Review: RIG R5 Pro

The gaming headset market has experienced significant growth in recent years. Amidst intense competition, accessory manufacturer Nacon introduces a new contender: the RIG R5 Pro (also known as RIG R5 SPEAR PRO HS). For those familiar with the RIG brand, it originated at Plantronics (a company whose products we extensively reviewed approximately ten years ago). Following Poly’s acquisition and subsequent shift in focus toward office accessories, the gaming division is now owned and managed by French Nacon, a company historically known for its esports focus and lightweight designs. With the R5 Pro, Nacon advances its offerings by introducing “graphene drivers” into the budget segment – a technology typically found in significantly more expensive hi-fi headphones.

We subjected this wired lightweight headset to rigorous testing on PlayStation 5 Pro and particularly the Playstation Portal, to evaluate whether the new technology genuinely enhances the gaming experience or if its impact is primarily a result of marketing.

First impressions and design

Upon unboxing the RIG R5 Pro, we observe the characteristic RIG design philosophy, albeit with an evolutionary refinement under Nacon’s stewardship. The design maintains its ultra-light profile (approximately 268 grams), but the earcups now incorporate a novel “Snap+Lock” system. This mechanism allows for convenient detachment of the outer earcup covers, enabling customization of their aesthetic. While the initial impression suggests a somewhat plastic construction, the finish is acceptable for its price range and provides sufficient durability for daily use.

The ear cushions are covered in a breathable fabric, offering comfort during extended console sessions. However, this design choice results in some bass leakage. The fit is characterized by a “floating” sensation, avoiding pressure on the scalp – a significant advantage for users who wear glasses.

Technology and features

At the core of the R5 Pro are its new 40 mm drivers, reinforced with graphene. This material’s exceptional lightness and rigidity are engineered to reduce distortion and facilitate a faster sound response – a critical factor for accurate sound positioning in 3D audio environments.

Regarding specifications, the headset features a frequency range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz, encompassing the entire audible spectrum. Of particular relevance for console gamers is the 32 Ohm impedance. This low impedance design ensures that the headphones are highly efficient and can achieve ample volume and power directly from sources like the DualSense controller or PS Portal, without requiring an external amplifier.

As a fully analog and wired (3.5 mm) headset, it offers the inherent advantage of zero latency upon connection. This design eliminates potential issues associated with companion applications, the need to charge active noise cancellation, or delays for firmware updates. The integrated volume control operates smoothly; however, a more granular adjustment with finer steps would be beneficial, as users may find it more practical to adjust volume through the console’s interface. Nevertheless, the overall design is simple, functional, and optimized for Sony’s proprietary Tempest 3D Audio, which significantly enhances the gaming experience.

The microphone utilizes the familiar “flip-to-mute” mechanism characteristic of RIG headsets: raising the boom mutes the microphone, while lowering it activates transmission. Its sound quality is notably impressive for this price segment. Being wired, it inherently avoids the audio compression often present in wireless headsets. Voice reproduction in party chat is natural and clear. While it may not filter out background noise as aggressively as some software-controlled high-end headphones, it effectively minimizes extraneous sounds such as controller button presses. It proves functional, clear, and reliable.

Sound Quality RIG R5 Pro

To assess their performance, we tested the graphene drivers within various PlayStation titles.

Our evaluation began by examining the dynamic range in God of War: Ragnarök. Upon Kratos’s swing of the Leviathan Axe, a distinct improvement in bass response was immediately apparent compared to older RIG models. The bass is notably “faster” and more defined. Each impact delivers a crisp, immediate attack (characterized more by a “thud” than a prolonged “boom”) which is highly impressive. However, it does not provide the ultra-deep, physical impact that might cause significant vibration during large explosions; instead, it offers a more analytical and “accurate” bass profile that prioritizes sonic clarity over overwhelming rumble.

For an assessment of detail reproduction and spatial positioning, we transitioned to The Last of Us: Part 2. In this title, the R5 Pro truly excels. The level of detail in quiet sections is exceptional for its price range. Environmental sounds, such as dripping water, and the unsettling vocalizations of Clickers, are positioned with remarkable accuracy within the soundscape, attributable to the graphene drivers’ rapid transient response. The soundstage feels open and expansive, allowing for precise enemy localization and demonstrating the headset’s excellent handling of 3D audio.

To further evaluate resolution, we conducted a music test, utilizing **Susan Wong’s** rendition of Sound of Silence as a reference track. This segment often highlights the limitations of gaming headphones, yet the R5 Pro produced an unexpectedly crisp treble. Guitar strings resonated with clarity, and vocals presented as close and intimate, devoid of the “boxiness” commonly observed in the budget segment. This performance confirms the headset’s capability to reproduce subtle details alongside high-impact audio.

Summary RIG R5 Pro

The RIG R5 Pro represents a significant advancement for Nacon. Integrating graphene drivers at its price point is a notable achievement, delivering a detailed, fast, and expansive 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-influenced” experience, prioritizing clarity and precision over exaggerated, heavy bass. Users should also note its wired-only connectivity, which, while not a critical flaw, is inherently less convenient than fully wireless solutions.

For those prioritizing wireless functionality and pronounced low-frequency impact for explosions, traditional headsets may still be more appealing. However, if a competitive advantage through enhanced detail retrieval, an ultra-light form factor, and an accessible price point are key considerations, the R5 Pro is a highly recommended option for your PlayStation Portal or PS5.

Review units for this test were provided by Nacon. Material providers exert no editorial influence on our evaluations.