CHRISTMAS carols and festive songs aren’t the only thing you can listen to on December 25 – and if you want a decent gaming audio experience, then we have you covered with our gift guide of headsets and microphones for gamers and streamers alike!
STEELSERIES ARCTIS NOVA PRO FOR XBOX WIRED GAMING HEADSET
I review a lot of headsets and the standout for me this year has easily been the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro for Xbox.
It is, without a doubt, the best-sounding wired Xbox headset I’ve ever used; the sound is clear, sharp, and really well balanced – plus you can fine-tune it yourself even further via the included Digital-Analogue Converter.
The fact it works so well with PC, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch just adds to the attraction of what is already a superb and highly recommended headset; the only drawbacks are the fact it’s wired (so watch out for those cables) and the price tag – but if you want to really want to make someone’s Christmas, this definitely warrants consideration.
RRP: AUD$565
ELGATO WAVE: 3 MICROPHONE (Recommended by Mikeey)
Arguably the essential tool for a streamer you content creator is their microphone – and luckily, Elgato have you covered these holidays with the Elgato Wave:3.
The Wave:3 is available in black or white and features crystal clear audio with a tone of options and features to suit the basics all the way to adding multiple audio sources to your loved one’s set-up. The compact size of the mic is non-intrusive on your desk space or if using a camera for streaming won’t take up too much space on the screen.
In addition to the built-in volume dial, the Elgato software can add noise cancellation and the unit also has Nvidia broadcast software integration as well.
The audio input in itself was a true game changer for streaming and recording voiceovers for my YouTube channel. Now I’ve got my settings just the way I wanted them, there is no way I can go back now. This is an amazing gift and you won’t need to upgrade this for a long time.
RRP: AUD$239.95
RODE XDM-100 MICROPHONE (Recommended by Doomcutie)
The XDM-100 is a professional dynamic USB microphone that delivers rich audio. From the first time I took it out of it’s box I knew this was a very premium, very good USB microphone. I would recommend attaching the studio shock mount to a boom/studio arm like the RODE PSA1+ to isolate itself from external vibrations, it also looks very professional.
It is very simple to use, simply plug into the USB-C port in your computer or an adapter/extension and you’re ready to go. This dynamic microphone allows for ultra-low background noise and the pop shield included reduces any harsh ‘p’ or ‘b’ syllables. While using this microphone my sound quality is always positively commented on by my gaming teammates. This microphone is on the more expensive side, however is a fantastic addition to any content creators setup and is definitely worth it.
RRP: AUD$399
LOGITECH G733 LIGHTSPEED WIRELESS HEADSET (recommended by Arlentric)
The highlight of my year thus far when it comes to new audio tech has been my lilac-coloured Logitech G733 Lightspeeds. I’ve never really had anything high-quality when it comes to audio, as was in the wrong mentality that ‘if sound comes out, it’s good enough for me’. Boy was I missing out. Audio quality has never sounded so crisp.
The headset is incredibly comfortable and sturdy, while offering an impressive amount of flexibility to adjust for larger heads (like my own). I‘m still impressed with how lightweight they feel when they’re actually on your head, which really emphasizes how much I’ve been punishing myself with some of my aging tech.
There’s also a detachable microphone included, which isn’t really worth raving about, but it was a welcomed bonus nonetheless.
With a wide array of colour options, additional RGB customization and a lengthy battery life, it’s the perfect premium gift for the gamer in your life who’s looking for a high-quality, comfortable headset to further immerse them in their gameplay.
RRP: AUD$299
HYPERX CLOUD STINGER 2 (recommended by Arlentric)
HyperX’s latest Cloud Stinger headset breaks the trend of astronomically priced headsets, by shifting its attention back to basics. There’s no noise cancellation, bluetooth or RGB customisation, but what you do get is an incredibly durable, comfortable and reasonable quality audio headset and microphone, at an incredibly affordable price.
The HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 is a wired gaming headset with a wide array of compatibility options thanks to the 3.5mm headphone jack connector. The headband is mostly plastic in a decent array of colour variants, with comfortable pleather padding to sit atop your head. The ear cups are also surprisingly comfortable for the price point, allowing ample room for breathabaility (as there’s nothing worse than sweaty gamer ears).
If you’re looking for more of a lower-budget recommendation, look no further than the HyperX Cloud Stinger 2, as it’s really all any gamer needs.
RRP: AUD$79
STEELSERIES ARCTIS NOVA 7 WIRELESS HEADSET (Recommeded by GrumpyGoron)
Although I’ve only spent a few weeks with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless Gaming Headset, I quickly found it to be the best headset that I’ve had the pleasure of using this year.
It’s sleek and lightweight design is comfortable and looks great, while it’s 38 hour battery life is more than enough for even the more hardcore users.
The retractable mic is pretty handy too, and the SteelSeries Sonar software on PC affords a welcome assortment of audio customisation options.
By far the coolest feature is the ability to have two devices connected to the headset at once through it’s 2.4GHz USB-C dongle and Bluetooth channels. This simultaneous wireless made it a dream to connect up to my PS5 to hear game audio, while also remaining connected to my PC so that I could also listen to music or podcasts.
This headset is undeniably pricey, but it’s solid sound quality, sizeable battery life, and flexibility across PC, console and mobile devices makes it a great device for a gamer who wants the best across their raft of devices.
RRP: AUD $399
SKULLCANDY SESH ANC EAR BUDS (Recommended by Mikeey)
The Skullcandy Sesh ANC Ear Buds are a great way to travel light with your gaming and audio needs on the go.
Offering up to 32 hours of battery life (six hours for the ear pieces and an additional 26 with the charge dock) these are excellent for use on the Nintendo Switch and are also able to be connected to your mobile phone or tablet for sneaky sessions of gaming late at night or on the train.
The audio that comes out of these little ear buds are fantastic as they pick up all the little sounds in the background of the game you are playing. I tested these initially with Alan Wake on the switch and the clarity of all the noises in the woods at night, made you feel like you were really there.
RRP: AUD$149.95
SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS PRO 2 (Recommended by Ravensky)
If you have a Samsung phone, then the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro are a must.
The audio quality in these earbuds is phenomenal. Everything is crystal clear, and the preset EQ covers most user preferences. You can set the earbuds to have inbuilt ambient sound or active noise cancelling, which surpasses that of the Samsung Galaxy Buds I used in the past. It comes with 360 audio tracking which I enjoy, and voice detection.
My favourite thing is the battery life and charge times. Although Samsung states you get up to five hours of continuous charge with active noise cancellation. I can go an 8-hour day and hit about 25% battery left. A quick 15-30 minutes in the case and the earbuds gain about 50% charge, if not more. The 18 hours of charge in the case means I only need to recharge every 2-3 days, which is great. The extra bonus for me is comfort. Previously I have only been able to wear one earbud in a set due to piercings, but with these, I can use both buds without minimal discomfort as a person with both tragus and conch piercings in the same ear.
RRP: AUD$299
