ASTRO gaming provides the best PC compatible headsets for you to game like a pro, with our new 2013 A30 PC Editions and 2013 A40 PC Editions. Our new headsets maintain a superior fit and finish, excellent audio quality, and our customizable speaker tags.  The 2013 PC editions are designed to move freely between PC and mobile gaming platforms, with some newly added features to help keep you in the game.

What’s new with the A30 and A40 2013 PC Editions:

- New Media Cabling System – The Media Cable is has been optimized for PC, Notebook, and  Mobile gaming by putting the controls right at your fingertips. We’ve updated the Quick Disconnect system, with our new Media Cable that plugs directly into the headset via a 3.5mm 4-pole jack.  The Media Cable offers an in-line microphone, in-line/boom mic switch, a mute switch, a volume control wheel, and a call/pickup/tracking button.

- Best Sounding ASTROs Ever – The 2013 Edition A30s & A40s have re-tuned drivers and ear cushions that make these the most detailed and accurate ASTRO headsets ever. At ASTRO we pride ourselves on working hard to push the limits and evolve with the industry. Now, with improved low-end response and less distortion at high volumes, you wont miss a beat.

PRICE DROP!

With our new cable system, we’re able to pass the savings on to you by offering all PC Edition headsets for a new low price. Our 2013 A30 PC Editions are now £79.99 and the 2013 A40 PC Editions are now £129.99 How could you pass up a deal like that?

The new PC Editions still maintain our classic premium features that set our headsets apart from the rest and make us who we are.

TUNED WITH ASTRO AUDIO®

Working closely with pro gamers and top audio designers to deliver the highest level of clarity at every frequency, ASTRO AUDIO® is designed to make your games, music, and movies sound the absolute best.

CUSTOMIZABLE SPEAKER TAGS

Change-up your style on the A40 or A30 headsets with our magnetic Speaker Tag system. Or, customize your setup by designing your tags at our online Speaker Tag Customizer.

SUPERIOR FIT & FINISH

Wear your ASTROs flat around your neck pro-style or clamp them on your dome for days of play in ultimate comfort. Designed with superior materials & fit, over-ear cushions and in-line mic controls.

Lookin’ to give your ASTRO Gaming a boost? Don’t forget about our 2013 MixAmp Pro! The 2013 MixAmp Pro enables Dolby Surround Sound, has a streaming output, and four ASTRO EQ presets. If you game on PC and console the MixAmp is a great companion for you, and can be purchased in an A30 Audio System,  A40 Audio System, or as a standalone add-on.

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At ASTRO, we’re always working to stay current and evolve as needs change. We’ve listened to your feedback on the quality of voice communication for the 2013 MixAmp, and our newest firmware update Version 1.3, was developed with your concerns in mind. If you’ve had any symptoms with incoming voice, outgoing voice, or the noise gate on your 2013 MixAmp, please review these release notes as we have solutions to your issues.

2013 MixAmp Pro Firmware Updates

Newest Firmware launched 2/7/2013 *If you update to the newest firmware v1.3, all previous versions are installed as well.

2013 MixAmp Pro – Version 1.3 – 2/7/2013 – 3356

- Fixed USB mic glitch bug.

- Reduced voice volume in live stream output.

- Adjusted PS3 mic level.

- New default presets, optimized for quiet environments.

Preset changes

1 – Pro: Improved Voice EQ, Improved Noise Gate

2 – Core:  Improved Voice EQ, Improved Noise Gate

3 – Media:  Improved Voice EQ, Improved Noise Gate

4 – LAN: LAN Friendly Voice EQ, LAN Friendly Noise Gate

Previous 2013 MixAmp Pro Firmware Updates

2013 MixAmp Pro – Version – 1.2 – 11/28/2012 – 3198

- Fixes audio dropout experienced by some users after updating to 1.1.

2013 MixAmp Pro - Version 1.1 – 11/8/2012 – 3168

- Increased outgoing chat volume.

- Increased daisy chain volume.

- Improved EQ presets.

