Review: Trust Onyx 255+ (microphone)

Upon unboxing the Onyx 255+ from Trust, its solid and well-constructed feel is immediately apparent. The microphone exhibits a reassuring weight that suggests robust build quality. Considering the price point, where one might typically spend a comparable amount for only the microphone arm (which is included here), there’s a potential concern that the microphone and accompanying components would feel budget-oriented. However, this is demonstrably not the case.

The arm is easily assembled and securely attached to the desk using the provided knob. The microphone sits within a cradle designed to isolate it from vibrations originating from the arm and desk. Connecting the supplied USB cable (which, subjectively, could be longer) to the computer results in immediate recognition and operational readiness of the microphone. The setup process is remarkably quick and seamless.

As mentioned, the arm features an adjustable knob to control the resistance of its articulation points. Adjusting this knob allows for precise positioning of the microphone. However, a notable limitation is the microphone’s inability to rotate horizontally without loosening a screw. This contrasts with the ease of adjustment found in devices like desk lamps. Consequently, aiming the microphone precisely often requires a two-handed adjustment, which is a minor inconvenience.

The microphone includes a convenient mute button, indicated by a red LED when activated, preventing accidental transmission. A separate button allows for customization of the microphone’s LED illumination color, a purely aesthetic feature that allows for visual coordination with other peripherals.

The most critical aspect is, of course, audio quality. The microphone was used in the recording featured below. Despite ambient noise from rain impacting a window pane approximately half a meter away, the recorded audio remained clear and articulate. The sound quality is remarkably impressive for a microphone in this price range.

In conclusion, the Onyx 255+ from Trust receives a strong recommendation, primarily due to its performance exceeding expectations, especially considering its cost. The primary drawback is the arm’s adjustability, which could be more fluid and intuitive.