How good is the surround in an Xbox wireless headset?

Best answer: Overall, the quality of surround sound in Xbox wireless headsets varies widely. For the absolute best environment sound experience, you should purchase the Astro A50 wireless headset. In that location are cheaper options, however, similar the Turtle Embankment Stealth 600.

Amazon: Astro A50 ($300)
Amazon: Turtle Beach Stealth 600 ($100)

What is environs sound, anyway?

Environment audio is a type of sound technique that aims to simulate full 360-degree spatial sound. For example, sounds that come from behind yous in-game will come from the speaker that's behind you lot in your setup (or should sound like it's coming from behind you). The most effective forms of environment sound utilize positioned speaker towers, but hardware and software engineers have come up up with clever ways to simulate the environs sound experience within headsets. There are 2 types of environment sound that are virtually commonly found in headsets: built-in vii.1 surroundings sound, and false surroundings sound that is activated past software similar Windows Sonic.

The start one, 7.1 surroundings sound, is the higher-quality type of the two. Headsets with built-in vii.one surround sound have speakers that are capable of delivering audio from different angles dynamically, similar to how a full speaker setup would. This is better than virtual faux surroundings sound, which uses software to process your audio to sound like it's coming from different angles. Since the audio isn't really coming from your speakers dynamically, it'due south not as not bad every bit 7.one surround sound. Yet, it's still great, and you lot'll notice the comeback.

What makes the Astro A50 the best?

The Astro A50 is, overall, the best Xbox wireless headset where surround sound is concerned. This is because, unlike almost of its contest, the Astro A50 comes with the built-in vii.1 variant of surround sound. When compared against simulated surroundings audio, the richness and quality of vii.ane come out on summit every time.

In improver to having fantastic surround sound capabilities, the Astro A50 is likewise an first-class wireless headset in general. Its 40mm drivers, while not the biggest in the business concern, still deliver a groovy sound quality, and the headset too has a tremendous battery life of over 15 hours. It'south as well built very well and incredibly comfortable to use, then things like impairment and discomfort aren't a concern with the A50. Lastly, it comes with its own docking station, which is a large plus. All of this quality does come at the hefty cost of $300, though. However, I would argue that you lot get what you pay for with this headset.

What's a skilful alternative?

If the Astro A50 headset is as well pricey for you, and so the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 is an absolutely glorious budget-friendly culling. Unfortunately, it utilizes simulated surround sound instead of built-in 7.ane, so don't expect an amazing surround sound feel. Despite that, though, it's nonetheless a neat selection when you consider that it'south only $100, and that information technology's sleek, durable, and surprisingly comfortable, as well. At simply a third of the price of the Astro A50, you can't ask for more value than this.

Our choice

Astro A50

Spatial sound excellence

If you're looking for a premium surround sound feel, then the well-rounded Astro A50 wireless headset is correct upward your alley. Be prepared to pay a high price, however.

Budget option

Turtle Beach Stealth 600

Bang for your buck

At just $100, the Turtle Embankment Stealth 600 is one of the best alternatives to the Astro A50 headset on the marketplace. The surround sound isn't as good, but at this price, information technology's an incredible value.

Nosotros may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

Best deals on Xbox headsets

Our top picks for Xbox headsets below $100

Do you fancy a new Xbox I headset? Do you lot fancy not spending more $100? Let us assistance! There's a large range of solid audio options without breaking your budget. And hither are our elevation picks that we've personally used.

Brendan Lowry

Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he's been an avid fan since babyhood. You lot'll detect him doing reviews, editorials, and general coverage on everything Xbox and PC. Follow him on Twitter.