The Alphyn AH10 marks a first entry into the wireless gaming headset market by a brand traditionally known for excellent graphics cards. For $100, the Alphyn AH10 offers a suite of features that cater to casual gamers and general users, while falling short in areas that demanding audiophiles or esports players might prioritize.

The standout aspect of this headset is its wearing comfort. Soft memory foam ear pads and a lightweight aluminium alloy frame ensure usability over extended sessions. However, the pleather material of the ear pads forms a tight seal with the sides of the head which may cause heat buildup, necessitating breaks during gaming marathons. The 30-hour battery life is another feature worth noting. The headset cannot be charged and used simultaneously, but that's where the quick-charge functionality comes in exceptionally handy, enabling us to get two hours of use out of a short 10-minute top-up.

Sound quality is a mixed bag. The headset provides a warm and fairly balanced profile, with decent bass punch and clear mids that excel in vocal-heavy tracks. However, its sub-bass performance lacks the depth and rumble sought by bass enthusiasts, while the treble, although smooth, might underwhelm listeners who prefer a brighter sound signature. When paired with the DTS Headphone:X virtual surround sound, the Alphyn AH10 can even sound wide and immersive, but never as balanced as it does in stereo mode.

The Alphyn AH10's microphone performance is suitable for most communication needs. However, the microphone's relatively low output volume and short arm design might pose issues for situations when the VoIP software, which we're using to record the microphone, doesn't offer a way to increase the output volume.

Build quality is robust, though certain design choices, like the hollow-feeling headband and exposed coiled wire, slightly detract from its premium appeal. With that being said, the Alphyn AH10 looks like it can take a tumble, and I have no problem believing it will last for years to come.

With some refinements, PowerColor could transform this headset into a serious competitor in the gaming peripheral market. As it stands, however, the $100 price tag of the Alphyn AH10 might need to be adjusted downward if PowerColor aims to achieve a true breakthrough in a field they are only just beginning to explore.