Cougar Phontum S Headset Review
Up Close
The packaging for the Cougar Phontum S follows the tried and trusted method of a clear product image, key features and a light set of specifications on the back. The headset itself comes in a vacuum formed protector that is much sturdier than you might expect to find at this price point, with the extras in a box of their own beneath.
Within the box you have a quick start guide – plug in, listen – the detachable microphone, a spare/optional set of different size ear cups and the cable that can double as both an alternate connection options for split outputs as well as an extension cable if you’re just listening.
The headset itself sports the Cougar Gaming company orange on its headband and two massive ear cups. Beyond that the first thing that strikes you is how light it is thanks to that slender but robust metal frame. With 3.5mm connectivity it fits almost anything, although owners of very high end smartphones will be left out as the market moves towards Type-C and Thunderbolt connectors.
If we had a pound for every time we’d bemoaned the poor quality hinges on a headset we’d be living in the Bahamas, but the Cougar Phontum S utilises deep ear pads and a flexible metal frame to achieve it’s comfort, with height adjustment done by sliding the ear pieces up and down in the slots. It’s impressive how easily they move when you want to and yet don’t move when it’s in situ.
The microphone clips in easily but strongly and doesn’t move above or wobble. The arm is the common metal flexible type, with a big foam windshield/pop protector pre-installed.
Changing the earcups is simple thanks to their clip in design, and it also gives us an opportunity to show off those 53mm drivers. Anyone who has brought a headset in recent times will know how glued together they are, so we quite like how easy it is to not only change the ear cups but see what is bringing the audio to our ears.
Lastly here are those two earcup options side by side. The larger one that is installed by default balances the fact that it grips your head harder by having more foam to spread that pressure, whilst the smaller optional one is equally comfortable but brings the drivers a little closer to your ears. It’s nice to have a choice.
