Acoustic Research USB Headphones Go Multi-Driver Surround Path

Following up on our coverage of the new Plantronics cans with their detachable Dolby decoder, we've found another USB headset that uses Dolby processing to bring the 5.1 surround experience to the surface of your ears. Made by Acoustic Research and known simply as the ARW200, this particular headset eschews software emulation for a system of three drivers (a 15.4 millimeter handing front and subwoofer, and two 12 millimeters for center and surround) per earcup, following in the footsteps of the Tritton Audio Xtreme PC.

Despite their USB connection and 5.1 capabilities, we suspect that Acoustic Research isn't trying to grab the gaming market with the ARW200: the unit lacks a microphone common to its gaming competition and - thanks to its relatively small shape, folding ability, and carrying case - seems more appropriate for movie lovers on the go. The price ain't bad - reportedly $100, so we'd be curious to see how good these babies sound.