Strengths:
1) Mic stays out of your way since it's around your neck
2) The PTT button is somewhat easy to find during gameplay (since the button is about the size of a nickle)
3) The earbud is comfortable with the optional earhook accessory ($5 more)
Weaknesses:
1) Only has one transponder on the mic to pick up the sound vibrations when you speak
2) Finding the "sweet-spot" for where to put the transponder on your throat is sometimes difficult
3) Mic moves around while playing, which causes your voice to sound muffled
4) May need to buy the two-pin adapter ($10 more) if your radio requires it
Fire Fox Technologies has a great concept with their throat mic. You can wear a mic that's out of your way and easy to use. And as a plus it's economical. ($35)
I just wish they offered another product with two transponders (for greater sound sensitivity... to pick up a whisper) and something to keep the mic in place.
I used the throat mic at a big scenario game and I had no problems wearing it or finding my PTT button in the middle of play. But I did have to adjust the mic periodically if one of my friends said they couldn't hear me very well. When I used the mic I always spoke at a normal volume. The transponder in the mic isn't sensitive enough to be able to whisper and be heard. But, it'll pick up your voice if you speak quitely (above a whisper). You definitely need to turn off the "roger beep" on your radio to use the throat mic or you'll blow an eardrum.
Conclusion:
You get what you pay for.
If you have $35 and you want a throat mic, then buy this product. Just know that there are some downfalls to work around when you buy it. You spend $40-$80 per case of paint for 1-2 days of paintball. You can't expect to buy equipment for $35 to use game after game and it not have its weaknesses.
If you want a higher quality throat mic and have $115 to spend, then look around at other products. I'm considering buying the one for $115. If I do, I'll compare it to the Fire Fox mic and let everyone know if it's worth the extra money.
I'll give this product an 8 since it has a great design, it's easy to use, but it can use an upgrade to keep the mic in place.
Rating:
8 out of 10
Last edited on Thursday, February 10th, 2005 at 11:01 pm PST
