Author - boothby

Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 Review: Your Everything Headset for Xbox, PC, and PS5

4 days ago
boothby
Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

I can’t be the only one with a drawer full of wireless headsets, right? There’s the one that only works with the Xbox. The one for the PlayStation 5. The one for the PC that has all the good software. And then the Bluetooth ones for my phone. It’s a mess. For years, the holy grail has been finding that one single, solitary headset that can gracefully hop between all of them. SteelSeries has been chasing this dragon for a while, and with the new Arctis Nova 7X Wireless, it feels like they got closer than almost anyone else. But, as with any piece of tech that promises to do everything, you have to ask… what’s the catch? I’ve spent a lot of time with this headset, and the answer is complicated. It’s a device that is, by turns, absolutely brilliant and just a little bit maddening.

The “X” Is the Whole Point

First, let’s get this straight. If you’re looking at the Nova 7 line, the “7X” is the one you want, even if you don’t own an Xbox. That “X” is the magic ticket. It comes with a special USB-C dongle that has a tiny, crucial switch on it. In one position, it speaks Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox wireless language. Flip that switch, and it speaks universal USB audio, letting it connect flawlessly to a PlayStation 5, a PC, a Mac, or a Nintendo Switch. This little piece of hardware is the key. It makes the 7X the true “one headset” solution, where the other models (the 7P and standard 7) are just pretenders.

Okay, But How Does It Feel?

Straight out of the box, this thing is comfortable. Really comfortable. SteelSeries brought back their signature “ski-goggle” elastic headband, which floats the headset just off your scalp. It’s light, and the “AirWeave” cushions are soft and breathe well, so you don’t get that swampy, hot-ear feeling after a two-hour gaming session. You can genuinely wear this thing all day. But I have to take a quick detour here. If you’ve been around the brand for a while, you know about the “hinge problem.” The older Arctis line was infamous for a plastic hinge that would crack and shatter, often just from regular use. SteelSeries swears they’ve fixed this, that the Nova’s design is new and more durable. And look, it feels solid. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t find forum posts from people showing pictures of cracked Nova hinges, too. Is it fixed? Or just less common? It’s a shadow that hangs over an otherwise great-feeling product.

The Two-Headset Problem (In One Headset)

Here’s the thing. The default sound, right out of the box, is… fine. Just fine. It’s a bit flat, with a weird dip in the treble that can make some sounds feel a little dark or muted. It’s not $180 “fine.” You immediately get the sense that this headset is meant to be adjusted. And this is where the Nova 7X reveals its split personality. On a PC, this headset is a monster. You download the SteelSeries GG software, fire up the “Sonar” suite, and suddenly, you have a god-tier audio setup. Sonar gives you a full-blown parametric EQ to fix that flat sound, and its virtual spatial audio is a literal game-changer for hearing footsteps. But the real magic is the microphone. The built-in mic is, by itself, just okay. It’s a bit tinny, like most wireless headset mics. But on PC, Sonar enables an “AI Noise Canceling” feature that is pure witchcraft. It can filter out your mechanical keyboard, your room fan, and even your friend’s barking dog coming through their mic. It’s phenomenal. But what about on console? Well, for the original “Gen 1” model that came out in 2022, you got… none of that. All that magic, the EQ, the AI mic, everything, was trapped on the PC. Even basic settings, like sidetone (so you can hear your own voice), were locked away. If you were a console-only player, you had to plug the headset into a computer just to adjust anything. It was an awful experience.

Why the “Gen 2” Is the Only One to Buy

This is exactly why the “new” Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 (the late 2025 model) is such a big deal. It’s not just a minor refresh; it’s the product the original should have been. Why? Two reasons.

First, the battery life is now genuinely absurd. The original had a great 38-hour battery. The new Gen 2 has a 50-to-54-hour battery. That’s not a typo. You’ll forget where you put the charging cable. Second, and most importantly, SteelSeries finally released the “Arctis Companion App” for your phone. This app connects to the Gen 2 headset via Bluetooth and finally frees console players. From your couch, you can now pick from over 200 game-specific EQ presets, adjust your microphone volume, and, thank goodness, change your sidetone level. It’s a complete fix. (Just be warned: if you have the Gen 1, the app won’t work with it, which is a huge disappointment for original owners.)

Let’s Talk About That Dual Audio

The other killer feature here is the simultaneous audio. The headset can play low-latency 2.4GHz game audio from the dongle at the same time as Bluetooth audio from your phone. This is every bit as amazing as it sounds. You can be grinding in a game while listening to a podcast, or taking a phone call, or, most commonly, chatting with friends on a Discord call from your phone while getting game audio from your console. It’s seamless, and it’s hard to go back once you’ve used it. My only real gripe? There’s no hardware dial to mix the volume between your game and your Bluetooth audio. The “ChatMix” dial on the headset only works for game/chat audio on PC and Xbox. If your podcast is too loud, you have to fumble for your phone to turn it down. It feels clunky and is a major missed opportunity.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

Okay, so the Gen 2 sounds nearly perfect. But I have to circle back to those problems, because they’re not trivial. That hinge concern is real. For a $200 headset, you shouldn’t have to worry about it snapping in half, but that fear is always in the back of your mind. Even scarier are the user reports I’ve seen about audio “crackling” and “freezing”. People with brand-new headsets reporting that on both Xbox and PS5, the audio will just pop, crackle, or distort, especially during intense cutscenes. That sounds like a nightmare and points to a potential firmware or dongle interference issue. And some long-time users of the old Arctis 7 say the wireless range on this new Nova is actually worse.

