How to choose headphones for games with a microphone: reviews and recommendations. World of Tanks gaming devices from Razer now in the CIS World of tanks game headphones
The Razer brand is one of the most famous in the gaming segment. The company was formed more than ten years ago, and the age of the brand itself is even older. Starting with the development of gaming mice, the manufacturer quickly expanded the range of devices. There are more than fifty Razer products on our market today.
The first version of the Razer Kraken Pro gaming headset came out about five years ago, and received an update in 2015. But the company did not stop there and last fall introduced the Razer Kraken Pro V2, which we will get to know in this article.
The device is positioned for professional e-sportsmen, equipped with two 50 mm speakers, supports analog wired connection to PCs, game consoles and mobile devices. In addition, we note that the model is presented on the market in three color options - black, green and white.
Characteristics
- Vendor code: RZ04-02050300-R3M1
- headband with soft insert
- Ear pads with shape memory
- Cup diameter: 95 mm
- Headset weight with cable: 326 g, optional cable - 19 g
- Length of cable: on the headset - 1.4 m, additional - 2 m
- Connectors: 3.5 mm jack (CTIA/LRGM) on the main cable, two 3.5 mm jacks (headphones and microphone) on the PC cable
- Additionally: remote control with volume control and microphone mute on the cable
Headphones
- Overhead closed type
- Speakers: 50 mm with neodymium magnets
- Frequency range: 12 - 28,000 Hz
- Resistance: 32 ohms at 1 kHz
- Sensitivity: 118 dB at 1 kHz
- Max Power: 30 mW
Microphone
- electret capacitor ECM
- fixed, on a flexible extension rod
- Frequency range: 100 - 10,000 Hz
- Signal to noise ratio: >45 dB
- Sensitivity: -38±3 dB at 1 kHz
Equipment and design
The headset comes in a stylish and strict cardboard box. The design uses the corporate green color, a combination of matte and glossy lacquer and other eye-catching elements. The color of the product is indicated in the article caption, but it is easier to look at the photo on the front side. There is no opportunity to get acquainted with the device without opening the box.
On the reverse side, three key features of the product are listed, and on the bottom, detailed technical specifications, a description of the package, compatibility, and other useful information are provided. Unfortunately, almost everything is exclusively in English, localization touched only on a one-line description. Plus, the supplier added a sticker with information about himself and the manufacturer.
Inside the box, the headset is housed in a specially shaped plastic insert that holds it firmly so that nothing dangles.
The headset is supplied with an additional cable for connecting to personal computers and laptops with separate headphone output and microphone input, a couple of branded stickers, brief product documentation in several languages (no Russian). An electronic localized version of the manual can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website, but we think that most users will not need it.
Optionally, the company offers a branded desktop headphone stand and interchangeable ear pads.
As we wrote above, the device is presented in three color options - black, green and white. Only the lower part of the headband, ear pads, mesh inserts on the outside of the cups and the boom of the microphone remain invariably black. It is interesting that the usual red for the gaming segment does not exist here. This article describes the green version of the headset.
The company claims to use a one-piece aluminum frame on this model to provide strength and flexibility while maintaining low weight. However, what exactly is meant in this case? — not very clear.
The headband is really flexible and strong, but it is difficult to take it apart to check the material. It looks more like using an elastic plastic insert in it than aluminum. Provided by the headband, the pressing of the cups to the head can be considered comfortable.
The upper part is covered with green artificial leather with the company logo. Below is a foam insert and a fabric mesh shell. I really liked that solid aluminum inserts are used at the ends of the headband. This can clearly be written as a plus, if we talk about the reliability and durability of the structure.
The ear cups are mounted on metal “slingshots” that can move along the headband by about four centimeters on each side (ten fixed positions). So the headset is suitable not only for adults, but also for teenagers.
Additionally, a hinge is provided that allows the cups to tilt slightly relative to the vertical plane, which ensures their perfect fit to the head.
The main material of the cups is a strong matte plastic. At the end there is a logo of the manufacturer, around it there is a black metal mesh. It is an overlay design element, since there is also plastic under it. The diameter of the cups is about ten centimeters. They do not look bulky and at the same time cover the ears well.
Contributes to a comfortable fit and memory material in the ear cushions. Let's also pay attention to the fact that the outer cover is made of soft artificial leather. The speakers are covered with green acoustic cloth.
