Lately I've been thinking about investing in a gaming headset and a Scuf controller, but will more than likely only buy one for now. I know both have great upsides, but I'm wondering what everyone's thoughts are on which item will be more advantageous. Also any headset recommendations would help a ton. I've looked through plenty of reviews on Brand A/Brand B but it's tough to discern the unbiased reviews from company fanboys. Thanks!

I'd get a scuf controller first because of the paddles, hair triggers, all that stuff. That will help you get better while you save up for the headset.

I would argue that a headset is more essential than a third party controller. While a controller may allow you to perform actions that you couldn't normally, a headset will almost always be advantageous. Not just footsteps, but gun fire or explosions. No matter how good your controller is, you are at a disadvantage if you don't hear someone.

As for a specific headset, I use TB X11s. Certainly not the top of the line, but really good for a $60 headset. I noticed an improvement immediately.

Like Doug I use Turtle Beach X11's I've had mine since I started playing MW2 really and they have served me well. Not the top of the line headset that alot of people would opt for but for a £60 price tag I wouldn't pass them up.

i would say a headset, i got astro a40's which are really good. but for that price you could get the tb x11 and a scuff controller. so up to you. i wouldnt go with a headset, i mean the advantages of a controller are minimal compared to beeing able to soundwhore.

I would get a headset before a controller. Enhancing your senses give you more of an advantage than a controller

Headset all the way. I've got the Tritton AX 720s which I love.

I originally had the PX21s but something about turle beaches and how they last annoys me(i've got 3-4 buddies who have all said they have good sound quality but are poor quality in general and break(mine did and I babied them)

The controller truly improve skill like something involving your sensory skills.

Hell my current controller, The R2(back right trigger) is basically shot same with L2 from using them so much,my left analog stick barely clicks anymore and it will stick in place and ill just move randomly. But I still perform well(probably because I'm use to it)

I'd vote headset.

Headset. Sennheiser PC350's. Or you could be cheap about it and buy Turtle Beaches (which I don't recommend doing).

I probably stand on a different side of this topic, as I play PS3 and the trigger is just a click R1 button, not a full trigger. This means I tend to lean towards the headset side. Even though you have a headset, it doesn't mean you will improve drastically immediately. It's more of a slow progression of improvement as you learn to listen out for important things, like silenced gun fire, footstep and explosions.

I have Turtle Beach PX-21's right now, but the build quality on the oscillating joints is less then perfect and I have already had to duct-tape them onto the head band.

The sound controller on the PX-21 allows you to adjust volume of the game and chat, so you can mute people by turning the chat dial down only and not having to physically mute everyone in-game. It also has an Expander, Bass Control and compatibility with the Xbox 360 (It's designed for the PS3).

Sorry I couldn't provide more info on the controller.

All helpful info here, thanks guys. From what I'm seeing, the Tritton AX720's seem like the best bang for the buck right now.

Like everyone else said, headset first for sure. Controller won't really show improvement until you're used to it, headset will give almost immediate improvement.

If you want the best bang for your buck, try and get an Astro Mixamp off ebay. Should be able to get one for £60-100 second hand. Then pick up a decent PC headset, or use what I have, Turtle Beach HPX1s. I've had Astro's (hence I have the Mixamp), Trtton's, PX21, X11s and SteelSeries Siberia's, the only thing that comes close to my setup now, is the SteelSeries with the Mixamp.

My setup would cost £150 maximum, and it is the best setup you can get. Ask anybody who has tried it.

HPX1's are the Turtle Beach tournament edition headset, they have been discontinued, but you can still get them off ebay for around £35-50.

Headset for sure.