Product: Razer Thresher Ultimate
Type: Wireless Surround Gaming Headset
Price: $429.95 RRP
Availability: Out Now
Link: razerzone.com/au-en/gaming-audio/razer-thresher-ultimate-for-xbox-one

One of the biggest moves on the part of headset makers of late seems to be the move to the world of wireless. Something that no doubt has been a long time coming. In the world of audio though, going wireless isn’t as easy as other devices would have you believe. I’m looking at you magic box that lets my TV log onto Netflix! Ahem, so where something like the odd bit of packet loss may not be noticeable when it comes to input or even streaming video - in the realm of real-time audio a reliable bitstream is paramount. Not only that but you’ll need a decent on-board DAC (digital-to-analog converter) on the headset to ensure that, well, it sounds as good or better than the wired alternative.

When it comes to headsets, Razer are one of the leaders no doubt. Thanks in part to the exceptional audio performance regardless of solution. Or mythical animal variant – Kraken or Thresher. So, on that front the Razer Thresher Ultimate certainly doesn’t disappoint, in fact for a wireless solution the sound quality is almost always impressive. But, there are a few buts. Not to mention the rather hefty price tag.

Tech Talk

When it comes to pure audio numbers, Razer’s use of 50mm drivers and the positioning of them within the now iconic circular Razer cup design is peerless. Coupled with the dynamic frequency response that outshines most other headsets (wireless or otherwise) on the market, what you get is a perfectly detailed stereo sound that shines no matter the source material. Be it a game, piece of music, or a film. In fact, even with 2.0 signal, the channel separation and positional audio offer the sort of additional breadth and scope that you’d want from a premium headset.

Headphone:

• Type: Closed
  
• Driver: 50mm
  
• Frequency response: 12 to 28,000 Hz
  
• Impedance: 32 ohm
  
• Weight: 408g
  
• Wireless: 2.4 GHz
  
• Range: 12m
  
• Battery Life: 16 hours

Microphone:

• Microphone Pickup pattern: Uni-directional
  
• Frequency response: 100 to 10,000 Hz

Of course, the Razer Thresher Ultimate manages to do this via a wireless signal with a decent range. Even through walls, like say walking from the couch to an adjacent kitchen to grab a drink from a fridge. In Dolby Headphone Surround too. A tech that is an improvement of the virtual surround one usually finds in the headset and headphone space. It’s the sort of tech that no doubt adds considerably to the price tag, but even more-so is the wireless USB hub. Which not only acts as the audio control unit, but also a robust stand and charging station – whether connected to an Xbox One, PS4, or PC.

Sadly though the Thresher Ultimate doesn’t support a 3.5mm jack, and is limited to the USB/Optical hub.

Design and Comfort

As a premium headset from Razer, there’s a noticeable improvement to the build quality over more affordable entries. Namely in the hybrid of rugged and robust leather, metal, and plastic used throughout. It might be the same design that we’ve seen before, from the accented and LED Razer logo to the retractable microphone and foldaway earcups. But it just about screams premium, with numerous little touches that showcase the obvious thought that went into the design. A sentiment that continues when you put the Razer Thresher Ultimates on for the first time – thanks to the supremely comfortable cushions. That take into consideration those of us who wear glasses.

Weighing in a 408g though the Thresher Ultimate sits on the heavier side of the spectrum, no doubt due to the technology within. Comfortable yes, but not exactly something that you wont notice after an extended gaming session. The exceptional build quality thankfully also extends to the audio hub and headset stand, which make them far more than simple nice-to-have add-ons - but an integral part of the Thresher Ultimate premium sound package.

Sounds Like

And speaking of sound, as highlighted earlier you thankfully get what you pay for. Detailed, with clear and impressive positional audio. A game like 2016’s DOOM, which is not only a frequency workout thanks to the wonderful music, also makes use of clever positional sound design. It sounds amazing with the Razer Thresher Ultimate. As does Overwatch. On the Xbox One front, testing with Assassin’s Creed Origins was an endless delight, outside of the repeating vocal phrases made by the townspeople. The subtle almost ambient music score comes to life thanks to the wide frequency response of the Razer Thresher Ultimate. And it’s this detail, on top of the bombast and impressive explosions and metal interacting with metal, where you get the most out of a premium headset.

Balance-wise the Thresher Ultimate offers a natural sound, and even though Dolby Headphone tech may not be as impressive at Dolby Atmos the results are close. Sure, one might lament the fact that you don’t get any in-line equaliser controls or presets – it’s worth noting that such features are the realm of more budget offerings. When you have drivers and a DAC this good, with a focus on great stereo and immersive sound, it's fine to let the headset do the talking.

The Razer Thresher Ultimate is available in Xbox One/PC or PS4/PC variants