(Compared with a graphic equalizer, which adjusts based on groups of frequencies, a parametric equalizer takes into account continuous transitions between the key frequencies. The base station is capable of high-res audio up to 48kHz/24-bit and the serious parametric equalizer in SteelSeries' new Sonar software (which lives within the company's GG utility software) is excellent. The earcups deliver solid noise isolation, and a transparency toggle decreases isolation so you can sort of hear outside noises like the air conditioner and someone talking too loudly on a conference call. My admittedly sub-audiophile ears couldn't make out any unintended distortion with Doom Eternal's heavy metal pounding as loud as my ears could stand. SteelSeries updated the acoustic pipeline (all the hardware between the incoming audio and your ear) and it sounds excellent, with clear lows, midrange and highs. Among other things, SteelSeries removed the optical connections, which means if you've got an older console this isn't a great choice.

The base station accepts an analog input as well, for mixing a stream on your PC. In addition to connecting to a PC or Mac via USB, you can output to the headset from a PS5 or Android phone equipped with a USB-C port via the base station (which is essentially the dongle), a Nintendo Switch (in TV mode) or anything that has a 3.5mm analog jack.

The base station for the wireless model lets you attach two devices via USB and toggle between them, as well as use a 3.5mm jack for analog in and out. I tested the Nova Pro Wireless, which means I didn't get to evaluate the new GameDAC. All the headsets are PS5-compatible: The PS5 model simply has different packaging for sale at retail. The Xbox models swap a USB connection and the second USB-C port on the base station for the necessary Xbox-compatible USB connector but are otherwise identical to their respective linemates. There isn't a ton of variation among them. There are five models in the Nova Pro line: $250 for the wired Nova Pro and its Xbox-specific sibling and $350 for the wireless models for PC, Xbox and PlayStation. USB charging connector located under magnetic cover on earcup.Leatherette may give you the ear sweats.On-earcup controls rely too much on the power button.

Steelseries wireless