Razer Surround delivers the best virtual 7.1 surround sound experience, no matter what headset you're using.
Many existing technologies for creating virtual surround sound are inaccurate because people perceive the simulated sound space differently. It is because of this that virtual surround sound is often inferior to conventional sets of speakers.
The algorithms behind Razer Surround create an incredibly precise surround sound environment and allow the user to customize the position of sound sources. It is this calibration that allows Razer Surround to provide in-game accuracy and give gamers a gaming edge.
Best-in-class 7.1 virtual surround sound
Razer Surround is an advanced processing system that creates virtual 7.1 surround sound. High-quality sound will allow you to immerse yourself in the game. Conventional virtual sound processing systems use the principles of universality: the sound is formed based on the average size and shape of the ears. With this approach, it is impossible to customize the sound for a specific user.Razer Surround allows you to customize your sound and select your ideal settings. The system takes into account the shape of the ears and the capabilities of the headset and based on this creates the most realistic sound possible.
Storing personal settings in the cloud
First, you set the parameters of the sound environment by passing a series of simple audio tests. Based on the data obtained, the system, using unique processing algorithms, generates realistic sounds coming from any direction and distance: delays, overlap of sounds, amplitude and other factors are taken into account. Custom calibration parameters are automatically saved to the cloud so you don't have to repeat setups.When you come to a club, visit friends, or participate in a championship, you simply log into the system - and the optimal sound environment is immediately configured based on individual calibration of sound processing algorithms. Getting into the game is actually very simple.
Supports all stereo headsets!
Razer Surround is given to you as a bonus. When you use a regular stereo headset, the audio capabilities are only half realized.By calibrating in the Razer Surround Wizard, you'll discover the true potential of modern in-game audio—you'll learn to track your enemies with your hearing. Your games will sound new and you will be immersed in this world.
By default, Windows Sonic for Headphones is disabled, but you can enable it for virtual surround sound. This option is also available on Xbox One.
How to enable Windows Sonic
You can easily enable or disable this feature using the sound icon in the notification area. Right-click the speaker icon, select spatial audio, and select Windows Sonic for Headphones to turn it on. Select Switch off here to disable Windows Sonic.
If you don't see an option here or in the control panel to enable spatial audio, then your sound device doesn't support it. For example, this option will not be available when using the laptop's built-in speakers.
You can also access this feature from Control panels. To run it, go to Control Panel → Equipment and sound → Sound.
Double-click the playback device you want enable Windows Sonic, go to the tab Spatial audio and select Windows Sonic for Headphones in the drop-down list.
You can also enable Dolby Atmos for headphones in the same drop-down menu. It's a similar spatial audio technology to headphones, but it uses Dolby technology and requires an in-app purchase to unlock.
You can also turn the option on or off in the Spatial Sound tab.
On the Xbox One console, this option is in the menu System → Settings → Screen and sound → Audio output. Select Windows Sonic for headphones under Headset audio.
What is spatial sound
This is the same data that Dolby Atmos receives, which is why Windows Sonic provides full support for Dolby Atmos in the latest versions of Windows 10. When combined with a Dolby Atmos-enabled receiver and speaker system, you'll hear sounds as if they were coming from 3D space - just like vertically and horizontally - to improve surround sound effect.
So, for example, if the sound is coming from above and to the right, relative to your position in a movie, TV show, or video game, the in-ceiling speaker on the right side will produce that sound louder and earlier.
The Dolby Access app from the Windows Store helps you set up Dolby Atmos home theater audio on your Windows 10 PC.
How spatial sound works in headphones
Spatial data is only useful if you have a Dolby Atmos system that can actually use it. Even if you have a traditional 7.1 surround sound system, you're just getting normal surround sound with eight channels of audio—seven speakers plus a subwoofer.
However, this positional data can provide spatial audio in any pair of headphones. You just need to enable either "Windows Sonic for Headphones" or "Dolby Atmos for Headphones". Both work similarly, but the Dolby version uses Dolby technology and requires an app purchase, while Windows Sonic only uses Microsoft technology and comes free with Windows 10 and Xbox One.
