Top Surround Sound Headphones
This is a comprehensive list of the top surround sound headphones on the market right now! If you have been on the hunt for a pair of surround sound headphones to use for gaming purposes or for watching movies, then you have come to the right place. If you are someone who loves gaming then you can definitely appreciate a good pair of Surround sound headphones that allow you to hear the enemy gunshots from all directions and also the exact location. This clarity in sound is also great for the Movie lovers’.
The best part; At the end of the article, I’ll show you in detail, what are the most important specifications you need to look out for when choosing Surround Sound Headphones that will best suit your particular needs. Thanks to technology advancement, these days you can get a decent pair of Surround sound headphones that offer great sound quality, reliable microphone, and comfortable design at an affordable price. But, for now, let us look at a Rundown of Our Picks of the Best 7.1 Surround Sound Headphones.
Factors to Consider When Buying Surround Sound Headphones
The Microphone
Surround sound headphones come with different types of dedicated microphones. Where they differ is that there are some that are detachable, others have Noise cancelling features and some are unidirectional or Omnidirectional. You choice of the type of headphone microphone will generally depend on your daily habits and what you intend to use them for.
Comfort
When it come to comfort what you need to consider are things like, how long do you normally wear your headphones? What activities do you use headphones for? example, watching movies, taking calls, listening to your favorite sound tracks .
Do you need room to move around? for example If you want to use the headphones to watch a movie, then wireless surround sound headphones would be a great choice. You also want to examine the Material used inside the ear cups and ensure they are comfortable to wear for long periods of time without sweating and also durable.
Wireless Vs Wired headphones
These days you have the option of buying a wireless or wired surround Sound headphones. If you are using the Surround Sound headphones as a gaming headset in front of your computer for example , then you don’t need to really compromise money for a more expensive Wireless headset, a Great wired headset will definitely get the job done.
True Vs Virtual Surround Sound
The choice between of a True Surround sound headphone and the Virtual Surround sound headphones will depend on the overall listening experience that you are aiming for. Although, the Virtual Surround sound Headphones tend to have good solid built than their counterparts and are relatively cheaper they can still get the job done. But, If you are a gamer you may want to listen to sound in all directions and know the exact location of the shooter, then in this case True Surround sound Headsets are the better choice.
1. HyperX Cloud Alpha S – Best Overall Gaming Headset
The HyperX cloud Revolver S is a premium Built gaming headset that is durable and very comfortable to wear for long periods of time. With a clear noise cancelling microphone and 7.1 surround sound this headset is ideal for PC and Console gamers.
The major improvement with the HyperX cloud Alpha S compared to its predecessor the Revolver is the addition of Dolby 7.1 virtual surround sound and that they are way more comfortable. These headsets come with a sturdy built that is meant to last all those many gaming sessions. With an over the ear design that gives it a stylish look which is captivating to the eyes there is a thin steel metal headband that is not adjustable but rests on your head comfortably.
Black is majorly the overall colour and ear cups are made of thick plastic and wrapped with leather pads that feature a unique white lace that matches the logo design. Although these are large headphones they give room to your ears and are comfortable to wear, you will barely feel them on. The headband is easy to adjust until you get that sweet spot and they are surprisingly comfortable even for a smaller head.
When it comes to the overall audio performance of these headsets, let say that they were designed with an audio purist in mind. They come with 50mm good quality drivers to ensure amazing sound quality that is accurate and precise. This is made evident because the audio performance of the HyperX cloud Alpha S is incredible. You get to hear crisp and clean sounds with elevated highs, mids and lows with the addition of 3 preset EQ options to play around with. Switching to the 7.1 surround sound option is as simple with a click of a button.
The microphone is detachable so it can be removed when not in use and with bendable plastic material. We did find that positioning the microphone close to the mouth is a little bit of a hustle, But the sound fuzziness was minimal and the audio clarity to other team players so that is a plus.
The HyperX cloud s comes with a detachable long braided 3.5mm and USB cable snakes which add to its versatility of being compatible to use for PC, console and also mobile devices. Included is the Dolby surround dongle that can be connected to the headphone via that 3.5mm cable and come with 2 buttons that enable you to easily switch to 7.1 surround sound or mute the microphone without any complicated software. These are sturdily built to last gaming headsets that are both stylish and comfortable to wear.
If you are looking for a durable yet very comfortable gaming headset that features 7.1 Virtual surround sound and is versatile enough to be used with PC, console and Mobile devices, then get the HyperX cloud S.
SteelSeries Arctis 7s – Best Wireless Gaming Headset
The Steel Series Arctis 7s offers you amazing sound quality with long a lasting battery and the convenience of having a wireless headset. This can be placed in the category of luxury headsets for gaming and is compatible to use for mobile devices as well as a Play station..
The Steel Series Arctis 7s is a great improvement compared to the Steel Series Pro from the same company. We found the overall look of these headphones giving that expensive high-end vibe and so you will feel confident walking around with them in public. The overall design of these headsets is sturdy with a matte black finish and a customizable adjustable band that you can change the design to fit your individual style. Check out here! The headband can be adjusted to get that tight fitting and are comfortable enough to wear even with large glasses.
The ear cups have been ergonomically designed to fit right on top of your ears and they are covered with a silk cloth which gives it a soft touch. These Ear Cups can turn 90 degrees to give you more flexibility during storage. There is a downside if you have a larger head or a set of lush hair on your head then these might be too tight. The headsets also do feel a little bit bulky on the ears but that is mainly due to the fact that they carry a battery pack on.
You get impressive surround sound that has a directional punch to it, is clear and vibrant. The audio profiles can be customized using the EQ Steel Series Software to even sound more amazing. This software does require setup and registering to your computer which is a bit of hustle but it does give room for you to enjoy the headphone surround sound feature.
You do get a retractable noise cancelling onboard microphone that stays on always and you can switch it off with a button located on the side of the ear cups. The mic does have a red LED light to indicate when it is off which we find is a plus. The headset does go off automatically when not in use but you will need to put them back on when you want to use them.
The connection of the headset is via an included USB transmitter which provides a long signal range. The wireless signal range is quite impressive and a long lasting battery that will give you plenty of play time before another charging session.
Get the Steel Series Arctis 7s if you are looking for a gaming headset that is premium and can be used for listening to music, watching movies and gaming with no cable management hustles. You will get enjoy amazing audio quality, impressive wireless range and a long-lasting battery which is close to 20hrs playing time.
Corsair Void RGB Elite – Best Budget and for Home Theater
The Corsair Void RGB Elite is an affordable comfortable pair of wireless headphones with surround sound audio, a clear flexible onboard microphone and a remarkably Bluetooth wide range of up to 40 ft.
Corsair Void RGB Elite wireless pro is from a company that is well known for the production of PC components. The overall design of Corsair Void RGB Elite is an acquired taste for different people. They do have a stylish look to them and the plastic built makes them lightweight. We found that outer plastic shell makes these headphones look cheap and the glossy sides can get fingerprints overtime, but underneath is a metallic frame which feels very sturdy. Now, considering the price point, we cannot complain about either.
You do get a thick plastic headband that is expandable to accommodate the shape of your head. The ear cups are large enough to give your ears room to breathe and thick padding that makes them very comfortable. The downside, however, is that they don’t offer a tight snug fitting and we found these headsets slipping at times, which can be annoying if you have a smaller head.
When it comes down to the audio performance the Corsair void wireless pro offers great sound quality for listening to music, watching movies and even for gaming. We found the bass a bit low but this can be easily adjusted with the software, which is fairly easy. The EQ profiles were a bit limited but you do get the option of accessing the 7.1 surround sound inside the utility engine, which is awesome.
