The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is a premium gaming headset that combines high-fidelity audio with top-notch build quality and a suite of advanced features. One of the most critical features for any modern headset, particularly in the gaming and professional audio spaces, is noise cancelling. In this detailed review, we will delve deeply into the noise cancelling capabilities of the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT, exploring its effectiveness, technology, user experience, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Table of Contents
Overview of Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT
Key Features
- High-Fidelity Audio: Equipped with custom-tuned 50mm high-density neodymium drivers.
- Dual Wireless Connectivity: Offers low-latency 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Premium Build and Comfort: Features memory foam earpads and a durable aluminum frame.
- RGB Lighting: Customizable RGB lighting via Corsair iCUE software.
- Detachable Microphone: Broadcast-grade, omnidirectional microphone for clear communication.
- Noise Cancelling: Active noise cancelling to reduce ambient noise.
Noise Cancelling Technology
Types of Noise Cancelling
Noise cancelling in headphones typically falls into two categories: passive and active.
- Passive Noise Cancelling: Achieved through the physical design of the headphones, which blocks out external noise by creating a seal around the ears. The memory foam earpads of the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT contribute to passive noise isolation.
- Active Noise Cancelling (ANC): Uses microphones to detect external sounds and generates sound waves that are 180 degrees out of phase with the unwanted noise, effectively canceling it out.
Implementation in Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT
The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT incorporates both passive and active noise cancelling to provide an immersive audio experience. The memory foam earpads offer substantial passive noise isolation, while the active noise cancelling feature is designed to reduce lower-frequency ambient sounds, such as the hum of an air conditioner or engine noise during travel.
Effectiveness of Noise Cancelling
Real-World Performance
To evaluate the effectiveness of the noise cancelling feature, we tested the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT in various environments, including a noisy office, public transport, and a quiet room with a white noise machine.
Office Environment
In a typical office setting with background chatter, keyboard typing, and occasional phone ringing, the headset’s passive noise isolation already reduced a significant amount of noise. Activating the ANC further diminished the ambient sounds, making it easier to focus on audio content or conversations during calls. While it did not eliminate all noises, it provided a noticeable reduction in background chatter and typing sounds.
Public Transport
On a bus and a train, the ANC feature proved to be very effective in reducing the low-frequency rumble of the engine and the sound of wheels on tracks. High-frequency sounds, such as conversations or announcements, were still somewhat audible but significantly muted. The combination of passive and active noise cancelling made for a much more pleasant listening experience during commutes.
Quiet Room with White Noise Machine
In a controlled environment with a white noise machine simulating consistent background noise, the ANC feature effectively cancelled out the low-frequency hum. The passive noise isolation from the earpads also helped in reducing higher-frequency sounds. This test demonstrated the headset’s capability to handle various noise frequencies effectively.
User Experience
Users generally report a positive experience with the noise cancelling feature of the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT. Many appreciate the ability to switch between passive and active modes depending on their environment. The ANC is particularly praised for making commutes and travel more enjoyable by significantly reducing ambient noise.
Noise Cancelling in Gaming
Importance in Gaming
Noise cancelling is crucial for gamers, especially in competitive settings, where ambient noise can be a significant distraction. Clear audio cues are essential for gameplay, whether it’s the sound of footsteps in a first-person shooter or the subtle background music in an RPG.
Performance in Gaming
Immersive Experience
The noise cancelling feature of the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT enhances the immersive experience in gaming. By reducing ambient noise, players can focus more on in-game sounds, which can provide a competitive edge. The custom-tuned drivers deliver clear and precise audio, ensuring that all game sounds are heard as intended.
Communication Clarity
Effective noise cancelling also improves communication clarity during multiplayer gaming. The broadcast-grade microphone, combined with the ANC, ensures that teammates hear you clearly, without background noise interference. This is especially important in team-based games where communication is key.
Comparison with Competitors
Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT vs. SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless
- Audio Quality: Both headsets offer excellent audio quality, but the Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT has a slight edge with its support for high-resolution audio codecs.
- Noise Cancelling: The Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT offers superior ANC capabilities compared to the Arctis Pro Wireless, which primarily relies on passive noise isolation.
- Comfort and Build: Both headsets are praised for their build quality and comfort, but personal preference may vary.
Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT vs. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
- Audio Quality: The QuietComfort 35 II is known for its balanced audio profile, while the Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is tuned for a more immersive gaming experience.
- Noise Cancelling: Bose’s ANC technology is renowned and slightly more effective in reducing a broader range of frequencies. However, the Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT’s ANC is still very capable, especially considering its primary focus as a gaming headset.
- Additional Features: The Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT offers more features tailored to gaming, such as RGB lighting and a broadcast-grade microphone.
Noise Cancelling and Comfort
Design and Comfort
The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is designed for long gaming sessions. The memory foam earpads and padded headband provide excellent comfort, ensuring that users can wear the headset for extended periods without discomfort.
Impact on Comfort
The noise cancelling feature does not add significant weight or bulk to the headset, maintaining its overall comfort. The passive noise isolation from the earpads contributes to comfort by reducing the need to increase volume levels to compensate for ambient noise.
Software and Customization
Corsair iCUE Software
The Corsair iCUE software allows users to customize various aspects of the headset, including the noise cancelling settings. Users can adjust the level of ANC, fine-tune the audio profile, and customize the RGB lighting.
Customization Options
- Noise Cancelling Levels: Users can choose between different levels of noise cancelling, depending on their environment and preference.
- Audio Profiles: The software offers pre-set audio profiles for different use cases, such as gaming, music, and movies.
- RGB Lighting: Customize the RGB lighting effects and synchronize them with other Corsair RGB devices.
Durability and Build Quality
Build Quality
The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT features a durable aluminum frame and high-quality materials, ensuring longevity. The build quality is robust, and the headset can withstand daily use and occasional drops.
Durability of Noise Cancelling Components
The ANC components are well-integrated into the design, protected by the sturdy build of the headset. Users have reported that the noise cancelling feature remains effective even after prolonged use, indicating good durability.
Battery Life and Noise Cancelling
Battery Performance
The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT offers up to 20 hours of battery life with ANC and RGB lighting enabled. Disabling ANC and RGB lighting can extend the battery life further.
Charging
The headset charges via USB-C, and it takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge. Users can continue to use the headset while it’s charging, which is a convenient feature for uninterrupted use.
Conclusion
The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is a standout gaming headset that excels in both audio performance and build quality. Its noise cancelling capabilities, combining passive and active technologies, significantly enhance the listening experience in various environments.
Key Strengths
- Effective Noise Cancelling: The ANC feature effectively reduces ambient noise, providing a more immersive audio experience.
- High-Fidelity Audio: Custom-tuned drivers deliver clear and balanced sound across all frequencies.
- Comfort and Durability: The headset is designed for long-term comfort and durability, with high-quality materials and a robust build.
- Versatile Connectivity: Dual wireless connectivity (2.4GHz and Bluetooth) ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Areas for Improvement
- Price: The Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is positioned as a premium product, and its price reflects that. While the quality justifies the cost, it may be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
- Occasional Connectivity Issues: Some users have reported occasional connectivity drops, particularly in environments with a lot of wireless interference.
Final Verdict
The Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT is an excellent choice for gamers and audio enthusiasts seeking a high-performance headset with effective noise cancelling capabilities. Its combination of superior audio quality, robust build, and advanced features makes it a top contender in the premium gaming headset market. Whether for immersive gaming sessions, professional audio work, or enjoying media on the go, the Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT delivers a versatile and high-quality audio experience.