The ear pads themselves have an original quick-release design with a base in the form of a plastic ring. And on the left cup there is an information sticker with the serial number of the device, which will come in handy for registering on the Razer Zone.
Also note that the speakers are slightly tilted relative to the plane of the cups to improve sound quality. The design of the headset provides an average level of noise isolation, but the pluses will be the ability to use the device for a long time.
The microphone boom has an unusual retractable design and is mounted on the left cup. The total length is about twelve centimeters. With its convenient location, there will be no problems. The bar itself is flexible and keeps its shape perfectly. It has a metal base and a shell made of black rubber-like material.
At the end is a block of green plastic with a microphone inside. In general, this option seemed quite convenient. The remark is only for a small play at the connection point in a fully open state. Note that there is no automatic shutdown of the microphone when the boom is rolled up.
The cable for connecting to the audio source also comes out of the left cup. It is non-removable in this model and has a small rubber sleeve near the entrance to the case.
The cable itself is of medium thickness (less than three millimeters), has a green fabric braid. The stiffness is also medium, so there can sometimes be a tendency to tangle.
The length of this cable is about one and a half meters, which can be considered comfortable for use with mobile devices and game console gamepads. The cable ends with a 3.5 mm angled four-pin minijack, made according to the CTIA standard, which allows the headset to be used with many mobile devices.
At a distance of forty centimeters from the cup, a small control panel is installed on the cable. Its body is made of black matte plastic. The remote has a sliding microphone mute button and a headphone volume control wheel.
The latter protrudes from both sides of the console at once, which, on the one hand, simplifies control, but on the other — makes it difficult to determine the desired direction of rotation. In this case, the entire range of adjustment requires only one movement of the finger. In addition, the knob is very soft, which can cause accidental shifts from the selected position.
To connect to gaming computers and some other devices, an additional cable with separate headphone and microphone plugs is included. Its length is two meters, which, taking into account the regular non-removable cable, allows you to connect to the system unit located on the floor.
If the length is excessive, then you can roll the cable and secure the ring with a branded rubber tie. The only thing here that can be a little confusing when working in this scenario is the use of an angled connector on the main cable. Note that the plugs have rubberized housings of small size and color coding. We also remind you that on the green model it is also used for the cable (the cable is black on the black and white headsets), so you should handle it carefully, since dirt on a light cable can be clearly visible.
Measurements in RMAA
To measure the reproducible frequency range, we used the Bruel Kjaer 4153 - Artificial Ear / Ear Simulator (IEC 60318-1 compliant), which is able to emulate the ear impedance up to a frequency of 16 kHz. The test used a connection without the participation of a complete sound card.
The first listening experience was not very impressive. The sound in this model is quite budgetary. It has some kind of plastic overtones of the case, like in the cheapest headphones. Without adjustment in the player for music, headphones are not very suitable.
Practice
The construction, materials and design of the Razer Kraken Pro V2 made a very good impression. The headset turned out to be universal, practical, strong and at the same time not massive. On the head, this model sits comfortably. The pressing force of the cups is well chosen. You can use the headset for a long time.
The maximum volume is average both when connected to a computer and when working with smartphones. Even clearly distinguished low frequencies in this model at the maximum setting do not cause the effect of "dense air" and the desire to reduce the volume.
Testing on musical compositions of different genres unexpectedly showed a very inexpressive sound. Against the background of the prevailing lower range, the high and (to a greater extent) the middle range are almost imperceptible. This effect is especially pronounced at medium and low volumes. The sound of familiar compositions is “empty”, you can recognize them only by the rhythm. Of course, hearing is able to adapt to a certain extent, but still, if you want to use a headset to listen to music, we recommend that you find a way to adjust the frequency response with the equalizer of your sound card or audio player.
By the way, the company also offers its own software solution for working with headphones. The Razer Surround utility included with Razer Synapse creates a virtual 7.1 device for any headset or headphone. And the Pro version (paid for users who don't own Razer products) also features an equalizer and various headphone and microphone enhancements.
Since the model will operate at a high volume in most cases, external noise will not be distracting when there is a signal. However, in pauses and quiet scenes, they are still noticeable.
But I really liked the implementation of the microphone. Even a quiet voice is perfectly recorded both on a computer and on a smartphone. And if you speak a little louder, then you can not even push the bar.
