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In this section of the review, we'll be testing the headset in three different scenarios. Although the headset is firmly oriented towards the gaming market, most people (including myself) will use it for a variety of purposes. Such as listening to music or watching films on Bluray.
To put it through its paces we will be testing using a variety of audio tracks, sections from two Bluray films and of course, a couple of modern games.
I have used a selection of audio tracks to test the sound quality. For today's review I have chosen; Steel Panther – If You Really Really Love Me (Rock), Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are (Acoustic/Pop) and Chicane – Thousand Mile Stare (Dance).
During these tests, I have opted to use the “Audiophile 1+” setting in the Corsair software control panel, using the “Studio” sound option.
Music Results:
(Rock) Steel Panther – If You Really Really Love Me. Although Corsair's target audience is gamers, this must be a close second to where the headset excels. The track exhibited plenty of depth and was very clear, if the bass had been a little stronger it would have been perfect for this genre. Alternative settings will adjust the bass response to suit personal taste.
(Acoustic/Pop) Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are. The headset performed particularly well with this song, the bass delivering plenty of impact with a clear high end delivery. The voice of Bruno Mars was exceptionally clear and I found myself picking up sections of the track I had never heard before.
(Dance) Chicane – Thousand Mile Stare: This was a very pleasant experience. The synthesisers were clean and crisp, the bass balance was just about right – not underwhelming but not dominating the balance. I did find that the complex section near the end of the track caused a few problems for the headphones. The instruments weren't quite as separated as I would have liked.
Next up are some Bluray tests. For this section I will use the “Movies MOD-X™” setting in the Corsair control panel and play a short sample from each of the two films being tested. These are: ‘Inception' and ‘The Expendables'.
Bluray Results
Inception: For this, I chose to use the famous “exploding cafe” scene, for its dynamic range of sounds and variety of sound effects … when the scenery begins to explode.
Results: This was a testament to how good the sound reproduction can be if the EQ levels are set correctly. The bass was extremely deep and the driver was capable of resolving a lot of fine, high end detail, noticeable when the plates started smashing.
The Expendables: In this test, I opted to test the headset using the opening sequence of the film – a gunfight between the task force and the pirates.
Results: The gunfight had a pleasing range of sound, especially the snaps and whistles caused by bullets getting close to contact. This was enhanced by a suitable amount of bass, which didn't overwhelm the other frequencies and allowed the higher ranges to break through cleanly.
Finally, the headset will be tested for its intended purpose. I have chosen to put it up against one of the most recent games released, Blizzard's ‘Diablo III'. I have selected this as each enemy in the game presents a different range of weaponry and magic effects. It is worth pointing out that Blizzard are so proud of the soundtrack, they have released it separately for purchase. For this test, I selected the ‘MMO Gaming' EQ setting.
Results: Clashes of sword and shield and metal on metal were incredibly clear and they weren’t disruptive to the classical backing track, which dramatically increased the tension when a turning point of the game was nearing. This EQ setting was perfect for Diablo III and I am sure it would suit as a general all-rounder setting for a variety of combat games – although an ‘FPS Gaming' option is also available for selection.
