Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS Review: Great sound and comfort
Today, we’re diving into the world of gaming audio with the Nacon RIG 600 Pro HS gaming headset. Nacon’s Rig series of gaming headsets have a history of surprising gamers, and in the case of the Rig 600 Pro HS, it’s a pleasant surprise. Priced at $99, this headset is primarily designed for PlayStation gaming but offers versatility that extends to various other devices, making it a solid choice for gamers across the spectrum.
First and foremost, it’s important to mention that this gaming headset comes in two versions: one tailored for Xbox gamers known as the HX model and the one we’re focusing on today, the HS model, designed with PlayStation enthusiasts in mind. However, don’t let the platform-specific nomenclature fool you; both versions are versatile and compatible with a wide array of gaming platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, PC, and any device equipped with Bluetooth audio capabilities. The best part is that regardless of the platform you choose to use it with, the price remains the same, making it an enticing option for gamers of all types.
Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS: Video Review
| Specs | Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS |
| Product Type | Wireless Gaming Headset |
| Compatibility | PS4, PS5, Windows, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS |
| Interface | Bluetooth, USB dongle, Detachable USB-C/USB cable |
| Form Factor | Over Ear Closed |
| Drivers | 40mm |
| Headphones Frequency Response | 20 - 20,000 Hz |
| Microphone Frequency | 100 - 10,000 Hz |
| Surround | Dolby Atmos for Headphones |
| Impedance | 32 ohms |
| Battery life | 18 - 24 hours |
| Cable | USB-C charging |
| Weight | 240 grams |
| Colour | Black |
Unboxing
Let’s take a look at what’s included in the box when you unbox the Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS gaming headset.
First of all, this is the RIG 600 PRO HS gaming headset itself, which is the key component of this package.
You’ll also find a USB-C Lag-Free Wireless Transmitter (2.4GHz), a USB-C to USB-A Adapter, and a USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable.
These accessories are not just practical but also vital for ensuring the RIG 600 PRO HS performs at its best across various gaming platforms. Whether you’re gaming on a PlayStation, Xbox, PC, or any other compatible device, this package equips you with everything you need to get started right out of the box.
Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS: Design
Nacon has maintained a consistent design language for their headsets over the years, and while it may have evolved, it still retains a distinctive gaming headset look.
One notable change in design is the shift from the suspended headband to a more conventional headband where the fabric padding is directly attached. This alteration reduces the overtly gamer-centric appearance somewhat, giving it a more understated look compared to some of its predecessors. However, it’s important to note that no matter the design tweaks, the RIG 600 PRO HS remains unmistakably a gaming headset.
The headset is lightweight, tipping the scales at just 240 grams. However, this lightness comes with the trade-off of a primarily plastic construction. While it doesn’t come across as flimsy, it’s evident that the material choice prioritizes weight reduction.
One design feature worth mentioning is the foldable microphone. Nacon has adopted a trend seen in other Bluetooth-capable headsets by allowing the microphone to fold neatly into the left earcup. However, unlike some competitors that have built-in microphones for seamless phone conversations, this headset relies solely on the flip-up boom microphone for voice communication.
On the left earcup, you’ll find a cluster of controls, including buttons for power, volume adjustment, multifunction (for controlling media playback and calls), and mode selection. This mode button allows you to cycle between Bluetooth mode, dual wireless connections, and USB wireless mode, referred to as Game mode. Additionally, the left earcup houses a USB-C connector for charging. While the button locations are relatively easy to remember for distinguishing among them, they may be a bit challenging to differentiate by touch alone due to their similar tactile feel.
APP
Regardless of the platform you’re connected to, the RIG 600 PRO HS empowers you to fine-tune and optimize settings through a dedicated app. This application serves as a hub for managing various aspects of your headset, providing you with the ability to adjust mic gain within the range of +/-3 or +/-6 decibels.
Additionally, you can select from eight mic monitoring levels, allowing for a personalized auditory experience. The app extends further customization with the capability to craft up to three custom output equalizer presets, each with a 10-step EQ.