The control options are on the side ear cups, you get buttons and dial to change the EQ profiles, adjust the volume and mute the microphone. You do get noise cancelling onboard microphone that gives quality audio and is flexible enough to be shaped how you like. Another thing that we do like is the lighting option on the onboard microphone which lights up when the Mic is offline.
The main attraction point that I found with these headsets is the RGB lighting. If you have other Corsair products you can set them to alternate the RGB lights simultaneously. This, however, will drain the battery life and cause you to keep charging these headsets so our suggestion is that you leave them off if you want the battery life to last.
The battery life is another challenge that we found with these headsets (this beats having a wireless headset if you have to keep charging regularly) for wireless headsets with longer lasting battery life we recommend the Steel Series Arctis 7.
With the Corsair Void RGB Elite you get a comfortable pair of wireless gaming headset with superb sound quality and wide wireless range, a good microphone to communicate during your gaming sessions all with a value for your money.
SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless – Best for Hard-core Audiophiles Gamers
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless features impressive hardware, customizable sound quality and durable built design with versatile connections on wireless gaming headphones. This is by far one of the best gaming headsets on the market right now.
The steel series pro wireless headsets feature an all-black design with large oval ear cups and a ski-goggle inspired designed headband strap. We find the all-black design with no RGB lighting very favourable since we all know that the lighting does tend to drain the batteries over time. If you really a diehard fan of customization with RGB lighting you can check out the wired set from the same company, the steel series pro wired. These feature oblong-shaped ear cups with breathable air weave material which gives them a soft feeling and gives room for your ears to breath.
The headband on these headsets is adjustable to give you desired comfort. One of the downside to this Velcro fastener is that it gives you little room for adjustment and you might find them to be a bit snug if you have a larger head or a head full of hair.
These wireless headsets do seem a bit bulky when you first wear them compared to the wired ones, but you need to remember that they do pack battery on one ear cup. Overall, these headphones are very comfortable and once you tweak them and that sweet spot and you will barely feel them on your ears.
This by far is no doubt the best sounding gaming headsets because of the built-in high-fidelity sound drivers. Steel series did not spare any details on the hardware and there is an equalizer for selecting frequencies among presets and for customizing the audio.
The sound range frequencies of the drivers double that of other gaming headsets and are astonishing how you can notice the clear separation of the highs, mids and lows. The other great thing about these headsets is that you get the quality sound and at the same time wide frequency range with not audio lagging, which is a plus for wireless headphones.
The SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless comes with a versatile set of connections, you can connect with Bluetooth, USB or a 3.5 mm cable. You get a retractable onboard microphone that sounds natural and balanced. It comes with a USB wireless transmitter with a prominent dial and an OLED screen to help navigate the User Interface. You also get an audio cable and a mobile adapter in the packaging.
The headphones battery offers you up to 10 hours playtime plus you have the convenience of swapping batteries. This is made possible by the transmitter which houses the spare battery and also acts as a charger and so you don’t have to worry about running out of juice.
The headsets are compatible with PS4 and PC but if you want wireless chat on your PS4 you will need to connect the system via optical and USB port. A note for the Xbox users is that to connect to the wireless transmitter you will need to use optical connection but it does not support Xbox chat.
If you are on the hunt for a 7.1 surround sound gaming headset that will give your amazing quality audio with a transmitter that is customizable and impressive high-end hardware, then get the Steel Series Pro Wireless. It is on the expensive but it does offer you value for your money.
Sennheiser Audio GSP 350
The Sennheiser Audio GSP 350 is a plush, stylish looking 7.1 surround sound headphones that focus on good audio output, comfort and Microphone quality for the PC gamers.
The headset features large open-ear cups, a non- detachable boom mic, a headband that is shelled in flexible plastic and a matte finish. This matte stylish finish makes them look plush and the black- and red Sennheiser 373D signature makes them a fashionable pair. Velvet memory foam wraps the earcups to give you that extra comfort plus the plastic design is makes the headphones lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The fact that they have an open-end design, they give room for ears to breath. The downside to this is that they do let out audio sound to the surroundings. So if they are not the ideal pair to carry and listen to music in public.
When it comes to performance, the Sennheiser GSP 350 gives out excellent 7.1 surround sound and is perfect for audiophiles who are also PC gamers. The other thing that we liked about this gaming headset is how simple it is to toggle between the stereo and the 7.1 surround sound. This can be done by pressing a button on the cable dongle, which has LED lights to indicate when it on stereo mode (red) and 7.1 surround sound (white). There is an included companion app that is also simple to use, where you only get to choose between 3 EQ presets; Music, Esports and Gaming. For plush headphones in this price point, we have to say that we are a bit disappointed with the EQ options, more customization would have been better.
The software also toggles the microphone’s noise cancelling option and sidetone for mic monitoring. The amazing sound clarity of the 7.1 Dolby surround sound will make every game sound fuller, which will allow you to pinpoint exactly where the enemy blaster fire is coming from and other explosions come to life. You get a boom mic that is not detachable but is flexible. To turn off the mic is simple, just pushing it upwards and a metallic click will let you know when it is muted. There is good voice clarity with the mic but it does get a bit nasally sometimes and a bit compressed, where you can hear the P’ and t’ sound. Overall, the Mic does perform well when gaming.
You get a rubberized long cable and headphone 2.5 mm jack with a terminator that is a female Micro- USB. We do understand that this headset was built with a specific user niche in mind, the PC Microsoft gamers, but we honestly would have liked if a 3.5 mm jack included making it compatible with other devices. There is a lack of software compatibility if you connect the USB to other devices and this removes the 7.1 surround sound and EQ settings. There is an option of adding an adapter cable and that will allow you to use it with consoles.
Get the Sennheiser Audio GSP 350 if you want a very comfortable headset that offers amazing surround sound that is well- balanced and is perfect for someone who is PC gamer and has no need to switch between devices. If you do find the price of these headphones to be a bit on the high-end, you have the alternative of checking out the next option the Logitech G933, which is also wireless and although it is a bit on the bulky side, it does have a better mic, and quality built and is $100 less.
Logitech G933 Artemis Spectrum – Best Budget Wireless Gaming Headset
Logitech G933 Artemis Spectrum Wireless gaming headsets that are extremely comfortable provide a reasonable range and amazing sound quality at a good price point.
The overall design is attractive and stylish, although it stands out when wearing them as gaming headsets. You get a large plastic headband that is engraved with lines and covered with cloth foam. The gaming headsets are available in black and white, with a matte finish that is covered in durable plastic, well- constructed built and soft cloth foam. They come in an over the ear design with large ear cups that swivel to give extra comfort when resting on your shoulders. They feature magnetic side panels that house the USB Dongle and replaceable battery.
Our concern with these magnetic side panels is that they keep falling off and this can get quite annoying. They also, unfortunately, do not provide the best at noise isolation due to the over-ear design and so if you do decide to use them in public or noisy environment be ready for sound leakage to and from your surroundings. Overall, Logitech G933 Artemis Spectrum is a comfortable pair of headsets and you can wear them for long hours without any issues. The overall built makes them a bit bulky but this doesn’t affect the comfort in any way.
The sound quality is impressive which makes them good for gaming and also for listening to music. They are surround sound headsets with both DTS and Dolby virtual surround sound. If by any chance you are an audiophile gamer and want headsets that can serve for both music and gaming, then I suggest that you check out the Steel Series Arctis 7 which sound way better according to our experiments. We got to hear the gunshots and the enemies’ footstep when playing Horizon zen with clarity. Bass response is excellent and with a lot of punch.
The other thing that makes these headsets attractive to gamers is that the sound quality of the non-detachable microphone included is impressive. It looks small but it is surprisingly very clear and can be muted by easily pushing it to the back, making it great for discord and game chat. There is full RGB lighting of the backside of each ear cups and you get to change the sound profiles with Logitech software. This software is available to download for free on the Logitech website and you can use the software to adjust the surround sound settings, the RGB lighting and EQ profiles.
