Reviews consistently state that the headset does not provide active noise cancellation. Isolation comes from the earcups rather than electronic ANC.
Across reviews, ANC is consistently described as unusually strong for a gaming headset, effectively cutting low rumbles and much of the surrounding office or home noise. Several reviewers say it helps them miss voices and distractions even at moderate volume. Noise canceling can be toggled and adjusted via onboard controls and companion software. Tuning options exist, but some reviewers note mode feedback relies on chimes rather than clear voice prompts, which can be confusing.
Android support is tied to USB-C/mobile compatibility, with reviewers noting Android use through the DAC or USB-C connection.
The main app-related support is Dolby Access, which reviewers mention for sound adjustment rather than a full companion app.
App support includes a PC-focused hub and a mobile companion, giving access to EQ, profiles, and certain feature toggles. Several reviewers mention that settings can overwrite between apps or feel barebones, but the core control options are there.
Wired use is repeatedly tied to no audio lag or zero latency, supporting strong sync performance for gaming.
Audio-video sync and latency performance are repeatedly praised when using the 2.4GHz dongle or wired connection, making it well-suited to competitive play. Bluetooth is positioned as secondary, with LE Audio helping but not replacing the dongle for lowest latency.
Bass is generally controlled and useful for games, with several reviewers praising thump, deeper bass, and rumble, while some found the tuning not especially bass-heavy.
Bass is generally punchy for explosions and gunfire, but impressions vary by default profile: some find it underwhelming, others say it can get muddy or overbearing in certain mixes. Most agree EQ can dial in a better balance.
Because this is a wired analog headset, reviewers treat battery life as a non-issue: there is no battery to charge.
Battery life is commonly rated average for the price: about 30 hours quoted, but real-world results vary widely by ANC and usage, with heavy ANC sessions dropping into the teens and ANC-off testing stretching much longer. Many comparisons note rivals at similar prices last significantly longer or offer hot-swap batteries.
Bluetooth is not supported. Reviews describe the headset as wired-only or explicitly say there is no Bluetooth connectivity.
Bluetooth connectivity is generally described as quick and reliable for phones and secondary devices. It is often used for music or chat while gaming through the dongle. Simultaneous dongle plus Bluetooth audio is a major highlight, enabling dual-source setups for game audio plus phone audio. Reviewers generally find it genuinely useful for modern gaming routines.
Build quality is broadly praised, with solid housing, metal or reinforced headband elements, and durable-feeling construction despite some plastic parts.
Build quality gets a generally positive but not luxury verdict: the headset is light and often described as well-made, yet its plastic construction can feel hollow or less premium than heavier competitors. Durability is usually considered adequate for normal use.
The included DAC is one of the most supported strengths, with repeated mentions of 32-bit/384kHz capability, clean output, and hi-res playback support.
Controls are mixed. The mic module gives inline volume and mute behavior, but several reviewers criticize the lack of cup controls or the volume slider implementation.
Control usability is mostly praised thanks to distinct shapes, spacing, and tactile buttons, especially for mic mute and game-chat balance. Complaints center on a finicky volume wheel in some contexts and chime-based feedback that can be hard to interpret.
Cable design is partly convenient but not flawless: reviewers note included cables and swappable sides, while also flagging the proprietary/soldered connection.
One reviewer specifically notes that no travel pouch or case was included, so carry case quality is effectively absent.
Carrying case quality is typically described as a soft pouch or bag, sometimes with useful pockets, but not as protective as a hardshell case at this price. It is functional for light travel rather than rugged protection.
Charging support comes through the USB-C passthrough on the DAC, which reviewers repeatedly describe as useful for phones, Switch, and mobile use.
Fast charging is a clear plus, with multiple reviews citing a short top-up yielding meaningful play time. Full charge times and use-while-charging behavior are reported inconsistently across sources, but quick top-ups are broadly praised.
Clamp is described as moderate or medium: secure enough for stability, but noticeable depending on head shape and preference.
