Kataploom
Gold Member
Hell yeah, I'll need another pair later just for pure sound quality goodness, thanks. I solved it with a pair of Nova 7 but definitely open to more whenever I can
My headset broke. Any suggestion for some wireless new ones?
- Thread starter Kataploom
- Start date
Hell yeah, I'll need another pair later just for pure sound quality goodness, thanks. I solved it with a pair of Nova 7 but definitely open to more whenever I can
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
So, there's a promo for the 5X/5P on Amazon atm for 99 Eurodollars - are these any good ? How's the sound - but more importantly, are they durable ?
I'm using the pre - Hewlett Packard acquisition hyperx cloud Alpha connected via a SB GC7 to my PS5 and I'm constantly fiddling with the audio settings since I can't find the "right spot" , plus, the GC7 has also some minor crackling/static.
Couple that with the fact that I'm getting tired of cables and...I'm looking for a new headset.
Cheers
Luipadre
Member
It sounds really good i love it. I found a custom IQ settings on youtube and im using that one. Its crips, detailed and can get pretty loud. It lasts long and charges fast aswell. This headset is a steal for that price
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
Appreciate it Lui !
What headset/headphones were you using before the Nova 5 ? I've been really satisfied with my cloud Alpha for the past 4 years so i hope that the Nova 5 are AT LEAST as good.
Also : what platform are you using them with ? There's 3 versions available (5, 5P, 5X) and i don't know which one to get - i know that the 5X (for the xbox) work and are also compatible with the PS5, but, why bother with the 5P(laystation) in the 1st place ? i don't quite get it...The 5X also feature an on-headset chat mixer which is missing from the other versions but i don't know if it works on the PS5.
How loud do they get ?
Thinking of getting them hence the questions
Thanks man
Luipadre
Member
I had a cloud 2 and also have a sennheiser HD599. Just get the 5X. All 3 is the same but the X version is compatible with everything, the other 2 is not compatible with xbox. Im using it on PS5 and on PC. You can turn off the volume limiter in the phone app or in the pc app and that makes the headset even louder
It was meant for you
Giallo Corsa
just forgot to reply 
It was meant for you
Giallo Corsa
just forgot to reply
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jmiller180
Member
Since this thread is getting resurrected anyway, I would recommend to anyone looking for wireless headphones around $120 USD to take a look at the Asus ROG Pelta. I think they are a steal for the money and compare well to the Asus ROG Delta II since they use the same drivers. I also own a Nova Pro and had Astro A50x and I think the Peltas sound just as good if not better, plus they are more comfortable for my head and noticeably cheaper.
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Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
Hey Lui
Since there's a gazillion topics/videos on Reddit/YouTube and I'm already overwhelmed, could you please share the link you used to apply the EQ setting you're using ?
Can this be adjusted via the phone app OR do I have to do it via the PC software ?
PS: I read that custom EQs made/customized on PC don't transfer to the headset as to be able to use them for console gaming too - is that true ?
Thanks man
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Luipadre
Member
You need the sonar app on PC, but it saves on the headset so you can use it anywhere
Its this one. i use his general EQ settings
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
Much appreciated Lui, you just saved me from hours of searching through countless YT videos...
PS : are you absolutely sure that the custom EQs (from PC) get saved into the headset itself to use when connecting the headset to a console ? I was reading about the exact opposite a few days ago, maybe the user mentioning it wasn't technically inclined and/or wrong ?
Luipadre
Member
Im sure. It shows up in the phone app too and it sounds the same as on pcMuch appreciated Lui, you just saved me from hours of searching through countless YT videos...
PS : are you absolutely sure that the custom EQs (from PC) get saved into the headset itself to use when connecting the headset to a console ? I was reading about the exact opposite a few days ago, maybe the user mentioning it wasn't technically inclined and/or wrong ?
LectureMaster
Has Man Musk
Giallo Corsa
check out the YouTuber Gadgetrytrch, guy is like a unicorn and the only one has crazy in depth gaming headphones review on YouTube.I recently tried several based on his reviews and found his opinions are honest.
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
So boys, set up my Arctis Nova 5X with my PS5 and :
Sound is Good-ish, bass is good (got this for gaming and movie watching) lots of presets to choose from and the Phone app is also OK.
Battery life also appears to be good.