Visit our Firmware Update page to download your updates for Mac or PC. If your problem still persists or you have any questions, please contact our customer support team.

-ASTRO Lovehammer ^L

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We’ve got some firmware updates and release notes for your A50s and 2013 MixAmp Pros.

Once you have the firmware tool downloaded, plug in your A50, TXD MixAmp, or 2013 MixAmp Pro, and the tool will automatically recognize your current firmware status.

A50 Firmware Updates:

Newest Firmware launched 1/22/2013 *If you update to the newest firmware all previous versions are installed as well.

A50 Version 1.3 – 1/22/2013 – 3302

- Fixes issue where LED remains amber when not charging.

Previous A50 Firmware Updates:

A50 Version 1.2 – 11/1/2012 – 3156

- Reduced volume level of beeps, now easier on the ears.

- Sidetone volume level improvements, no longer mutes at 100% game volume.

- Master volume adjustment rate increased, volume moves up or down faster when moving the wheel quickly.

- KleerNet compatibility updates.

- PS3/PC battery life improvements.

TXD Version 1.2 – 11/1/2012 – 3155

- KleerNet compatibility updates.

A50 Version 1.1 – 8/15/2012 – 2855

- KleerNet compatibility updates

- Improved pairing reliability.

- Various audio and volume leveling adjustments.

- Reduced background noise.

- Improved noise-gate for PC and console voice chat.

- Master volume and game/voice balance settings are saved on power down.

TXD Version 1.1 – 8/12/2012 – 2856

- Improved pairing reliability.

- KleerNet compatibility updates.

- Fixed occasional optical audio drop

2013 MixAmp Firmware Updates

Newest Firmware launched 11/28/2012 *If you update to the newest firmware all previous versions are installed as well.

2013 MixAmp Pro - Version 1.2 – 11/28/2012 – 3198

- Fixes audio dropout experienced by some users after updating to 1.1.

Previous 2013 MixAmp Firmware Updates

2013 MixAmp Pro - Version 1.1 – 11/8/2012 – 3168

- Increased outgoing chat volume.

- Increased daisy chain volume.

- Improved EQ presets.

Visit our Firmware Update page to download your updates for Mac or PC. If you have any questions, please contact our support page.

-ASTRO Lovehammer ^L

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We understand a small number of customers who’ve purchased the 2013 MixAmp Pro may be experiencing the annoying Power Drop issue. This blog is for you.

Unfortunately this is a hardware compatibility issue. Technically speaking, the 2013 MixAmp is too powerful for USB hosts that supply a voltage close to the low end of the USB spec. The power drop issue causes the 2013 MixAmp Pro to shut down partially (the Dolby path dies) and it won’t power up again until the MixAmp power has been unplugged and replugged. In many cases, the failure occurs nearly immediately after being plugged in.

If you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms, you may be a victim of the bug.

1) Dolby light, on the front of the MixAmp, won’t turn on and no game audio is present.

2) Your MixAmp powers off randomly during use.

If you’ve experienced either of these issues, we have a solution for you.

1) Try any other USB cable to power the MixAmp

- Shorter, fatter USB cables improve power delivery

- PS3 controller cables have been proven to alleviate the issue

2) Insert a powered USB hub between the console and the MixAmp

3) Contact our support team and we’ll be happy to send you an improved USB cable to power your MixAmp.

- ASTRO Nexy

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Did you really think the world was going to end? Silly conspirators, don’t know what they’re talking about! At ASTRO Gaming, we have no fear, and we know 2012 was just the beginning.

The year started off with a bang as ASTRO Gaming announced their first professional team, Team Eon. Consisting of Optic Gaming, Team EnVyUs, and Team Instinct. It began when EnVyUs launched their first Gears Of War 3 team at the, ASTRO sponsored, HYPEFESTATION tournament. Team Instinct then continued to kill it at the Red Bull Gaming LAN and the very first MLG Columbus Winter Championship.

