[REVIEW] Razer BlackShark V2

I own many gaming headsets. So many… As a result, I have opinions on most of the current options. None of them have truly blown me away. In fact, I used to think that features like spatial audio were a marketing gimmick. Audio can and does play a huge role in gamers’ overall gaming experience and good audio can truly immerse you in your games’ worlds. My most recent acquisition may be the gaming headset for which I’ve been searching. The BlackShark V2 from Razer is aimed at being the premier esports headset boasting superior sound clarity. And so far? I’m impressed.

The Headset

Initially what caught my attention was the V2’s cool design, but what really grabbed my attention was its comfort. The moment I put them over my ears I immediately understood why the original was highly praised for its comfort. Weighing in at a mere 262g there were moments where I literally forgot that I was wearing them. I used to claim that the most comfortable gaming headset on the market was the Astro A50’s but the BlackShark V2 by Razer is the new boss. Did I also mention that it’s only one third the price? But the real question lingered… Do they sound as good as they look and feel? 

The Sound

Packed with Razer Triforce Titanium 50mm drivers, a USB sound card, and THX Spatial Audio the V2s feature a clear and immersive soundscape. The sound is crisp, clear, and highly detailed. THX Spatial Audio takes it to a whole new level with its precise sound, A sound that makes you feel as if you have truly been placed in your surroundings. In Call of Duty: Warzone you can hear bullets wiz by, footsteps as the enemy team approaches, and character speech coming from accurate directions. It feels like your own private acoustic sound chamber.

The THX Experience

THX Spatial Audio takes things further with THX Game Profiles; all of which can be accessed and customized in the Razer Synapse app. You can fine-tune just about anything from Spatial Audio Modes, EQ, Sound Normalization, Mic Enhancements, and more! The EQ has presets for gaming, music, and movies. Or you can tune the 10 individual bands for a customized sound experience. All of which can be saved as a unique sound profile. 

The removable HyperClear Cardioid Mic is adjustable, sturdy, and captures your voice clearly. You can adjust mic volume and voice gate levels, enhance with volume clarity, normalization, and even reduce ambient noise. You can also separately EQ your mic just like you can with your sound. Whether you use the mic EQ to select one of 4 presets including Mic Boost, Broadcast and Conference or make your own! 

The Result

Unfortunately, you won’t get any of that sweet Razer RGB with the V2s but you will get a quality headset that you will never get tired of wearing over your head. The amount of customization for both your sound and microphone means that you’re in control of the way your environment sounds. If you’re looking for a headset that doesn’t break the bank the BlackShark V2 is perfect. The Razer BlackShark V2 retails for $99. 

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