When you enable one of these features, your Windows PC (or Xbox One) will mix audio using positional data, providing virtual spatial audio. So, if you are playing a game and the sound is coming from above your character and to the right, the sound will be mixed before it is sent to your headphones so that you hear that sound from both above and to the right.
These spatial audio features only work with applications that provide spatial data to Windows.
How about 7.1 virtual surround sound
When you turn on the Windows Sonic Headphone feature Enable virtual 7.1 surround sound in the Sound Control Panel will also be enabled. On the Xbox One console this feature is called Use virtual surround sound.
With 7.1 surround sound enabled, Windows will use 7.1 surround sound in video games or movies, and mix them with position-based stereo sound before sending it to your headphones, meaning 5.1 surround sound will also work.
To properly use this feature, you will need to configure your game or video player to output 7.1 surround sound, even if you are using headphones. Your headphones will function as a virtual 7.1 surround sound device.
But, unlike true surround sound, you're still using a standard pair of stereo headphones with two speakers - one for each ear. However, virtual surround sound provides better positioning of audio signals, which is especially useful when playing on PC or Xbox.
The virtual surround sound feature works with all applications that provide 7.1 sound. Many games and movies that don't provide spatial audio have support for 7.1 surround sound, so it's compatible with many other apps.
For a true gamer, it’s hard to imagine a world without sound. For complete immersion in the game, it is necessary that the maximum number of senses be used. A high-quality monitor uses vision, a gamepad, a mouse, a keyboard - these are all the organs of touch. And a high-quality full-scale sound system is responsible for hearing. It would be nice to have some other snorting thing, of course, not always, although it would be atmospheric.
But today we will talk about sound. And here a certain conflict of requests comes into force.
On the one hand, I want it to be cool, powerful and beautiful. So that you really feel that if they shoot at you from the north-west, then it was from there that you heard the flight of the projectile. And if you are a sniper and lying in ambush, then you need to protect yourself from a vile enemy with a knife, and good hearing is an excellent assistant. But with all this abundance of pleasant things, I don’t want to get a slap on the head from my mother or wife when, in the silence of the night, the whole house wakes up to the heartbreaking “Fire in a hall!”
You can wear gaming headphones, but then you will lose all the comfort and pleasure. And how to find that golden mean when everything will be perfectly audible, emotions will be at the limit, but at the same time remain incognito during a night raid for your loved ones? Modern engineers took care of us and found a way out of this situation by creating a 5.1 or even 7.1 sound system that is popular today.
In this review we will look at what 7.1 and 5.1 gaming headphones are, i.e. with a surround sound system, then we will find the difference between real 5.1 and virtual settings, we will find the best in their niches, and everyone will decide for themselves whether to buy or not.
There is no point in retelling Wikipedia to you. But if you explain it in a simple way, it is a sound like in life. When sound is poured into your ears through ordinary, non-gaming headphones (there is a speaker in each earcup), you hear “dead” studio sound. In life, if you shouted: “ Petya, take the ball out!“, then the sound was repelled from all possible obstacles, distorted, and it turned out to be real. This is exactly what modern companies are trying to achieve. And, of course, they succeed, since we have something to talk about today. But we know that there is no limit to perfection.
Of course it's real. Well, in more detail, to create real 7.1 or at least 5.1 sound, you need 4 and 3 speakers in each ear, respectively. Then it will be possible to physically separate the tracks into channels and hear everything as needed.
Virtual sound does not require any specific number of speakers. The entire effect is created using software. At the level of digital sound processing, artificial transitions, attenuations, and jumps in sound are created, thanks to which the impression of volume is created. Before moving on to the main review, I can’t help but say this thing. Whatever the declared format - 5.1 or 7.1, real or virtual type of sound output - this is all nothing more than a marketing ploy. Today, gaming headphones cannot be called such loud words. If you want true surround sound, buy a 7.1 system with a powerful subwoofer, place it in a large room with the right acoustics and listen to sounds at higher bitrates.