So, Is It the One?

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7X Wireless Gen 2 is, without a doubt, one of the most comfortable, versatile, and feature-packed headsets you can buy. It brilliantly solves the multi-platform problem. The dual audio is a feature I now can’t live without, and the new mobile app finally makes it a first-class citizen on consoles. But it’s a “buy with caution” recommendation. It’s an amazing piece of tech, but it’s haunted by its predecessor’s reputation for fragility and some alarming reports of audio bugs. If you’re going to get one, buy it from a place with a rock-solid return policy or an extended warranty. It is so close to being the perfect “one” headset. So, so close.

Overall Score 4 out of 5

Charting a Course Through Early Access – A Seafarer: The Ship Sim Preview

2 months ago
boothby
Geek News, News, Reviews, Windows PC News, Windows PC Review

There’s something almost therapeutic about a good simulation game. You know, the kind of game you can sink into after a long day, put on a podcast, and just… drive. Or fly. Or, in this case, sail! The call of the open sea is a powerful one, and for years, fans of the genre have been waiting for a game to truly capture it, a kind of Microsoft Flight Simulator for the waves. Astragon Entertainment’s Seafarer: The Ship Sim has sailed into Early Access with exactly that promise on its lofty flag. But does it reach that distant shore, or does it flounder on the rocky shoals of its own ambition?

So, What’s the Big Idea?

On paper, Seafarer is the dream game for any maritime enthusiast. It’s built on the gorgeous Unreal Engine 5, boasting stunning water physics powered by NVIDIA WaveWorks 2.0. The marketing promises a vast open world, a career path where you can haul cargo for Crescentport Logistics or patrol the seas with the Tide Guard, and a fleet of meticulously detailed, fully walkable ships. From the humble tugboat ‘Bernhard’ to the imposing police vessel ‘Density’, you’re meant to feel like a real captain, checking your engines, operating cranes, and customizing your avatar for the journey.

Here’s the thing, though. When you market your game as the next Flight Simulator, you set certain expectations. The big one? A real-world map. And Seafarer doesn’t have one. It’s a fictional world “inspired by North European seascapes”. For many players, this was more than a disappointment; it was a deal-breaker. The community forums lit up with frustration because the game’s core marketing promise seemed to be broken from the start. While the developers cited budget and creative freedom, the damage was done. It created this fundamental mismatch between what was sold and what was delivered.

There Be Squalls Ahead

Okay, so let’s get into the nitty-gritty. This is an Early Access title, and honestly, it feels like it. The game is beautiful in screenshots, but getting it to run well is a whole other story. It’s demanding, with recommended specs calling for some serious hardware. This seems to be a classic case of a smaller studio wielding the immense power of Unreal Engine 5; the visuals are there, but the optimization requires a level of polish that just hasn’t happened yet.

As with any Early Access launch, some systems feel less polished, and there are rough edges that need to be smoothed out. The user reviews on Steam are currently “Mixed,” which seems fair; while many players appreciate the game’s ambition and strong visual fidelity, others have pointed out shortcomings in mechanics or overall depth. Some of the criticism feels justified, while some is just overly harsh. As one player noted, “I’ve played way way worse EA games. This is actually one of the better ones.” There are minor immersion breakers, like characters speaking with full voice acting while their mouths don’t move, but nothing that brings the experience to a grinding halt.

The bigger issue is a complete lack of proper onboarding. The game presents you with complex systems but offers almost no guidance on how to use them. For a game aiming for deep simulation, this is a critical failure. It’s like being handed the keys to a 747 with no manual. Even more baffling is the absence of basic quality-of-life features. The most glaring omission? No autopilot. In a game about long sea voyages, this turns what should be a relaxing journey into a tedious chore of holding down a key for hours.

The Soul of the Ship

So, it’s a bit rough, right? Well, yes. And this is the contradiction that makes Seafarer so frustrating and yet so compelling. Because beneath all that jank, there is a truly fantastic simulation.

When you’re at the helm, the game is incredible. There’s a real, tangible sense of weight and inertia to these massive vessels that feels completely authentic. Each ship handles differently, as it should, and learning the quirks of maneuvering a heavy cargo ferry versus a nimble fire boat is deeply satisfying. This is the core of the game, and the developers absolutely nailed it.

When the performance holds up, the atmosphere is second to none. Watching a sunrise glint across calm waters or fighting to keep your ship steady as a storm rolls in is breathtaking. The ambient sounds of the wind, the gulls, and the low hum of the engine are perfect. The ability to get up from the helm, walk through your ship, and head down to the engine room adds a layer of immersion that fans have wanted for years. It’s almost the perfect “podcast game,” a chill, slow-paced experience you can lose yourself in. Almost. That missing autopilot really hurts its potential here, preventing you from truly relaxing on those long hauls.

What gives me the most hope, though, is the developer’s response. They are clearly listening. Within days of a rocky launch, they were already addressing performance and stability concerns from players. They quickly launched a hotfix on a public beta branch to implement NVIDIA DLSS and address fuel issues, showing a commitment to fixing problems. They are active on the Steam forums, and they have a public roadmap outlining future updates, including co-op multiplayer, a vessel editor, and more ships. The team is fighting hard to right the ship, and it shows they’re in it for the long haul.

