Epos has a new gaming flagship called the H6PRO, which takes the core concepts introduced in the Epos H3 headset and improves them slightly. In short, this headset is very similar to the other headsets in the Epos lineup, but has some new features that are worth considering if you are looking for a new gaming headset.

The H6PRO is available with either an open or closed back. This difference affects noise isolation, audio response, and how the headset feels on your head. In other words, it is a very big decision for a gaming headset feature.

I have experience with both open-back and closed-back designs and will do my best to guide you to the best unit for your cranium. Basically, if you want noise isolation (i.e., to keep outside noise from reaching your ear canals), then the closed-back H6PRO headset is the way to go. If that is not important, an open-back H6PRO headset is a good choice.

Both versions of the H6PRO share the same core design and functionality, and both are wired headsets. If you are looking for a wireless set, check out Epos' H3 Hybrid or look for the best wireless headset we recommend.

The H6PRO is fairly standard when it comes to wired connections: a single 2.5m braided 3.5mm analog cable connects the headset to a PC, console, or other device. The included cable is strong, durable, and not too loud, but a bit stiff. For this reason, it is often tucked under the keyboard to keep it out of the way. Ideally, the cable would soften a bit with more use, but I have a feeling that braided cables are better left to other PC peripherals and should not be attached to my high-end gaming headset.

Still, the minor inconvenience is more than made up for by the very handy new detachable microphone. The microphone itself is of excellent quality, sounds great, and best of all, not only is it flip-to-mute, but it is also completely removable thanks to its magnetic construction. In theory, this gaming headset can be taken outside without the slightest bit of fooling around. The box also includes a magnetic cover that fits over the sides of the ear cups, giving it a clean look even without the microphone.

In fact, the entire H6PRO is very tidy. It is very well made to the touch, mainly plastic, but there is a metal headband running through the top of the leatherette-covered band that bends enough to be handled a little roughly.

Let's move on to the all-important audio: both H6PRO models are equipped with brand new 42mm drivers.

The open-back design offers a light and airy soundscape with breathable mesh ear pads. This model is softer, more expansive, and very easygoing tonally.

The closed-back version with leatherette earpads is slightly stiffer, but this allows the bass range to be felt more. So if you want a little more bass, volume, and resonance, the closed-back is the way to go.

However, neither headset is particularly overwhelming, and in both sets, the tuning of these particularly drivers is more balanced than some gaming headsets I have tested. So if you are looking for eardrum-shattering bass, you may want to look elsewhere.

Personally, as a fan of the Sennheiser HD 650, I am not overly concerned with sending bass to my ears. Rather, I want a more balanced response, and both H6PRO models provide that. The open back is a bit more.

That said, the open backs are truly aurally see-through. That is, you can hear everything around you as if you were not wearing headphones. Closed-back cups, on the other hand, block out ambient noise.

The difference in noise isolation is so pronounced that ever since I handed my next desk partner, fellow hardware geek Alan Dexter, a closed-back H6PRO, it has been difficult to get his attention. Or perhaps he is trying to ignore me.

On the other hand, with my preferred open-back pair, I can hear almost everything going on in the office around me through the mesh behind the ear cups.

So your choice should depend on your environment. If you are in a quiet place, such as a bedroom, the open back is the best choice. If you are taking your headphones outside or sharing space with others, a pair with a closed back will block out the hustle and bustle of the wider world.

Both pairs share many desirable qualities, and you can't go wrong with either. In terms of new flagships, Epos has created something truly competitive and impressive with the H6PRO. The downside is that these also come with a flagship price tag of $179 (£149, €179), so you really have to debate whether to be happy with wireless or consider going wireless.

Nevertheless, if you are happy with that level of expense, you can rest assured knowing that the Epos H6PRO is built to a standard worthy of its price tag. Not only that, but it sounds great, comes with an excellent microphone, and is comfortable on the head. Definitely worth considering, even in a crowded headset market.