I got these and they have always served me well through all kinds of abuse, even crushed the USB connector and then dropped it in coffee after that, still going strong.
I have the plantronics gamecom 780, its a great headset and i have not had any issues with it so far and its nearly been two years.
its a very good headset, and I really enjoy it.
Work like a charm. Just plug in the USB and away you go. Mute switch still works fine too.
They are very lightweight meaning if you only want chat and not gamesounds you are still able to hear your tv easily.
I cannot recommend these enough. Fit nicely in your budget and around your ears, great 7:1 sound, and, best of all, the mic isn't one of those flimsy ones that break after a month.
I'm just going to upvote you and paste my comment here
I've had Plantronic's Gamecom 780 headphones for over a year now (purchased April 2013) and they're still going strong. When they break, I'm getting another pair.
It's a usb headset, with mic, and costs £45.
Purchase link (UK): http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0079G2Y52
4/5 over 92 reviews on Newegg link
4.1/5 over 791 reviews on Amazon UK link
4.2/5 over 2309 reviews on Amazon US link
In-depth review on Engadget link
Alternatively, get yourself a decent pair of headphones (several linked in this thread) and a clip-on mic like the Speedlink Spes Clip-On Microphone (£7)
Also, ITT: headphones and headsets massively over OP's £45-50 price range
I've had Plantronic's Gamecom 780 headphones for over a year now (purchased April 2013) and they're still going strong. When they break, I'm getting another pair.
It's a usb headset, with mic, and costs £45.
Purchase link (UK): http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0079G2Y52
4/5 over 92 reviews on Newegg link
4.1/5 over 791 reviews on Amazon UK link
4.2/5 over 2309 reviews on Amazon US link
In-depth review on Engadget link
Alternatively, get yourself a decent pair of headphones (several linked in this thread) and a clip-on mic like the Speedlink Spes Clip-On Microphone (£7)
Also, ITT: headphones and headsets massively over OP's £45-50 price range
Plantronics Gamecom 780's are great, the dolby makes a good difference and the bass is impressive. However, the plastic headband is it's only downside as it seems a bit cheap. I think you can get them for around £40-50.
im using the Plaronics 780 7.1 headset here http://www.amazon.co.uk/Plantronics-GameCom-Gaming-Headset-Surround/dp/B0079G2Y52/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1390305642&sr=8-3&keywords=plantronics+777 fantastic headset, i can't comment on what CoD is like on them because im not 12 years old anymore. but would recommend (just a note these are PC onl;y because they are USB powered)
What's the matter with surround/gaming headsets? I'm not much of an audiophile but I like things to sound semi-decent. I have a Plantronics Gamecom 780 headset and I'm really happy with it for gaming audio and communication.