Top 5 Surround Sound Technologies for Gamers in 2020
If you’re like us, you’re always researching the latest and greatest in tech. You know that good hardware and software can make all the difference on the battlefield. There are a few tricks on the side of your settings and software that can boost your chances of success. Like any good battle royale game, seeing AND hearing is everything. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best surround sound technology for battle royale games like Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone this year.
PS5 3D AUDIO — $399
OK, not exactly desktop, but we’re excited about it. One of Playstation’s biggest developments with the PS5 — besides the logo — is it’s newest addition: 3D audio. The PS5 will use 3D audio in its games to create three-dimensional soundscapes, allowing you to be more immersed in the game’s world than ever before. For example, gunshots and footsteps will have directional signals, meaning that you will be able to hear your enemies’ proximity to you when in the heat of a battle.
Built on the Tempest Engine, Sony Playstation’s 3D audio development team actually implemented HRTFs (Head-Related Transfer Functions) into their design, and five HRTF profiles will be available after purchase. Sony is designing the PS5’s 3D audio to be made for standard headphones (to be purchased separately) but will eventually integrate with surround sound systems, televisions speakers, and other console-related technology in 2020.
Don’t play consoles? No problem. Read on to learn more of the best PC hardware for surround sound gaming.
LOGITECH Z906 — $300
A detailed, fantastic-sounding surround sound audio system, the Logitech Z906 delivers immersive audio on-demand — over 1,000+ watts of power. If you’re a console or PC gamer that wants a high-quality experience for a premium, then this compact, attractive system is definitely the system for you.
Whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or playing games like Apex Legends or Call of Duty: Warzone, the Logitech Z906 will deliver booming explosions and crystal-clear voices — every single time.
The system allows for simultaneous device inputs, as well as an interesting and intuitive control station that allows you to choose what to play. There’s even an optional Bluetooth adapter for wireless support.
Unfortunately, the Logitech Z906 lacks an HDMI passthrough, and does not support HD audio format. But when combined with true surround sound, this speaker set is one of the best on the market for a high-end audio-visual gaming experience.
HyperX Cloud Revolver S — $149.99
Expensive for surround sound headphones, but with some added twists, the HyperX Cloud Revolver S is a decent headset for the dedicated gamer. Incredible 7.1-channel surround sound feeds through trademark digital signal processors, giving you an even deeper immersive experience.
For its price, if you’re putting in some dedicated gaming sessions, the HyperX Cloud Revolver S can’t be beat on comfort. The all-around sound is perfect. The detachable mic is a bit unusual, but not strange enough to take it out of our roundup.
Creative Sound Blaster Z — $89.99
The Sound Blaster Z PCIe Gaming Sound Card is great for communicating with your teammates. In addition to premium in-game audio, the sound card also provides excellent support for your team communications.
Using it’s Crystal Voice technology and included beamforming microphone, the Sound Blaster can intelligently demarcate an area (or, acoustic zone) within your gaming setup, and suppress noise outside of it, enabling your call-signs and orders to be heard crystal-clear.
Audio Royale — 14-Day Free Trial then $1.99 Monthly, or $19.99 Yearly
Created by several audio engineers in the entertainment hub of Los Angeles, CA, Audio Royale is one of the best options for a low-cost, high-value virtual surround sound application.
PC Gamers can now experience full 3D sound without paying top-dollar for a pair of surround sound headphones. Audio Royale is the world’s first sound driver specially tuned for battle royale.
While not exactly a headset, there’s something to be said for a sound-driver that unlocks the full potential of your gaming rig with whatever headphones you have laying around. Audio Royale works by unlocking the 5.1 or 7.1 soundtracks of your favorite games, whether it’s Apex Legends, Fortnite, or Call of Duty: Warzone.
Super easy-to-use and intuitive design by top software and Grammy-winning audio engineers sets it apart from all other traditional surround sound headsets and applications for gaming in 2020. There’s bass boost features, volume control, and a whole slew of features right within the app–immediately ready for use.
Just download, choose the plan that’s right for you, and start playing.