The Verdict: Should You Set Sail?

So, should you buy Seafarer: The Ship Sim today? Honestly, it depends.

If you are a hardcore simulation fan, someone who loves the nitty-gritty of maritime mechanics and has the patience for an Early Access journey, then buying in now is a gamble that might just pay off. You’ll be supporting a dedicated development team, and you’ll get to help shape a game that has a solid gold core.

For everyone else? I’d say add it to your wishlist, join the Discord, and keep an eye on the horizon. There is a fantastic game here, a real diamond. It’s just navigating some rough seas right now. Give the developers time to fix the leaks and polish the hull. If they can deliver on their promises, Seafarer could one day be the legendary ship simulator we’ve all been waiting for.

iFi ZEN DAC 3: The $229 Upgrade That Makes Every Game Sound Better

2 months ago
boothby
Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review, Trailers / Videos

If you’re like me, you’ve spent a fortune on your gaming rig. You’ve got the latest graphics card, a CPU that could probably launch a satellite, and a mouse with more buttons than a TV remote. But what about your audio? If you’re still plugging your expensive headset directly into your motherboard, you’re leaving a massive amount of performance on the table. It’s like buying a sports car and putting cheap tires on it.

Enter the iFi ZEN DAC 3.

This little metal box has a big reputation. Its older siblings have won awards for years, becoming the go-to recommendation for anyone wanting better sound without taking out a second mortgage. Now, the third version is here, priced at $229, and it promises to be the all-in-one audio solution for your desk. But is it just for those audiophile folks who listen to jazz in silent rooms? Or is this the secret weapon your gaming setup has been missing? I’ve spent some time with it, and honestly, the answer is pretty clear.

So, What’s This Thing Actually Look Like?

Right out of the box, the ZEN DAC 3 doesn’t feel like your typical piece of computer gear. It’s not a boring black plastic box. Instead, it’s this cool, rounded trapezoid shape made from a solid chunk of aluminum. It’s got some real heft to it, which just feels premium. The new design has a two-tone look with a dark gunmetal grey body, bronze accents, and even a strip of faux-leather texture on the front. It looks way more expensive than it is and definitely adds a bit of class to a desk full of RGB.

The layout is super simple. There’s a big, silky-smooth volume knob right in the middle. To the left, two buttons: “PowerMatch” and “XBass+.” To the right, two headphone jacks: A standard 6.3mm one (it comes with an adapter for your 3.5mm plugs) and a 4.4mm balanced one, which is a more high-end connection.

Getting It All Hooked Up (Is It a Pain?)

Here’s the best part for anyone who just wants to get back to gaming: it’s ridiculously easy to set up. It connects to your PC with a single USB-C cable, which also powers the device. That’s it. Windows recognizes it, and you’re good to go. For PC users who want to get every last drop of performance, there’s a driver you can download from iFi’s website, but it’s a quick install.

And for the console crowd? Big news here. iFi says it’s compatible with the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, making it a versatile hub for more than just your PC. You just plug it in and instantly get a massive audio boost. The only real limitation is that USB is the only input, so you can’t hook up older gear, but for a modern gaming setup, it’s all you really need.

The Million-Dollar Question: How Does It Sound?

Okay, let’s get to it. The difference between motherboard audio and the ZEN DAC 3 is night and day. Everything sounds bigger, clearer, and more alive. iFi has a signature “house sound” that’s a little warm and smooth. What does that mean for gaming? It means you can play for hours without your ears getting tired from harsh, tinny sounds.

In games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Baldur’s Gate 3, the world just feels more real. The environmental sounds, the dialogue, the soaring musical scores – it all has a depth and richness that was missing before. For competitive shooters, the story is just as good. The soundstage, which is basically how wide and deep the sound feels, is spacious and uncluttered. This makes it way easier to pinpoint where enemy footsteps or gunshots are coming from. And because it’s a direct USB connection, there’s no perceptible delay, which is absolutely critical for competitive play.

That Big “XBass+” Button… The Cheat Code for Audio?

Now, let’s talk about my favorite feature: the XBass+ button. This isn’t some cheap software effect that muddies up the sound. It’s a purely analog circuit that gives the low-end a serious kick.

You know what? It’s awesome.

For gaming, this is your explosion button. Firing a shotgun in DOOM Eternal feels like it has a physical impact. Grenades in Call of Duty have a deep, satisfying boom that you can almost feel. It adds that cinematic, club-like punch to the bass without messing up the clarity of the other sounds, so you can still hear your teammates yelling at you. It’s just plain fun, and I left it on most of the time.

Okay, But Are There Any Downsides?

No product is perfect, and the ZEN DAC 3 has a couple of quirks you should know about.

First, that beautiful analog volume knob has a side effect: it doesn’t control your main Windows volume. Your keyboard’s volume keys won’t work. You have to use the physical knob. iFi does this because an analog control is technically better for sound quality, but it definitely takes some getting used to.

Second, all the outputs are active all the time. If you have headphones and powered speakers plugged in at once, sound will come out of both. To switch, you have to unplug your headphones. It’s a bit of an inconvenience, for sure.

Finally, while it has plenty of power for almost any gaming headset or popular headphones out there, it’s not a powerhouse. If you have extremely hard-to-drive audiophile headphones, you might want a separate, more powerful amplifier. But for 99% of gamers, this won’t be an issue.

