Resolved: Audio Device & Listening Gear
Resolved: Audio Device & Listening Gear
My G930 is gradually failing; I purchased it primarily because of its wireless capability, but after four years of use, I’ve begun to miss the detailed audio quality I experienced with a soundcard and headset combination. Consequently, wireless functionality is no longer a priority—I simply desire respectable audio performance!
Therefore, my primary inquiry is: What soundcard would best complement headphones? (Budget approximately 350€). Furthermore, are there viable headset alternatives to headphones? If not, what microphone options would you recommend, considering I frequently communicate via Discord and Teamspeak?
I possess a Creative X-Fi Titanium Fatal1ty Pro PCIe card that remains unused – is this still relevant?
For instance, in Tarkov, I frequently struggle to discern the sounds my teammates are making, despite utilizing identical equipment. Music playback should also be satisfactory; I appreciate listening to music. Should I consider investing in a separate DAC/amplifier?
Thank you for your assistance.
System specifications:
Z370-E motherboard with Windows 10 64-bit
Currently, an Onkyo TX-SR333 Hi-Fi receiver is connected to my computer via optical cable.
tl;dr: Roughly 350€ for a new headset and soundcard – what are the recommended choices?
I completely concur; for gaming and film viewing, excessive investment isn’t typically necessary – entry-level studio or audiophile headphones are more than adequate. I utilize the Samson SR850 paired with a Zalman ZM-Mic1, which delivers a noteworthy level of low-end response for semi-open headphones, and its broad soundscape creates a remarkably immersive sensation—sounds appear “around” you rather than “within” your head, as is common with closed-back models. When combined with a Sound Blaster Play!3, I successfully removed distracting microphone static from my computer’s built-in Realtek audio chip, and I strongly favor the SBX surround sound feature – a technology you’re likely acquainted with on your graphics card. In fact, I find it superior to the HyperX Revolvers I purchased for my children, which employs a ported bass design.
Currently, a significant portion of PC headphones and headsets utilize USB connectivity, incorporating an integrated DAC (digital-to-analog converter) as part of their design. I would suggest considering the Razer Kraken, found at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Razer-Kraken-Tour...B07G5TP4BN
I’m attempting to move past using wired headphones connected via USB.
I would purchase quality headphones and a ModMic, along with a Mayflower ARC DAC/AMP. It features a built-in microphone and performs exceptionally well.
What headphones would you prefer, without needing any complicated features, simply wanting the sound to be as pure and realistic as possible?
If you're seeking a detailed and expansive sound experience without an emphasis on deep bass, could you tell us what genres of music you typically enjoy listening to? Additionally, we’d like to know about your preferences regarding headphone types – would you prefer closed-back or open-back headphones, and what other specifications are important to you? There are several factors to consider for an accurate response.
I wholeheartedly concur; for gaming and film viewing, excessive extravagance isn’t generally necessary—entry-level studio or audiophile headphones are typically more than adequate. I currently utilize the Samson SR850 in conjunction with a Zalman ZM-Mic1, which offers an unexpectedly robust low-end response for semi-open headphones. Furthermore, its expansive soundscape creates a significantly wider sense of immersion—sounds emanate “around” you rather than feeling confined (“in your head,” as with closed-back models). Adding to this, my Sound Blaster Play!3 effectively removed microphone static from my computer’s onboard Realtek audio, and I strongly favor the SBX surround sound feature – a technology you likely recognize on your graphics card.
I genuinely find it superior to the HyperX Revolvers I purchased for my children, which employs a ported bass design (creating a semi-open configuration with slightly diminished soundstage characteristics compared to true semi-open headphones like the SR850).
The Sound Blaster AE-5 combined with a potential Sennheiser HD 6xx from Massdrop would be incredibly impressive. I previously employed this configuration, and it delivered exceptional audio quality; however, subsequently, I upgraded to a Topping D10 DAC and Jds Labs O2 headphone amplifier, alongside an Audeze LCD-2 for musical listening.