Diagnosis
The updated version of the Razer Kraken Pro V2 gaming headset received, in particular, stronger casing elements and new speakers. From the point of view of design, ergonomics, comfort of use, materials and workmanship, there are no comments to the device. Everything is done to the highest standard, as expected from such a well-known manufacturer.
The delivery set can hardly be called interesting, but it will be enough for the vast majority of headset use cases. We also note the beautiful packaging, so the device is also suitable for the role of a gift. Moreover, we are not necessarily talking about players, since this model can be used for other scenarios.
The quality of the headphones is a bit disappointing. I would like a more balanced sound out of the box. At the same time, the company apparently paid more attention to the microphone, since there are no comments on its work.
- Robust and reliable construction
- Comfort fit
- High quality microphone recording
- Three colors to choose from
Contra:
- The sound quality in the headphones does not match the level of the device
- Controversial volume control implementation
How headphones were chosen for playing World Of Tanks
It's not easy to choose headphones for a specific game, especially when you don't know the sound preferences of the person you need to give advice to. Therefore, to create this collection, I used my own musical taste and experience. I have listened to a lot of headphones, several new models of headphones pass through my hands every week, so I have something to compare with and I know exactly how good headphones should sound.
Headphones for games need to be chosen differently than for listening to music. Detailing is very important for music, the ability of headphones to convey the smallest details, nuances and not spoil the performer's vocals. By the way, it is precisely because many people listen to music in cheap headphones that they cannot understand why this or that performer becomes popular, and his voice sounds from every speaker. All the nuances of music appear only in good headphones connected to high-quality equipment that plays music without compression.
In games, the situation is different: the sound is always compressed, there is not a single game that uses uncompressed sound. And it’s not so important in games to convey the smallest nuances of the cry of an alien creature, how to give you the right mood and give an incredible sense of presence.
Therefore, when choosing headphones for the game World Of Tanks, I was primarily guided by the effect of sound, how headphones can convey the sound of battle, the clanging of caterpillars and the power of shots. And already in the background, I placed the ability of the headphones to play a smooth and honest sound. The main thing is pleasure, and everything else is secondary.
And, of course, all headphones have a built-in microphone so that a World Of Tanks player can freely communicate with teammates and win every battle.
Razer™, a leading manufacturer of peripherals and software for gamers, today launched a series of specially designed peripherals in the style of World of Tanks for sale in the CIS.
The World of Tanks Razer DeathAdder features an ultra-comfortable ergonomic design, a high-precision 6400 dpi optical sensor and responsive buttons that have made the DeathAdder mouse the choice of esports players around the world.
World of Tanks Razer DeathAdder included bonus code on the:
-
promotional tank
Pz.Kpfw. IV hydrostat.;
-
slot in the hangar.
Not only is this mouse a perfect match for the World of Tanks-inspired Razer Goliathus mousepad, but it's even more comfortable to use thanks to its perfectly smooth fabric cover.
World of Tanks Razer Goliathus included bonus code on the:
-
3
days of premium account;
-
500
.
The Razer Kraken Pro has received widespread critical acclaim. Renowned for its crystal clear highs, crisp mids and deep bass, the Razer Kraken Pro lets you fully immerse yourself in the game, hear massive guns fire and feel your tank engine roar.
World of Tanks Razer Kraken Pro comes with bonus code on the:
-
promotional tank
Pz.Kpfw. IV hydrostat.;
-
slot in the Hangar;
-
7
days of premium account;
-
1500
.
The growing popularity of the game project is a good reason to create related products, including gaming peripherals. As part of the Lab, we have already tested mice dedicated to World of Warcraft. There were also mice with World of Tanks symbols. Today we will continue testing such devices, and this is the second part in which we are testing the new Razer line, we will continue with the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks headset.
The gaming set, in addition to headphones, also includes a mouse and a mouse pad. The design was developed jointly with Wargaming. Popular models are taken as the basis, the development in this case was not limited to simply stamping the game logo on the body, as, for example, with the previously tested SteelSeries mouse. The Razer Kraken Pro model is used as a base, it is curious, but branding did not negatively affect the cost. But more about everything.
Video review Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks
Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks Availability
At the time of testing, the average cost of the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks, according to the Yandex.Market service, is 5060 rubles.
Equipment
The approach to packaging has not changed, like the original headphones, there is a complex box design. It consists of soft cardboard and transparent plastic. You can visually evaluate the headphones before buying.