Charging the headset can be done using a Micro-USB port and you get wired operations using the 3.5 mm jack. It comes with 3 additional cables and this makes it compatible to be used with consoles, mobile devices, TV and there is a USB cable included for charging. The headphones connect wirelessly to a PC with a 20m range that is not distorted when walking to an adjacent room.
You get to enjoy a maximum battery life of 12 hrs when not using the RGB lighting and 8 hrs using the RGB lighting. I get that the RGB lighting was meant for customization with other Logitech devices where you can alternate lights, but the funny bit Is that if you are the one using the headsets when gaming you really can see the headsets at the back. I do recommend that because you want the battery life to last longer for these wireless headphones, leave them off. There are customizable buttons on the back of the ear cups as well and volume dial which does take time to get used to.
The Logitech G933 Artemis Spectrum is meant for games who enjoy clear sound vocals and expansive sound audio, with a microphone that is clear on a wireless headset. They do come at an affordable price point and despite the fact that the plasticky built does make the look no so high-end, overall they are great gaming headset with impressive features.
Razer Man ‘O’ War – Rich Sounding Wireless Gaming Headset
The Razer Man ‘o’ war are decent wireless gaming headsets with a clear microphone, strong wireless signal, rich audio and a comfortable fit.
Features and Design
The overall built of the Razer Man ‘o’ war is plastic with a matte black finish to it which makes it stylish. The majority of the headband is thin plastic, hollow not very flexible. We do understand that plastic does make these gaming headsets lightweight but it makes us question the durability of the headphones over time, especially if you are not a very careful person when it comes to handling headphones in general.
We wish that the RGB lighting it offers would have been traded for a more firm and solid metallic headband. The Man ‘O’ war headsets are very comfortable to wear on any head size since the headband is adjustable. The ear cups also swivel to give comfort when wearing on the shoulders. There is a soft leather pad on each earcup to give you comfort when wearing them. The breathing space with the ear cups allows you room even If you are someone who wears glasses which I found is a plus. The leather pads to add to the overall comfort and larges ear cups give ample room, but the downside is leather material worn for a long period make ears sweaty and there is less noise isolation due to over-ear design.
Audio Performance
The overall sound quality of the Man ‘O’ war is impressive, the bass is okay and the addition of the synapse software to customize the EQ profiles does take it to another level. The soundstage is good for a gaming headset but the quality does not come close to the Logitech G933 which we found to give more clarity louder highs and lows with the bass pronounced as opposed to the Man ‘O’ war.
The sound direction of the Razer Man ‘O’ war is surprisingly accurate and we enjoyed the kick boost we got from them while playing call of duty. The synapse software has familiar presets which make it easy to use and customize the sound profile. Where this headset shines is the retractable onboard microphone which is clear and with no fuzziness, this is impressive for a headset in this price range. The microphone can also be muted by pushing the volume wheels inside and LED lights to indicate when it off.
Connectivity and Accessories
The built-in controls are easy and obvious, the right ear cups house the volume dial for the headphones and wireless USB dongle and the left ear cups the power button, volume dial to mute the mic and USB charging port.
The Razer Man ‘o’ war is great gaming headsets, they don’t match the Logitech G933 when it comes to the built quality and sound but they do have their impressive aspects. You get a fantastic microphone; customizable EQ profiles, long lasting battery and a pair of comfortable headphones with 7.1 surround sound.
Turtle Beach Elite Pro – Best Headset for Developers
The Turtle Beach Elite Pro gaming headsets offer fantastic sound quality and give amazing comfortable fitting with durable built quality.
The design of the gaming headsets features a black metallic headband, a matte plastic finishing on the adjustable part of the headband and ear cups. We like that it comes matte finish and so can be sure that no fingerprint marks will be left on it over time and make these look messy. You get leather covering memory foam that is also layered with secondary padding and large over the ear pads.
These by far are the most comfortable gaming headsets available and they were majorly built for consumers who want to wear gaming headsets for long periods of times. Since the ear cups have that layer of cushion spongy foam, they tend to fit tight and snug and have the ability to block out external noise so you can concentrate on your gaming without disturbance. The other thing that we liked about these headphones is the glasses relief system if you are one who wears glasses you will love this feature which allows you to create a small channel for your glasses to fit.
The Turtle Elite pro does offer amazing sound quality and there is a clear definition to the sound frequencies, and you will enjoy using it for gaming as the sound is crispy with a clear punch to it. The lack of EQ Presets is a disappointing and the fact that you have to incur another cost to get a T.A.C to be able to enjoy the best audio customization is ridiculous. If you decide to purchase these headsets, to enhance the audio quality we recommend that you purchase the Elite Pro Tactical controller alongside these headphones to save on money. You get a boom Mic that is detachable and flexible to mould however you like. This makes it easy to upgrade to a noise cancelling mic if you need one. A point to note here is that the microphone is very sensitive and you may want to not put it so close to your mouth.
There is an inline control which is also replaceable in case you have to in future. The headset comes with a 3.5mm jack cable which you can use to plug to PS4 and even mobile devices. The downside here is that to use it to connect to PC you will require an adapter. The other major downside to the Turtle beach elite Pro is that it comes with very limited accessories, and at its price point it is kind of disappointing.
The major plus with the Turtle Beach Elite Pro is that they are extremely comfortable and give that amazing sound quality despite not having EQ Presets. If you are on the hunt for a headset that you can use for only gaming with a clear audible Mic and not for music purposes, then this is still a great option to consider.
Astro A50 Wireless Headsets + Base Station- Best for Console-Centric Gamers
The Astro A50 is light, comfortable wireless headsets that offer quality soundstage for any gamer and an attractive feature of wireless charging which makes it ready to go and sets it apart from other gaming headsets.
The Astro A50 wireless features large rounded rectangular over-ear cups mounted on a plastic shell. They do have metallic beams but the headphones are made entirely of plastic. There is soft memory-like foam that covers the ear cups and the headband and they come in 2 colour schemes. Black, with blue accents that are compatible with PC, Mac and PS4. Then you have the black, with green or grey accents which are compatible with PC, Mac and Xbox. If you do decide to purchase one of these headsets and still want compatibility, you don’t have to buy another headset, just purchase another base station separately. They are a comfortable pair of headsets with a large closed-back design which makes the ear sit in between the foam cushioning.
Although they look bulky, they tend to rest very easily on the ears and not on your head. The headband can also be adjusted to fit any head size but you need to tweak it for a while to find the sweet spot or else they might fall off. If you are one who wears glasses, unfortunately, they will tend to press on against the frame but overall you can comfortably wear them for long hours with no discomfort.
The headsets sound great and can get very loud and still maintain clarity with emphasis on the highs and mids and deep bass. The gaming audio is excellent and there is wonderful directional sound which we experienced when playing shadow warrior 2, the bass was high and voices were not distorted. They do give a well-balanced clear sound overall. The EQ settings are accessible on the sliding switch of the right ear cups with 3 options. Although the gaming option was great, we did not notice any significant difference when it came to the theatre mode.
You do have the option of making individual customization to the EQ settings when the Astro A50 is connected to the PC using the free Astro command centre software. There is a boom mic that is non-detachable and is pushed back to mute. We found this an okay feature because if you are in the middle of a game and someone walks in, you can just push the mic up and not distract your teammates with background noise. There is some sound clarity with the microphone, but we were not very impressed considering the price range of these gaming headsets we expected better performance.
The headsets come with a base station that charges the headsets wirelessly and can also be plugged to your PC, with the 2 available USB cables. You can charge the headset through the Micro-USB port or the base station. This is done by aligning the charging contacts on the base of the ear cups to the magnets on the base station. We did find this to be a nice touch as the headsets are easy to charge and setup is easy to follow with the guide included. The downside to completely wireless headphones except the USB cable is that it limits the use of mobile devices and other gaming devices.
