I'll break down my review by the various features. Firstly, the sound output. This headset sounds really good overall. Compared to previous headphones I've used, the range and consistency across the range is easily superior. That being said, note that I'm not comparing it to $1,000 studio headphones or anything. But compared to similarly priced headphones, I can hear a lot more detail in sounds while playing a game, for example. Music also sounds good through it, including deeper ends of bass, though if you want it really impactful, you might want to run it through an EQ. The SteelSeries GG software works great for that.
Next, active noise cancellation. I would like it to be a little better at blocking out fans and such, but it does a decent job, especially if you have any sounds playing. I don't have a lot of experience with high-end ANC to compare it to, and I haven't tried it on an airplane or anything, but it's noticeably better than my last headphones.
The most incredibly useful feature, in my opinion, is the GameDAC. Mostly for its infinity charging system. The ability to quickly and easily swap out the battery, and always have one charging, means never having to plug it in (and lose the ANC.) My biggest complaint with my last wireless headphones was having to have them plugged in if the battery ran low, and have annoying cables (one for power and one for audio) on my shoulder, which also changed the sound dynamics and disabled ANC. The battery charges faster than it drains, so if one runs out, you only have a few seconds of down time, then you've got a fully charged battery again. The GameDAC is also great if you use GG's Sonar to mix different applications to different channels, because you can control your game/chat mix with the GameDAC, removing the need to switch away from your game or whatever you're doing.
Finally, the microphone. I'm not a fan of the microphone quality; the range isn't that good, so it sounds a little like a walkie-talkie effect, though not nearly as drastic. It's sufficient for getting the point across in a group chat or voice meeting, but don't think it will replace a dedicated broadcast mic if you're going to stream or publish videos. But you probably already knew that if you're doing those things. That being said, if you're not using the mic, it very seamlessly hides away within the earpiece, which is great.
Overall, very pleased with this purchase.
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