The design of the cardboard part is made in a new light design. At the top there is a mark for an additional bonus that awaits buyers: 1500 gold, 7 days of premium and a premium tank Pz.Kpfw.IV Hydrostat.
The kit includes: a cable for connecting to a PC, instructions, a sticker with a logo and a warranty card.
Appearance
The Razer Kraken Pro are massive, closed-back headphones. In the original model, I did not like the poisonous green color, it is not for everybody. Immediately the main color is black, the appearance has become more rigorous and harmonious.
The headband of the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks has a tank print on the top of the headband, here it is gray.
The inside of the headband has a fabric lining. The length of the headband can be adjusted according to the size of the head, the stock is large.
The cups are also painted black. The orange World of Tanks logo is displayed in the center of the cup.
The design of the cup has decorative metal inserts.
The design of pairing cups and headband allows you to fold the cups. Convenient for transportation, but, unfortunately, there is no bag or case included.
The ear pads on the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks are padded in black.
Ears literally drown in them, moving away from everything that happens outside. There are no questions about the quality of sound insulation.
Hidden inside the cups are 40mm neodymium drivers. The microphone here is made on a flexible leg, it is hidden in the left cup.
The cable is brought out from the left cup, painted in orange. The length of the cable is about 1.3 meters, it can be increased using the supplied adapter.
There are no complaints about the build quality.
Soft
Despite the fact that the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks is an analog headphone connected to the audio jack, it is possible to customize the sound. After connecting, you need to install Razer Synapse 2.0 proprietary software.
In the main tab, it is proposed to calibrate the headphones. We recommend doing this, the sound really improves at the output. The second tab offers to adjust the sound and test your settings.
In fact, the main part of the settings is working with the equalizer, changing the sound level, adding bass. Naturally, you can do all this through the sound card management software.
Testing Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks
A test stand was used.
| Model | Data |
|---|---|
| Frame | Aerocool Strike-X Air |
| Motherboard | Biostar Hi-Fi Z87X 3D |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-4670K Haswell |
| CPU cooler | Deep Cool Ice Blade Pro v2.0 |
| video card | Inno3D iChill GeForce GTX 780Ti HerculeZ X3 Ultra |
| RAM | Corsair CMX16GX3M2A1600C11 DDR3-1600 16GB Kit CL11 |
| HDD | ADATA XPG SX900 256 GB |
| Hard disk 2 | WD Red WD20EFRX |
| Power Supply | Aerocool Templarius 750W |
| wifi adapter | TP-LINK TL-WDN4800 |
| Audio | Creative Sound Blaster EVO Wireless |
| Monitor | iiyama ProLite E2773HDS |
| Monitor 2 | Philips 242G5DJEB |
| mouse | ROCCAT Kone XTD |
| Keyboard | ROCCAT Isku Black USB |
| Stabilizer | Sven AVR PRO LCD 10000 |
| Operating system | Microsoft Windows Ultimate 8 64-bit |
You can use the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks both with phones, tablets, players, and by connecting it to a PC or laptop. By tradition, we test headphones with both mobile devices and PCs. This model, when connected to a smartphone, demonstrates the predominance of the low-frequency spectrum, here the bass is worked out perfectly. The mids are a little muffled, and there is a lack of high frequencies.
When calibrated on a PC, the sound became more interesting and brighter. More sane mids appeared, but we did not manage to bring the high frequencies to mind. But for gaming headphones, this does not matter, after all, the model was not created for audiophiles. In games, they demonstrate a good study of the sounds of a shot, destruction of buildings, the roar of an engine and allow you to position in-game sounds.
If we take specifically World of Tanks, then this is exactly the sound that you expect from tank battles. If we add good sound insulation here, we get a kind of headset. We turn up the volume of the engine and shots, and that's it, you can forget that something is happening around other than what is displayed on the screen.
There are no questions about the operation of the microphone, when playing in a platoon and in command mode, the interlocutors noted a clear sound and the absence of extraneous noise.
Results of the Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks
The Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks is an example where branding is not only affordable, but also surpasses the original in some way. And first of all, this is the design, the black color is a classic, the Kraken Pro looks chic in this color. Otherwise, the design of the structure and ergonomics remained unchanged. I was pleased with the careful approach to design, this applies to this entire set. In terms of sound, these headphones perfectly work out the atmosphere of tank battles; we have a classic setting for a gaming model with a bias towards low frequencies. Razer Kraken Pro World of Tanks received a well-deserved Gold Award..