Steel Series Arctis 5 Gaming Headset Review / Test
Today we're looking at a universally compatible gaming headset; The Steel Series Arctis 5 Gaming Headset.
This gaming headset is listed as compatible with Windows, Mac, Xbox One, Playstation 4, Android, and iOS. It also offers digital 7.1 channel surround sound if you are using the headset on Windows (7 or greater). I should note that to get the most out of this headset you need to download Steel Series Engine 2 or 3 which is available for Windows & Mac.
If you are interested in this headset, it will set you back $100 on Amazon
What's In the Box
Headset
1.2m Cable
3.5mm TRRS Adapter for Smart Phone
USB Chat Mix Dial (allows connection to computer)
Documentation
Specifications
Headphones
Drivers: 40mm
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 22kHz
Impedance: 32-Ohms
Microphone
Polar Pattern: Bi-directional
Frequency Response: 100Hz - 10kHz
Sensitivity: -48dB
Performance / Features
The build quality of this headset feels amazing. The construction is all plastic, but it feels like incredibly high quality plastic, and as though it is well put together. The ear cups are very soft and breathable, and the headband is extremely comfortable and allows for minor adjustability via a velcro strap. On the outside of the headphones there are also LED ring lights that you can control through the software.
On the bottom of the left ear cup you will find a 3.5mm headphone share jack, and a 4-pole jack for the main headset cable. You will also find a volume rocker to control the headset volume, and a microphone mute button. The microphone retracts into the headset, and also allows you to articulate it for optimum position.
The main cable is standard rubber measures in at 1.2m. The USB Chat Mix Dial offers a dial to mix between the chat volume and game volume, makes the total cable length 3m, and allows you to connect the headset to your computer.
The headphones offer a full frequency response ranging from 20Hz - 22kHz from a set of 40mm drivers. Unlike most gaming headsets, this is not overpowered by low frequencies. Out of the box it offers a nice flat frequency response with a nice full low end that doesn't sound muddy, clean and warm mids, and plenty of high frequencies without sounding harsh. Out of all the gaming headset's I've tested so far, this is easily in the top three in terms of headphones. If a flat frequency response is not for you, then have no fear because the software that you can get for free off of Steel Series' website, allows you to customize your EQ.
The microphone, as you would expect, leaves a bit to be desired. It has a harsh tone that cuts through any mix, which would actually be ideal for online gaming. It has a bi-directional polar pattern, and I'm assuming the rear facing pick up is used to determine what sounds to eliminate while noise cancellation is enabled. On that note, the software offers adjustable noise cancellation to help rid yourself of that keyboard click, or line noise.
Pros
Comfortable
Mic Articulates / Retracts
Great Headphone Audio Quality
Software allows for custom EQ/Lighting/Mic Settings
Microphone cuts through game sound due to harsh tone
Cons
Bad sounding microphone for any professional application
Non-standard headphone connector
Conclusion
As I previously mentioned, out of all the gaming headset I have tested so far, this headphones are in the top 3. They have an excellent frequency response, and the soundstage is surprisingly good even in stereo mode. The microphone on the other hand has the standard harsh tone that I have come to expect out of gaming headset.
I absolutely will recommend this headset, but only for a few applications; 1) Online Gaming, because that's what it was designed for and that's where it will excel, 2) A headset that will be mainly used as headphones, with an occasional Skype call. If you want a headset for any professional applications, I'm sorry to say that this headset won't cut it, and your search will have to continue.
If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP.
Buy the Arctis 5 (Affiliate Link)
Global: https://geni.us/arctis5