With a stylish matte look to them plus the attractive convenience of wireless charging, comfortable fit and excellent sound quality for gaming or listening to music. The Astro A50 wireless headset + Base station is no doubt one of the best gaming headsets on the market for someone with big pockets. These do come in the same price range as the Steel series Actics 7 which in our opinion have a sturdy build and offer similar features with way better sound quality. There are also other cheaper options such as the Logitech G933 which has a better mic is wireless and similar sound output. The final decision depending on your pocket capacity and individual tastes.
This is a great soundbar from one of world giant quality products manufacturer from the midrange category so you can expect durability and quality parts which gives value for your money.
HyperX Cloud Revolver S – Best Overall Gaming Headset
The HyperX cloud Revolver S is a premium Built gaming headset that is durable and very comfortable to wear for long periods of time. With a clear noise cancelling microphone and 7.1 surround sound this headset is ideal for PC and Console gamers.
Sound quality is great for games and music, noise cancellation is good, and it’s a very comfortable headset, even with glasses on. It is a little bit heavy but not bad. However, for the price, I expected the mic quality to be much better than it is. Really disappointing because it’s a great headset and I might consider returning it just for that reason, but it’s still usable. Shipping also took more than a week which I wouldn’t have minded if it wasn’t labeled prime.
Turns out windows set the mic to 8000Hz, changed it to 48000Hz and the quality is much better. I did buy this for $110 so a little disappointed that I paid so much more than the current list price, but what can you do.
I am happy with the product function but I am not happy with how it says Xbox compatible. It does work but only via the 3.5 mm Jack on the controllers and you have to go through the settings in the system to mute and adjust the game audio. The Dolby Atmos features would be amazing if they worked for the Xbox. Says to download a app you set it up for a free seven days and no difference and still can’t use the adapter for the USB. But all in all its a good quality headset of you don’t care about the “souround sound”. I can hear all steps and good quality music with just the headphone jack.
ASUS ROG STRIX FUSION WIRELESS Gaming Headset – Best For PC And PlayStation 4 (PS4)
Asus ROG Strix Fusion gaming headset has a comfortable fit plus great sound quality and gives you a wide wireless range without lagging all at an affordable price point.
The Asus ROG Strix fusion wireless feature angular shaped large ear cups that have bold black and orange colour scheme with a matte black finish and orange circular pattern-like owl eyes with orange colour on the inside the ear cups. The owl design does make these headphones stand out is not the cup of tea for everyone but I find it makes the headsets unique in a way. The general built of the headset is plastic and sturdy.
The ear cups and headband are covered with leatherette material memory foam that is soft to the touch and does provide comfort when wearing them. The downside is that the leather padding does tend to get warmer when using the headsets for a long period of time. When it comes to comfort the Asus ROG Strix wireless can accommodate small as well as larger head sizes. The headband is not adjustable as it is common with most headphones on the market, instead, it just snaps in position automatically. These particular features I find to be very convenient especially if you share the headsets with a coworker or spouse, now you don’t have to worry about tweaking it to fit every time.
The sound quality of these wireless headsets is impressive with more emphasis on the bass response. There was a huge soundstage when I was gaming and I could hear the enemy’s footsteps with clarity and the direct sound was also quite accurate. The sonic studio software does give you more room to customize the EQ profiles and get more quality sound and enable the 7.1 surround sound option.
The other thing that I liked about these headsets is that wireless range was up to 15 with no lagging, this comes in handy especially if you have to step away for a minute while still conversing with game mates. You do get a battery playtime of maximum 10 hrs with these and the good thing is that these do not feature RGB lighting like its wired counterpart, which is a good trade-off because that tends to reduce battery life.
The left ear cups house 4 buttons which allow you to adjust the sound volume, mute the microphone and power on the headsets. Now, the challenge with the design (which puzzled us!) is that line up of the control buttons, which when you wear the headphones you can get confused about which button to press. We wish they were separated like some buttons on upwards side and some lower or a volume wheel on the base of the headsets. They also don’t work when the 3.5 mm cable is used for PS4, which means you will have to adjust the volume manually when playing console. Anyway, we are not surprised since these are the side effects of low-end type of headsets. On the Right side, you get the detachable boom mic, a USB charging port and 3.5 mm connection.
Asus ROG Strix Fusion wireless is no doubt great wireless headset considering the price point and the feature aspects it offers. You get 7.1 surround sound, EQ customization, Comfortable fit, a decent mic and noise cancellation capabilities. When you are shopping for the best surround sound headphones for you these are some of the things you need to remember!
Kingston HyperX Cloud II – Gaming Headset
At the top of our list is the Kingston HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset! Selling for just under 100 bucks, the Cloud II is quite affordable considering what you get for your money. The build itself feels well thought through and even perhaps a bit over the top, with its extra padding on the inside and soft foam covers.
But I say – the more the merrier! A matching carry bag made of soft mesh fabric is included with the HyperX Cloud II. While the carry bag adds a bit of style, it also prevents your headset from being damaged inside your backpack while you’re traveling from the bedroom to wherever the next LAN is. In the package, there are two sets of ear cups (perfect for when your first pair starts feeling worn out).
The first set is a velour, for when you want a more luxurious and comfortable feel. The second set is traditional leatherette. Even though the style of these surround sound headphones is great – something even better about it is the soundcard that it comes with.
The HyperX Cloud II plugs in via USB for PC and PS4 and has built-in DSP processing to amplify the audio as well as your voice. Something else that is worth mentioning is the detachable cardioid microphone and windscreen. The cardioid polar pattern of the microphone makes it good to use even in noisy environments since it cancels sound coming from the rear of the mic. This is very useful! The HyperX Cloud II surround sound headphones has truly earned its place as the number 1 champion on our top ten list.
It is a favorite among many, and with high quality 7.1 virtual surround sound, the HyperX Cloud II makes for the optimal headset when looking for something to suit all your needs. Whether it be design, audio quality, or comfort, the HyperX Cloud II ticks all of the boxes.
As previously mentioned, the design of the HyperX Cloud II headset is stylish and modern, all while being user-friendly. The 100% memory foam ear cushions and padded leatherette headband keeps you comfy while the solid aluminum frame makes this a rugged and durable headphone for everyday use. The ear cup design is a closed one, and pro-gaming optimized, which is helpful in blocking out outside noise and distractions to keep you focused throughout the game.
The audio quality of the HyperX Cloud II backs up why we chose this headset to be our top pick and can be compared to more expensive headsets out there. The bass sounds great and does not lack in the way you would expect from budget gaming headsets. The Cloud II can be used with either the USB or the 3.5mm output. However, if your intended use is PC, I strongly recommend using the USB DAC sound card. The HyperX Cloud II handles all processing itself – and is virtual 7.1 surround sound capable. When used, the sound is bigger and very loud, with boosts in both the low end and in the highs to really put emphasis on game explosions and fight scene sounds. Without the sound card, it functions well as a standard stereo headset.
Optimized for pro gaming, the HyperX Cloud II is USB-powered for PC and Mac as well as 3.5mm stereo-compatible for PS4, PS4 Pro, Xbox One S, mobile devices as well as VR systems.
SteelSeries Arctis 7 – Lossless Wireless Gaming Headset
Steelseries has done it again with another great quality gaming headset. Placing second on our list is the SteelSeries Arctis 7 wireless surround sound gaming headset. Besides its wireless connectivity, one of its key features is the bidirectional microphone. Discord-certified, the mic is recognized as being one of the best, providing excellent frequency response as well as good noise cancellation. All in all, it is everything you need in a good gaming microphone. Whether you’re using it for gaming, teaching classes online, or for Zoom meets – the mic will make your voice sound clear as day.
