Are USB headsets just as functional as 3.5mm?

[afoygel]

I'm looking for a new headset for gaming and music, and I'm wondering if I'd be able to use a USB headset the same way as my current 3.5mm setup. I basically have my 5.1 speakers plugged into the back of the comp, and the 3.5 headset into the i/o jacks on the front of the case. That way I can have soudn in both my speakers and my headset, and I can just power down the speakers if I want to use the headset. Would I be able to do that if I get a USB headset?

 

[airhendrix13]

Well, usually you have to choose one or the other from the audio properties. I know I was able to get both my HD onboard audio and my Auzentech Xplosion to work together, but I can't remember the steps I took to do it.

I'd be willing to bet there is a way to do it.

 

[afoygel]

So I should just stick with 3.5mm?

 

[airhendrix13]

If what you have now works then I would stick with the 3.5mm jack.

 

[airhendrix13]

Sorry, after reading through your question again, I realized I really didn't answer your question very well. Because Windows (I'm assuming this is what you are using) audio setup has seperate settings for audio output and input, you would be able to use a USB headset. In fact, I do this now. When I play games, I generally use a headset, but then when I listen to music, I open up my audio settings real quick and switch it to my stereo. So yes, you can do it with a USB headset.

 

[afoygel]

Thanks hendrix. I guess that is how I understood your answer. What I'm trying to do is basically be able to have output both on my speakers and on my headset. I currently have it plugged into my front audio port in the front of the case, so as a result I can just turn off my speakers and put on my headset 🙂.

The only problem with this is the way my case is designed - the audio ports are behind a door, and I have to keep the door open to have the headset plugged, which defeats the purpose of having a nice door.