HTC Vive Deluxe Audio Strap Pictures And Impressions

The HTC Vive is arguably the best VR headset, but it may also be the most uncomfortable. And unlike the Oculus Rift, the Vive doesn't come with integrated headphones. HTC is attempting to solve both the ergonomic and audio issues with its Deluxe Audio Strap. We're going to unbox it and give you our impressions of the $99.99 add-on.

The Deluxe Audio Strap sits atop a plastic stand within the box.

The box comes with some user guide documentation and an optional velcro strap that allows you to tie the cable down to the back of the headset.

This is the back of the strap. Like the PSVR headset, it has a dial that allows you to tighten the head-mounted display (HMD).

The inside of the strap showcases the foam padding. You can also see the integrated headphones on the sides.

The shell of the strap is comprised mostly of plastic.

The strap comes with an audio jack that plugs into the HMD's auxiliary port.

The ear cups feature an open-ear design, so there isn't a lot of noise cancellation. They also feature a leather-like material that makes them pretty soft and comfortable against the ears. Overall, the audio isn't very bass heavy and features fairly neutral levels. They likely won't impress audiophiles, but they are super convenient and are a very welcome addition.

You can also detach the ear cups if you prefer to use your own headphones.

Here is a close-up of one of the buckles, which connects to the HMD.

Like the Oculus Rift, you can swivel the position of the ear cups.

You can also raise and lower the ear cups.

The HTC Vive logo is etched onto the back of the dial.

In contrast, this is the old strap.

The old stock strap is on the left, and the Deluxe Audio Strap is on the right.

To attach the Deluxe Audio Strap, you need to remove the stock strap and then press in on the sides of the buckles to connect it in place.

This is what it looks like once the buckles are locked into place.

The Deluxe Audio Strap also has a clip, which allows you to tuck your Vive's cables.

Here's what the clip looks like from the inside.

Here's what the Vive looks like with the new Deluxe Audio Strap attached.

From this angle, you can see how the audio jack plugs into the included auxiliary port.

You can use the included velcro strap to tie the cable down to the back of the headset.

This is what the new strap looks like from the back when you wear it. Turning the dial clockwise tightens the headset.

Overall, the Deluxe Audio Strap is much more comfortable than the stock version. While it's still pretty front-heavy and relatively heavy overall at one pound, 11 ounces, the weight distribution feels a bit more balanced from the front to the back. While we still think PSVR is the most comfortable VR headset, the Deluxe Audio Strap significantly improves ergonomics and puts it on par with the Oculus Rift. In short, the Deluxe Audio Strap makes it hard to go back to the default strap.