It is not only the mic that makes this headset multifunctional but the clean design of it as well. Minimalistic and sleek looking, it comes in either white or black. The SteelSeries Arctis 7 wins our best premium award. For those wanting quality and style, and don’t mind paying a little under 150 bucks, this makes for an excellent upgrade from your tired old headphones. Invest a little extra and you get so much more. I personally wouldn’t mind showing up to my next Zoom meeting with this stylish headset. The SteelSeries Artics 7 provides a premium steel headband with ski goggle elastic fabric, distributing weight evenly while eliminating pressure points to keep you comfortable throughout the entire day. The air-wave ear cushions keep your ears cool while providing comfort and quality you could only dream of.
The Artics 7 emphasizes reproducing those subtle but important sounds to help keep you on your feet and in the game. Lossless wireless audio without latency, this Bluetooth headset has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, making it the ultimate game companion for those wanting an ultra-clear audio experience. The SteelSeries Engine 3 lets you customize the audio settings in different ways. For example, switching from stereo to 7.1 surround sound, adjusting the output level at different frequencies, or setting the dynamic audio range.
The SteelSeries Artics 7 is compatible with PC and Mac, as well as PS4, Xbox One, and VR systems. The DTS Headphone X 7.1 surround sound is available for Windows 7-10 only.
Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Premium Wireless Surround Sound Headphones
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 is a multi-purpose headset. Not only does it allow for chatting to friends while gaming but, through using the Turtle Beach audio hub app, you can take calls or even play music – all while gaming. Cool, right? The mic itself is able to be pushed up when you’re not speaking, doing so automatically mutes the mic. This comes in really handy and saves you from ending up in awkward situations where you forgot to turn your mic off. Another great thing about the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 is that its battery lasts for up to 10 hours! Whether wearing the headset to work, while ticking off your household chores, or while gaming – the Stealth 700 offers a whole day of 100% wireless joy. The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 are solid wireless surround sound headphones that you can purchase for just under 150 dollars. Though the battery time is impressive, it does last fewer hours than the previous Turtle Beach 600 headset. This only really plays a part if you are unable to charge your headset after 10 hours. In today’s world, we are almost always close to an outlet so this is rarely going to be an issue.
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 has premium synthetic leather-wrapped ear cushions, with a special ProSpecs design, which provides extra comfort explicitly while gaming and wearing glasses. A smart move when it comes to the design of the headset is the rubber field Turtle Beach branding on top. It gives a slightly different experience without that glossy feel when holding the headset. The size of the headband itself is also adjustable, making it functional for all head sizes. The ear cushions are comfortable as well as snug and will keep you from overheating during long gaming sessions. Not only does it provide comfort and practicality, but it also has 7.1 surround sound, together with active noise cancellation, to help you stay fully focused.
Besides having a great deal of additional EQ presets, the Stealth 700 has lots to offer with the incorporation of 7.1 virtual surround sound, active noise cancellation, and Turtle Beach’s own Superhuman Hearing Technology – which can be favorable to used when sound cues are key to succeed in the game. The 50mm cups produce a wide sound, with a great low end as well as treble. You can scroll through the different game audio presets until you are happy with the EQ settings. It really allows you to personalize the sound. The omnidirectional microphone produces good results with good voice amplification.
The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 has 100% wireless connectivity as mentioned earlier, though you can also use an optical jack to utilize the Dynamic Chat Boost features, as well as independent game/chat volume control on PS4 consoles. The Stealth 700 is compatible with Windows/macOS or iOS/Android apps through the Ear Force Audio Hub.
HyperX Cloud Alpha S – PC Gaming Headset
At almost 130 dollars, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S surround sound headphones provide enhanced in-game audio, with 3-level bass-adjustment sliders for optimal control. This gaming headset not only provides immersive 7.1 surround sound but also minimal distortion and great overall level control for audio. Its durable and comfortable design, paired with a detachable microphone, makes for easy everyday use for gaming or music listening, on PC and PS4. This is a great headset because of its cool and attractive design, its great sound quality at a good price, as well as how comfortable it is. HyperX did not hold back with the memory foam padding. All the basics, but exceptionally delivered.
Available in 3 different color choices: black, black and blue, and black and red. The ear cups as well as headband are padded with memory foam, just like the previous Cloud 1 and 2, but the Alpha S is a bit on the lighter side compared to the predecessors, thanks to its new aluminum frame. If the high level of comfort you get with the HyperX Cloud Alpha S is not enough, they are also very well-made and long-lasting. Worth noting is that they are a bit on the warmer side, with the signature HyperX leatherette contact points around your ears.
Compared to the Cloud Stinger, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S has a more extensive frequency response and advanced audio controls. The low end has a real boost, so if you are looking for something more neutral in terms of frequency response this one is not for you (though I think most of us enjoy pumped-up bass.) It works in unison with the mids and highs, which provides the clarity needed and together form a really well-balanced sound. The Cloud Alpha S features a dual-chamber driver system that reduces distortion at high levels and provides a clearer sound. Pair this with its 7.1 virtual surround sound and 50mm driver and you get a headset for an easily personalized sound experience, whether you are gaming or listening to music. Another plus is that the HyperX Dual Chamber Drivers allows for separate tuning of the mids, highs, and bass frequencies to provide more distinction between sounds.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S has a 3.5mm analog connection and is easily connected to a computer, console, or mobile device. There is also a dual jack extension lead for easily connecting to the front of the PC, which has in-line controls such as volume and microphone mute present on the cord. The Advanced Audio Control Mixer is compatible with PC and PS4.
Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Headphones
It’s tournament time! For just under 100 dollars, the THX Razer Kraken Tournament Edition features THX Spatial Audio, providing a 360° audio experience. It has 50mm drivers, with oval cooling gel-infused cushions providing day-long comfort and a cardioid microphone for clear communication. The Razer Kraken Tournament Edition is compatible with various platforms, making it extra user friendly.
Comfort is key with this headset, and it is optimal for those wanting an affordable alternative for marathon gaming. Though it has lots to offer – simplicity and a sleek look just isn’t one of those things. Just like previous Razer headsets, it is bulky. It is sturdy though, and comfortable, to say the least.
Design
A padded headband and cooling gel-infused ear cushions reduce heat buildup while also providing noise cancellation and sound isolation. This makes the Razer Kraken a comfortable option for long marathon gaming, as well as for short sessions at home with friends.
The gel cushions do provide some help against heat buildup, though if you want them to provide even more, placing them in your fridge for a while before wearing them is not a bad idea. The headset has a thick metal headband, which should be sturdy enough to last for ages, and the earcups seem robust enough as well as comfy with a lot of foam padding.
Besides the extensive frequency response and powerful 40mm drivers, the 360° THX Spatial Audio simulates sound above, and below you, for an extra lifelike experience. Its magnet drivers power the deepest bass, warmest mids, and clearest high frequencies.
This headset has an addition on its left side – the Bass toggle function. Moving this slider lets you EQ the bass whenever you feel it is lacking or overpowering. On the right side of the headset are two controls as well: one to enable the THX Spatial Audio, and the other one is a chat mixer. These functions are well placed and make for an easy sound personalization mid-game.
Using a 3.5mm audio jack, the Tournament Edition has cross-platform compatibility – meaning it is compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and even with your mobile devices. It also includes a second cable, with a sound card to give you access to Razer Synapse software add-ons and the THX Spatial Audio.
It also includes extra mic controls, independent of the ones accessible on the 3.5mm cable. The audio enhancer DAC connects via a USB connector and its THX Spatial Audio is available on Windows 10 64-bit only.
Corsair VOID RGB Elite Wireless Gaming Headset
For just under 100 dollars, you get this Corsair VOID RGB Elite Gaming Headset with 7.1 surround sound. At first glance, it seems to be almost identical to the Corsair Void Pro RGB, but this newer version has a little bit more to offer. It is completely wireless, with a range of up to 40 feet and 16 hours of usage time.