Hastro and Team EnVyUs also hosted Team Instinct and Optic Gaming at their gaming house for some friendly LAN competition, sponsored by GUNNAR, TWITCH.TV and ASTRO Gaming. Watch our behind the scenes exclusive video of the LAN, here:

We were also honored to become the official communications partner for IGN’s Professional League, the IPL, where pro players compete in Starcraft2 and League Of Legends. The world of eSPORTS has grown immensely since the early days, and the demand for premium audio has never been higher. ASTRO has been reppin’ PRO quality since the beginning so there wasn’t much surprise when Best Buy, GameStop, and HMV began retailing our products. Stop by, and check out our listening stations to hear what sets ASTRO Gaming apart from the rest.

Got wireless? 2012 was big news for ASTRO as we launched our first wireless headset, the A50. Boasting ASTRO Audio, Dolby Digital 7.1, three EQ presets, an integrated MixAmp, and overall comfort, the A50s have it all. Along with our big announcement we released a radical A50 trailer featuring a track off Krewella’s new EP, PLAY HARD. Check it out yo!

Hmm, summer already? Guess it’s time for some gaming festivals! Out of all the various gaming events, PAX and E3 are two of the most epic and fun shows you’ll ever see. The annual Penny Arcade Expo, PAX, was epic as ever and we partnered with Dark Vale to debut their newest MMO, FORGE at our booth. It was a big hit and we can’t wait to see finished product! E3 was also amazing this year. While at E3, you could find ASTRO gear powering some of our favorite partners like Ubisoft, SEGA, Capcom, Konami, Sega, and THQ, just to name a few.

ASTRO hit the refresh button in 2012 and kicked it up a notch by launching a new event booth, moving to a new office, and premiering a fancy new website. Evolution is a must in the world of gaming, and ASTRO is always aiming to push it one step further, while having some fun doing it.

Assassins Creed III? Uhh, yes please! Ubisoft’s legendary Assassins Creed series launched their third title this year and honored ASTRO with exclusive art for custom speaker tags. Weather you rock the A30s or A40s, there’s AC3 tags for you, keeping you fresh to death with the best.

Shortly after the AC3 editions dropped, ASTRO took a huge leap forward with the 2013 MixAmp Pro. Lose the battery pack, choose your favorite EQ preset, and buckle up. The 2013 A40 audio systems are a game changer, and are now available on ASTRO’s website, at Best Buy, and GameStop. The 2013 A40 Audio System boasts four EQ presets, Dolby Digital 7.1, a new quick disconnect cable system, a new optical cable, and a streaming port for all the hardcore fans.

The year was coming to an end with the season for giving right around the corner. Our 2012 giveaway contest had to be big this year. So we pulled a few strings and got the opportunity to design some custom ASTRO Gaming BESPOKE NIKE AIR FORCE 1′s. Say what!? Given away to one lucky winner, as the only guy on the planet with ASTRO Gaming NIKEs. However, this exclusive deal wasn’t the end for 2012 style points. Upper Playground came also through with a fresh take on new A40 2013 speaker tags. Including my personal favorite, “The Bay” tags. SF, CA!

Overall 2012 was an amazing year for competition, and creativity. We launched new products, new teams, basically new everything, but we couldn’t have done it without all of you, the fans. Thanks to all our loyal “ASTROIDS” out there for choosing ASTRO Gaming and supporting our cause for a premium gaming experience. 2013 has some exciting surprises on the way, so stay tuned in to our ASTRO blog, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. I can’t wait to see all of your posts! Also, don’t forget to tell your friends why ASTRO Gaming is the one for you!

-ASTRO Lovehammer

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With Halo 4 on the horizon, the Halo: Reach competitive scene has died down quite a bit, until now. Last weekend, Arena Gaming League played host to what could be the final Halo: Reach tournament ever.

Many of Halo’s strongest players were in attendance competing to be the final standing team of the weekend. One of those teams was ASTRO’s very own, Instinct.

Last we saw Team Instinct in their entirety was at MLG’s Halo: Reach Columbus event. This was a tournament that would go down in the record books. If you recall, Instinct met up with friendly rivals, Status Quo, in the Grand Finals. On this occurrence, Status Quo would come out the victors but Instinct left some bold words for the opposing squad.

