RIG 500 Series adapts to users’ needs; endorsed by ESL, the world’s largest e-sports company
SANTA CRUZ, Calif., June 9, 2015 –Plantronics (NYSE: PLT), a pioneer in audio and wearable technology, and the creators of leading tournament headsets GameCom Commander and professional-class Supreme Commander, today introduced the RIG 500 Series - PC gaming headsets engineered specifically for the intensity of e-sports. Uniquely constructed with interchangeable components, the RIG 500 series can be configured for precise fit, extraordinary comfort, peerless game audio in any environment, and personalized style. Endorsed by ESL, the world’s largest e-sports company, the RIG 500 Series provides competitive gamers and aspiring professionals a flexible audio solution that adapts to their needs. The RIG 500 Series system includes components such as vented-air and sound-isolating ear cups, several colors of headbands, mobile stereo cables, a digital USB adapter with Dolby® 7.1 Surround Sound, and 24-bit audio support. RIG 500 Series headsets will be available worldwide beginning in August 2015.
“Plantronics worked closely with competitive gamers to develop the RIG 500 Series of PC gaming headsets, and like any precision equipment designed for competition, details matter,” said Jack Reynolds, Director, Gaming Products, Plantronics. “The RIG 500 Series is a unique family of e-sports audio gear that can give an edge to pros and hopefuls through its ultra-light comfort and reliability, which is essential for long hours of dedicated practice, and our signature Plantronics audio, which is tuned especially for immersive gaming and clear communication.”
RIG 500 was designed from the ground up for e-sports enthusiasts and competitors, with finely tuned components focused on flexibility and personalized choice. When designing the headset, engineers stripped the product to bare bones, judiciously constructing only components with specific audio performance and comfort goals in mind.
Beginning with an ultra-light, super-flexible and incredibly durable frame, Plantronics designers created a headset that fits the broadest range of gamers possible without unnecessary complexity or weight. With small, medium and large attach points for ear cups and a self-adjusting headband, RIG 500 Series headsets provide exceptional comfort and fit. Two different sets of available ear cups round out the customization: Vented for maximum breathability and heat dissipation, reducing listening fatigue and pressure, and Isolating for complete immersion, reducing background noise and enabling players to focus.
“We know e-sports, and from long experience, we know what it takes for competitive gamers to play their best,” said Han Park, president at ESL America. “As a partner, Plantronics has demonstrated the ability and willingness to collaborate with the e-sports industry and players to create products that truly meet the unique - and demanding – needs of this group.”
ESL relies on the quality and performance consistently delivered by Plantronics gaming headsets to bring an unforgettable e-sports experience to players and millions of fans worldwide. The premium RIG 500E is a complete e-sports audio solution, and prominently features the ESL logo as the company’s visible endorsement of the headset. Additionally, materials included in the box give aspiring e-sports competitors everything they need to know to get started on their path to pro gaming glory.
Additional Features
- Personalization: RIG 500 Series customization does not end with fit and the right ear cups for the right environment. Players and teams can personalize their RIG 500 Series headset with team colors, logos, patterns and finishes (such as camo and carbon fiber) at Plantronics.com for a truly custom look.
- Audio engineered to win: All RIG 500 Series headsets feature 40mm drivers paired with low-frequency resonators for crisp highs and boosted bass. Flip-to-mute booms fitted with noise-canceling microphones provide exceptional voice communication. Gamers can choose the sound they want with editions offering analog stereo or USB Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound with support for 24-bit high-resolution media.
- Device compatibility: For competitive players on any platform, the RIG 500 Series works with PC/Mac, console controllers, smartphones and tablets.
Availability and Pricing
The RIG 500 Series will be available this fall at Plantronics.com and major retailers in several editions:
- RIG 500 - Stereo gaming headset with flip-to-mute mic boom - $59 USD (MSRP)
- RIG 500HD - Surround sound USB gaming headset - $79 USD (MSRP)
- RIG 500E - E-sports edition surround sound gaming headset with two sets of ear cups (vented and isolating), detachable boom mic, USB adapter and analog stereo cables - $149 USD (MSRP)
Plantronics Gaming will be at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3), Booth 4500 in the West Hall, from June 16-18 showcasing the new RIG 500 Series headsets.
About Plantronics
Plantronics is a global leader in audio communications for businesses and consumers. We have pioneered new trends in audio technology, creating innovative products that allow people to simply communicate. From unified communication to Bluetooth® headsets to gaming solutions, we deliver uncompromising quality, an ideal experience, and extraordinary service. Plantronics is used by every company in the Fortune 100™, as well as 911 dispatch, air traffic control and various mission critical applications for those on the frontline. For more information, please visit www.plantronics.com or call (800) 544-4660.
About ESL
ESL is the world's largest esports company, leading the industry across various games with numerous online and offline competitions. It operates high profile, branded international and national leagues and tournaments such as the Intel® Extreme Masters, ESL One, ESL Pro Series, StarCraft® II World Championship Series, as well as grassroots amateur cups, leagues and matchmaking systems. ESL covers a broad field of services in gaming technology, event management, advertising and TV production, fully catering to the needs of the esport ecosystem. With offices in Germany, Russia, France, Poland, Spain, China, North America and partners in many other countries, it has a truly global footprint. For more information, please visit www.eslgaming.com.
Plantronics and RIG are trademarks of Plantronics, Inc. registered in the US and other countries. Mac is a trademark of Apple Inc. registered in the US and other countries.All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
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