Let’s examine surround sound and see “Are 7.1 Headphones Worth It?” If you enjoy playing video games, You’ve probably heard of surround sound headsets and pondered whether or not they’d give you an edge over the competition or make your gaming experience more realistic. Therefore, you might wonder if surround sound gaming headsets are worth the money.
Gaming headsets with surround sound make playing games more immersive. Stereo headsets are still commonly used in competitive gaming, nevertheless. There are certain video games designed expressly for surround sound. Surround sound headsets are unquestionably worthwhile for certain games.
Are 7.1 Headphones Worth It?
In-game 7.1 surround sound is simulated. While some headsets are far better at it than others, a straightforward set of stereo headphones with decent drivers can faithfully reproduce a 360-degree soundscape.
You’ll also notice that none of the competitive multiplayer games use this because it’s simply not realistic. It differs significantly between headsets, interacts differently with various games and drivers, and, overall, doesn’t honestly give you a better soundscape in a competitive setting.
Comparing Types Of Surround Sound
Around the world, gamers frequently use stereo headphones or surround sound. More factors than only your wireless headphones’ audio quality capabilities affect sound quality. For instance, computer users can only generate audio to the amount their sound card permits.
These aren’t your only choices, of course. To better understand your requirements, you can compare 5.1 and 7.1 gaming headsets or True 7.1 and simulated 7.1. Your needs will determine which option is best for you, and factors like bass control, built-in microphone, and directional audio play a part.
Production Of Richer Sound
There is no better technique than surround sound design for creating ideal sound virtualization. The competing technique uses many more audio channels than stereo sound systems, which only rely on a handful. Multiple separate drivers are also used in authentic surround sound.
A surround sound headset is a great choice, primarily due to these audio drivers. A pair of 7.1 wireless headsets is the way to go if you want precise sound. Try our post “Audiophile Headphones vs. Gaming Headset” for more details if you’re interested in finding out more.
Background Noise Cancellation
A noise-canceling microphone does wonders in reducing background noise. That, however, doesn’t matter if you can’t hear your buddies because of outside noise. Having the most excellent directional audio from your audio equipment is not the only factor in sound quality. Virtual surround sound tends to be more effective at reducing the amount of noise that lower-quality headphones might pick up.
Overall Price Range
These two solutions are significantly different in cost. For many gamers, affordable pricing is a problem, mainly when DLC and accessories cost more each year. Most people object to paying more unless they play competitively. In terms of cost, you’ll see that the 7.1 options are more expensive. Stereo headphones are significantly less expensive. Additionally, amazing-sounding Dobly versus DTS gaming headsets are available.
What Is Virtual Surround And True Surround?
You will come across words like “virtual surround” and “real surround” when looking for a pair of surround-sound headphones. It can complicate the selection process if you don’t know what that signifies. The effect of surround sound is produced by actual drivers (speakers) in a proper surround sound system.
There are two types of these: 5.1 and 7.1. Each side of a headset contains 5 or 7 different drivers, plus an additional driver for a low-frequency bass to provide the sound effect. Virtual surround sound systems use software to simulate the surround sound effect on stereo speakers (2-speaker configuration).
In the case of headsets (instead of a home theater system), the difference is slight, and these still sound far better than standard stereo speakers without virtual surround sound, even though they might not sound as well as a proper surround system.
Several proprietary technologies are used by virtual surround sound standards, including Creative Media Surround 3D, DTS Headphone X, and Dolby Headphone. But they all sound the same. In reality, most gaming headsets advertised as having surround sound employ virtual surround sound. So, if you want an actual surround sound headset, choose carefully.
Are There Any Games That Support Surround Sound?
Most modern video games have 5.1-channel surround sound support. 7.1 a few games also support channels. The software on your headset or the soundcard in your computer will, however, control the sound quality. If your favorite game only supports surround sound in 5.1 channels, don’t worry; if you’re using headphones, the difference between the two is barely audible.
What Distinguishes A 5.1 Surround Configuration From A 7.1 Surround Configuration?
A simple surround sound setup will physically place the speakers around the listener to imitate sound from various angles. A 5.1 surround sound system will consist of a center channel, front right and left speakers, right and left surround speakers, and a low-frequency “subwoofer.” Two more drivers, the right surround and the left surround are added to the five in a 5.1 surround sound system.
Should You Use Wired Or Wireless Headsets?
Your choices and financial situation will determine whether you should use a wired or wireless headset. There are benefits and drawbacks to each variety. Therefore, you must determine for yourself which option is best for you. You can make a decision using the following standards:
Portability
Both wired and wireless headsets are portable; however, they still offer an advantage because they don’t have actual wires that can tangle up or tear under duress. Additionally, many wireless headsets have folding features that make them simpler to stow and wear around your neck.
