Review: RIG R5 Pro

The gaming headset market has experienced significant growth in recent years, and amidst fierce competition for our attention, accessory manufacturer Nacon introduces a new contender: RIG R5 Pro (also known as RIG R5 SPEAR PRO HS). For those familiar with the RIG brand, its origins lie with Plantronics (a brand we have extensively reviewed over the past decade) but with Poly’s acquisition and subsequent shift in focus to office solutions, the gaming division is now owned and managed by the French company Nacon, known historically for its emphasis on esports and lightweight design. With the R5 Pro, Nacon advances its offerings by integrating “graphene drivers” into the budget segment – a technology typically found in significantly more premium hi-fi headphones.

We subjected this wired, lightweight headset to rigorous testing on the PlayStation 5 Pro and, notably, the PlayStation Portal, to evaluate whether the new technology genuinely enhances the gaming experience or if it is primarily a marketing claim.

First impressions and design

Upon unboxing the RIG R5 Pro, the classic RIG design lineage is evident, though an evolution has occurred under Nacon’s stewardship. Its ultralight design (approximately 268 grams) is maintained, but the earcups now incorporate a novel “Snap+Lock” system. This allows for convenient detachment of the outer earcup covers, enabling customization of their aesthetic. While the initial tactile impression might suggest a plastic construction, the finish is acceptable for its price point and feels sufficiently robust for daily use.

The ear pads feature a sporty, breathable fabric covering. This material ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, though it does result in some bass leakage. The fit is, commendably, “floating,” avoiding pressure on the scalp – a significant advantage for users who wear glasses.

Technology and features

Central to the R5 Pro are its new 40mm drivers, reinforced with graphene. The principle behind this material is its exceptional lightness and rigidity, which aims to reduce distortion and deliver a faster audio response – a critical factor for precise sound positioning in a 3D environment.

Regarding specifications, the headset offers a frequency range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz, encompassing the full audible spectrum. Of greater importance for console gamers is its 32 Ohm impedance. This low impedance makes the headphones exceptionally easy to drive, negating the need for an external amplifier to achieve substantial volume and power directly from your DualSense controller or PlayStation Portal.

The headset is entirely analog and wired (3.5 mm), offering the distinct advantage of zero latency upon connection. This design eliminates concerns like app malfunctions, the need to charge active noise cancellation (ANC), or waiting for firmware updates. The volume control is smoothly integrated; however, we noted that it could benefit from greater responsiveness and a finer gradation of steps, as currently, adjusting volume via the console’s interface is often more convenient. Nevertheless, its overall design is simple, functional, and optimized for Sony’s proprietary Tempest 3D Audio, which substantially enhances the gaming experience.

The microphone features the classic “flip-to-mute” mechanism, a hallmark we appreciate in RIG products. Raising the boom mutes the microphone, while lowering it enables communication. The microphone’s sound quality is notably strong for its price segment. Its wired connection inherently avoids the compression often associated with wireless headsets. Your voice is reproduced naturally and clearly in party chat. While it does not filter out background noise as aggressively as some software-driven, high-end headphones, it effectively minimizes the audibility of controller button presses for your teammates. It proves functional, clear, and reliable.

Sound quality RIG R5 Pro

To assess the performance of the graphene drivers, we immersed ourselves in PlayStation’s classic titles.

We began by evaluating the dynamics in God of War: Ragnarök. As Kratos wields his Leviathan Axe, the distinction from older RIG models becomes immediately apparent. The bass response is markedly “faster” and more distinct. Each impact delivers a precise, snappy attack (“thud” rather than “boom,” to use precise terminology) that is impressive. However, it does not provide the truly deep, physical weight that causes eardrums to resonate during large explosions; instead, it offers a more analytical and “accurate” bass that prioritizes clarity of events over sheer low-frequency impact.

For an assessment of detail and positioning, we transitioned to The Last of Us: Part 2. In this title, the R5 Pro truly excels. The richness of detail during quieter sequences is exceptional for its price segment. Dripping water and the Clickers’ unsettling sounds are precisely positioned within the soundscape with remarkable accuracy, a testament to the graphene drivers’ rapid response. The soundstage feels open and airy, enabling precise enemy localization and demonstrating the headset’s brilliant handling of 3D audio.

To evaluate resolution, we included a music test, turning to Susan Wong’s reliable cover of Sound of Silence. This segment typically highlights the limitations of gaming headsets, yet the R5 Pro delivers an unexpectedly crisp treble. Guitar strings resonate clearly, and the vocals possess a close, intimate quality, devoid of the “boxiness” often characteristic of the budget segment. This confirms the headphones’ capability to handle subtle details as competently as action sequences.

RIG R5 Pro Summary

The RIG R5 Pro represents an impressive advancement for Nacon. Integrating graphene drivers at this price point is a notable achievement; it delivers detailed, fast, and airy sound that elevates the gaming experience in titles such as The Last of Us and FPS games like Call of Duty. It offers an “audiophile light” experience, prioritizing purity and precision over a heavy “comfort bass.” Concurrently, users must accept its wired-only nature, which, while not a dealbreaker, inherently offers less convenience than a fully wireless solution.

If a wireless solution and maximum low-frequency impact for explosions are your priorities, traditional headphones might remain more appealing. However, for those seeking a competitive advantage and meticulous detail reproduction in an ultralight package at an accessible price, the R5 Pro is an essential accessory for your PlayStation Portal or PS5.

Nacon sent review samples for this test. The sender of the material has no editorial influence on our reviews.