Moreover, you can define the startup mode for the headset and engage in minor feature adjustments. The inclusion of a Test mode for button and mic verification is a thoughtful touch, ensuring all components function optimally.
Sound quality
The sound quality of these headphones is driven by 40 millimeter drivers, and Nacon has employed what they call “low frequency bass resonators” to enhance the overall audio performance. This technology aims to distribute the bass frequencies more efficiently, preventing overloading of a single driver that could potentially muddy the sound. The result is a detailed and well-balanced sound signature that’s quite impressive.
One of the features of the RIG 600 PRO HS is its ability to reproduce vocals exceptionally well. Whether you’re engaged in in-game dialogue, listening to music, or watching movies, vocals take center stage with clarity and presence. This spotlight on vocals is complemented by a punchy bass response that adds depth to your audio experience.
While these headphones deliver on the bass front, they are not excessively bass-heavy. Explosions and impactful low-frequency effects are well-rendered, thanks to the bass resonator technology. Yet, crucially, this doesn’t overshadow the mids and treble frequencies. This balance ensures that you can feel the explosions in your games while still being able to hear subtle details like footsteps, providing a competitive edge in gaming.
The RIG 600 PRO HS performed admirably with genres like metal, where the drums are felt, guitar riffs are articulated, and vocalists are clear. The cymbals crash with precision, and the sound separation shines, allowing you to discern individual elements within the music. This versatility makes the headset suitable not only for gaming but also for an enjoyable music-listening experience.
For PC users who employ the Dolby Atmos app, you have the option to further customize the audio experience, allowing for spatial soundscapes and a heightened sense of immersion. However, even out of the box, the headset provides ample audio spatiality. You’ll have no trouble pinpointing the direction of different sounds in games, adding to the overall gaming experience.
Microphone
The microphone on this headset, while not remarkable, offers a serviceable level of performance. It does a decent job of capturing your voice and relaying it to your gaming companions, ensuring effective communication during your gaming sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the microphone’s performance can be affected by the presence of background noise.
The microphone seems to employ a form of aggressive noise cancellation, designed to minimize unwanted background noise. While this can be helpful in suppressing environmental distractions, it does come at a cost. In environments with noise, the voice capture can sound slightly hissy and compressed, impacting the overall quality. Unfortunately, there’s no option to disable this noise cancellation feature. On the bright side, when you’re in a quieter setting, your voice comes through more clearly, mitigating these issues.
Autonomy
As for battery life, it’s worth considering your usage patterns. If you primarily use the RIG 600 PRO HS in Bluetooth mode, you can expect a total battery life of around 24 hours.
However, if you opt to use the USB-C dongle to connect the headset to your PC or other compatible devices, the battery life will be slightly shorter, totaling approximately 18 hours. While this is still a commendable duration, it’s important to keep this in mind when planning your gaming or entertainment session
Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS: Conclusion
The Nacon RIG 600 PRO HS is a versatile audio companion that may not conform to the current trend of discreet earbuds but offers a unique blend of style and substance. In an era where many gravitate towards the subtlety of earbuds, these headphones strike a balance between a sleek, subtle look and the unmistakable aesthetics of gaming headsets.
While they don’t sport flashy RGB lighting or exaggerated dimensions, some design elements like the distinctive cutouts and the mechanism for attaching the ear cups do give them a gamer headset appearance.
One of the standout features of this headset is its exceptional sound performance. Nacon has a track record of delivering quality audio, and the RIG 600 PRO HS is no exception. Whether you’re gaming or listening to music, these headphones offer a balanced and detailed sound signature that does justice to a wide range of audio content.
At a price point of $99, it’s hard to overlook the value this headset provides. It excels as both a gaming headset and a pair of Bluetooth headphones. The dual-purpose functionality, coupled with its impressive sound quality, makes it a compelling choice for gamers and music enthusiasts alike, especially considering its affordability.
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