Besides that though:
- Sound isn't a step-up from my cloud Alphas.
- there's some popping/crackling every now and then.
- the headset feels plasticky (it is) and super cheap, I'm afraid that these will snap in half and especially the headband.
- Custom EQ settings are convoluted/a pain in the ass to setup.
- Firmware updates can only be done via PC, lol, LMAO even (SB GC7 and Anker soundcore Q30 can be controlled and updated exclusively via phone app).
All in all...yeah, I don't know, I'm not seeing anything better compared to my SB GC7+ Cloud Alpha combo, the only pro is obviously the wireless functionality (the cables with my current setup get on my tits since I always have to be careful) but other than that...
GC7+ Alphas can obviously get much louder and the Alphas are way better from a build point of view.
Btw, i still have some crackling/popping noises even with them (gotta be a PS5 USB thing since it's also apparently with Sony headsets AND 3rd party ones).
My biggest gripe though is the build, these look and feel cheap AF compared to the super-sturdy Cloud Alphas which I've had for more than 4 years now and I've been reading about Steelseries's build problems lately which doesn't exactly fill me with confidence.
I don't see how these are supposed to justify the 130+ Eurodollars price point, then again, they're "gaming" headphones so the price inflation comes with the territory I suppose.
Gonna try 'em for a week but I'm still undecided whether I should keep them or send them back to Amazon since I'm afraid that they're obsolete since I was/am happy with my current setup (minus the wired part which is why i got the nova 5 in the first place).
Sound is Good-ish, bass is good (got this for gaming and movie watching) lots of presets to choose from and the Phone app is also OK.
Battery life also appears to be good.
Besides that though:
- Sound isn't a step-up from my cloud Alphas.
- there's some popping/crackling every now and then.
- the headset feels plasticky (it is) and super cheap, I'm afraid that these will snap in half and especially the headband.
- Custom EQ settings are convoluted/a pain in the ass to setup.
- Firmware updates can only be done via PC, lol, LMAO even (SB GC7 and Anker soundcore Q30 can be controlled and updated exclusively via phone app).
All in all...yeah, I don't know, I'm not seeing anything better compared to my SB GC7+ Cloud Alpha combo, the only pro is obviously the wireless functionality (the cables with my current setup get on my tits since I always have to be careful) but other than that...
GC7+ Alphas can obviously get much louder and the Alphas are way better from a build point of view.
Btw, i still have some crackling/popping noises even with them (gotta be a PS5 USB thing since it's also apparently with Sony headsets AND 3rd party ones).
My biggest gripe though is the build, these look and feel cheap AF compared to the super-sturdy Cloud Alphas which I've had for more than 4 years now and I've been reading about Steelseries's build problems lately which doesn't exactly fill me with confidence.
I don't see how these are supposed to justify the 130+ Eurodollars price point, then again, they're "gaming" headphones so the price inflation comes with the territory I suppose.
Gonna try 'em for a week but I'm still undecided whether I should keep them or send them back to Amazon since I'm afraid that they're obsolete since I was/am happy with my current setup (minus the wired part which is why i got the nova 5 in the first place).
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Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
So, It's been 2 days now and I still don't know whether I should keep them - and it's mostly because they feel flimsy...
Question for you boys that have had plastic-only headphones/headsets :
Are these supposed to be durable ? It's not the hinges either, I'm mostly worried about the head band which is also made of plastic...
We all know that Sony headsets are especially shit when it comes to this and they will usually break either at the hinges or the headband itself (this is why I avoided getting Sony ones) but, how do other companies fare ?
Again, my cloud alpha are still going strong after 4 years - which is mostly due to the fact that it uses metallic parts (both hinges + headband) and my Anker Q30s while plastic, have a metallic head band.
I'm just afraid that the arctis Nova 5 aren't durable enough...
Thanks
Question for you boys that have had plastic-only headphones/headsets :
Are these supposed to be durable ? It's not the hinges either, I'm mostly worried about the head band which is also made of plastic...
We all know that Sony headsets are especially shit when it comes to this and they will usually break either at the hinges or the headband itself (this is why I avoided getting Sony ones) but, how do other companies fare ?
Again, my cloud alpha are still going strong after 4 years - which is mostly due to the fact that it uses metallic parts (both hinges + headband) and my Anker Q30s while plastic, have a metallic head band.
