Plantronics RIG 500E Headphones Review

By Steven Kean

Plantronics RIG 500E Software and Customization

Software and Drivers

Depending on the version of RIG 500 you have purchased there might not be any need for any drivers. However, if you have the RIG 500HD or RIG 500E you can utilize Dolby 7.1 audio without the need for any additional drivers. However, Plantronics does provide a driver and software that allows you to customize the sound through an audio panel. Plantronics did not include the driver or software with the headset, rather they provide a link to download it here this ensures you have the latest version.

Plantronics RIG 500E Audio Panel
Plantronics RIG 500E Audio Panel

There isn’t much to the software for the RIG 500 series, once it is installed you have an Audio Panel available to make some adjustments. Here you have an equalizer, where you can have eight pre-sets, three of which are pre-configured by Plantronics. In addition, you can adjust the MIC volume and the Sidetone volume. Finally there is a little radio button to activate/deactivate the Dolby 7.1 audio. One option that is not immediately shown within the audio panel is the ability to change the sound mode between Movie and Music, this is done by right clicking on the Plantronics headphone icon in the system try.

Extra Custom Components

On Plantronics RIG 500E website, they have a link to their webstore where you can purchase select accessories to customize the RIG 500 series headphones. For example, you can purchase alternative headbands for $14.95 plus shipping. It would be really interesting if Plantronics was to release a 3D printing plan for the headband, allowing users to create their own, assuming they have a 3D printer anyways.

The only downside, is that Plantronics doesn’t show any alternative support bands to match the headband. If you could purchase additional support bands, with the RIG 500E you could basically get a second pair of headphones simply by purchasing the headband and support band.

Also, should you purchase any of the lower models, you can upgrade them by purchasing the desired option from Plantronics. Such as the Ear Cups, they will cost $49.99 for another pair, an additional/replacement MIC and various cables are also available to purchase from Plantronics.