The frequency range is also expanded and now goes all the way up to 30kHz. Though I must admit that seems impressive, it is generally agreed that we don’t really hear audio components above 20kHz. However, increasing the range may still be a good idea, to prevent audio distortion or artifacts to sip through. Style-wise, it is a fun product. You can personalize the headset with colors and effects with the RGB lighting on each ear cup. The headset also comes with a Discord-certified omnidirectional microphone to use for chatting with your opponents.
Design
Microfiber mesh fabric and memory foam earpads provide comfort while the aluminum yokes provide durability to last a long time. As previously mentioned, the RGB lighting on each ear cup gives you a chance to personalize and design the cups as you like them. This is a very cool addition to an already interesting-looking headset.
The sound is quite warm, with a decent amount of bass depth. The mids and high could be better, but for gaming and not music purposes, they are adequate. With an expanded frequency range from 20Hz to 30kHz and high-density drivers, the Corsair Gaming Headset allows for a captivating game and audio experience, with some virtual surround sound immersion.
The surround sound only comes into effect when connected to a PC though, which is a bit of a letdown. Included with the headset is the omnidirectional mic, which easily swings down when you are wanting to use it, or up when you need it out of the way. The mic also comes with a small practical windbreak to eliminate annoying popping noises or excessive sibilance while you speak.
Connect wirelessly to your PC or PS4 using low-latency 2.4GHz wireless with the included USB adapter dongle. Plug it in and turn on the headset to pair it together easily.
Logitech G533 -Wireless Gaming Headset
The Logitech G533 Wireless Gaming Headset came out in 2017 and is one of the better wireless offerings coming from the brand… let’s check out why! At around 74 dollars, this headset features Pro-G audio drivers with X 7.1 surround sound. The wireless range is up to 15 meters, and the battery time is really good – it lasts up to 15 hours! This is a gaming headset you can use the entire day. It is your standard plastic-built gaming headset and it might be a little on the heavier side when you first hold it (12.5 oz), but the weight distributes nicely and evenly when they are on. One thing to note is that the joints may be experienced to be slightly loose, because of the fact that it is simply just built like that.
Due to this, it may require some extra gentleness, and I would suggest keeping them in a separate case when moving around to solve the issue. Including a boom mic, as well as on-ear volume and mute controls, the G533 surround sound headphones make for a budget-friendly wireless option.
As for the design of the Logitech G533, it is slightly on the larger side, with a glossy finish and with the well known “G” logo on each ear cup. Looking quite functional and non-extravagant. It does not include any unnecessary RGB lighting, so it should match the aesthetic of the gamer that isn’t into the whole science fiction look.
The ear cups are removable as well as washable, which is useful as they are easy to keep clean. They are made of a lightweight sports mesh material that makes for a comfortable gaming experience and keeps you cool, both temperature-wise and style-wise.
The Logitech G533 surround sound headphones have a variety of audio options as well as equalization options for different genres, and various settings of both surround sound and stereo. It handles different genres nicely and its 7.1 surround sound option provides extra immersion for the game, such as letting you know from which direction the enemies are coming from. The dialogue and music can also seem bigger with these extra perspectives.
A great sounding headset at this price, the Pro G audio drivers and 7.1 surround sound recreate the in-depth effects and positional changes in the game audio world. The Logitech G533 has a lossless wireless digital audio transmission and manages to provide clarity in the high frequencies and deep bass as well. Compared to the G933, which offers lots in terms of functionality, the G533 seems plainer and still offers a great experience but for a better price.
Razer Kraken X Ultralight Gaming Headset
The Razer Kraken X Ultralight Gaming Headset has everything you need in just under 50 dollars. Let’s explore its different functions. The analog audio controls for adjustments are within reach and located behind the left ear cup, and include controls for volume as well as muting/unmuting your microphone. The headset includes a cardioid microphone, which can flex into multiple positions – just like previous Kraken releases.
The mic can not be detached or hidden away, but the flexing feature helps to place it in a position that is most comfortable to you. The cheap buck this goes for would make you think that it isn’t of very great quality. This is not the case as it really does have great features and provides extra good comfort for long gaming hours.
The Razer Kraken X Ultralight is the ultimate lightweight gaming headset, weighing only 8.8 ounces. It’s extremely comfortable to wear for longer periods of time, while not putting any unnecessary pressure on your head or ears. This also makes it a great option if you are wearing glasses. Budget-friendly and comfortable! The Razer Kraken X Ultralight works well for basically any platform, whether you’re in the mood for Playstation, Xbox, or PC. It features 7.1 surround sound for an elevated experience and custom-tuned 40mm drivers for powerful and clear sound.
Style and design-wise, it is probably the best looking Razer headset if you’re into the minimalistic design rather than over the top. The Razer Kraken X Ultralight surround sound headphones comes in classic black and in a black and blue chassis, in a design that is modern and sleek with each cup featuring the Razer logo. Razer has succeeded in keeping to the traditional headset design without going overboard with colors and extra-ness. The Razer Kraken X Ultralight has oval ear cushions for comfort and a durable and flexible headband slider with soft padding. The ear cups have a swivel mechanism making it easy to adjust according to your head. It measures 7.5 x 6.5 inches and weighs only 8.8 ounces.
Providing high quality and immersive surround sound audio experience, the Razer Kraken X Ultralight has a wide frequency response of 12Hz to 28kHz. It features powerful custom-tuned 40mm drivers, paired with sound isolating ear cups for limiting external distracting noises. The Razer Kraken X Ultralight sounds great in games, focuses on the treble as well as voice work, but might not be ideal for music listening if you have higher standards when it comes to bass. Though for this asking price, I’d say provides what it is supposed to – quality audio specifically for gaming purposes.
The Razer Kraken X Ultralight is compatible with PC or Mac, PS4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch and other mobile devices via a 3.5mm audio jack.
RUNMUS K2 Gaming Headset
RUNMUS is especially good at making headsets that produce decent performance for a good price. At first glance, the headset may look a little bulky, but it is actually quite lightweight and very comfortable to use. The downside is that because it’s lightweight, it can slide off easily. The upside is that it doesn’t put much pressure on your head or your ears, and is comfortable to use for several hours in a row – especially since the headband is adjustable, helping you modify the size to perfectly fit you.
The RUNMUS K2 surround sound headphones features noise filtering ear cups to keep you from getting distracted by outside noise. It also has a mic with high-end noise cancellation to make sure you are sounding as clear as possible while chatting to your fellow players. This is one of our favorite budget-friendly surround sound headphones, with a 12-month guarantee offered through Amazon. It’s made to be affordable – and for this reason, this headset can suit as the perfect beginner’s headset. No matter which game you’re playing, the RUNMUS K2 gaming headset will prove to suit your needs.
Design is an important part of the experience, and I am happy to let you know that these surround sound headphones come in 3 different colors, meaning there are several options to choose from to easily complement the rest of your gaming gear.
The RUNMUS K2 comes in a normal red and black color, there is also the bright red and black option, as well as blue and black. Considering you’re paying less than 40 dollars, you get a pretty cool product, with bright LED lights on both sides of the headset. Using premium materials, as well as soft and breathable ear pads and a retractable headband, great wearing comfort can also be enjoyed.
One of the best RUNMUS gaming headsets of 2020, the K2 edition made it onto our top ten list for various reasons – one being the sound quality. The RUNMUS K2 gaming headset is equipped with highly responsive 50mm neodymium drivers, paired with 20Hz to 20kHz wide frequency response, offering punchy bass, lows, and mids. The high frequencies don’t offer as much as premium headsets would, but for the price, we are still happy with the audio experience.