I'm just afraid that the arctis Nova 5 aren't durable enough...
Thanks
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
- Tried the Arctis nova 5x - took em back, sound was muffled and worse than my wired cloud Alpha, build quality felt like a Fisher price toy (all plastic).
- Tried the Turtle Beach stealth 700 Gen3 : simultaneous BT + 2.4GHz was nice ,BUT, they were huge, plasticky and the output volume was low on PS5.
Now I'm eyeing the Rog Delta 2 (kinda expensive) and/or the Pelta, how do they feel man ? How's the build quality ? Battery?
Also, do you game on PC or console ?
I've found that on consoles, volume output via USB transmitter is always lower for some reason although it does depend on the headset...
Man, what a friggin' conundrum this whole headset thing is, either the build quality is complete shit, the volume low, the esthetics questionable and the battery life also being a problem since it varies from headset to headset...
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jmiller180
Member
From a value standpoint, I think the Peltas are the best. They are very similar to the Delta II besides having slightly cheaper feeling earpads (and only one set). The design is better IMO too - way less gamery and comfort is better for me. Playing on PC. Volume is plenty fine and battery life on both are great, although Delta II is better.
Sound qualitywise, the Nova Pros are the best. The Asus headphones have a more pronounced V shape EQ and can seem muffled. EQ might help with that, but I haven't messed with it too much. I am also receiving a PC38X this weekend that I'm going to test plugged into my Elite Series 2 controller that is connected to PC via dongle.
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Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
REDRZA MWS
Member
Arctis Nova Pro. Best headset I've ever owned. Totally wireless, works with ps5 , Xbox, and pc, come with 2 battery packs that last forever.
Sound quality is amazing, and they are very lightweight and comfortable.
Sound quality is amazing, and they are very lightweight and comfortable.
DenchDeckard
Moderated wildly
For a good gaming headset I really like the Xbox steelseries arctis nova pro wireless. They work on everything.
One thing to check though. The active noise cancelling is some lumps inside the cups that revoews mention some people find uncomfortable. I have a large head and they don't hit my ears.
Sound amazing though imo.
One thing to check though. The active noise cancelling is some lumps inside the cups that revoews mention some people find uncomfortable. I have a large head and they don't hit my ears.
Sound amazing though imo.
jmiller180
Member
There was a revision to the Nova Pro Wireless in the last year or two that minimizes the ANC nub size. I believe it was around the time the white Nova Pros released, with the black version following suit.
Here is a comparison
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
Regarding the Nova Pro, sorry boys but these things need a newer version/revision...
The fact that the (double) batteries can reach a maximum playtime of 22 hours, in 2025 is kind of laughable from the moment that most good headsets average at 50-60-100 hours after a full charge.
Then, you have the fact that you need to constantly swap the damned things, and then, the fact that the build quality is...what it is since it's 99% plastic (pretty much like the much cheaper Nova 5).
They may sound great but "the best" they are not - in fact, now I get what people used to say about headsets being a scam and that getting a good, wired pair of headphones is always the better choice.
Basically, when it comes to headsets, you have to choose between a pair that has good sound but shitty build quality, another which has better build quality but sounds worse, another which may have better battery life but has both build quality problems and doesn't sound good, a pair that has good sound or build quality but has problems with connectivity due to shitty USB dongles or...a mix of all of the above, shit's frustrating - take the Audeze Maxwell for example, people parroting left and right about them being "the best" but, we're talking about a 300++ Eurodollars headset that A) can't do simultaneous BT+2.4GHz, is heavy as fuck, has the crackling noise of death® due to their diaphragms /driver tech, QC problems etc etc, sure, they sound good but one cannot overlook such problems.
Basically, it's a dice roll especially when it comes to wireless ones.
Tried the Nova 5x, Turtle beach 600 gen 3, 700 stealth gen 3, Audeze Maxwell's and you know what ? My decaying 4-year old cloud Alphas still sound good and are still in 1 piece, thing is, they're not wireless and they don't have obviously all the cool new tech which I'd like to have...
Just ordered the Asus ROG Delta 2 for 252€ which will be arriving tomorrow, gonna give them a try but if they also happen to be shit/disappointing due to connectivity issues, build quality and flat sound I'm gonna send them back and just continue using my Alphas connected to my SB GC7 'til they fookin' die, I've had enough of this shit...
