Gamers, What's Your Audio Set Up?

[Random Guy Esq.]

FWIW With the PS5 I use a PlayStation Platinum Headset via USB to get 3D audio which isn't ideal. I can use my DAC/AMP if the game doesn't really demand 3D sound, but it is a massive shame Sony don't allow the passthrough of 3D audio via HDMI like MS do.

I've spent a lot of time recently looking at options trying to get a DAC/AMP hooked up via USB to Optical (i.e. using a PCM2704 or similar) and just came to the conclusion it isn't ideally ideal. The G6 is flat over USB with the PS5 (either as an optical bridge or directly) and has the 50% max volume issue that most DAC/AMPs have or had with PS5 & PS4. From what I've read the Schiit Hel 2 is said to be one of the few DAC/AMPs that can disregard the host volume as a UAC1 device. So in that sense the Hel 2 might be a very good purchase with PS5 in mind.

Yeah, playing nicely with PS5 was one of the things that attracted me to the Hel 2 but then I figured I'd miss the VSS of the G6 for PC which is where I do most of my gaming. I haven't looked into Creative's X3 or X4 yet so no idea where they fall in the grand scheme of things.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Delighted to see this thread is still going, some four and a half years later! I'm going to be building a new gaming PC in early 2025, and I think I'll change up my gaming audio while I'm at it. I might simplify things, go software-free, get rid of the PS5 etc. So maybe a Drop PC38X into a small DAC/amp then.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

:thumbs up:

I think your set-up from the first post is still very relevant.

Cheers. It would be if the G6 hadn't died a couple of years back! One of the drivers on the Jubilees has started to give trouble now as well, so some new kit is in order.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Indeed that's very much a reason to upgrade/change.

Funnily enough I've only recently got hold of the 58X and have been using them for odd gaming, casual PC use and music. Love the comfort and lightness of these. I suppose that's one of the downsides of the 58X is that spare parts (beyond earpads, headband padding etc.) aren't as available as the other HD 6x0 headphones and it's obviously economically less viable given their lower price. That said you can buy complete driver units for both the HD 600 & 650 for £60 currently (not including grills or the pads). So for double that you could essentially turn the 58X into either a 600/650 (6XX).

Actually hadn't thought of that. I do like the comfort of the 58Xs, I must say. Something to ponder!

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

This looks interesting for console (and PC) users. Had the G6 for years and enjoyed it - this seems a good value solution provided audio stacks up.

Sound Blaster G8

Dual USB DAC and Amp redefines audio performance for headphones and speakers. Hear everything in hi-res and be in control with Sound Blaster Acoustic Engine.

uk.creative.com

I was thinking of trying the Gunnr, but I might as well wait for reviews on the G8 now (I'm also a former G6 owner and fan). TBH the main stumbling block with the Gunnr for me is having to buy from the US - it adds to the overall cost, and introduces uncertainty re: returns and warranty claims etc. We'll be able to pick up the G8 pretty much anywhere.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

You can buy from Schiit Audio UK (I got my Hel from there) - think they are a reseller but easier for returns and warranty then. Only problem is things take a bit longer to come into stock

Cheers! Last time I checked the UK site, they had little to no stock although that was a few years ago at this stage.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Nice one, thanks.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Should have a G8 arriving tomorrow to 'test' now

Looking forward to your thoughts.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

So far so good then @WhiteHartMart ? That's interesting about the mic quality as it's one of the things reviewers complimented the Gunnr on. Looks like the Schiit doesn't have an advantage in that area then.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Yea - I'm pleased the mic input is a step up from the G6. I'd say it's still not quite as full sounding as the Hel + I have but it's more than good enough for PS5 chat use now.

Be interested to see how the Gunnr compares but the price of the G8 makes it attractive for my gaming use - means I can keep the Hel+ on my desk for working from home and music listening use

Nice one! I have my PS5 on my desk with my PC so I'll be using a single audio solution for everything. Have you had a chance to listen to music on the G8? I haven't been able to find what DAC chip it's using, although I suspect it will be good enough for my ancient ears.