Skullcandy gets back into gaming with PLYR and SLYR headsets
Wired and wireless cans play nicely with PC, console and mobile
Purveyor of affordable headphones Skullcandy is getting its game on one more time, with a new trio of headsets. The SLYR, SLYR Pro and PLYR promise multi-platform support, durable designs and a wallet-friendly price, whether you’re after wired or wireless listening.
The wired-only SLYR kicks off the range with a gamer-friendly take on Skullcandy’s usual sound signature via 50mm dynamic drivers, a bi-directional boom mic for in-game comms, and built-in mute and volume controls. It’ll play nicely with any console, handheld, PC or mobile with a 3.5mm headphone port.
Stepping up to the SLYR Pro brings USB connectivity, along with support for the firm’s Skull-HQ PC app. This brings custom EQ modes for gaming, movies, music and podcasts, plus personal profiles and adjustable background noise cancellation for the microphone. There’s a boom mic (with mute status LED), or you can detach it for a stealthier look and use the mics built into the headset. The on-board battery is good for 20 hours of play when connected over 3.5mm, with a 20 minute top-up good for another two hours of gaming.
The top-tier PLYR adds Bluetooth to the mix. PC and PS5 gamers can also pick up an optional low-latency USB adaptor that should stomp out any audio sync issues. It gains an ESP test, which creates a custom listening profile based on what frequencies you’re able to hear. Expect around 24 hours of battery life between charges.
Dual connect lets you use a wireless device for chat and a wired one for gameplay, with chat mix and sidetone control for just the right amount of monitoring feedback. If that doesn’t stop you breathing down your mic, we’re not sure what will.
All three models use moisture-wicking fabric, memory foam ear cushions and a lightweight build that promises to still be strong enough to withstand the occasional bit of gamer rage. The PLYR also gets an adjustable suspension headband that’ll keep pressure off the top of your bonce.
The SLYR Pro and PLYR also come with Tile integration, which could be handy if your gaming space is particularly messy – or you’ll be taking the Bluetooth headset with you when you head out of the house.
This is the first time Skullcandy has dipped a toe back into the gaming world since it owned Astro – a headset sub-brand it sold to Logitech in 2017. All three new models are on sale from today, with a choice of black, green and blue colours for the SLYR and SLYR Pro. The PLYR only comes in black.
Prices start from £60 for the SLYR, £90 for the SLYR Pro and £130 for the PLYR. All three are available on the Skullcandy website.
Tom Morgan-Freelander
Deputy Editor 