Clamping force is generally low, which improves comfort and reduces hotspots. The tradeoff is that a few reviewers experienced minor shifting during movement.
Codec support is functional rather than audiophile-focused: reviews mention standard Bluetooth codecs plus LE Audio support, but also note the absence of premium options like LDAC or aptX. This aligns with its gaming-first positioning.
Comfort is a consistent strength, with reviewers reporting all-day, several-hour, or eight-hour use without major discomfort.
Comfort during long use is one of the strongest consensus positives, with many calling it among the most comfortable premium headsets they have tested. The lightweight chassis and breathable materials are repeatedly credited for marathon sessions.
Connectivity is versatile for a wired headset, with 3.5mm, USB-C DAC use, aux input, adapters, and secondary-source mixing all mentioned.
Console support is good through wired use, but one reviewer found the DAC benefit was mainly a PC feature and did not boost console use.
Design is received positively, especially the clean black/gold look, slick finish, and less flashy studio-style appearance.
Design is often described as understated and premium-looking for a gaming headset, especially with the mic removed, and available in multiple colorways. Some dislike the headband aesthetic or note finishes that show marks easily.
The detachable cable system is generally praised for magnetic attachment, side-swapping, and secure fit, though proprietary design limits replacement flexibility.
The detachable microphone is a standout modular feature, with reviewers repeatedly noting that it can be removed, moved to either side, or replaced with an audio-only module.
The detachable boom mic is a practical plus for portability and aesthetics, letting the headset look more like regular headphones when removed. Some reviewers still prefer a stowable design to avoid misplacing the mic.
The DAC dongle is usually seen as a value-add, but one reviewer found it large and another had a defective or unrecognized unit.
The USB-C 2.4GHz dongle is consistently valued for low-latency, stable wireless on PC and supported consoles. Its PC/Other switch is frequently mentioned as convenient for moving between devices.
Ear cup padding receives strong praise for depth, plushness, comfort, and breathable or dual-material construction, with one reviewer noting early stitching wear.
Earcup padding is widely praised for being plush, deep, and often breathable fabric, helping reduce heat build-up. The extra depth also helps keep ears from pressing into inner surfaces compared with some Sony over-ears.
Reviewers note usable cup rotation/swivel for resting the headset around the neck or improving fit.
Earcup swivel range is a standout, with several reviewers noting full rotation and the ability to lay the cups flat in both directions. This helps with neck resting and storage in the included pouch.
Earpad replacement appears easy thanks to magnetic attachment and removable cushions, with multiple reviews emphasizing simple removal or replacement.
EQ customization exists mainly through Dolby Access. Reviewers mention usable EQ profiles, but one review calls EQ options limited.
Equalizer customization is robust enough to meaningfully change the headset, typically via a 10-band EQ and saved profiles. Many reviews recommend using EQ to broaden the headset beyond its FPS-oriented default sound.
Fit is secure without being extreme: reviewers describe enough squeeze to stay in place and avoid flying off the head.
Gaming cue emphasis is strong, with reviewers specifically noting boosted footsteps, clear grass/ground crunches, and situational detail.
Frequency response evidence is mixed: specs and testing support wide extension, while measured tuning shows deviations and gaming-oriented emphasis.
Frequency response accuracy is a recurring critique: several reviews describe a non-neutral, gaming-first curve with missing ear-gain style presence and other deviations. This is a major reason music listening is often rated only okay without EQ.
There is no dedicated game/chat dial, but the DAC aux input can mix a second source for chat, stream alerts, or external audio.
Game-chat balance controls are appreciated on compatible platforms for quick in-match tuning. However, there are reports of limited functionality or weaker integration on certain consoles, reducing its usefulness outside PC play.
Headband adjustment is described positively, with damped sliders that feel good to adjust.
Headband adjustability is generally innovative and secure, using a suspension-style system. Some reviewers love the quick locking adjustment, while others find fine-tuning while wearing the headset a bit fiddly.
Durability is supported by metal headband/slider comments and twist tests, though one reviewer notes plastic fork/yoke areas.