“We are going to win next tournament no matter what. SQ we’re coming for you and we’re taking the next Halo event.” – Pistola

When the dust settled at AGL, Instinct was the final team standing. It was a hard road for the team that was taking a break from competitive Halo. For such a decorated team of players, they were even considered the underdogs in the later stages of the tournament. But in the end, Instinct accomplished everything they are known for, winning. While Status Quo was not in attendance at the AGL tournament, this win in Columbus will certainly send a shockwave to all of the Halo teams around the country.

The next stop for Team Instinct will be MLG Dallas’ Halo 4 competition November 2nd-4th. I’ll be there with my video team creating ASTRO True Stories: Team Instict PART 2.

Lastly, I’ll leave you with the final games from the Championship Match at Arena Gaming League this weekend featuring Instinct.

- ASTRO Nexy

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Let’s be real. The ASTRO A50 Wireless Headset will not do your homework. It will more than likely increase the amount of time you spend gaming rather than studying, considering it’s comfortable and lightweight design. So why on earth would Lawrence Bonk of the Huffington Post suggest the ASTRO A50 Wireless Headset on their Back to School Gadget guide? Well, he had some sound advice for students about the headset.

“There is nothing worse than being kept up all night by the sound of bloodthirsty aliens when you have a test the next day. Get your game-addicted roommate to embrace quiet time by letting them hold ASTRO’s newest wireless headset combo. The A50 squeezes a fully functional preamp and equalizer right into the earcup. This translates to fully customizable and beautiful sounding explosions and, yes, even music. Of course, your roommate will still keep you up all night by yelling at little kids on Xbox Live. ASTRO hasn’t invented a wireless gag yet.”

Lawrence hits the nail on the head if you ask me.

See what other gadgets made the list on Huffington Post’s Latest and Greatest Back to School Gadgets article by clicking here. Rad list, Lawrence. Oh, and you may pick up your own pair of the ASTRO A50 Wireless Headset by visiting the product page here!

- ASTRO Nexy

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The Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) is a three day festival that focuses exclusively on gaming. You can expect publishers and developers to entertain with unreleased games and hardware. Veteran industry folk will educate and inspire on various panels. You may choose to partake in tournaments, concerts or wild after parties. But my favorite part of PAX is sharing my passion with likeminded gamers from all over the world.

Our team will be at PAX in full force. If you’re attending, we urge you to swing by the ASTRO booth (booth 3217) to check out our gear, hang out with our crew and spend some quality time with our gaming stations.

We are pumped to announce that we will be debuting Dark Vale’s FORGE, fully playable, exclusively in the ASTRO gaming booth. Forge is a class based MMO that focuses on PvP combat with an FPS feel. I personally can’t wait to get my hands on it. If you’d like to learn more about Forge, check out their website, www.playforgewar.com

Additionally, you’ll be able to find our gear in some of our friends booths around the exhibition hall. Here are some of the places ASTRO may pop up.

Digipen (Annex)
Double Fine (Booth 3010)
Hi-Rez Studios (Booth 652)
Konami (Booth 442)
Sega (Booth 242, 252)
EA (Booth 232)
Deep Silver (Booth 6309)
Red 5 Studios (Booth 3103, 3203)
Riot (Booth 6bc)
Adhesive/Meteor (Booth 3830)
Machinima (Booth 6100, 6101)
Ubisoft (Booth 612, 632, 832)
Capcom (Booth 3425)
Square Enix (Booth 3625)
Perfect World (Booth 3603)
Wizards of the Coast (Booth 1132, 1142)

If you aren’t attending this year, have no fear. I’ve got you covered. I’ll be heading up the ASTRO content army, a highly-trained group of warriors with one simple mission: bring you an exclusive inside look at PAX. We’ll be covering the event with three days of blogs, photo’s and video recaps. We want to make you feel like you’re right there with us.

