The HS80, a leading gaming headset from CORSAIR, has been in the market for two years. Now, they’ve introduced the HS80 MAX wireless gaming headset, which boasts an added Bluetooth wireless connection mode. This updated model also offers enhanced battery longevity, making it ideal for extended use and for those who frequently switch between different platforms.
Details:
- Shade: Metallic Gray
- Acoustic Feature: Dolby Atmos coupled with SoundID
- Weight: 352 grams
- Illumination: RGB Effects
- Battery Duration: 24 hours with 2.4GHZ and RGB, 65 hours with 2.4GHZ minus RGB, and an impressive 130 hours on Bluetooth 5.2.
- Wireless Range: 15 meters on 2.4GHz and 9 meters on Bluetooth 5.2
- Driver Specifications: Tailored 50mm drivers with a frequency response from 20Hz to 40kHz. The sensitivity stands at 119dB (with a variation of ±3 dB) and an impedance of 32 Ohms at 1kHz.
- Microphone Attributes: The microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern. Its frequency response ranges from 100Hz up to 10kHz, with a sensitivity of -38 dB (±3 dB) and an impedance of 2.2k Ohms.
CORSAIR HS80 MAX WIRELESS Unboxing
The appearance of the CORSAIR HS80 MAX wireless headset remains unchanged in this release, retaining its classic style. It features a pressure-relieving headband paired with cushioned ear pads for optimum comfort.
The primary enhancement in this version is the three-mode connectivity, inclusive of Bluetooth 5.2, which can last an impressive 130 hours on a full charge. Additionally, using a 2.4GHz connection, the battery life can extend to 65 hours, making it feasible for most gamers to use it for roughly a week without recharging.
Besides its support for the immersive Dolby Atmos audio effects, it also incorporates the Sonarworks SoundID, a feature earlier seen in the entry-level HS60 and HS65 models. This addition allows for effortless optimization of sound quality, enabling users to fine-tune it to their preferences.
This iteration of the HS80 MAX comes in steel gray, though there’s also an option in white. These color choices cater to players’ individual tastes. Structurally, the HS80 MAX closely mirrors the HS80. A noticeable change, however, is in the earphone side covers of the HS80 MAX, which now sport a solid color as opposed to the earlier two-tone design.
The headband boasts an elastic design aimed at minimizing pressure. It includes an internal Velcro for adjustability. The presence of protein leather padding at the center of the headband significantly enhances its comfort. Weighing a mere 352g, the HS80 MAX is a comfortable fit for most users, ensuring it feels virtually weightless when worn.
The ear pads of the HS80 MAX are crafted from fabric. With an internal cushioning of approximately 1 cm in thickness, they ensure sustained comfort during prolonged use. While these ear pads don’t follow a standard specification, they are detachable. This allows users to replace them with fresh ones after extended use.
The HS80 MAX is equipped with a custom 50mm driver made of high-density neodymium magnets, boasting a frequency response from 20Hz to 40,000Hz. Combined with Dolby ATMOS and SoundID, it delivers a refined auditory experience.
The HS80 MAX incorporates an omnidirectional microphone for audio capture. While the microphone isn’t removable, it has a foldable design. This feature ensures automatic muting when the microphone is folded upwards, adding a layer of convenience for the user.
Located behind the left ear cup are the power toggle and a volume control knob. The base of this ear cup houses the Type-C port used for charging and wired connectivity. Notably, this edition has introduced a Bluetooth toggle button on the right side, enabling users to swiftly transition between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth modes.
iCue software
The iCUE software offers customization features like lighting configurations and equalizer settings. Additionally, the HS80 MAX’s wireless receiver supports a multi-device pairing capability. Users can easily add new device connections by selecting the receiver within the software.
For enhanced audio, users can download the Dolby Access app from the Microsoft store. Once the app recognizes the connection of the HS80 MAX headset, it unlocks the Dolby ATMOS sound effects at no extra cost. By default, it offers four preset modes along with four customizable slots. This flexibility lets users tailor the equalizer to their preferences. However, it’s important to note that activating Dolby Access disables the audio effects feature in the iCUE software.
CORSAIR HS80 MAX WIRELESS Summary
CORSAIR’s latest HS80 Max retains the design of its predecessor, the original HS80, ensuring continued comfort for its users. The writer’s experience suggests that the headset neither feels too tight nor too loose, striking a perfect balance. The sound quality is commendably enhanced this time around, with Dolby sound effects and SoundID guiding users towards custom audio settings. This is especially beneficial for users unfamiliar with tweaking EQ settings, helping them easily land on an optimal listening experience.
A notable addition is the Bluetooth connectivity, expanding the headset’s versatility. However, the absence of SLIPSTREAM wireless technology means the connection range is slightly limited to just under 3 meters. Still, the writer believes that for most users, a 15-meter range will be more than adequate.
The improved battery life deserves a special mention. With the lighting feature turned off, the headset can last approximately 65 hours on a 2.4GHz connection. This means users might only need to charge it once a week, adding to the convenience and reducing the anxiety of an unexpected power cut during gameplay (the writer seems to speak from personal experience on this front).
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Title: CORSAIR HS80 MAX Wireless Gaming Headset: Enhancements in Connectivity, Battery Life, and Sound Quality