The Verdict: Should You Buy It?

So, is the iFi ZEN DAC 3 worth the $229? Absolutely.

If you’ve invested in a great gaming rig but are still using your motherboard’s audio, this is one of the most significant and noticeable upgrades you can make. It makes games more immersive, more exciting, and can even give you a competitive edge. The build quality is fantastic, it’s incredibly easy to use, and that XBass+ button is just pure, unadulterated fun.

Despite a few minor quirks, the iFi ZEN DAC 3 is a phenomenal piece of kit. It’s a simple, elegant, and powerful way to finally give your games the incredible sound they deserve. Your ears will thank you.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

Pros:

  • Warm, engaging sound quality
  • Excellent build and design
  • Simple plug-and-play setup
  • Effective XBass+ for more punch

Cons:

  • Lacks some dynamic punch
  • All outputs are always active
  • Only has a USB input

This Headset Punches Way Above Its Weight: Turtle Beach Atlas 200 PC Edition Reviewed

3 months ago
boothby
Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

As a gamer who remembers blowing dust out of cartridges and waiting for dial-up connections, my relationship with gaming has changed. The all-night sessions have been replaced by carefully negotiated windows of time carved out between work deadlines, school runs, and the quiet hours after the family has gone to bed. In this new reality, my gear needs to meet a different set of criteria. It has to be practical, comfortable for the long haul when I do get a rare chance to binge, and it can’t break the bank. It’s a crowded market, but the Turtle Beach Atlas 200 PC Edition has made a compelling case for itself, proving to be a workhorse that understands the needs of a modern, time-crunched gamer.

The first thing you notice about the Atlas 200 is what you don’t notice: the weight. At a mere 280 grams, it’s remarkably light. This isn’t a trivial detail. After a long day, the last thing I want is a heavy, vice-like headset squeezing my head. Turtle Beach has borrowed the “floating fit” design from its more expensive models, and it’s a game-changer. A breathable mesh strap, not the hard plastic frame, rests on your head, distributing the weight so evenly that you genuinely forget you’re wearing it. The earcups, wrapped in a soft athletic fabric, are equally comfortable. As a glasses-wearer, I was particularly impressed by the ProSpecs system, which uses a softer section of foam to create a channel for my frames. It completely eliminates the painful pressure points I’ve endured with other headsets, making a three-hour session feel effortless. It’s a thoughtful, user-focused design that prioritizes sustained comfort over flashy aesthetics.

Of course, comfort means nothing if the sound isn’t up to par. The Atlas 200 is equipped with 50mm Nanoclear drivers, another feature inherited from Turtle Beach’s higher-end lineup. Out of the box, the audio is tuned for tactical precision. Playing competitive shooters, the soundscape is crisp and clear. The mid and high frequencies are emphasized, allowing you to pinpoint the subtle but critical cues—the scuff of an enemy’s boot, the distant clink of a grenade pin, or the specific sound of a weapon being reloaded around a corner. This focus on clarity provides a real competitive advantage. However, this tuning comes at the expense of deep, rumbling bass. Cinematic, explosion-heavy games and bass-driven music can feel a bit thin on the low end. It’s a sound profile that favors tactical awareness over pure, thundering immersion.

This is where the PC Edition truly distinguishes itself and justifies its slight price premium. The included USB audio adapter is more than just a connector; it’s the key to unlocking the Swarm II software suite. This desktop application is the headset’s secret weapon. Within the software, a 10-band equalizer allows you to completely reshape the sound profile. That underwhelming bass? A few quick adjustments and the low-end comes alive, adding the punch and warmth that was missing. The software also includes Turtle Beach’s Superhuman Hearing mode, which further amplifies those critical in-game sounds, and Waves 3D Audio for a surprisingly effective virtual surround sound experience. The generous two-meter cable is another practical touch for PC users, providing ample length to reach a desktop tower without feeling tethered.

The communications suite is competent, though it’s where the headset’s budget-conscious design is most apparent. The microphone provides clear voice transmission for in-game chat and Discord calls, and the flip-to-mute function is a wonderfully simple and effective feature—perfect for when a family member walks in mid-match. However, the microphone itself is permanently attached and has a rather basic plastic look that clashes with the headset’s otherwise sleek design. More critically, its unidirectional pickup pattern isn’t aggressive enough to block out ambient sounds, meaning keyboard clicks and other background noises can bleed through. Once again, the Swarm II software comes to the rescue. Its configurable noise gate allows you to set a threshold that filters out these unwanted sounds, dramatically improving the microphone’s performance and solving one of its biggest hardware weaknesses.

The New PlayStation Edition Box

The New PlayStation Edition Box

The Turtle Beach Atlas 200 PC Edition is a masterclass in smart compromises. It invests in the areas that matter most for a dedicated gamer: exceptional, long-session comfort and clear, precise audio drivers. It then uses a robust software suite to elevate the experience, allowing users to correct its few sonic deficiencies and enhance its microphone capabilities. While the microphone’s physical design is uninspired and the default sound lacks bass, these are minor issues when weighed against its strengths. For the mature gamer who values comfort, tactical performance, and practical features over all else, this headset delivers a premium experience at a budget-friendly price. It’s a fantastic piece of equipment that respects both your time and your wallet.

**NOTE: Turtle Beach has also launched the first licensed PlayStation version of the Atlas 200 – you can find that product here.