The fact that the (double) batteries can reach a maximum playtime of 22 hours, in 2025 is kind of laughable from the moment that most good headsets average at 50-60-100 hours after a full charge.
Then, you have the fact that you need to constantly swap the damned things, and then, the fact that the build quality is...what it is since it's 99% plastic (pretty much like the much cheaper Nova 5).
They may sound great but "the best" they are not - in fact, now I get what people used to say about headsets being a scam and that getting a good, wired pair of headphones is always the better choice.
Basically, when it comes to headsets, you have to choose between a pair that has good sound but shitty build quality, another which has better build quality but sounds worse, another which may have better battery life but has both build quality problems and doesn't sound good, a pair that has good sound or build quality but has problems with connectivity due to shitty USB dongles or...a mix of all of the above, shit's frustrating - take the Audeze Maxwell for example, people parroting left and right about them being "the best" but, we're talking about a 300++ Eurodollars headset that A) can't do simultaneous BT+2.4GHz, is heavy as fuck, has the crackling noise of death® due to their diaphragms /driver tech, QC problems etc etc, sure, they sound good but one cannot overlook such problems.
Basically, it's a dice roll especially when it comes to wireless ones.
Tried the Nova 5x, Turtle beach 600 gen 3, 700 stealth gen 3, Audeze Maxwell's and you know what ? My decaying 4-year old cloud Alphas still sound good and are still in 1 piece, thing is, they're not wireless and they don't have obviously all the cool new tech which I'd like to have...
Just ordered the Asus ROG Delta 2 for 252€ which will be arriving tomorrow, gonna give them a try but if they also happen to be shit/disappointing due to connectivity issues, build quality and flat sound I'm gonna send them back and just continue using my Alphas connected to my SB GC7 'til they fookin' die, I've had enough of this shit...
DenchDeckard
Moderated wildly
I completely get your points and I do agree. But, for myself who really looks after their belongings I have no problem with the build quality and the battery swap after like 3 or 4 sessions is quick and simple.
I'm a big fan of sound and they sound great to me. But yes, it would be nice if I didn't feel like I had to mother them. They do feel delicate and I am extra careful with them. I got them on a deep sale for like 160 quid. I think they are great. I also use the logitech g pro wireless for my PC which I enjoy. Terrible mic though lol
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
An update on the ROG Delta 2 which I received today :
Max volume output is fucking LOW, almost HALF of that of both the Nova 5 AND the TB stealth 700 Gen3, LOL, LMAO even...
Done the FW update (Armoury crate is a fuxking mess on PC), PS5 volume setting is set to max and yet...
Also : no updating/EQ settings through the Android app, in fact , the Android app doesn't even work with the headset
Seriously boys, what the fuck, and this shit costs 250€ ? I can't even...
Aaaand I'm back to square one, not many more other headsets I could try ffs, I really don't get the max volume output that varies so wildly from headset to headset, so far, the Nova 5 had the highest volume output compared to all the rest, couldn't stand the (kind of) muffled audio and super-plastic build otherwise I'd give them another go.
The only ones I haven't tried are the Corsair HS80 Max and the ROG pelta (which after trying the delta 2, I'm not gonna even bother).
I'm out of options it.seems
Max volume output is fucking LOW, almost HALF of that of both the Nova 5 AND the TB stealth 700 Gen3, LOL, LMAO even...
Done the FW update (Armoury crate is a fuxking mess on PC), PS5 volume setting is set to max and yet...
Also : no updating/EQ settings through the Android app, in fact , the Android app doesn't even work with the headset
Seriously boys, what the fuck, and this shit costs 250€ ? I can't even...
Aaaand I'm back to square one, not many more other headsets I could try ffs, I really don't get the max volume output that varies so wildly from headset to headset, so far, the Nova 5 had the highest volume output compared to all the rest, couldn't stand the (kind of) muffled audio and super-plastic build otherwise I'd give them another go.
The only ones I haven't tried are the Corsair HS80 Max and the ROG pelta (which after trying the delta 2, I'm not gonna even bother).