Hinge durability is typically considered solid for a lightweight design, with spring-like mechanisms and enough flex to handle normal handling. A few notes suggest the adjustment mechanism can be finicky rather than fragile.
Included accessories are a strength, with reviewers pointing to cables, mod plates, DAC, adapters, and extra modules.
Included accessories are generally strong, commonly including the low-latency dongle, detachable mic, charging cable, and an analog cable. Several reviewers appreciate the long analog cable and the storage pouch layout.
Detail and layering are repeatedly praised, including layered audio, environmental detail, and a clear sense of the game world.
Instrument separation and imaging are frequently highlighted as strengths for positional awareness, helping footsteps and directional cues stand out. A few reviewers still say top competitive headsets can render footsteps even more distinctly.
The integrated boom microphone is part of the magnetic module and supports flip-up mute or broadcast-style positioning.
Maximum-volume clarity is a strength in the positive reviews, with low distortion and crisp output noted even when pushed.
Maximum-volume clarity is generally viewed as solid, with reviewers noting low harshness and reduced fatigue even when playing loud, high-intensity FPS content. Some treble roughness can appear depending on preset, but it is not widely described as piercing.
Microphone impressions are mixed: several reviewers call it decent, serviceable, or better than expected, while others find it average.
Microphone noise handling is limited. Reviews note background pickup, no powered noise cancellation, and only partial directional/noise-gating help.
Microphone noise reduction is often praised for isolating voice and suppressing background noise, including fans and nearby activity. A few real-world tests in loud, crowded spaces suggest performance can vary and may not remove all ambient chatter.
Call/chat mic quality ranges from competent to disappointing: some reviewers liked it, while others found it quiet, compressed, or only decent.
Microphone quality is widely viewed as good to excellent for in-game chat, Discord, and even work calls, with a noticeable jump over the original H9. A minority describe it as only serviceable in very noisy environments or slightly muffled compared with the very best mics.
Midrange is gaming-focused. Several reviews mention boosted upper mids or clear mid/high detail, while one notes some vocals can be drowned out.
Midrange presence can feel recessed or muted in default tuning, especially for music and lead instruments. Reviewers who used the custom EQ report it can restore clarity and presence.
Multi-platform compatibility is broadly supported across PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, mobile, iOS/Android, and USB-C devices.
Multi-platform compatibility is strong for PC and PlayStation, with support also discussed for Nintendo Switch when docked and typical Bluetooth devices. The notable exception is Xbox compatibility.
Multipoint is repeatedly called out as not supported, which is a downside for users who want seamless multi-device switching. The headset instead leans on dual-connection workflows with the dongle and Bluetooth.
Passive isolation is a clear strength, with multiple reviews saying the thick cups block or reduce a meaningful amount of outside noise.
Passive isolation is mixed: the pads and seal help, but the light clamp and airy fit mean it is not the most cocooning on its own. Many reviewers frame ANC as the key to strong isolation on this model.
Packaging impressions are limited but positive, especially the black/gold presentation and included headset/accessory layout.
Portability is mostly about wired travel and USB-C/mobile use rather than foldability or a case; one reviewer planned flight use.
Portability is decent but not compact: the cups lay flat and rotate well, but the headset does not fold down like some travel headphones. It is easy enough to pack in a bag, just not optimized for small cases.
Positional audio is a major strength for gaming, with reviewers praising directional cues, sound origin detection, and situational awareness.
Preset EQ evidence comes from Dolby Access, where one reviewer tried performance, warm, balanced, and detailed modes.
Preset EQ profiles are frequently criticized as too FPS-centric and limited in variety, even if some presets help highlight footsteps. Several reviews wish for better presets for music, RPGs, or cinematic games.
Replaceable earpads are well supported through magnetic cushions, removable pads, and cleaning or replacement comments.
Replaceable earpads are confirmed and appreciated by multiple reviewers, including reports of easy pad removal and replacement. A few sources still wish the overall serviceability were more standard across the whole headset.