Overall Score 4 out of 5

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Exceptionally comfortable, lightweight design.
  • Excellent for glasses-wearers due to the ProSpecs system.
  • Clear and precise audio for tactical gaming.
  • Powerful PC software allows for deep audio and mic customization.
  • Great overall value for the features provided.

Cons:

  • Default audio profile is weak on bass.
  • Microphone is prone to picking up background noise without software adjustments.

Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro Review: The Purr-fect Headset for Streamers?

2025/08/30
boothby
Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

I’ve been gaming for a long time. I was there for the LAN parties, the dial-up connections, and the beige towers that weighed a ton. Now, at 40, I stream on Twitch. It’s a hobby that I enjoy, and my philosophy remains the same as if I were a pro-level streamer: the gear has to work. It needs to be reliable, functional, and comfortable for the long haul. Style is a bonus, but it never trumps substance. So when Razer announced the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro, finally making their iconic headset wireless, I was intrigued. It’s a headset with a massive on-camera presence, but could it deliver the no-nonsense performance a veteran gamer demands? After spending considerable time with it, I can say it’s a headset that gets so much right on the surface, only to be betrayed by a deeply flawed software experience.

Pulling the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro from its box, there’s an immediate sense of refinement. This isn’t the same headset that first launched years ago. The design is sleeker, the earcups are a bit slimmer, and the cat ears are now a fixed part of the frame, which feels more premium than the swappable novelties of the past. Razer clearly understands its audience spends hours with these on their head, and the comfort reflects that. The earcups now swivel, providing a much better fit, and the memory foam cushions are plush and create a solid seal against background noise without clamping down too hard. I can get through a four-hour stream without any major discomfort, which is more than I can say for many of its competitors.

The audio performance, for the most part, is excellent. The 40mm TriForce Titanium drivers deliver a sound profile that is punchy and clear, perfect for the chaos of a modern shooter. Explosions have weight, but they don’t drown out the critical high-frequency sounds of enemy footsteps or reloads. The real star of the show is the THX Spatial Audio. It creates a wide, convincing soundstage that gives a genuine sense of directionality. In games where positional awareness is key, this is a legitimate advantage. While some might see the move from the previous generation’s 50mm drivers to these 40mm ones as a downgrade, I see it as a smart trade-off. The superior virtual surround sound processing provides a more tangible benefit than a slightly larger driver ever could.

As a streamer, my voice is just as important as the game audio. Razer claims the new retractable Super Wideband microphone is “broadcast-quality,” and while that might be a bit of exaggeration, it’s impressively clear. My voice comes through to my viewers and teammates with a natural, full-bodied tone that’s a significant step up from the tinny sound of many headset mics. It’s perfect for streaming without needing a dedicated desktop microphone.

The headline feature, of course, is that this Kitty is finally wireless, and the tri-mode connectivity is a massive win. The low-latency HyperSpeed connection has been absolutely rock-solid for me. In all my hours of testing and streaming, I have not experienced a single dropout or moment of interference, which is the bare minimum I expect from a pro-tier product. The other major draw is the stream-reactive lighting. Linking the headset’s Chroma RGB to my Twitch channel through the companion app is a neat trick. Having the ears flash a specific color for a new subscriber is a fun bit of visual flair that my community enjoys. You can even have the ears flash or change color due to certain game events with Razer Chroma RGB.

The Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is a product with a fantastic vision, loaded with features that are genuinely useful and appealing to gamers who stream. Its refined design, featuring the iconic cat ears and comfortable memory foam earcups, is built for marathon sessions in front of the camera. The liberation of tri-mode wireless connectivity is a massive quality-of-life upgrade, allowing for untethered freedom during a broadcast. At its core, the headset’s true appeal lies in its unique stream-reactive Chroma RGB lighting, which transforms it from a simple peripheral into an interactive tool for community engagement. The headset is available in black, white, and pink colorways and is available now for $179.99.

Overall Score 4 out of 5

Pros

  • The headset is very comfortable for long sessions.
  • THX Spatial Audio provides great positional sound.
  • The wireless connection is stable and reliable.
  • The stream-integrated lighting is a unique feature.

Cons

  • It is not compatible with Xbox consoles.

be quiet! Dark Mount Review: The One Keyboard for Code, Combat, and Everything In-Between

2025/08/18
boothby
Geek News, News, Peripheral Review, Peripherals News, Reviews

As a software engineer in my forties who splits his time between coding professionally and diving into sprawling RPGs and fast-paced shooters, my keyboard is more than just a peripheral; it’s the primary interface for both my career and my passion. For years, I’ve been on a quest for a single keyboard that can bridge this gap—something precise and comfortable for eight hours of coding, yet responsive and adaptable for late-night gaming sessions. When be quiet! announced the Dark Mount Silent Tactile, a modular keyboard promising silence and performance, my interest was immediately piqued. After several weeks of putting it through its paces, I can say it comes tantalizingly close to being that perfect, all-encompassing tool, but it’s a journey with a few unexpected bumps.

Unboxing the Dark Mount, the German engineering heritage is immediately apparent. The design is mature and professional, with a brushed aluminum top plate and sharp, squared-off angles that feel at home in a work environment, a stark contrast to the often-aggressive aesthetics of many gaming keyboards. The main body is a tenkeyless (TKL) layout, which is my preferred setup for coding, but the box also contains the modular numpad and a separate media dock. The PBT double-shot keycaps have a pleasant, slightly textured feel and are clearly built to last, resisting the finger oil shine that has plagued my previous ABS-keyed boards.