I'm out of options it.seems
Heimdall_Xtreme
Hermen Hulst Fanclub's #1 Member
arctis nova pro wireless
Ribi
Member
Sounds like a power issue. Be a bang for the buck king and get good headphones or go with iems + standing mic on desk with arm.An update on the ROG Delta 2 which I received today :
Max volume output is fucking LOW, almost HALF of that of both the Nova 5 AND the TB stealth 700 Gen3, LOL, LMAO even...
Done the FW update (Armoury crate is a fuxking mess on PC), PS5 volume setting is set to max and yet...
Also : no updating/EQ settings through the Android app, in fact , the Android app doesn't even work with the headset
Seriously boys, what the fuck, and this shit costs 250€ ? I can't even...
Aaaand I'm back to square one, not many more other headsets I could try ffs, I really don't get the max volume output that varies so wildly from headset to headset, so far, the Nova 5 had the highest volume output compared to all the rest, couldn't stand the (kind of) muffled audio and super-plastic build otherwise I'd give them another go.
The only ones I haven't tried are the Corsair HS80 Max and the ROG pelta (which after trying the delta 2, I'm not gonna even bother).
I'm out of options it.seems
Iem route= 150ish
Headphones $300-$400
That's headphones, dac amp, wireless detachable mic, a
StereoVsn
Gold Member
Yeah, I got these fairly close after release to replace my 5X as the sound is similar much better.
StereoVsn
Gold Member
I never had an issue with Nova Pros either. No problem with build quality after over a year. And as to battery life, it last over 20 hours so they last minimum a few days before needing to recharge (unless you are gaming some crazy hours).
If you really want to get high end wireless, look into Focal Bathys. Not really gaming headset but they are super nice wireless over Bluetooth. For PS5 can just get a USB Bluetooth dongle.
Edit: You do generally want some kind of a dac/amp combo, IMO. You can get a usb one for a PS5 and a different one for PC depending on the distance.
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jmiller180
Member
Have you tried the volume on PC as well? My Delta IIs are insanely loud, before and after the FW update (the update actually made them too loud and I have the volume around 36%). Sounds like your pair could be faulty
TerribleAtThisGame
Member
I've had a few people tell me the brand sucks but I've had the Razer Kaira Pro for PS5 for three years now and have zero complaints. They never fuck up in any way, sound clear and loud, have EQ options and I really dig the haptics on a low setting.
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
Hey miller
I EQ'd them earlier and on PC they're A-OK loudness-wise, it's just on PS5 that they sound low.
Also : man, the fact that you have to unplug the USB dongle from the PS5 and attach it to the PC to fiddle with the EQ and then attach it to the PS5 back again...Jesus Christ, what is this, 2015 ? Why can't ASUS have an Android app like all the other companies as to do such things on the fly ?
My SB GC7 has it, the Steelseries Novas had it, heck, even Turtle beach and my Anker Soundcore Q30 have it, it's just ASUS being ASUS here...
Talking about the EQ, can't for the life of me make them sound punchy like the Alpha's (V shaped), everything sounds...anemic ffs.
Couple all of that with the fact that they cost 250 and the mic isn't retractable and...yeah, I'm sending these back on Monday, they're not worth neither the hype nor their price tag.
Edit : they're very comfy though
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Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
iamvin22
Industry Verified
Never used BT on mine and while some what a bit heavy the build is solid.
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
The build is indeed solid friend, it's the friggin' driver lottery and crackle of death ® though that makes me unwilling to take (another) chance with them.
IMO, yet another overhyped headset
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rofif
Can’t Git Gud
Agreed for some of the best sound ever.
But it's very heavy and for me, too clamping. I was constantly hearing my own heartbeat in it.
But the sounds was great. Not the best ps5 integration though
Hey miller
I EQ'd them earlier and on PC they're A-OK loudness-wise, it's just on PS5 that they sound low.
...
I wrote a huge post on this forum, but I think this is the longstanding problem with the PS4/5 which I believe to have been fixed with the PS5 Pro (I also posted on reddit and a few agreed the USB volume issue is fixed). I don't know if you're on an OG PS5, Slim or Pro.
I'm afraid I have no suggestions for wireless headsets. Over the years I've been through a load of headphones, headsets, wired and wireless. And have recently just settled on using wired headphones/set with a separate DAC/AMP. On PS5 I'm currently using the GC7 too and whilst not being the strongest audio quality its good enough. Add to that the mobile app, real time EQ, chat/game mix, mic gain adjustment, large physical controls and DD VSS. Which are all perfect for console. I think it's a great starting point and any wireless headset is going to struggle to match that audio quality. My current cans are the PC38X, H6pro & HD58X (even though it's not that suitable for gaming).