Everything discussed today is only a semblance of what should be. But in the future we will conditionally agree that we are being deceived a little, and we will try to enjoy it.
Best 5.1 Gaming Headphones
Budget gaming headphones - ASUS Cerberus V2
These headphones look expensive, even despite their budget price. The design is great, they look sturdy, and overall they have a solid one-piece construction. The size of the cups is quite large: inside there are 53 mm speakers.
The ear pads fit tightly to the head, due to which good sound insulation is achieved, and the sound is not audible to others (unless, of course, you turn up the full volume). There is a lot of bass - some users don't like it, but this issue is easily resolved with the help of an equalizer.
A special feature of the headset is the presence of two microphones. The remote microphone is suitable for communicating with teammates during games, and the built-in one is designed for everyday tasks. In Cerberus V2, compared to the first version, the headband is made of stainless steel. Thanks to this, the headphones are, firstly, stronger, and secondly, lighter, and do not put so much pressure on the head. To summarize, this headset is a good solution for the money.
Review from a real buyer The microphone broke off quite quickly, maybe because I touched it a couple of times, I don’t know. Otherwise everything is ok, the sound is good and the wire has not broken yet. The build quality was also pleasing. If it weren't for the microphone, I would give it a 5, but it's probably a 4
Gaming Headphones 5.1 - ASUS Strix 2.0
ASUS Strix 2.0 headphones are also from the budget category. Here, as in the previously reviewed model, there are also two microphones: the main one can be removed, which is very convenient. Want to take a break from the game and listen to music?
Then disconnect the microphone and connect the device to your player or phone: the sound here is pretty good. The cable length is 1.2 meters: this is the golden mean, thanks to which the headphones can be used not only for games, but also for listening to audio, watching movies and other purposes.
The cups on the Asus Strix 2.0 rotate. Inside they are 60 mm speakers. The bass, like all gaming headsets, is quite loud. At first, the headphones may put pressure on your head, but then they wear in and the problem disappears. The ear pads are made of leatherette: this is, in principle, a good material, but on hot days your ears will sweat.
HyperX Cloud Headset with Microphone
I'm almost sure that I can surprise you when I tell you who the manufacturer of these ears is. You probably have a flash drive in your pocket, or use a Kingston RAM in your system system. And here are your ears from them.
The best part is that both traditions and reputation have been preserved. The model is a bestseller. Extended sensitivity range 15-25000Hz. People with even the most musical ears will be able to hear all the sounds. The very tight circumference of the ears allows you to protect yourself from extraneous sounds and at the same time not burn yourself when you play “ Rainbow pony».
These surround sound headphones allow you to spend many hours fighting the forces of evil without tiring your neck or rubbing your ears. Proof of this is that the headphones are in service with top gaming teams in various disciplines.
Reviews for this model are definitely positive. They provide excellent sound and complete immersion in the game. The model should please you and stay for a long time.
Review from a real buyer Interesting ear model. I compared it with my old Svens, the sound of this model is certainly many times better than my old ones. I like the color)
Price for BERU (with free delivery): 7,790
The best 7.1 gaming headphones
Wired gaming headphones - Razer Kraken 7.1
A very recognizable model from popular manufacturers of gaming equipment. In the Razer Kraken model we are faced with virtual 7.1 sound. This effect is achieved entirely using software from Razer. The sound is divided into channels, and a full presence effect is created. You really feel where they hit you from. and if they are sneaking from behind, you really want to turn around. 
The ear pads are made of soft leather, Greenpeace, don’t worry, it’s artificial and provides maximum comfort and naturalness. The Kraken 7.1 microphone with a built-in power button is conveniently hidden and taken out only when needed. Convenient and practical.
The headset is illuminated with a proprietary soft green backlight when it is active - it is always easier to understand whether the device is on or not if there is some kind of indicator light.
