Razer is usually known for producing top-of-the-line peripherals that really make a difference to gamers, whether they’re cost-effective accessories for general users, or stuff that’s built with the hardcore gamer in mind. And it’s with the latter that there will be appreciation for the Razer Thresher Ultimate headset. It’s probably the costliest headset that the company produces – but the amount of quality that comes from it is immeasurable. It’s like the Cadillac of gaming headsets.
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The headset is available in different models, with a blue one for PlayStation 4 and a green one for Xbox One. We were sent the Xbox One model, but this review should cover both with ease.
First, let’s talk about the build of the headset itself. Measuring to about a small bit larger than the usual headset size, the Thresher may not be the first choice when it comes to lugging it around in a bag (though it fits comfortably around your neck). That said, it’s still a very comfortable – and more importantly, adjustable – headset that feels great after using for a few hours at a time. A little sweat can build up in the earcups, but that could be said for any headset, so that’s not something we’ll hold against this.
The comfort level is really great here, as you can adjust the flexible headband to a number of positions, even if you’ve got a particularly large noggin that usual headsets wouldn’t fit. It’s also ideal if you’re wearing them over some sort of other gaming gear, like gaming glasses or something like that. It’s a very comfortable set, and its immense size works in its favor.
That said, there are a couple of things worth noting with set-up. First off, it doesn’t have any sort of 3.5mm jack, so you can’t use it for mobile play unless you’re plugging in the USB hub. That doesn’t mean there’s a lack in connectivity, but it’s not really a good headset for standard use with, say, your iPod or something like that.
Weird Hub, But Great Performance
Also, the headset comes with a hub, which connects together everything, like the digital-audio cable, and sits comfortably in the stand that comes with the headset. It can take a little bit to set up, and doesn’t quite charge as easily as other headsets, but it’s still a pretty good design.
Not to mention the fact that it looks pretty damn sleek, with its black-ish design that pours through into both the headset and the stand. It definitely has that intimidating look if you’re wanting to use it for competitive sessions of Rocket League or some other game of choice.
Now let’s talk about the audio performance. I tested the headset across a number of different games, and found each one to deliver a surprisingly good balance with music and sound effects. For instance, Rocket League was nothing short of excellent, as you could hear the roar of the crowd, the engine noises and other little things as if you were there watching it in an arena. Playerunknown’s Battlegrounds had an equally good performance, with atmospheric effects that didn’t miss a beat with the headset. And even Shovel Knight sounds pretty damn good.
Other Features
That said, the settings are generally only for surround sound, as there aren’t any toggles that let you adjust different audio settings. There is a button that takes you back to traditional stereo and/or back to surround, but that’s it. This might come as a disappointment for those that were looking for options, but the general setting is pretty damn good.
As for the headset’s life itself, it actually does a pretty feasible job, lasting around 15 hours or so without a recharge, and you can plug it in and juice it back up in a short amount of time. It might be a slight inconvenience if you’re using it for longer marathon sessions, but maybe it’ll serve as a reminder that, hey, you need a break.
The microphone is pretty cool, too, as it picks up most of the audio with ease, with barely any sort of feedback. It can also fold back into the headset, which is convenient if you’re looking to wear it for a little while in-between game sessions.
A Great Headset, But Also An Expensive One
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That said, there is that one setback that will probably divide certain players from the Thresher Ultimate – the price. This headset usually goes for around $249 – maybe less if you shop around – but it’s definitely higher up than most products on the market. And that makes its imperfections a little more glaring than you may realize, especially the lack of a 3.5mm jack. But, overall, if it’s a quality headset you want, and you’re paying top-dollar to get utmost performance, it’s really not bad at all.
Whether or not you want the Razer Thresher Ultimate depends on two things. One, how deep a purchase are you looking to make for your ideal gaming rig, and two, do you mind a few minor setbacks to get the most quality from your sound? If you can accept what the headset may be missing, or the fact the hub isn’t quite perfect, you’ll find the Thresher Ultimate to be a good choice for your gaming needs. If you want Ultimate, it lives up to its name – almost.
RATING: Four out of five stars.
Disclaimer: A review unit was sent by the publisher.
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