The other thing is I've also started to appreciate lighter headphones too, so the upcoming Audio Technica R50X is of interest to me. Love the HD6x0 series for their weight/comfort.
nemiroff
Gold Member
Yeah, "constantly swapping batteries" = Every two three days... LOL Wat
Anyway, I've become so effortlessly efficient with my battery swaps now I don't even have to turn the headset on after (I'm not even lying).
I agree; The build quality feel fine to me. I have high end headphones to compare with, and I don't see a huge gap in build quality.
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RubberedDucky
Neo Member
HyperX Cloud III Wireless are phenomenally comfortable and sound fantastic. Best in their price range, for sure. I've tried probably a dozen.
dorkimoe
Member
i have the wired one, definitely the most comfortable. I need to get the wireless, but how come nobody makes charging docks for these things? I hate having to fumble for a cord
Giallo Corsa
Gold Member
Beautiful post Dig, God bless ya
Anyway , I'm on a Pro and my current setup is a GC7 + Cloud Alpha.
Tried the Nova 5, Turtle beach stealth 700 G3, Audeze Maxwell, and now the ROG Delta 2, the one thing in common they all have is that wirelessly, the max volume output is low - some more than others and that's what I don't get, why - say - does the Nova 5 and Audeze Maxwell sound louder than the TB stealth and the ROG Delta 2 ? Is it the friggin' dongles ? Is it their drivers ? Is it how they're tuned (i.e, their sound profile) ?
Fuck knows , thing is, just this week I've come to understand that this is a real problem since you could be splurging up to 200-300+ Eurodollars for a headset, a device made with a very specific thing in mind and yet, you might as well be plugging a cheap, wired one straight into the joypad's 3.5mm jack since there's no difference in volume output ffs...
Also : I'm never gonna trust the media/YouTubers again - even someone like Gadgetry tech no matter how good or balanced his reviews are since between all the technicalities, the simpler, easier things/problems get overlooked - his Delta 2 review for example is glowing, he also mentions PS5 usage with said headset and yet, he somehow doesn't mention that this is one of the lower sounding headsets out there (on PS) ? How is that possible ? I'm no audiophile and yet, I could tell you straight away which of the headsets I mentioned is the loudest one, which has better treble, bass etc etc.
Again, this shit costs north of 250 € over here and its volume output is lower than the 100€ Nova 5 and the 150€ TB stealth 700 ffs, meanwhile, while the soundstage is pretty good, the sound - no matter what - is muddy even compared to my 4 year old Cloud Alphas.
Ah yes, there's also something very fucked either with the headset or Asus software since after troubleshooting, I've noticed that the EQs DO NOT transfer to the PS5 for some reason - and this is one of the best reviewed headsets out there, how come no one mentioned that ?
PC usage is one thing, console one is another and they never put emphasis on it - just look at the usual, suggested EQs, they're always about "FPSs" cause, you know, you gotta be hearing them online enemies for 50 miles away while you're doing a 360 no-scope eh ?
See Nemi, while you might think it's OK/adequate swapping batteries every two days on a 350+ € headset, most newer models have in fact batteries that last more than a week, heck, the nova 5 lasts about that, the TB stealth 700 can take you up to 2 weeks, the Corsair HS80 max can last up to 70 hours, the Delta 2 up to 110...you get my drift, now, watch the next Nova Pro having bigger batteries exactly because of this
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StereoVsn
Gold Member
I have had crackling on them through BT and returned them. Just didn't seem they would hold up long term.
nemiroff
Gold Member
I like you.Beautiful post Dig, God bless ya
Anyway , I'm on a Pro and my current setup is a GC7 + Cloud Alpha.
Tried the Nova 5, Turtle beach stealth 700 G3, Audeze Maxwell, and now the ROG Delta 2, the one thing in common they all have is that wirelessly, the max volume output is low - some more than others and that's what I don't get, why - say - does the Nova 5 and Audeze Maxwell sound louder than the TB stealth and the ROG Delta 2 ? Is it the friggin' dongles ? Is it their drivers ? Is it how they're tuned (i.e, their sound profile) ?
