There is typically a clear distinction between gaming headsets and headphones designed for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. Setting aside the “herd mentality”—where many individuals seem to purchase the same headphones simply because of their popularity—one can often discern, based on both appearance and price, which category a particular set of headphones belongs to.
The Creative AURvana Platinum, an older flagship model from Creative, blurs this line somewhat. Considering the typical Swedish price range (3,200-4,500 SEK), these headphones would seem targeted towards audiophiles. However, they are designed for versatile use, and Creative is primarily recognized for its PC sound cards rather than high-fidelity audio products. While availability in Swedish stores may be limited, they are currently available on Creative’s European website for approximately 1,300 SEK, including free shipping and a Bluetooth dongle. The packaging, featuring silk fabric lining, gives an initial impression of luxury. However, the headphones themselves present a hybrid aesthetic, combining elements of high-end gaming headsets with faux-premium finishes reminiscent of expensive hi-fi brands, incorporating details like imitation leather, metallic-looking plastic, and an earth-brown color scheme that suggests a 1970s retro design.
The AURvana (likely a reference to Nirvana, the Buddhist concept of “nothingness”) provides a firm fit around the head. The over-ear earcups initially offer a comfortable, reasonably cool, and pleasant experience due to the “leather” material. However, an adjustable firmness setting would be beneficial, as some users may experience discomfort after extended listening sessions. Connectivity options include a 3.5mm cable (exercise caution, as the headphone-end connector uses a less common 2.5mm format) or Bluetooth. Devices supporting aptX codec will experience a notable improvement in wireless audio quality. The wireless range is approximately 10 meters. NFC-compatible devices can utilize a quick-pairing function. Three noise-canceling modes are available: a less aggressive “home” mode, a medium “outdoors/on the train” mode, and a maximum noise-reduction “airplane” mode that utilizes “counter-waves” to mitigate engine noise. The noise reduction is generally effective, with minimal perceived impact on the original sound profile. An airplane adapter (the dual 3.5mm pin type) and a suitable carrying bag are also included.
A thoughtful inclusion from Creative for air travel.
Creative’s ShareMe feature allows two users with the same Creative AURvana Platinum headphones to share the same audio source, enabling shared listening experiences for music or movies on the go. Due to receiving only one unit for review, we were unable to fully evaluate this feature, but it presents an interesting capability.
Creative AURvana Platinum Sound Quality Assessment (refer to our headphone testing philosophy)
The most immediately noticeable characteristic of the AURvana is its prominent bass response. Listeners familiar with Dres Beats can expect a similar sound signature, characterized by a substantial, dark, and somewhat subdued bass presence that provides ample support. The AURvana performs best with bass-heavy music genres such as hip hop, hard rock, and well-mixed radio pop. However, the headphones exhibit a tendency to over-emphasize the bass, which can result in a dark and muddy tone in tracks that should exhibit clarity in the midrange, such as punk music, Ane Brun‘s acoustic works, and Sting‘s well-engineered classics like Fields of Gold.
Photo: senses.se
When used for gaming, the AURvana Platinum, being relatively easy to drive, connects seamlessly to PS4 or Xbox One S controllers via the 3.5mm jack. Games like Rime exhibit a shimmering and dramatic tone, from the intro music to the sound of lightning. In Battlefield 1, bullets and explosions are reproduced with impactful presence. While the enhanced bass can occasionally color voices, it does not detract significantly from the overall gaming experience, even in immersive titles like The Last of Us.
Movie playback exhibits a similar sound profile, with deep bass frequencies accentuated in action films such as Assassin’s Creed. However, more nuanced dramas that rely on accurate midrange and treble reproduction may sound somewhat “foggy.” Despite the broad and well-defined soundstage, subtle details and nuances in the soundtracks may be lost.
For wireless operation, the headphones require charging via the included USB-micro cable, taking approximately two hours for a full charge, providing just over 15 hours of use. If the battery depletes, the headphones can be connected via the 3.5mm cable. The sound quality is similar in both wired and wireless modes, provided the audio source is of high quality. Audiophiles often recommend wired connections for optimal audio fidelity, but the aptX codec has narrowed the gap significantly, potentially rendering any perceived difference a placebo effect (excluding potential interference in wireless mode). The prevalence of wireless headphones with aptX is hindered by Apple’s exclusion of the codec in iPhones. The larger 50mm drivers (compared to the more common 40mm) and the maintained 32-ohm impedance enable the headphones to produce more substantial bass than many competitors in this price range, without requiring powerful amplification.
The Creative AURvana Platinum features a distinctive design.
The Creative AURvana Platinum incorporates a built-in microphone with noise reduction, maintaining a hi-fi aesthetic by avoiding a retractable or detachable microphone boom. Microphone sound quality is adequate. Buttons located on the exterior of the right earcup, which require some familiarization, control volume, ANC (active noise cancellation), and track navigation.
Summary
Overall, the Creative AURvana Platinum headphones are a competent offering, incorporating a range of desirable features (wireless connectivity, aptX, and effective noise reduction) and providing versatile performance across music, gaming, and movies. For frequent travelers or those seeking freedom of movement while enjoying bass-heavy music at home, the Creative AURvana Platinum represents a viable option. A significant drawback is the reduced comfort during extended listening sessions, which diminishes the appeal of the premium design and wireless functionality. The emphasis on bass response is a double-edged sword: it adds body to compatible audio content but can compromise finesse and detail. The unique triangular design and 1970s-inspired brown color scheme of the Creative AURvana Platinum will appeal to individual preferences and confidence levels.
Given their release date of 2015, the headphones are beginning to show their age, and the original Swedish price range of 3,200 to 4,500 SEK would place them in the “not recommended” category. However, with Creative’s current direct sale price of 1,300 SEK, including shipping and a Bluetooth USB dongle, they become a compelling and affordable alternative within the same price segment. Given limited availability in Swedish retail stores, low stock levels, and Creative’s current sale, a new model is likely imminent. For the next iteration, a more balanced sound profile and price point would be welcome.
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