software that allows for customization of EQ settings and virtual surround sound. This offers a higher degree of control over the audio experience.
- 363d: Lacks dedicated software. Audio customization is dependent on the user’s operating system or motherboard’s audio drivers, offering less granular control.
- Winner: sennheiser pc 373d
Build Quality and Durability
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Built with robust materials, typical of Sennheiser’s commitment to quality. The design feels solid and capable of withstanding regular use.
- 363d: Constructed with high-quality materials and a reputation for longevity. Its robust build and classic design suggest it’s built to last.
- Winner: Tie
Price and Value
- Sennheiser Pc 373d: Generally positioned at a higher price point due to its USB connectivity and virtual surround sound features. It offers a more modern feature set for PC gamers.
- 363d: Often found at a more accessible price point, especially as an older model. It provides excellent audio quality and comfort for its cost, making it a great value for those prioritizing pure stereo sound.
- Winner: 363d
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Surround Sound Immersion | sennheiser pc 373d |
| Soundstage Naturalness | 363d |
| Connectivity Convenience | sennheiser pc 373d |
| Microphone Clarity | Tie |
| Build & Comfort | Tie |
| Overall Value (Considering Features) | sennheiser pc 373d |
What They Have in Common
- Build Quality: Both headsets are constructed with Sennheiser’s renowned durability and high-quality materials, ensuring they can withstand rigorous gaming sessions.
- Comfort: Featuring plush earcups and adjustable headbands, both the PC 373D and 363D are designed for extended wear without discomfort.
- Microphone Performance: Each headset boasts a high-quality, noise-cancelling microphone that effectively filters out background noise, providing clear communication for teammates.
- Audio Drivers: They share the same impressive audio drivers, delivering detailed and immersive soundscapes crucial for competitive gaming.
- Frequency Response: Both models offer a wide frequency response, allowing for the reproduction of both deep bass and crisp highs.
- Impedance: With an impedance of 50 Ω, both headsets are easily driven by most gaming PCs and consoles without requiring a dedicated amplifier.
Sennheiser PC 373D Vs 363D Buying Guide
Audio Quality & Immersion
The Sennheiser PC 373D boasts superior audio performance, particularly with its integrated 7.1 virtual surround sound. This technology creates a more immersive gaming and listening experience, allowing you to pinpoint enemy locations with greater accuracy and enjoy richer, more detailed soundscapes. While the 363D offers excellent stereo sound, the 373D’s virtual surround elevates the auditory experience significantly.
The drivers in the PC 373D are tuned to deliver crisp highs, well-defined mids, and punchy bass, making it versatile for music, movies, and competitive gaming. The 363D is no slouch in audio fidelity, providing a warm and balanced sound profile that is pleasing for extended listening sessions. However, for those prioritizing a truly spatial audio experience, the 373D has the edge. (See Also: Apple Iphone 14 Vs 15 )
Comfort & Design
Both headsets are designed for long-wearing comfort, featuring plush earcups and adjustable headbands. The PC 373D utilizes a new ear cup design with a breathable mesh fabric, which helps to dissipate heat and prevent discomfort during marathon gaming sessions. The headband is also well-padded, distributing weight evenly across the head.
The 363D also offers exceptional comfort with its large, soft earcups and a flexible headband. Its design is slightly more traditional, but the materials used ensure a premium feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two in terms of comfort might come down to personal preference for ear cup material and overall aesthetic. Both are top-tier in this regard.
Microphone Performance
The microphone on the PC 373D is a standout feature, with advanced noise-canceling technology that effectively filters out background distractions. This ensures your voice is clear and crisp for teammates, even in noisy environments. The microphone boom is also easily adjustable and features a mute function when flipped up.
The 363D’s microphone is also very capable, offering clear voice transmission. It’s a high-quality microphone that will serve most users well for communication. However, the PC 373D’s microphone has a slight edge in its ability to isolate your voice from ambient noise, making it ideal for streamers or competitive players who demand the clearest possible communication. (See Also: Texas Vs Wyoming Llc )
Features & Connectivity
The PC 373D’s key differentiator is its integrated USB sound card, which enables the virtual 7.1 surround sound and provides onboard controls for volume and microphone muting. This eliminates the need for a separate sound card and offers convenient access to essential functions. The USB connection also ensures a stable and high-quality audio signal.
The 363D connects via a standard 3.5mm jack, offering broader compatibility with various devices, including consoles and older PCs. While it lacks the built-in virtual surround sound of the 373D, it provides a straightforward plug-and-play experience. For users who prefer direct analog connections or don’t require simulated surround sound, the 363D is a solid choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy sennheiser pc 373d If…
- You prioritize immersive virtual surround sound for an enhanced competitive edge.
- You prefer the convenience of a single USB connection for both audio and microphone.
- You want a more modern aesthetic and advanced software features for audio customization.
Buy 363d If…
- You value an open-back design for a more natural and spacious soundstage.
- You prefer a traditional analog connection with two separate jacks for audio and microphone.
- You are looking for a classic, highly regarded gaming headset with a proven track record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in audio between the PC 373D and the 363D?
The primary audio distinction lies in the PC 373D’s integrated 7.1 virtual surround sound, delivered via its USB connection. This technology creates a more immersive and spatial audio experience, allowing for better directional awareness in games. The 363D, on the other hand, offers excellent stereo audio quality, which is rich and detailed but lacks the simulated surround sound capabilities.
Is the PC 373D comfortable for long gaming sessions?
Yes, the Sennheiser PC 373D is designed with long gaming sessions in mind. It features plush, breathable earcups made of a mesh fabric that helps to prevent heat buildup and discomfort. The adjustable, well-padded headband also ensures even weight distribution, contributing to an overall comfortable wearing experience for extended periods. (See Also: Swagbucks Vs Survey Junkie )
Which headset has a better microphone?
The Sennheiser PC 373D generally features a superior microphone due to its advanced noise-canceling technology. This allows it to more effectively isolate your voice from ambient background noise, ensuring clearer communication for teammates or during voice chats. While the 363D’s microphone is also of high quality, the 373D offers a slight edge in clarity and noise reduction.
Can the PC 373D be used with consoles?
The PC 373D primarily connects via USB, which is ideal for PCs. While some consoles may support USB audio devices, it’s not universally guaranteed, and the virtual surround sound feature might not be fully compatible across all platforms. For broader console compatibility, especially with analog connections, the 363D is often the more straightforward choice.
Which headset is better for competitive gaming?
For competitive gaming, the PC 373D often has the advantage due to its 7.1 virtual surround sound. This feature can significantly improve your ability to pinpoint the location of enemies by providing a more immersive and directional audio landscape. The clear microphone also ensures effective team communication, which is crucial in competitive scenarios.
Final Verdict
The Sennheiser PC 373D stands out with its integrated 7.1 virtual surround sound, offering a more immersive and advantageous audio experience for gaming. Its advanced microphone further enhances communication clarity. While the 363D provides excellent stereo sound and comfort, the PC 373D’s enhanced features, particularly its spatial audio capabilities, make it the superior choice for dedicated gamers and audiophiles seeking a competitive edge and deeper immersion.
Winner: Sennheiser PC 373D