Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless Review
Recording quality & General impressions
So, this is another discipline where Corsair seeks to stand out by providing a claimed ‘Broadcast Quality’ microphone. On the two base models this is a 4mm omni-directional microphone, while the SE takes this up a notch via a much larger 9mm microphone. One cannot speak to the performance of the SE model, but the mic on the base models is quite impressive. In fact, I do believe this is easily the best gaming headset microphone I’ve used.
I’m not sure if it’s broadcast quality as I have no expertise or experience in that. However, in terms of the headsets I had on hand from previous experiences\recordings, this is notably better. The recordings are clear without any of the typical muffling and narrow band recording you get with other microphones. The microphone also distorts a lot less than others I’ve tested. In this regard I have to give the Virtuoso RGB Wireless full marks. Broadcast quality claims aside, it simply sound great and clearly above what others offer.
As a package, the Virtuoso RGB Wireless does so much right that despite the glaring issue of audio quality via USB or wireless mode, it still makes a strong argument for itself. From the material choice, design and care taken in putting it all together. It’s a headset that’s more than the sum of its parts. It’s the smaller touches that you’d generally not notice that makes it so appealing. For instance, there’s no need to press any button to resume the headset from standby. Simply pick it up and you’re good to go. I don’t know how this is done for sure but I suspect there could be an accelerometer inside the unit.
As with all Wireless headsets, battery life after a while can become compromised. So being able to use the headset via USB or via the traditional stereo mini-jack will prove invaluable. Given that there’s no way to replace the battery on Corsair headsets, having these options is just another example of how superior the Virtuoso RGB headset is over all previous attempts by Corsair. What mainly sells this set of cans for me is the transformative audio performance when using the stereo mini-jack plug. As you may suspect, you sacrifice volume control and all RGB features connecting this way. You naturally lose the freedom of movement as well. Curious though as I see no reason why the lighting can’t stay on given it’s battery powered nature. Despite all this however, the better audio experience via analogue connection is worth the sacrifice.