But with all the advantages in the form of excellent sound and ease of wearing, on the other side of the scale is the high price, virtual rather than real 7.1, and poor assembly. Every eighth person notes that after 4-5 months the Razer Kraken 7.1 headphones fall apart. Not good for a model of this level.
Ergonomic gaming headphones - Razer Tiamat
The most powerful weapon for producing high-quality sound. But start considering the Razer Tiamat model only if money is not a critical issue. The cost is considerable. The sound system is real, even more than that. By purchasing a Razer Tiamat, you become the owner of a full-size model with 10 speakers on board. Large cups provide the maximum permissible level of sound positioning. I was able to touch and listen to this model in person, having spent time at the exhibition “ Sound in the hand».
I’ll tell you, of course, it feels great.
After listening to the ACDC track, you could mentally find yourself at the concert. Well, the main thing for which we are looking for headphones in this review is gaming. Unfortunately, there was only a console with FIFA, not the brightest game in terms of sounds, but I naturally found myself at the stadium.
In addition to precise debugging using software, the Razer Tiamat comes with a remote control. It looks stylish and allows you to control many parameters. If you are ready to shell out some serious money, then you can safely purchase this copy. According to buyers, this is a good investment, but there is an opinion that they cannot last long. The ear circumference of the Tiamat model is too tight and results in a lack of ventilation.
Review from a real buyer What I can highlight: the microphone is loud and clear, the sound is great, they don’t break (yet)! The only thing I didn’t like was their weight, for me they are kind of heavy.
Wireless 7.1 Headphones - Corsair Gaming Void PRO RGB Wireless SE Dolby
If the previous models were budget, then these headphones cost quite a lot of money. The first thing you want to pay attention to is the beautiful design. The headset looks like a solid A, and there is also RGB lighting on the sides: it, of course, is not visible to the player himself, but those around him will be jealous.
The headset is wireless. This is both a plus and a minus. The plus is that the wires will not get in the way while playing, but the minus is that the headphones need to be charged regularly. However, the manufacturer claims up to 16 hours of continuous operation. The ear pads are covered with a breathable microfiber mesh, thanks to which the ears do not sweat during the game. The microphone here is unidirectional with noise reduction. On the cup next to it there is a mute button - very convenient during various force majeure situations.
Well, and of course we can’t help but mention 7.1 technology. It is, of course, virtual: it cannot be compared with real surround sound, but there is still something similar in headphones. The range of the headset is 12 meters. The Corsair Gaming Void PRO is a good deal for the money, but you have to admit that a wireless headset is not for everyone.
Comparison table of 7.1 and 5.1 headphones
| Name | Main characteristics | Price | |
| Playback frequency: 20-20000 Hz, microphone sensitivity: −40 dB, cable length: 1.2 m, detachable microphone. | |||
| Frequency range: 20-20000 Hz, microphone sensitivity: −40 dB, cable length: 1.2 m, cable extension. | |||
| Sound circuit format 2.0, extension cable length - 2 m, sensitivity, dB 105 dB, maximum reproduced frequency, Hz 25000 Hz. | |||
| Frequency range: 12 - 28,000 Hz, cables: USB, length 2 meters, frequency characteristics: 100 - 10,000 Hz. | |||
| Razer Tiamat |
Do you want to get high-quality surround sound in your headphones or home theater completely free of charge? Read this manual.
With each new release (update) of the Windows 10 operating system, developers never cease to amaze users with various useful mini-functions. One has only to go to any parameters of the system, devices, personalization, privacy, etc., you will certainly find settings that at first glance are not very noticeable, but very useful.
And no matter who says it, Microsoft is developing its operating system, first of all, for you and me. All these statements that they collect confidential data and spy on us are nonsense!
A competent user will configure the system so that the transfer of secret information to the other party will be minimized. If you do not want data about your preferences collected, disable this feature. Tired of advertising - block its display. If you are afraid of viruses and other malicious applications, use official, not hacked software!
And finally, if you don’t like Windows itself, find a replacement in the form or MacOS. But let's not talk about that now!