My workday is where the Dark Mount truly began to shine. The “Silent Tactile” switches are a revelation. As someone who works from a home office, the near-complete silence is a blessing, eliminating the distracting clatter that can permeate the house. Yet, this silence doesn’t come at the cost of feel. The switches provide a smooth, subtle tactile bump at the point of actuation, giving me the confirmation I need for accurate, high-speed typing without any of the mushiness I’ve experienced with other quiet keyboards. The combination of factory-lubricated switches and multiple internal layers of sound-dampening foam creates a typing experience that is both deeply satisfying and astonishingly quiet. The modularity proved to be more than a gimmick. Attaching the numpad to the left side was a workflow game-changer, allowing me to punch in numbers and execute macros with my left hand while my right never left the mouse—a huge efficiency gain when navigating complex IDEs and spreadsheets. For users in a shared office, streamers who need to minimize microphone pickup, or anyone who simply despises keyboard clatter, the Dark Mount’s silent performance is class-leading.

When the workday ends and the gaming begins, the Dark Mount adapts beautifully. For FPS titles, I simply detach the numpad, and instantly I have a compact TKL board with a vast expanse of desk space for sweeping mouse movements—a critical advantage in the heat of a firefight. The keyboard’s core performance is solid, with a standard polling rate and N-key rollover ensuring every command is registered without fail. For immersive RPGs, the gorgeous 360-degree RGB lightbar creates a fantastic ambiance, and the eight customizable LCD keys on the numpad become a powerful command center for spells, items, and abilities, much like a built-in Stream Deck.

However, this is where the keyboard’s near-perfect execution begins to show some cracks. While the main mechanical keys are superb, the buttons on the modular attachments feel like an afterthought. The media dock’s scroll wheel and buttons are shallow and lack the satisfying tactile feedback of the rest of the board, creating an odd sensory disconnect. Similarly, the eight programmable display keys on the numpad, while incredibly useful, are loud and clicky, a jarring contrast to the whisper-quiet switches just below them.

Another issue is the IO Center software. While the interface is clean and the inclusion of a web-based version is a brilliant move, its stability is questionable. I experienced several instances where my custom lighting profiles would spontaneously reset to the default rainbow wave, and more critically, saved macros would intermittently fail to execute until I unplugged and reconnected the keyboard. For a product that leans so heavily on its software for its advanced functionality, these bugs are a definite flaw that detracts from an otherwise premium experience.

In conclusion, the be quiet! Dark Mount Silent Tactile is an ambitious and beautifully engineered piece of hardware that excels in its primary goals. It offers arguably the best silent typing experience on the market, making it a dream for any professional who values a quiet environment. Its modularity is genuinely innovative and provides a level of versatility that serves both work and play exceptionally well. It is a product that understands the dual life many of us lead. Yet, it is held back by a lack of polish in its secondary components and, most critically, by immature software that fails to deliver the reliability its high price tag demands. It feels like a product that is one major firmware update away from true greatness.

Overall Score 4 out of 5

Pros Cons
Exceptionally quiet yet satisfying tactile switches Software is buggy
Innovative and highly versatile modular design Buttons on modular attachments feel cheap in contrast to main keys
Excellent typing feel for productivity Lacks modern competitive gaming features like Rapid Trigger
Detachable numpad creates more mouse room for gaming Premium price point
High-quality PBT keycaps and professional aesthetic No wireless connectivity option

Logitech G G522 Lightspeed Review: The Best Gaming Headset for College Students?

2025/06/20
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Geek News, News, Reviews, Tech News, Tech Review

My old headset finally gave up the ghost mid-raid last week. You know the story—one side goes quiet, the cord is frayed, and suddenly my team sounds like they’re yelling at me from the bottom of a well. As a college student, my budget isn’t exactly unlimited, but I live in my headphones. They’re for gaming, for online classes, for late-night study sessions with music, and for just zoning out. I needed a do-it-all wireless replacement that wouldn’t break the bank, and after some searching, I landed on the new Logitech G G522 Lightspeed.

The first thing I noticed right out of the box was how incredibly light it is. At just 290 grams, I’ve honestly forgotten I was wearing it a few times, which is a massive plus. The comfort is next-level. The memory foam earcups are covered in this soft, breathable fabric that’s a huge improvement over the sweaty pleather on my old pair. I pulled an all-nighter studying for a midterm and then jumped straight into a gaming session with friends, and I never felt that familiar clamping pressure or ear fatigue. The only weird design choice is the headband. Instead of a normal slider, it has this elastic band with only two adjustment points. It fits my head perfectly, but I can definitely see how it might be too loose or tight for some people, which is a strange limitation for a headset that gets so much else right.

When it comes to sound, the G522 is a beast for gaming. The bass is fantastic; explosions in shooters have a real, satisfying rumble, and engine roars sound full and meaty without turning into a muddy mess. The spatial audio is also on point. I was able to hear footsteps and reloads with crystal clarity, giving me a genuine edge in competitive matches. For music and movies, the sound is generally great and well-balanced, but it’s not perfect. In really chaotic scenes with a lot going on, the middle frequencies can get a little washed out. I also noticed that very high-pitched sounds can sometimes have a slightly raspy, distorted quality. It’s not an audiophile headset by any means, but for the price, the sound is rich and immersive where it counts the most.