There is no distortion or muddiness, and it definitely passes the sound quality test. The clearer it sounds, the better the gaming experience will be – and that is definitely what you get with this pair. It works well for listening to music as well. With its responsive drivers, as well as 7.1 surround sound to enhance the immersive gaming experience, you’ll likely be satisfied with the audio quality in most gaming scenarios.
The RUNMUS K2 headset has multiple platform compatibility. Using a 3.5mm jack, it is compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo New 3DS LL/3DS, and Nintendo 3DS LL/3DS, and even smartphones or tablets.
Sennheiser GSP 350
The Sennheiser GSP 350 is one of the more affordable devices in out list of the best 7.1 channel virtual surround sound gaming headsets for 2021. The device has a closed-back design that prevents sound from escaping and keeps you undisturbed while playing. It comes with a USB Surround Dongle that provides Dolby 7.1 Surround Sound processing to deliver spatial realism to enhance your game. The headset is backed by customizable surround sound options, including downloadable 7.1 Dolby Surround software.
There’s also a noise-canceling microphone that provides high clarity for in-game communication. There’s also the flip-to-mute function that shuts off in-game communication to seamlessly mute/unmute the microphone.
In terms of build quality, the GSP 350 is built out of plastic and comes with XL Memory foam and leatherette ear pads for acoustic seal and comfort. In terms of specifications, the headset comes with an over-ear Impedance of 19 Ohms, frequency response range of 15Hz – 26kHz and sound pressure level of 113 dB. As for the bi-directional microphone, the frequency response ranges from 10Hz – 15kHz and the sensitivity is -41 dBV/PA. Do note that the headset is only advertised to work for PCs, so keep that in mind if you intend to switch between PC and consoles.
Great value-for-money 7.1 surround sound headset with crystal clear audio and great sound isolation, but with some compromises in terms of build quality and software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stereo vs Surround Sound
Most headphones include two drivers, meaning two speakers, one in each ear cup. This means we are working with 2 channels – left and right, and is commonly known as stereo. Stereo headphones can reproduce very good quality sound. It may even be easier to receive better quality sound from headphones than from a speaker system because there are no environmental and acoustical problems to interfere with the sound – the environment for the sound is literally your ears and ear canal.
Q. Are surround sound headphones better than stereo headphones?
In essence, using surround sound headphones instead of stereo might not make you a better gamer, but it can make the experience more enjoyable. Surround sound is also platform dependent. Not all consoles support this function, which is important to note before purchasing. Surround sound headphones can definitely provide a more immersive experience for gaming purposes, though I would say that it is smart to try it out before purchasing. In some cases, the surround sound may not even be noticeable – and in that case, a stereo headset could prove to be just as good.
Q. What’s the difference between virtual and ‘true’ surround sound
Having your own surround sound system is great, but it’s also expensive and takes away the fun of chatting to friends while gaming. This is when surround sound headphones come into the picture. The more established 7.1 surround sound refers to a home theatre configuration of an 8 channel audio system, and this is what is meant by true surround sound. When we speak of surround sound headphones with virtual surround sound, we talk about the experience of surround sound, rather than an actual 8 channel system. By adding small fractions of delay and other processing, we create an experience of surround sound with only 2 speakers.
Q. How do surround sound headphones actually work?
In essence, surround sound headphones use algorithms, as well as different software, to simulate more channels. This increases the directionality and precision from which direction the sound comes. It creates space and helps you determine from which angles your opponents come. This can be useful when gaming. 7.1 headphones include extra left-surround and right-surround channels for sounds coming from directly left and right in a game or movie. The methods used to create this virtual surround sound experience basically trick your brain into thinking that the sound is coming from more than 2 sources, through using effects and processing.
Q. What should I look for in surround sound headphones?
There are so many different options it is sometimes hard to choose the right product for your needs. It can be made easier though, by knowing what you should look out for. Some things to consider are whether you want a wireless headset, surround sound capabilities, and what applications you will be using your headphones for. Most 7.1 surround sound headphones do not work as standard on every console, so reading the specifications of the product before purchasing is therefore essential.
Another good spec is noise cancellation so that you can hear clearly in your headset despite a noisy environment. If you are looking to chat to your game buddies or co-workers, then consider the mic specs as well. Do not overlook the importance of a decent microphone with your headset. Comfort and durability should also be amongst the main considerations, as well as the headphone driver quality and size – these specifications are all vital to consider when looking for surround sound headphones. Consider purchasing cups with skin-friendly fabrics and with thick padding, to create space for the sound waves and to not pin the ears to your head.
Q. Is the frequency response important?
Frequency response relates to how well the speakers or headphones can reproduce the frequencies in question. A boost in the mid-range frequencies (around 4kHz) can make a difference for good clarity when chatting to your teammates or even for watching movies on the headphones.
Q. Does 7.1 surround sound make a difference?
Virtual 7.1 surround sound can make a difference if the feature is noticeable enough in your headset. Its purpose is to add to the in-game immersion, which is what we want. If your game is encoded for 7.1 and you have a pair of 7.1 surround sound headphones, it hopefully means the sound experience will be of greater quality and depth. You can get more “positioned” audio with surround sound – meaning you can experience sound from more angles than the left and right configuration. While an actual physical 7.1 surround sound setup is the optimal option, the virtual 7.1 surround sound can get pretty close, fooling our ear brain into hearing audio from more directions.
Q. Is surround sound good for gaming?
Most of us are already convinced that surround sound can be amazing for watching movies. It helps us immerse ourselves in the movie, not missing a beat of the storyline. We hear sounds in larger dimensions than we do with normal stereo. Gamers can make use of surround sound in the same way. Helping you hear where opponents are on the map, as well as increase the ability to immerse yourself in the game – which in turn can help you play the game better.
Q. Are 7.1 Headsets Good for Gaming?
7.1 headsets are generally recommended by gamers because of its positional audio. If you are seriously into gaming, I would strongly suggest you to get one.
Q. Are 7.1 Headphones Worth It?
Many gamers find 7.1 or 5.1 surround sound system a gimmick. However, in the last couple of years, the multi-sound system has been enhanced by complex algorithms which work pretty well and allows you to find the direction of your enemy with near-perfect accuracy. So, I would say, yes, 7.1 headphones are worth it.
Q. What is The Best Gaming Headset 2020?
If I don’t have a budget constraint then I would easily pick the Sennheiser PC 373D. However, for budget users, the Mpow Iron is a great gaming headset in 2020.
Q. How Do I Get My Headphones to 7.1 Surround Sound?
It depends on the type of headset and the manufacturer of the sound equipment. If you have support for stereo sound then you can enable 7.1 surround sound system usually from the Spatial Settings page. You can find the audio utility from the manufacturer’s website.
Best 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headsets You Can Buy
Well, if you want the best 7.1 surround sound experience while gaming, you cannot go wrong with any of these headsets that we’ve discussed. Keep in mind that sound quality of these headsets are highly subjective, as it varies from person to person. Some of you might prefer punchy bass, whereas others might hate it, but when it comes to surround sound, positional audio is the top priority and all of these virtual surround sound headsets manage to do a great job at emulating it. So, are you planning to purchase a surround sound headset in the near future? If so, which one are you going for? Make sure you let us know by shooting your thoughts in the comments section down below.
Gaming Headset Technical Details Explained
Drivers
A driver is a small speaker that drives the sound. It is the device that translates the electrical signals to audible sound. Drivers are the main component of headphones. They differ in size and price. Often in user headphones, there are dynamic drivers, which do not require any external power. They are also the most affordable headphone drivers. The dynamic driver consists of a magnet, coil, suspension, and diaphragm.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity, also known as loudness or power, determines how loud a pair of headphones will be given a certain power level. The sensitivity, or sound pressure level (per one milliwatt of power) usually sits between 80 to 125dB SPL.