Replaceable ear plates are one of the most supported customization features, with magnetic mod plates and cosmetic personalization mentioned across reviews.
RGB lighting customization is not present; one review explicitly notes that there is no RGB.
Sidetone control exists but is not perfectly tuned out of the box, with reports of a low default level and a robotic quality when pushed too high. Many users will want to adjust it to a comfortable middle setting.
Smudge resistance is a consistent nitpick on certain finishes, with multiple mentions of surfaces showing fingerprints or marks easily. Buyers who care about keeping gear pristine may need to wipe it down often.
Setup is generally simple, with reviewers describing plug-and-play use and no required software for basic operation.
Setup is often described as fast and straightforward, especially via the dongle. The software experience is more mixed, with some calling it basic, confusingly organized, or requiring extra steps for spatial personalization.
Sound leakage is a real caveat. The limited evidence points to noticeable outward leakage despite the thick ear cushions.
Sound quality is the product's strongest theme, with most reviews praising crisp, detailed, clear, or impressive wired audio, though measured scores are more moderate.
Overall sound quality is praised for competitive play with clear cues and satisfying impact, but default tuning is often viewed as FPS-focused rather than all-purpose. For music and non-FPS games, several reviewers recommend EQ tweaks to avoid a dark or uneven presentation.
Soundstage and width are better than typical closed-back expectations in some reviews, with praise for immersiveness and wider presentation.
Soundstage width is generally regarded as good, creating convincing left-right placement in games. Some reviews note vertical positioning is less precise than horizontal placement.
Spatial audio support is strongly supported through Dolby Atmos, Dolby Access, and some Tempest 3D references.
Spatial features include virtual surround and Sony 360-style personalization options, plus PS5 3D audio support in some setups. Benefits are mixed: some enjoy wider immersion, while others find the ear-photo personalization process cumbersome or not worth the effort.
Stability is strong: reviewers note secure fit, cables/modules that resist accidental tugs, and parts that lock firmly in place.
Fit stability impressions vary: some reviewers find it secure and stable thanks to the new headband and low weight, while others report the earcups can shift slightly because of the gentle clamp. Overall stability is good, just not vice-like.
The headset offers an ambient or awareness mode, but multiple reviews say it is not a true, voice-forward transparency mode. It can let in general room sound, yet holding real conversations is often easier by removing the headset.
Treble is mixed but generally controlled: some reviews praise clear highs, while measurements note a treble dip or less upper-treble energy.
Treble is commonly described as safe and fatigue-resistant for long FPS sessions, but can sound crunchy, dull, or lacking sparkle depending on the preset. EQ adjustments tend to improve perceived detail for broader listening.
USB-C support is central to the DAC, with passthrough charging, USB-C device compatibility, and DAC connection repeatedly mentioned.
USB-C is used for charging and the included low-latency dongle. Some reviewers call out limitations like the lack of USB audio in certain scenarios.
Value depends on priorities. Reviewers praise the audio/DAC/modularity package, but several call the $150 price high for wired-only use.
Volume output is generally strong, with loud playback and heavy impact mentioned, though one reviewer had console volume decrease through the DAC.
Volume output is typically sufficient and can get loud, though a couple of reviewers describe it as slightly quieter than expected compared with older models. Overall, most report enough headroom for gaming and media.
Water or sweat resistance is not supported; one review explicitly states there is no IP rating.
Weight comfort is mostly acceptable, with reviewers calling it lightweight or not substantial, though some note it is somewhat heavy.
Weight comfort is excellent, with multiple reviews emphasizing the very light feel around 260g and how little it disappears during play. This low weight is frequently framed as a major advantage over heavier rivals.
Wireless latency is not a concern because the headset is wired; reviewers describe no lag, zero latency, and reliability benefits.
Xbox compatibility is repeatedly mentioned through Xbox controller, Xbox Series X|S, or broader cross-platform support.
Multiple reviews explicitly state the dongle does not work with Xbox consoles, limiting native Xbox compatibility. Wired fallback may exist, but the main low-latency wireless path is not Xbox-ready.