Additionally, special guest Lisa Malambri will play host to our daily PAX videos. She’ll be bringing you a closer look at some of the hottest games and with a little luck, catch up with developers and personalities. Is their something you’d like her to check out while she’s on the show floor? Shoot us a tip on our Facebook or Twitter. And as always, stay tuned to our YouTube for all the video goodness.

For this blog entry I wanted to do something special. I asked PAX veteran, Stanimal, to to put together a playlist that harnesses his love for the show. I requested 10-15 songs and he came back with this.

Day 1 PAX Playlist by Stanimal

Day 2 PAX Playlist by Stanimal

Day 3 PAX Playlist by Stanimal

He goes on to write, “You know the crazy blur of memories you get after each PAX? The non-stop festivities during the day and then all the kick-ass parties at night… It’s exactly why you come back year after year. Now imagine if you could put a soundtrack to every moment you experience at PAX. That’s what this playlist is going to be all about.

With the insanity that PAX is known for, listening to the right song might be exactly what you need to capture those special moments. You have some fun electronica to get psyched for the evenings, synth sounds for a nostalgic feel, and your usual smattering of indie for a good time. Each playlist is setup with the songs that generally match my emotions per day so if you want the full effect, don’t hit shuffle.”

Stan loves PAX.

The three days of PAX festivities begin Friday, August 31st. Once again, come say hello to ASTRO gaming in booth 3217. If you’re home, make sure to stay locked to our YouTube, Facebook and Twitter for all the glorious PAX updates.

- ASTRO Nexy

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The ASTRO A50 Wireless Headset + MixAmp are out in the wild. There is no turning back for us now. It’s always an exciting moment waiting for the reviews of a new product to pop-up on the web. Whenever we find a new review on the ASTRO A50′s, it gets passed around through the whole company so that all the folks at ASTRO see their hard work being acknowledged. As they say, recognition is the best motivator. Here are some of our favorite reviews from popular news outlets.

2D-X - Astro A50 Headset + MixAmp – Gaming headset excellence

“The Astro A50 is gaming headset excellence….If you’re serious about your audio, consider the Astro A50 a must-buy.”‘

Engadget - Astro Gaming’s latest wireless headset (mostly) pwns in 7.1

“Hands down, this is one of the most comfortable headsets you’ll slap on your noggin. ”

GameSpot - ASTRO’s A50 Wireless Gaming Headset Is Expensive, But Worth Every Penny

“The A50′s soundscape is robust and detailed, rivaling the best gaming headsets on the market. Bass rumbles and nuances come to life with no sign of distortion. The new closed ear design brings improved bass response and sound isolation, as well. To ASTRO’s credit, in the absence of a high-end surround system, the thought of watching a movie or playing a game without the A50s begins to feel like a compromise.”

IGN – Astro A50 Wireless Headset Review

“But if you’re not already gaming with an Astro headset, you should consider picking up the 50s. They feature currently unparalleled audio, incredible surround sound and a no-brainer setup.”

Kotaku - Review: The Astro A50 Wireless Gaming Headset

“If you’re looking for a wireless gaming headset, the A50 is a hell of a thing: a confident realization of each of Astro’s various audio products  into a single entity.”

Maxim - Astro A50 Wireless Headphones

“Astro’s A50s are an earacle miracle.”

PC Magazine  - Astro Gaming A50 Wireless Headset

“between its excellent audio quality, comfortable design, and compatibility with PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3, it’s currently the best we’ve tested.”

The Verge - Astro A50 wireless gaming headset review

“The Astro A50 is, without question, one of the best gaming headsets on the market”

GameZone – Astro Gaming A50 wireless headset review

“if you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks and really want something that makes your game experiences thunder into your ears, the A50’s really are the way to go.”

Would you like to add your own opinion? Submit your thoughts by heading over to the product page and selecting the Review tab down low.

- ASTRO Nexy

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OpTic Gaming, most known for their Call of Duty montages on YouTube, has brought their A game this week. Here are my three favorite OpTic Gaming videos of the week. Enjoy the next six minutes of ridiculous clips combined with sleek editing.

- ASTRO Nexy

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