EQ Settings
EQ stands for Equalizer and essentially means you can tweak and add or subtract frequencies on your headset yourself. Cool, right? This can get you closer to the sound that you want from your gear. Though it won’t magically help your headset handle frequencies it isn’t built to handle, it can still add a little extra of whatever you want, should it be more bass that you are after or perhaps more presence in the mid-high section of the frequency spectrum.
Best Surround Sound Headphones Buying Guide
Surround Sound headphones are very popular Mostly with Gamers because they give them the option to be fully immersed in the game. Normal headphones are good, but unfortunately they don’t offer that 360 degrees sound from all directions that makes you feel that you are part of the Movie you are watching.
With all the choices that are in the market today, it becomes a tedious task to narrow down to the best surround sound headphones and to make the right decision. Here we are going to look at in detail some of the specifications you need to look out for when choosing a Surround Sound headphones. Now let us get down to it!
Microphone Specs
One of the most important specs that come with a gaming headset is having a good quality microphone. This is important since you will want to communicate with your other teammates and also have a decent mic is great favour you are doing for everyone, we all know those gamers with crappy mics and how it goes! To get a gaming headset with a good mic there are a few things that you may need to consider
Unidirectional microphones- they are a type of mic that only accepts sound from the front direction, they are okay when it comes to gaming and do block the surrounding sounds, but the problem is that your voice does not sound natural. Bi-directional microphones- they are the type that accepts sounds from the front and the back and reject the sides. They provide and well-balanced natural sounding voice and offer noise- cancelling capabilities.
The bi-directional mics tend to be found in high-end headphones but there are some exceptions. A good gaming headset is one with a good mic incorporated and is easy to use and has good specs to make the gaming experience worthwhile. The choice you make on a type of microphone will greatly depend on what you often use mics for and your daily habits.
Gaming headset Connection Type
The connection type in gaming headsets is also another important feature. Trust me this will save you money as well had a headache later as we will see. Different headphones come with different connection types; the most common are the USB, 3.5mm, wireless, or even optical connections.
wireless type of headset use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (2.5GHz) for connection, they are generally easy to connect with a variety of devices and with more technology development they have less sound lagging and give the convenience no cable management. The first part is looking at compatibility and what you use to play games, Ps4 or PC.USB wireless is mostly compatible with PC and Ps4 and some cases with Xbox one. The older Xbox with require a Microsoft 3.5mm adapter for it to be compatible. 3.5 mm connections are those round port and they have various advantages, one being is that headphones with a 3.5mm connections can be used by a variety of devices like PC, mobile devices, tablet and any other device with a 3.5mm connection.
The USB connection type has the advantage of a good sound signal and digital connection. The downside you will be limited to the number of devices to connect with, and some headphones with only USB connections can only be used on PC setup. The trick here is to go for gaming headsets that have both connections for more compatibility.
Drivers on Gaming Headset Explained
There are many parts that come with your headphones, but we consider the drivers to be one of the most important parts since they are the parts that convert the electrical signals to sound waves. These are either known as Transducers or drivers and they come in a cone-like shape and are made up of magnets and voice coils. There are drivers of different sizes; you can have drivers that are 8mm, 15mm, 20mm and even 5mm.
The point to note here; is that the size does not necessarily translate to the sound quality produced by the particular drivers, the material and the technology used by the drivers is what sets it apart. The other thing to remember about headphones sound quality and multiple drivers is that, if a headset has more drivers there is filtering to allow for each driver to take care of a particular frequency range.
The main thing to consider when choosing headphone drivers is the type of drivers on the headphones. There are different types of drivers and each has a unique way of producing sound. If you are lost for choice when it comes to your, then I will suggest that you go for high-end headphones like the steel series, these tend to feature the same drivers across all their headsets and thus giving you more assurance of quality. More on the types of drivers
Sensitivity on Gaming Headsets Explained
This a measure of the sound produced by headphones on a certain power level. In other terms, it is also known as the sound sensitivity pressure level (SPL) that your headphones can handle and is measured in decibels (dB). The focus with sensitivity is to know the amount of power required by the headphone drivers to convert the electrical signal to sound wave, mill watt (mW) which is, in turn, is used to measure the (SPL). The other thing that is also important to note is that the sensitivity goes hand in hand with impedance.
If impedance increases you may be required to have an addition amp. The main reason for us to know the sensitivity of a particular headphone is for health purposes and protecting our ears from damage in the long run (Which is irreversible and has no cure). The safest range for sensitivity is between 75db and 110 dB, this is because the maximum sensitivity a human hear can handle is 100db for just 20 minutes.
EQ Settings of Gaming Headsets Explained
The EQ in full is the Equalizer, this is in simple term is something that allows you to adjust or tweak the frequencies of your headphones to get that desired output. I know most of us have seen an equalizer before, on the old automobiles on the dashboard there was a noble that you could push up or down (that most of us were not allowed to touch when we’re young mmmmh!) So most headsets do come with presets another term for equalizations that have done by the manufacturer. The customization of sound is important for you to get the best sound quality out of your gaming headsets. They are not had to use and you can play until you get used to it.
Stereo Vs Surround Sound Headphones
Stereo headsets are generally the most common type of headphones available on the market. The main reason is that they are able to offer surround sound effects. This is can be achieved due to the fact that unlike the Mono headsets which are not capable of playing independent sound from two speakers.
The stereo headphones play distinct sound out of the two speakers. Stereo headphones have the ability to playback sound from both channels, left and right and create the effect of listening to sound from different directions. When you are listening to music for stereo headphones you will be able to hear two distinct sounds from each ear cup. The difference now between True surround sound headphones and the stereo headphones is that they employ the advantage of several drivers to increase the quality of the directional surround sound effect. Stereo headphones can also serve as virtual surround sound headphones as they use software to achieve the surround sound.
What are surround sound headphones?
If you are someone who loves watching movies or gaming, you clearly know the difference when it comes to watching with surround sound speakers and watching movies with normal TV speakers. The surround sound headphones try to achieve the same effect in comparison to normal headphones where you hear the sound in the ear canal is coming from your head. With surround sound headphone they deliver the sound from all directions like surround sound speakers. There are two major types of surround sound headphones;
True surround sound headphones– they contain multiple drivers/speakers that broadcast at different angles. The True surround sound headphones work to counter the unnatural detached sound, like the surround speakers using several speakers that have been placed discretely in the headphones that handle different channels of sound.
Virtual surround sound headphones -they rely on two speakers that have complex sound processing that makes the sound feel like it is coming from multiple. The virtual surround sound headphones use artificial means to make the sound that enters the headphones to be divided into different ranges and thus sound like they come from different directions or from more sources.
Open Back Vs Closed Back Gaming Headsets
Closed back gaming headsets-these tend to have a solid cup around the speakers and can block sound from the surroundings and also don’t allow for sounds from the headsets to the outsides. They are good to use in public and for those late night gamers so that you wake up the neighbours or family when you declare war.
You will be able to hear the sounds of the game you are playing with clarity and concentrate on your game too. A good pair of closed-back gaming headsets from our collection is the HyperX cloud revolver S. One of the downside to this type of headset is that since they are built to keep the noise out and in, they come with leather pads that getting sweaty when used over a long period of time.
The sound from the headsets is also unnatural and bottled up. Open back gaming headsets-these offer a more natural sound as they have a more open design of ear cups and are comfortable to wear They also don’t offer noise isolation and you will pretty much hear the noise from your surroundings. An example of a good open back gaming headset is Turtle Beach Elite Pro headsets.
Summary – Top Surround Sound Headphones
If you made it this far clap for yourself my dear, I know the review was long but I tried my best to give you all that you need to make the best choice. If you enjoyed and found this article helpful if you have any comments or suggestions feel leave me them down below. Have an awesome day!
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