The latest system update comes with a new “Spatial Sound” feature. If you activate it, you will certainly get the feeling that the sound is playing around you, and not through your headphones. To put it a little differently, it will be 3D or three-dimensional.
As you can see, Microsoft is not forcing this feature on the user here, as it is disabled by default. And then we will find out how to enable it.
SURROUND SOUND
Windows 10 can broadcast spatial audio using a combination of a special driver, application and headphones. This technology is designed to improve the sound quality, first of all, of your headphones.
To enable it you need:
- right-click on the icon in the system tray and click on “Playback devices”;
- select “Speakers” and click on the “Properties” button;
- go to the “Spatial Sound” tab and select its format from the drop-down list (Windows Sonic or Dolby Atmos for headphones).
DOLBY ATMOS
It is a surround sound technology for creating real-time, dynamically rendered sound environments. It requires a special app from the Store to work. If you select this option and click the “Apply” button, it will automatically install the Dolby Access application.
A significant advantage of the application is that it supports sound enhancement for home theaters, if the hardware supports Dolby technology.
The setup will not force the user to delve into the jungle of complex parameters. Simply select the appropriate profile on the start screen and the application will automatically configure the equipment.
WINDOWS SONIC
Enables integrated spatial audio on Xbox and Windows, with support for both surround and height signals. Audio will be able to be transmitted without the need to change the code.
Now the result! In my case, even the simplest and cheapest headphones, when choosing the Dolby Atmos format, changed their sound, an order of magnitude better than the original one. What happened for you? I'm waiting for your answer in the comments.
I urge you to take a look at . Our Facebook group is waiting for you.
Hello dear readers. Today's article will be especially useful for music lovers, as I will tell you how to set up surround sound in the Windows 7 or 8 operating system.
The first thing you will need is to purchase speakers and a good sound card. Let's assume that you already have these two components. Then, be sure to install the drivers for your sound card. You can find out the name of your “sound speaker” using the program “ Everest "or any other similar one.
The 5.1 stereo system is connected to the system unit via the following outputs:
- Orange – subwoofer and center speaker;
- Green – front speakers;
- Black – rear speakers.
By the way, do not forget that surround sound also depends on the location of the speakers in the room. I'll give you a few examples of how to properly arrange speakers from stereo systems.
Now let's get back to the drivers. Let me remind you that you definitely need to install the drivers for your sound card. In addition, your stereo system should have come with a software disc. Install it on your computer too. Typically, the software (drivers or utilities) included with the system can be installed on Windows 7 or 8 without any problems.
If there was no disk, then try looking for the software on the official website of the manufacturer of your speakers.
Let's assume that you have installed everything, connected it, etc. Now let's move directly to setting up surround sound for Windows 7 or 8. Why for both operating systems at once? Yes, because the setup principle is absolutely identical.
So, let's go. Go to the menu " Start" and click " Toolbar" Then select the category " Equipment and sound", and then click " Sound».
The dialog box “ Sound", in which you will see the devices connected to your computer for audio output. Make sure the audio devices you want to configure are set by default .
Now a new dialog box will open " Setup Speaker" In my case, two channels appeared in the list of audio channels: Stereo And 5.1 Surround. In your case it may be 7.1 Surround or some other name. It just depends on the equipment you have connected.
Selects a channel 5.1 Surround. If you set just the value Stereo, then only two columns in the image in the window will “light up” if 5.1
-four additional columns will be added and 7.1
- five additional ones will be added
speakers.
Then I recommend testing by clicking on the " Test" At the end of testing, click " Next" and move on to additional surround sound settings in Windows 7 or 8. I advise you not to change anything special here, since the operating system automatically adjusts to the optimal characteristics.
At the very end, you will see a message that the setup was completed successfully. Click the button Finish” and you are done setting up surround sound in Windows 7 or 8.
Using this small instruction, you will be able to do everything yourself, without resorting to calling specialists or special services. In the end, I would also like to recommend that you read an article that was previously published on our website about one very useful program with which you can convert the sound of your favorite mp3 songs in a matter of minutes.