Fuck knows , thing is, just this week I've come to understand that this is a real problem since you could be splurging up to 200-300+ Eurodollars for a headset, a device made with a very specific thing in mind and yet, you might as well be plugging a cheap, wired one straight into the joypad's 3.5mm jack since there's no difference in volume output ffs...
Also : I'm never gonna trust the media/YouTubers again - even someone like Gadgetry tech no matter how good or balanced his reviews are since between all the technicalities, the simpler, easier things/problems get overlooked - his Delta 2 review for example is glowing, he also mentions PS5 usage with said headset and yet, he somehow doesn't mention that this is one of the lower sounding headsets out there (on PS) ? How is that possible ? I'm no audiophile and yet, I could tell you straight away which of the headsets I mentioned is the loudest one, which has better treble, bass etc etc.
Again, this shit costs north of 250 € over here and its volume output is lower than the 100€ Nova 5 and the 150€ TB stealth 700 ffs, meanwhile, while the soundstage is pretty good, the sound - no matter what - is muddy even compared to my 4 year old Cloud Alphas.
Ah yes, there's also something very fucked either with the headset or Asus software since after troubleshooting, I've noticed that the EQs DO NOT transfer to the PS5 for some reason - and this is one of the best reviewed headsets out there, how come no one mentioned that ?
PC usage is one thing, console one is another and they never put emphasis on it - just look at the usual, suggested EQs, they're always about "FPSs" cause, you know, you gotta be hearing them online enemies for 50 miles away while you're doing a 360 no-scope eh ?
See Nemi, while you might think it's OK/adequate swapping batteries every two days on a 350+ € headset, most newer models have in fact batteries that last more than a week, heck, the nova 5 lasts about that, the TB stealth 700 can take you up to 2 weeks, the Corsair HS80 max can last up to 70 hours, the Delta 2 up to 110...you get my drift, now, watch the next Nova Pro having bigger batteries exactly because of this
Beautiful post Dig, God bless ya
Anyway , I'm on a Pro and my current setup is a GC7 + Cloud Alpha.
Tried the Nova 5, Turtle beach stealth 700 G3, Audeze Maxwell, and now the ROG Delta 2, the one thing in common they all have is that wirelessly, the max volume output is low - some more than others and that's what I don't get, why - say - does the Nova 5 and Audeze Maxwell sound louder than the TB stealth and the ROG Delta 2 ? Is it the friggin' dongles ? Is it their drivers ? Is it how they're tuned (i.e, their sound profile) ?
Np. Interesting you're also on the Pro. For me the very first thing I noticed about the PS5 Pro was the much, much louder volume over USB of the GC7. Stupid really. And as mentioned in my other post, I then tested it on the Creative SB X1 too and that was getting much louder in volume versus the OG PS5. I haven't tested a wireless headset specifically as I was more focused on UAC 1.0 DACs. I do still have a Razer Kaira around which I ought to test as that was always fairly adequate volume on the OG PS5.
In my reddit thread there were a couple of Wireless headset users (Pulse Explore, Stealth Pro) who also reported significant improvement in audio/volume on the PS5 Pro. Just to add to the confusion.
It's not a tuning issue. Up until the PS5 Pro I've always believed the 50%/low volume was a design issue of the PS4/4Pro/5 given they all had the same problem - whether by design, or overlooked fault/bug. I don't think all headsets, if any use drivers, given Turtle Beach etc. don't display any Sony partner/certification on their packaging. That could be a reason too.
One thing I have found though is the Switch behaves impeccably with UAC 1.0 DAC/AMPs. And I suspect the solution is for a proper UAC 2.0 driver being written & implemented into the PlayStation 5 OS (and true opening-up of first-party software features to all headphones). That would then give some parity with PC audio. I'm guessing Sony have resisted that because it's a niche, or profits they and partners make from accessories. However in this age of streamers, microphones and ever improving audio I'd argue proper USB audio is a priority, particularly with the removal of the open-standard optical port.
As a multi-format gamer I gave up a long-time ago on trying to find one wireless solution that work for all my consoles. Very frustrating as you say. 'Old fashioned' analog headphones/sets are at least a standard and just need something to plug into. I do notice the different in quality of the Dualsense vs a DAC. I can hear more detail on the latter, although the DualSense is capable for what it is if you have easy to drive headphones/IEMs. Volume can get quite loud too.