Where this headset absolutely destroys the competition is the microphone. It’s not just good for a gaming headset; it’s genuinely fantastic. The first time I hopped on Discord, my friends immediately asked if I’d bought a new standalone mic. My voice comes through incredibly clearly, with no distortion or background noise. The mic boom is also detachable, which is great for when I just want to use them as regular headphones for music on my way to class. Plus, the built-in BLUE VO!CE tech works directly on the headset, so my custom mic settings carry over from my PC to my PS5, which is a killer feature.

The other two massive wins are battery life and connectivity. I’ve been using these for over a week straight—gaming, classes, music—and I still haven’t had to charge them. The battery life is just insane. And the tri-mode connectivity is a lifesaver. I can use the lag-free LIGHTSPEED dongle on my PC for gaming, then instantly switch to Bluetooth to take a call on my phone or connect to my laptop for a lecture. It’s the kind of seamless flexibility that’s perfect for a student lifestyle. The on-ear controls are also perfectly designed, with distinct, tactile buttons that are easy to find and use without having to take the headset off.

Overall, the Logitech G G522 is a phenomenal all-rounder. It nails the three things that matter most to me: marathon-session comfort, a mic that makes me sound like a pro, and a battery that just refuses to die. While the audio isn’t flawless and the headband adjustment is a bit of a head-scratcher, the positives overwhelmingly outweigh the negatives. For any student or gamer looking for a versatile, high-performing wireless headset that delivers a premium experience without the premium price tag, this is an easy recommendation.

Overall Rating 4 out of 5

Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and comfortable for long gaming or study sessions.
  • Exceptional, broadcast-quality microphone clarity.
  • Incredible, multi-day battery life.
  • Versatile tri-mode connectivity.

Cons:

  • Limited two-point headband adjustment may not provide a secure fit for all head sizes.
  • Audio can exhibit some distortion at very high frequencies.

Flint: Treasure of Oblivion Review

2025/01/07
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Geek News, News, Reviews, Windows PC News, Windows PC Review

Flint: Treasure of Oblivion sets sail with a captivating premise: a pirate adventure in a world inspired by historical accuracy and brought to life with a unique comic book aesthetic. While it delivers on its promise of swashbuckling fun and strategic combat, some choppy waters prevent it from reaching the treasure island of truly great games.

The game casts you as Captain James Flint, tasked with uncovering a legendary treasure using a mysterious map. Along the way, you’ll recruit a motley crew, each with unique skills and personalities, and engage in turn-based tactical battles against rival pirates and other foes. The combat system is where Flint truly shines. It blends strategic positioning with a card-based system that adds an element of both planning and chance. Each character can equip cards that grant special abilities or enhance their attacks, and these cards are further influenced by dice rolls, leading to dynamic and often unpredictable battles. Learning to utilize different card combinations and adapt to the whims of fate is crucial for success, and mastering the system is deeply satisfying.

Beyond the strategic depth of combat, Flint also boasts a visually striking presentation. The comic book art style is beautifully implemented, with character portraits and cutscenes rendered in vibrant colors and dynamic panels. This stylistic choice adds a unique flavor to the game and effectively captures the adventurous spirit of the pirate world. The environments, powered by Unreal Engine 5, are equally impressive, ranging from bustling port towns to treacherous jungles and hidden caves.

However, while Flint has a lot to offer, it’s not without its shortcomings. The user interface, while functional, can feel clunky and unintuitive at times, making it difficult to navigate menus and manage your crew effectively. Furthermore, several reviewers have pointed out issues with the game’s controls and level design, citing unclear pathways and a lack of visual cues. These issues, while not game-breaking, can lead to moments of frustration and detract from the overall experience.

Another common criticism is the game’s relatively short length. While the core gameplay loop is engaging, the adventure feels somewhat condensed, leaving players wanting more. This brevity might disappoint those seeking a sprawling RPG experience, but it could also be seen as a positive for players who prefer more focused and concise narratives.

Ultimately, Flint: Treasure of Oblivion is a mixed bag. Its innovative combat system, striking visuals, and unique setting make it a compelling experience for fans of tactical RPGs and pirate lore. However, its technical shortcomings, including a clunky UI and occasionally frustrating level design, hold it back from reaching its full potential. If you’re willing to overlook these flaws and embrace the game’s unique charm, you’ll find a rewarding adventure filled with strategic battles and swashbuckling fun.

Overall Rating: 3 out of 5

GameMax N80: Where Form Meets Function in a Panoramic Showcase – REVIEW

2025/01/05
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Geek News, Hardware News, Hardware Reviews, News, Reviews

The GameMax Infinity N80 is a mid-tower PC chassis that dares to be different. While many cases on the market follow predictable design trends, the Infinity N80 carves its own path with a unique dual-chamber layout and a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. This approach results in a case that is visually striking and surprisingly practical.

One of the most captivating aspects of the N80 is its panoramic curved glass front panel. It provides an unobstructed view of the internal components, transforming your PC into a mesmerizing display piece. This design choice, combined with the dual-chamber layout, gives the N80 a truly distinctive look that sets it apart from the competition.

But the N80 is more than just a pretty face. Its dual-chamber design serves a practical purpose as well. By separating the main components from the power supply and storage drives, GameMax has created independent cooling zones that promote efficient heat dissipation. This is further enhanced by the opening between the chambers, which allows cool air to flow directly into the upper compartment where your CPU and GPU reside.