Sound Quality
A common misconception is that wired headphones produce a higher-quality sound than wireless ones. That isn’t always the case, though. Although wired headsets may have higher sound quality, the difference is hardly audible if you only play games or listen to low-quality music files. The headset’s driver is what controls the sound quality. Due to having better sound drivers, if you buy an expensive pair of wireless headsets, they may sound better than most wired headsets.
Convenience
Because there are no cables to manage, wireless headphones are more straightforward and secure. Additionally, since a specific distance does not constrain you, it is ideal for video game players who like to play on TV rather than on laptops or PCs.
However, devices require frequent charging, which can be a hassle during extended music or gaming sessions. While you can use wired headphones without a charge, you are limited to a specific range and must manage the cables because they could fray if you are not careful.
Compatibility
To listen to music or watch movies on your laptop, desktop computer, or cell phone, attach a wired headset to the audio port (3.5mm jack). Similarly, you can use Bluetooth or a wireless dongle to connect a wireless headset to your smartphone, laptop, or computer.
Cost
Wireless headphones cost more than wired headphones with the exact specifications. This results from the quantity of technology crammed into that little area. Thus, wired headsets offer better value for your money and are the best option if you’re on a tight budget.
What Should You Look For In A Quality Surround Sound Headset?
Only a select fraction of the surround sound headsets available can meet the demands of a serious player. To select a high-quality surround sound headset, look for the following qualities:
Audio Quality
When choosing any headset, the audio quality should be your top concern. Avoid purchasing cheap headphones with poor audio quality. You’ll spend your money and come to regret your choice. You will appreciate yourself afterward even if you wait to save more money. Don’t only rely on a product’s specifications to tell you how good the audio is. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, read customer reviews and compare ratings.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation is crucial because it helps to eliminate background noises that could obstruct your ability to listen to music or play games. Select a surround sound headset with effective noise cancellation if you enjoy playing video games while traveling or in public. I would strongly advise investing in a pair of noise-canceling headphones if you frequently play video games at LAN gatherings. This will help you stay focused because there is frequent noise.
Wired Or Wireless
This is a matter of personal preference and will be influenced by it. If the wired and wireless surround sound headsets have the exact specifications and are produced by the same company, there won’t be a significant difference in the sound quality. Read the previous section to learn the advantages and disadvantages of owning a wireless vs. wired headset.
Comfort
Having a comfortable set of headphones is crucial for gamers. Even if your headset has excellent sound quality and looks fantastic, it will still be a poor investment if it is uncomfortable to use.
An unpleasant headset can physically harm your ear and create pain from friction, sweat, or trapped heat if you wear it for lengthy gaming sessions. You can wear an excellent surround sound headset for several hours. To offer the utmost comfort, it should be ergonomically designed and lightweight.
Microphone
The top gaming headsets with surround sound also have a high-quality microphone. Making strategic strategies as a team requires interaction from gamers, and speaking instead of typing is simpler. Therefore, if your headset doesn’t come with a microphone, you’ll have to pay more if you do.
In addition, you should pay attention to the headset’s construction. An excellently made headset will last you for many years. While more costly gaming headsets will contain metal or wireframe for support, less expensive headsets are often composed of plastic.
Conclusion
I hope the above information about Are 7.1 Headphones Worth It? is helpful for you. Even if you are not a die-hard gamer, you will undoubtedly enjoy the improved sound quality and increased immersion you get from using a surround sound headset.
Virtual surround sound headsets, as opposed to traditional stereo headsets, can enhance your gaming performance by enhancing your spatial awareness. If you’d like to go one step further, buy a gaming headset with full surround sound that supports 5.1 or 7.1 channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7.1 surround sound good in headphones?
To improve your video game or movie experience, 7.1 surround sound headphones are worthwhile. Stereo headphones still perform better when listening to music because other aspects of the music-listening experience rather than surround sound are more significant.
Is it better to play with 7.1 for gaming?
7.1 surround sound offers better immersion and sound quality, which can significantly enhance the gaming experience. Gamers can gain an advantage in games by hearing footsteps and other minor sounds using 7.1 surround sounds.
What does 7.1 sound good for?
Good 7.1 surround sound headsets accurately reproduce sounds from various angles and distances. This makes the audience’s precise location visible to listeners. Use these headphones for immersive sound quality as you watch movies, play video games, or listen to your favorite music.
What do pro gamers use for audio?
These gamers use the second set of headphones for various reasons. eSports athletes use two pairs of headphones for team communication and in-game audio. Professional eSports players wear noise-canceling headphones to prevent crowd noise from interfering with their games.
