Headphones are a key category for us here at senses.se, and I recently had the opportunity to evaluate the Steelseries Arctis 9X. These wireless headphones are designed primarily for Xbox One. While their primary function is with the Xbox, they are compatible with other platforms, which I will discuss later. The Xbox One lacks native Bluetooth support, posing a challenge for many wireless headsets. The Steelseries Arctis 9x circumvents this by connecting to the Xbox via the same protocol as wireless controllers. This design eliminates the need for a USB dongle, a requirement for some other headsets, such as the Plantronics RIG 800 LX. Pairing is straightforward: initiate a search on both the Xbox and the headphones, and the connection is established. The process is generally seamless, although there is one minor drawback that I will address shortly.
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The Arctis 9x exhibits a lightweight design and provides a comfortable fit. During extended gaming sessions, no discomfort or fatigue was experienced. The audio quality is clear, with well-defined bass. However, the absence of surround sound is a notable omission. This limitation stems from the current constraints of wireless technology, as it is generally not feasible to transmit a surround sound signal wirelessly on the Xbox One without a wired connection. The microphone is integrated into the earcup and can be retracted when not in use. A dedicated mute button is located on the rear of the earcup, and an illuminated indicator on the microphone provides visual confirmation of its status. Analog controls are also present for volume adjustment and game/chat audio mixing.
As mentioned, the Arctis 9X is primarily engineered for Xbox One. However, its functionality extends beyond a single platform. Bluetooth connectivity enables compatibility with computers and smartphones (both Android and iOS). During phone calls, the audio level was slightly lower than expected, but call recipients reported clear audio transmission. The battery life proved to be exceptionally long, exceeding initial expectations. Audio quality remains consistent throughout the battery discharge cycle, and a low-battery indicator provides timely alerts.
One potentially problematic feature is the automatic Xbox power-on function when the headphones are activated. This function cannot be disabled. Consequently, if the Xbox is in proximity when the headphones are powered on (e.g., for use with a smartphone), the console will inadvertently power on, requiring manual shutdown. While not a critical issue, it can be an inconvenience. On a positive note, the headphones support simultaneous connections to both the Xbox and a smartphone. This allows users to answer calls without switching headsets while gaming.
In conclusion, the Arctis 9X represents a compelling option for users seeking high-quality wireless headphones, especially for Xbox One. It is also suitable for any device with Bluetooth capability, including PCs, Macs, and smartphones. The Arctis 9X offers a blend of affordability, comfort, and impressive audio fidelity.
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