Building in the N80 is a generally pleasant experience. The case features a modular design with a quick-release structure, making assembly and component installation relatively straightforward. Cable management is also a breeze thanks to the ample space behind the motherboard tray and the thoughtful inclusion of a hinged cable cover. However, it’s worth noting that some users have reported that the steel panels feel a bit flimsy, which could be a concern for those who frequently move or transport their PC.

Cooling is clearly a priority in the N80’s design. The case comes equipped with six pre-installed ARGB/PWM fans that provide ample airflow. These fans are not only visually appealing with their addressable RGB lighting but also offer quiet operation thanks to PWM temperature control. Furthermore, the N80 supports various radiator configurations for those who prefer liquid cooling.

One of the standout features of the N80 is its compatibility with hidden-connector motherboards. This means that if you have a motherboard with rear-mounted connectors, like those from ASUS, MSI, or Gigabyte, you can achieve an incredibly clean build with most of the cables hidden behind the motherboard tray. This is a fantastic feature for enthusiasts who value aesthetics and efficient cable management.

In conclusion, the GameMax N80 is a compelling option for PC builders seeking a unique and stylish case that doesn’t compromise on functionality. Its dual-chamber design, panoramic curved glass, and comprehensive cooling solution make it a standout choice. While the build quality could be more robust, the N80’s overall design, features, and affordability make it a worthy contender in the mid-tower market.

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5

Pros:

  • Eye-catching design
  • Efficient cooling
  • Easy to build in
  • Hidden-connector motherboard support
  • Great value

Cons:

  • Build quality could be sturdier
  • Limited radiator compatibility in the lower chamber
  • May require extra attention to dust

Railroads Online Review: A Flawed But Promising Train Simulator

2025/01/04
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Geek News, News, Reviews, Windows PC News, Windows PC Review

Railroads Online, developed by Stefan Kelnberger and published by Astragon Entertainment, is a train simulation game that attempts to capture the allure of classic locomotives and the intricate world of railroad management. Set against the backdrop of the American Midwest during the golden age of steam, it promises a sandbox experience where players can build their dream railroad empires and transport goods across sprawling landscapes. While the game delivers on its promise of freedom and intricate train mechanics, it’s hampered by a frustrating user interface, technical issues, and a steep learning curve that may leave some players feeling derailed.

The game’s greatest strength lies in its open-ended nature. You’re given the tools to lay tracks across expansive maps, design elaborate rail networks, and connect various industries to facilitate the transportation of goods. This creative freedom is immensely satisfying, allowing you to shape the landscape and watch your railroad empire grow. The attention to detail in the locomotives themselves is also commendable. From meticulously rendered exteriors to interactive controls in the driver’s cab, the game provides a deep dive into the mechanics of steam engines, offering a truly immersive experience for train enthusiasts.

However, this freedom comes at a price. Railroads Online is not a game you can simply pick up and play. It demands patience, a willingness to learn, and a tolerance for occasional frustration. The tutorial, while offering a basic introduction, doesn’t do enough to prepare you for the complexities of managing resources like water, fuel, and sand, all of which are crucial for keeping your locomotives running. The sheer number of controls can also be overwhelming, leading to accidental actions and setbacks, especially in the early hours of gameplay.

While the game boasts impressive graphics, particularly on PC, technical issues persist. Performance can be uneven, with occasional stuttering and frame rate drops, even on powerful systems. Some players have reported encountering bugs and glitches, though the frequency and severity seem to vary. The most consistent complaint, however, is directed at the user interface. It’s clunky, unintuitive, and lacks essential quality-of-life features like remote control of turnouts and the ability to quickly teleport between locations. This makes simple tasks feel unnecessarily tedious and disrupts the flow of gameplay.

Online multiplayer offers the potential for collaborative railroad building and shared experiences with friends and fellow train enthusiasts. However, this aspect is also hampered by technical limitations, such as “popcorning” (objects appearing and disappearing erratically) and rubber banding, particularly when multiple trains are active on the map. Despite these issues, many players have praised the online community for its welcoming atmosphere and shared passion for trains, offering a sense of camaraderie that enhances the overall experience.

Another point of contention is the game’s progression system. Unlocking new locomotives and features requires significant time and effort, which may feel like a grind for some players. While the developers have added pre-laid maps to offer a more accessible entry point, the core gameplay loop still revolves around building and expanding your railroad empire, which can be a slow and demanding process.

Railroads Online is a game of contrasts. It offers a captivating sandbox experience with intricately detailed locomotives, a strong sense of historical authenticity, and a passionate online community. However, it’s held back by a poorly designed user interface, technical shortcomings, and a steep learning curve that may alienate less dedicated players. It’s a game that’s easier to recommend to those with a deep love for trains and a willingness to overlook its flaws. For more casual players or those seeking a more polished and accessible experience, it may be worth waiting for further updates or considering alternative train simulators.

In conclusion, Railroads Online is a promising but flawed experience. It captures the essence of classic railroading and offers a unique sandbox experience for those willing to invest the time and effort to master its intricacies. However, its technical issues, frustrating user interface, and demanding gameplay may limit its appeal to a wider audience. With further refinement and polish, Railroads Online could become a truly exceptional train simulation game. As it stands, it remains a niche title that caters primarily to dedicated train enthusiasts.

Overall Score: 3 out of 5