It would have cost Microsoft another 5 cents to make their headset adapter (which contains a volume and mute control) compatible with third-party headsets. But they didn't, so if you like having your volume and mute controls on the controller while using a third-party headset, then you probably need to get this adapter.
This adapter lets you use any standard 2.5mm headset with the Xbox 360, and you still get volume and mute controls (even if your headset doesn't provide that).
The bonus "two-way adapter" that's inclded is just a standard 2.5mm stereo audio splitter that you can get at Radio Shack for a few cents. I haven't tried it, but I think the purpose is to allow two players with two controllers to listen and talk on Xbox Live. Usually, when you have a "guest" player sitting next to you and playing on Xbox Live with a "guest" account (i.e. not his own Xbox Live account), he can't use a headset plugged into his controller. So he would plug his headset into your controller via this splitter.
On a side note, the company that makes this product, Intec, is sometimes known as Datel, so don't get confused by the product image.
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The Xbox Controller S communicator system was more robust and far superior to the Xbox 360 communicator system. It had a nice, heavy-duty communicator module (with great mute button/light and volume wheel) that was able to accept third-party headsets. Along comes the 360 and puts the communicator module on the end of the headset cable. That means you can't use your favorite Xbox headset with the 360 instant obsolescence. I guess Microsoft expected that would boost sales of their new 360-only headsets. Well forget that this adapter solves that problem by giving you the freedom to use any standard Xbox headset of your choosing. Since there are a lot more types on the market, and since most gamers already have an Xbox headset, this device can save you money as well as make your gaming more comfortable.
I bought two; the price is very reasonable compared to a new 360 headset. Some have complained that the fit in the controller slot is a bit loose. That was true for one of the two I bought. One time it backed out of the controller halfway. When I went to flip the mute switch, the audio plug broke off from the pressure required to move the switch. The audio plug is very small and weak (thanks for making the jack so tiny Microsoft), so if the adpater is not inserted fully into the controller, you do risk breaking off the audio plug.
The volume wheel is fine, a little stiff, but oddly the volume doesn't go down 100%. You can still hear the others players speaking even when it's turned all the way down.
Even though one unit broke, I would still buy another because the device is so versatile. I love using my favorite Xbox headset instead of any of the expensive and uncomfortable 360 sets that are on the market.
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I expected more from this adapter. Technically it does exactly what is advertised but there are some design flaws with it. It doesn't fit as tight to the controller as the original 360 headset connector. It feels loose when inserted into the controller. The volume wheel is tight just like someone else said. I also think the components might be low quality but I can't prove it. It could use some more engineering but shows good potential.
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This little device is just what I was looking for. Microsoft lack of quality on the original 360 headsets caused many gamers to go to third party headsets. The only problem with third party headsets is the location of the mute and volume switches. Almost every headset has the mute and volume controls on the cord. Even the new Microsoft headsets have the controls on the cord. This sucks! Who wants to fumble around looking for the controls on the cord while you are saving the universe or smashing the enemies scull under your feet. And if your family is anything like mine with a lot of talking and distractions in the background you probably need to use your mute switch quite often to keep from annoying fellow gamers. I was going to make my own adapter but stumbled upon this little gem. I was a bit concerned about quality due to some of the other reviews but found it be of decent quality for the price. The mute switch moves smoothly and locks into position as it should. The volume control is firm enough to hold it's position but not too hard to adjust. I normally don't have to mess with the volume much but there is always the gamer that thinks he/she needs to add their own soundtrack or music to the game. You won't have to fumble around looking for a volume dial while you turn them down long enough to find them on the players list and mute them permanently. The adapter itself fits nicely into the 360 controller although it does appear to have a small gap even when fully inserted. This may have been done on purpose due to patent laws. I have been using this for over 2 weeks solid and haven't had a bit of problem with it. My Plantronics headset works perfectly with this and keeps online gaming enjoyable. I would recommend this little gadget to anyone who is fed up with cord mounted controls. It's definitely worth the $10! You couldn't build one this cheap.
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Please be aware that this adapter does not work for PC headsets. After I received this product and discovered that it was not compatible, I had to look very hard in the description to find out why. PC headsets apparently do not qualify as "any headset" like many of the glowing reviews seem to indicate, and the splitter does nothing to help with the PC headset. I wish someone had been much more clear about this before I purchased this product.
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