Mad Catz branching out into Gaming Earbuds

The folks at Mad Catz have decided it is time to delve into the world of earbuds for those e-sport competitive games. They announced today that the new E.S. PRO1 Gaming Earbuds will be coming in 2016. They are touted as being designed for the e-gamer, by providing tournament-grade audio quality by skipping the bulk of the traditional headset. They utilize larger than normal drivers (13.55mm) and tout a 20Hz low end. The omnidirectional boom mic is detachable, and it is supported by Windows 10, 8.1, 8 and 7. It comes with all the goodies seen in the image below and looks to retail $49.99 when it is available in 2016.

We should be able to get an advance look at it at CES next month, so we can give you a better idea on comfort and sound at that time.

Mad Catz(R) Announces E.S. PRO1(TM) Gaming Earbuds

eSports Focused Earbuds Offer a New Way to Compete With
Tournament Quality In-Ear Audio!

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 10, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mad Catz Interactive, Inc.
("Mad Catz") (NYSE MKT:MCZ) (TSX:MCZ) announced today the E.S.PRO 1, a
new and unique way to enjoy tournament-grade audio quality without the
bulk and weight of traditional over-ear headphones.

Specially designed for eSports gamers, the E.S.PRO 1 differs from
traditional earbuds, using enlarged 13.5mm speakers to deliver a
powerful audio experience with increased bass response and crystal
clear highs, revealing every detail of the gaming environment.

Fully equipped for competitive play, the E.S.PRO 1 features a
removable, omni-directional boom microphone, ideal when chat is of
primary importance. When not gaming, users can also access the E.S.PRO
1 in-line microphone, complete with automatic noise and echo
suppression. To make every second count, the E.S.PRO 1 boasts easy to
reach audio controls, allowing gamers to adjust the volume, mute chat,
and control track selection.

Addressing a further issue common with regular earbuds, the E.S.PRO 1
features innovative soft-rubber support arms, designed to gently fit
inside the ear and prevent the earbuds from falling out during heated
gaming sessions. In addition, to aid with comfort and acoustic
isolation, the E.S.PRO 1 comes complete with optional earbud
attachments designed to fit virtually any size ear.

"Complementing our new R.A.T. PRO Series(TM) of gaming mice, the
E.S.PRO 1 provide eSports enthusiasts with an innovative earbud option
- combining tournament-grade gaming audio quality, with features and
comfort that rival traditional over-the-ear headsets," said Darren
Richardson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mad Catz. "The
E.S.PRO 1 further illustrates Mad Catz' commitment to designing
high-performance products that enhance the experience of competitive
gamers, enabling us to expand our audio business throughout 2016."

Expected to ship in January 2016, the E.S.PRO 1 comes complete with a
standard 3.5mm cable and PC audio adapter, allowing connection with
virtually any audio source including PC, Mobile and current generation
consoles.