Hope you’re having an amazing day and welcome back! Today, we’re diving into the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro, a headset that’s been getting a lot of attention. We’re going to find out together if it lives up to the hype. Stick around because later, I’ll be testing the sound quality with some real gameplay footage and music tracks. You won’t want to miss it!
First Impressions: What Makes the Arctis Nova Pro Stand Out?
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro comes packed with features that set it apart. It boasts dual USB-C inputs, allowing simultaneous connection to both a PC and a console. It also offers customizable EQ straight from the wireless base station or via software, and swappable batteries to keep you gaming without interruption.
Sound Quality: Immersive and Clear
Sound quality is crucial for any headset, and the Nova Pro doesn’t disappoint. The bass is punchy yet balanced, providing an immersive feel without overwhelming the mids. When playing games like Call of Duty and Fortnite, picking up footsteps was no issue. The mids are clear, and music playback sounds natural. However, the highs can be a bit piercing at times, requiring some EQ adjustments to perfect the sound.
For a true sense of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro’s sound quality, I placed a microphone next to the ear cup to capture some frequency tests.
Gaming and Multimedia Performance
Playing Call of Duty with the Nova Pro was a great experience. Footsteps and enemy locations were easy to discern, although I wished for a bit more bass. Adjusting the EQ helped somewhat, but the difference was minimal. Watching movies and listening to music, however, was a pleasure. The 40mm drivers deliver good audio quality and volume, though 50mm drivers could have provided better bass and mids.
Comfort and Build: Designed for Long Sessions
The ear cushions are soft, memory foam-like, ensuring comfort even after hours of gaming. The headset features a power button, LED indicators for power and mute status, and a volume knob. The ear plates are magnetic, making battery swaps easy and convenient. The build quality feels sturdy, with enough tension to stay in place without accidentally moving.
Active Noise Cancellation: A Game Changer
The active noise cancellation (ANC) on the Nova Pro works excellently. Using a hybrid system with four microphones, it effectively blocks out ambient noise. I tested it with my portable AC running, and the ANC managed to drown out the noise impressively.
Microphone Quality: Hidden and Functional
The microphone on the Nova Pro is a hidden gem, literally. It stays concealed when not in use and can be extended when needed. While it’s not the best microphone out there, it performs well enough for most gaming and communication needs. I prefer using it without any additional software, which keeps things simple and efficient.
Base Station: Control and Convenience
The wireless base station adds a layer of convenience. You can charge batteries, adjust volume, and customize settings directly from the station. It features touch controls and a menu system that allows you to toggle between different inputs, audio options, and system settings.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
So, is the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro worth the hype? Absolutely. It offers excellent sound quality, great comfort, and extensive customization options. However, it does have its flaws. The treble can be a bit harsh, and the microphone, while functional, isn’t the best compared to similar headsets. But if you’re looking for a wireless gaming headset, the Nova Pro checks all the boxes.
source: https://youtu.be/wOkkGJd4VxM
