It does use the power socket. So, you can't charge and listen to headphone at the same time. Also, you can't listen to headphones or charge it while linked to the GameCube.
Maybe someone has made a pass through adapter to get around this.
Although I got my official headphones with the GBAsp plug from Nintendo, you can also get an adaptor that allows you to use your own headphones. Checkout GameStop.com or eBay.com.
Edited by - Luigison on 7/22/2003 6:54:17 PM