From directional cues to majestic scores, playing our games with virtual surround sound is a game changer. So, we’re taking a look at gaming headsets with this feature.
With or without surround sound, gaming headsets are a staple for any set up. Their premium components deliver crystal-clear acoustics and heighten your immersive experience. Adding the virtual surround sound takes that one step further. We’ve got five great gaming headsets from Overclockers UK that all feature virtual surround sound to help inspire your next upgrade.
What is Virtual Surround Sound?
Surround sound is audio that is split into different channels to emulate directionality. The sound surrounds you. When using traditional speakers, they’ll either be in 5.1 or 7.1 arrangements. The first number indicates the number of speakers in the system, while the .1 shows a bass speaker is included in the set-up. These are then placed around the room or your set up, to create an immersive soundscape.
With headsets, it’s a little different. You can’t exactly fit seven speakers and a bass on a headband. Instead, they utilise innovative audio software that creates sounds at different angles and distances to emulate directionality. The result is a virtual spatial soundscape that can give you a distinct advantage in game. You’ll be able to hear what direction your enemies are coming from and be ready for them! Plus, your favourite gaming soundtracks will never sound better!
Best Gaming Headsets with Virtual Surround Sound
In addition to virtual surround sound, there are plenty of factors to look out for when choosing your gaming headset. We’ve sifted through the headset collection and picked out five which boast spatial sound with other choice features, like noise cancelling, premium drivers, and optimised ergonomics. Plus, if the headset is available wired and wirelessly, we’ll add the links for both because who doesn’t love connectivity options?
ASUS TUF Gaming H3 Gaming Headset
The ASUS TUF Gaming H3 Headset is a fab addition to your gaming set-up. I should know, I use one. The 50mm ASUS Essence drivers in an airtight chamber deliver warm bass and clear high notes, to create wonderfully immersive soundscapes. Plus, with the 7.1 virtual surround sound, you’ll always know where your enemies are coming from. To keep you comfortable during long gaming sessions, this headset is lightweight with ASUS fast-cooling ear cushions. What’s more, the unidirectional boom microphone is both Discord and TeamSpeak certified, so the squad will always hear you loud and clear.
The ASUS TUF Gaming H3 is available in wired and wireless models, both boasting multi-platform compatibility.
Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB Gaming Headset
The Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB Gaming Headset pairs high-fidelity spatial audio with premium wireless connectivity. Utilising their proprietary Corsair Slipstream Wireless technology, the Virtuoso headset connects via 2.4GHz frequencies with a 60ft signal range and ultra-low latency. You can stay connected with crystal-clear audio even when you pop to the kitchen to replenish your snack supply! (You know, floor plan providing.) Plus, with a battery life up to twenty hours, you can stay connected for longer between charges. All this, and it comes with subtle and stylish RGB lighting?
The Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB is available in black or white.
Razer Barracuda X Wireless Gaming Headset
The Razer Barracuda X is another wireless gaming headset, offering connectivity via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless. In fact, with Razer SmartSwitch Dual Wireless, you can connect via both and seamlessly shift between devices for unrivalled convenience. As such, you can be connected to your gaming PC via the USB-C wireless dongle and still take a call from your phone via Bluetooth. The future is now! On top of this, their patented three-part 40mm drivers deliver exceptional audio for an immersive experience whether you’re playing the latest AAA game or vibing to your favourite tunes.
The Razer Barracuda X is available in black or white.
Logitech G G432 Gaming Headset
The Logitech G G432 Gaming Headset utilises DTS Headphone:X 2.0 technology to deliver its 7.1 virtual surround sound, putting you right in the middle of the action! The 50mm drivers create a cinematic gaming experience with detailed sound to keep you at the top of your game. The integrated microphone has flip-to-mute functionality, whilst there is overall volume control embedded on the earcup. Make on-the-fly adjustments, as you need! Plus, thanks to wired connectivity, you can effortlessly use this gaming headset with your PC, consoles, and mobile devices.
The Logitech G G432 is available with red or blue accents.
ASUS ROG Theta USB-C Gaming Headset
Our final pick is the ASUS ROG Theta Gaming Headset. Boasting connectivity via USB-C, this gaming headset reliably delivers immersive spatial sound on all your favourite games. This headset also has the option to switch to stereo sound as needed, with just the click of a button. Plus, they feature a closed design which shields you from ambient noise to minimise distraction. We’re all about that audio fidelity. On top of this, the ROG hybrid ear cups use a material that actively lowers temperature and, overall, the headset is glasses-friendly. Comfort for every gamer!
More Gaming Headsets
Of course, there are plenty of gaming headsets out there. While we’ve rounded up fave fab contenders, it’s entirely possibly we haven’t quite hit your criteria. If that’s the case, our full collection of gaming headsets are just waiting to be perused!
Get More From Your Gaming Audio
If you’re looking to optimise your gaming audio, we have plenty more articles to help!
Epic Soundscapes
Do you game with virtual surround sound? How has it helped your gaming? Let us know in the comments below!
- 5 min read
Emily Haylock
Author
Emily is a board and cosy gamer, keyboard obsessive, and content copywriter for Overclockers UK. She has been with Overclockers UK since 2020, writing about everything from noblechairs to 8Pack PCs. She writes from within her desk nest with a foster pup at her feet. (What, a desk duvet is a totally normal thing!) In her downtime, she likes to play board games, farming sims, and old-school Final Fantasy. IX to be specific. It is the best, and that is a hill she will die on.
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HyperX Cloud Alpha wireless must be worth a mention here. Great sound, and an absolutely phenomenal 300-hour battery life. I use mine for long weekend gaming sessions and music, and it needs charged up one every few months. Compare that to a Steelseries wireless set, which needed charged up every week or so.
via GIPHY