I have noticed that GadgetryTech has been able to actually measure decibel level on PS5, but only in a select few of his more recent videos. So I suspect that this is quite time consuming to measure and given most people probably don't care, or want to spend that much time learning about audio, he doesn't bother to do it for all new reviews. Very PC-focused gamer too. I do think he is one of the best channels for gaming headset/phone reviews because so many other YouTubers just do early impression videos with audio where they use the product for a very short while and then rush out a video. Race to the bottom sort of stuff. Zeos particularly is one of the worst offenders.
Also annoying because Hardware Canucks, a massive channel, did a video on the 'dark side of PS5 audio' i.e. why every audio device gets louder in volume on PC, but never did any follow-up to look at why this might be.
Apologies for the long post as I know it doesn't really help with finding a wireless solution, but thought I'd flag it.
LATE EDIT:
I forgot I still had the Razer Kaira's (were a pricing error on Amazon UK - don't particularly like them) but tested as per above on The Division 2/HZD Remastered. They sound better and louder on the PS5 Pro versus what I remember on the OG PS5.
If I even attempt to max the volume I have to rip them quickly off my head. Seem to get to very similar volume on this PC (Fedora 41/Linux). I can't measure but it feels 1:1 in volume. Which lines up with what I wrote before.
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hououinkyouma00
Member
In the last few years I've basically forgone gaming headsets in general, and not for studio headphones as you might expect.
I've moved entirely to earbuds. First I started playing using a pair of Linsoul IEMs at the suggestion of the Optimum YouTube channel (not Linsoul in general but I didn't want to spend a ton of money and hate them), but I've since moved again to wireless earbuds. I'm currently using the INZONE Earbuds, but I just ordered the Steelseries Arctis Earbuds as they work on XBOX/PS/PC/SW and I recently have a Series X in my possession again.
The IEMs were game changing for me but I started to dislike the wire, and while they definitely sound better then the INZONE buds the INZONE and Steelseries buds have noise cancellation and transparency mode.
I still use my AirPods Pro for every other audio need. Earbuds just work better for me as headsets have always given me a headache after an hour or so. I do still have a pair of INZONE H9s but they are currently in the basement.
I've moved entirely to earbuds. First I started playing using a pair of Linsoul IEMs at the suggestion of the Optimum YouTube channel (not Linsoul in general but I didn't want to spend a ton of money and hate them), but I've since moved again to wireless earbuds. I'm currently using the INZONE Earbuds, but I just ordered the Steelseries Arctis Earbuds as they work on XBOX/PS/PC/SW and I recently have a Series X in my possession again.
The IEMs were game changing for me but I started to dislike the wire, and while they definitely sound better then the INZONE buds the INZONE and Steelseries buds have noise cancellation and transparency mode.
I still use my AirPods Pro for every other audio need. Earbuds just work better for me as headsets have always given me a headache after an hour or so. I do still have a pair of INZONE H9s but they are currently in the basement.
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hououinkyouma00
Member
Steelseries is the only company that I know that have headsets/earbuds that work on every platform. You just have to buy the Xbox version of whatever headset you are getting has it has a switch on the dongles.
Yea, just simple things like being able to get a second dongle so you don't have to constantly unplug the USB receiver, or working chat/mix for both not being possible. But as mentioned I'm kind of in a happy place with open-back headphones/sets at the moment. Possible want to try the R50X and Fosi Audio K7 when that comes along.
I do think IEMs is a great shout. In recent years I've tried the Tin T2s, and more recently the Fanmusic TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero:RED. The latter particularly are very good. My big issue with IEMs is I just can't wear them for long. They start making my ears sore no matter whether I use silicone, or foam tips. I've tried a number of times and it's annoying I can't overcome it.
BigBeauford
Member
Steelseries Arctic Nova 7x. Battery life forever.
GHG
Gold Member
My advice, stop buying "gaming" headsets, they are all garbage and massively overpriced for what you get.
Utilise the jack on your controller and get the best headphones you can for your budget. But what will be "best" will depend on what your personal preferences are for sound (e.g. Do you prefer more bass).
Utilise the jack on your controller and get the best headphones you can for your budget. But what will be "best" will depend on what your personal preferences are for sound (e.g. Do you prefer more bass).