Headset questions for a specific setup

[Squidmaster]

I am looking into purchasing a headset for my retired mom, who is a regular World of Warcraft player. Normally this would be a snap, but I am pretty sure that the front USB on her computer is non-functioning. Is there a headset or other device I can buy to plug into the back of the computer that would then be able to be turned off in order to restore regular speaker function when not in use? It is not much of an option to have to unplug a headset from the back each time for her.

Thanks!

 

[TheStu]

Why not get a USB extension cable? Plug that into the back, and fasten it to the case or desk somehow. Or a USB hub would also work.

 

[Cerb]

If you go with an external solutions, IMO, get a small hub, and use Velcro dots. With the hook side on the PC, you'll minimize the risk of scratching things up, if you move it. The adhesive really needs a flat surface, and I haven't seen that on any extension cable (most have, at the least, a depression for a sticker, or branding in relief).

You could also get an internal hub, but then you'd have to trust that the front USBs are defective due to a mechanical problem only, or get ones that makes you route a USB cable back into the PC from a rear port. Watch for cable length, as well, on hubs, and/or get one that takes a full-size B (many have 6" or so cable, that won't reach rear desktop ports).

 

[Squidmaster]

If we go with an extension cable, would the comp recognize that it was unplugged at the cable and not at the actual computer?

 

[0roo0roo]

usb extensions are not detected as anything.
just buy a cheap cable at monoprice or where ever.

 

[Squidmaster]

Sweet. One last thing. Will a USB headset turn off the speakers plugged in via regular speaker cables when it is active?

 

[corkyg]

Sweet. One last thing. Will a USB headset turn off the speakers plugged in via regular speaker cables when it is active?

Not necessarily.

 

[Squidmaster]

Hmm, then what do I need to pay attention to when buying in order to get a smooth transition between the two?

 

[corkyg]

You need to look at the software controls. Regular headphone audio jacks shunt off internal speakers mechanically when they are plugged. USB doesn't do that. Headsets have two connections - the earphones and the microphone.

 

[Squidmaster]

Ah, right. When I said USB I must have been tired, but because I don't care how it connects as long as it is easy for a retired person to control. Should I look at a non-USB option? If so, what sort of extension cable would I need? Is there a headset you can turn on and off on the set itself perhaps?

 

[0roo0roo]

usb only matters if your sound card sucks. usb headphones have their own soundchip/soundcard.

 

[corkyg]

You could use a regular old headset with two audio jacks, one for mic and the other ears. Then connect a standard audio A-B switch to your audio out port, and your speakers to A and the headfset ears to B. Then you just switch between them. And, what OrooOroo says applies to the USB choice.

 

[Squidmaster]

Are you talking about one of these?

http://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Spea...5268898&sr=8-1

I searched for audio switch at monoprice and only KVM switches showed up, but Amazon has some stuff it seems.

 

[corkyg]

Yep! That's the type of thing I mentioned. You can also visit your nearest Radio Shack and probably pick up what you need there.

 

[Squidmaster]

That sounds like the easiest way to go. Thanks a bunch for all the input. If there are any last minute ideas, like brands for a headset or what-have-you, that's great too, but again, thanks!

 

[0roo0roo]

depends on your budget, sennhieser pc 350 is always nice, but thats if you can afford it.

 

[Squidmaster]

I'm looking for something fairly cheap. I'm on disability so I have to go for value.

 

[0roo0roo]

fatality mk2 creative headphones which are decent are 24 dollars after rebate at frys.

 

[Squidmaster]

Shucks, we don't have Frys here on the east coast. That item costs around $60 elsewhere.