SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Gaming Headset review premium sound and noise cancellation tested

Description

Immersive Audio Experience with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless

Testing the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Multi-System Gaming Headset has been quite the ride. This headset is marketed as a premium option for gamers, boasting features like active noise cancellation, hi-fi drivers, and an infinity power system. I’ve used it across multiple platforms, including PC and PS5, and I have to admit, there are some impressive aspects, though it’s not without its quirks.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my attention was the sleek and modern design. The over-the-head earpiece shape is complemented by soft padding, which feels good even during long gaming sessions. The materials feel durable, and the retractable mic adds a clean, minimalist look when not in use. At 2.86 pounds, it’s not the lightest headset, but it doesn’t feel overly heavy on the head. The inclusion of a carrying case material that seems leather-like adds to the premium vibe.

However, there’s a slight downside here. While the design is sturdy, the headband adjustment mechanism feels a bit rigid. I had to fiddle with it for a while to get the perfect fit, and I can imagine this might be frustrating for some users.

Sound Quality: Almighty Audio

The almighty audio experience is where this headset truly shines. Equipped with premium high-fidelity drivers, the sound is crisp and immersive. The 360° Spatial Audio feature is a game-changer, especially for games with detailed soundscapes. Whether it’s footsteps in a shooter game or environmental sounds in a role-playing game, the level of detail is mind-blowing.

The Sonar Software with its pro-grade parametric EQ is another highlight. I could tweak the sound profile to suit different games, movies, or even music. It’s a bit of a learning curve for those unfamiliar with EQ settings, but once dialed in, the results are worth it.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode

One of the biggest selling points is the active noise cancellation (ANC). Using a specialized 4-mic hybrid system, it effectively blocks out ambient noise. I tested this during a particularly noisy family gathering, and I could still hear every in-game detail without distractions. The transparency mode is equally impressive, allowing me to stay aware of my surroundings when needed. You can even adjust the levels, which is a thoughtful touch.

That said, the ANC isn’t flawless. It struggles with very loud, low-frequency noises, and while it’s good for most situations, it’s not quite on the level of some dedicated ANC headphones.

Infinity Power System: A Lifesaver

The infinity power system might be my favorite feature. It comes with two lithium-ion batteries, allowing me to hot-swap one while the other charges. Essentially, this means the headset never needs to be out of commission. The 44-hour battery life per charge is more than enough for even the most hardcore gaming marathons.

Charging is done via the OLED dual wireless base station, which is super handy. The base station also lets you control EQ settings, volume, and other features without needing to leave your game. However, I found the OLED display a bit small, and navigating the controls could be more intuitive.

Connectivity and Dual Audio Streams

The dual connectivity options are both convenient and practical. I used the lag-free 2.4GHz wireless connection for gaming and Bluetooth for taking calls or playing music simultaneously. This dual audio stream capability is fantastic for multitaskers.

On the downside, switching between devices or connections isn’t always seamless. There were moments when I had to manually reconnect the headset to one of my devices, which broke the flow.

Positives

• Immersive sound quality with high-fidelity drivers and 360° Spatial Audio.
• Active noise cancellation and adjustable transparency mode.
• Dual audio streams for multitasking during gameplay.
• Infinity power system ensures uninterrupted usage with hot-swappable batteries.
• Customizable EQ via the Sonar Software adds a personal touch to audio preferences.

Flaws

• Switching between devices can be clunky at times.
• ANC struggles with specific low-frequency noises.
• The headband adjustment feels stiff and could be smoother.

Competing Products

Comparing this headset to others in its league, such as the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro or the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, it holds its own in terms of sound quality and battery life. The 360° Spatial Audio and dual audio stream capability are features that give it an edge over many competitors.

However, the ANC performance isn’t as robust as that of the Sony WH-1000XM5, which excels in noise cancellation. The comfort level of the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is also slightly behind the HyperX Cloud Alpha, which feels lighter and more ergonomic.

Bang for the Buck

When it comes to price performance, this headset sits comfortably in the premium category. The features, like the infinity power system and customizable audio profiles, make it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers. While the price might seem steep to some, the combination of performance, build quality, and features justifies the cost for those who value cutting-edge tech.

Overall, this product delivers a high-quality audio experience that is hard to beat, despite a few minor flaws. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, this headset offers something unique to enhance your experience.

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