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The Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless, a gaming headset that offers a rich and warm sound right out the box, is quite a surprise, especially when you combine it with the powerful iCue platform from Corsair and a tool like SoundID. Not only does it deliver excellent audio quality, but it also pairs well with a gaming console like the PS5.
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Introduction
The Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless isn’t a jack of all trades, but it does what it does exceedingly well. Designed specifically for at-home gaming, this headset doesn’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, it focuses on delivering a superior gaming experience.
Product Specifications
Product Type: Wireless Gaming Headset
Product Name: Corsair HS80 MAX WIRELESS Gaming Headset
Interface: 2.4 GHz
Wireless Range: Up to 50ft (15 meters)
Battery Life: Up to: 24 hours (with RGB), 65 hours (w/o RGB), 130 hours
(Bluetooth)Compatibility: PC, Mac, PS5, PS4
Drivers: 50mm Headphones
Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz
Microphone Pick-up
Pattern: Omni-Directional
Microphone Frequency Response: 100 - 10,000 Hz
Spatial Audio: Dolby Atmos
Cable: 3.5mm
Weight: ~ 350 grams
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Design & Software
The Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless boasts a distinct Corsair identity, with a similar design language seen across various types of hardware. The headset is immediately comfortable, although there is some noticeable fatigue after long gaming sessions.
One notable feature of the Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless is its impressive battery life: up to 65 hours with RGB turned off and up to 130 hours for Bluetooth. The low-latency wireless works up to 50 feet or 15 meters from the receiver.
The iCue platform from Corsair, which gives this gaming headset its customization options, is quite impressive. The interface is well-thought-out and intuitive. A unique feature is the SoundID option that lets you interact with several tone and volume tests to create your custom EQ and dynamic soundstage profile.
Performance
The Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless performs excellently across a variety of games. The warm sound profile and tuning of the headset are surprisingly good for competitive games. On the PlayStation 5, the headset works well with Sony’s spatial audio on the console.
These are reliable assets. They’re extremely comfortable, equipped with large 50mm drivers that have an excellent range and are remarkably loud. When put side by side with my HyperX Cloud Alphas, these outperform them by delivering twice the loudness.
Microphone
The microphone on the Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless might not reach broadcast quality levels in terms of sound quality, but it consistently delivers clear and detailed chat quality.
Unlike the HyperX, the microphone doesn’t detach, which is a downside for me as I prefer using an external boom mic. However, it’s designed to flip up for muting and can be tucked away neatly.
For those in need of a headset mic, this one is highly recommended for the price. It delivers a quality sound that is truly impressive for the price.
Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless: Final Thoughts
The Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless is slightly more expensive than some wireless gaming headsets in its class. Still, it offers several excellent features that make it worth the price. From the long-lasting battery to the robust build quality to the excellent iCue software and customization support, this gaming headset is a premium product.
Although there are some areas where the headset could improve, such as the seal prone to audio bleed at high volume and the lack of a dual wireless mode, the Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless delivers a great gaming, music, and movie experience. Its warm, balanced, and crisp sound, along with customization features like SoundID, make it a worthy addition to any gamer’s equipment.
Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless: Pro’s & Con’s
Pro’s:
- The composition includes elements like metal and memory foam, along with other superior quality materials ensuring the robustness and comfort of the product.
- The bass drivers are meticulously calibrated to a medium level, providing an optimum audio experience.
- The volume capacity is impressively high, eliminating the necessity to push your volume control to its maximum limit for audibility.
- The integrated microphone surpasses all others in terms of quality, in my view. It does not require an additional pop filter and delivers clear, non-muted sound. It’s also compatible with voice modulation or other third-party software.
- The mute features are exceptional. The accompanying software allows the user to select a mute key in addition to utilizing the push-up mic and mute button.
- The microphone is particularly beneficial for those who mumble, whisper, or are generally reticent, ensuring their voices are clearly heard.
Con’s
- The sound quality tends to be on the sharp side, leading to excessively high audio peaks
- The microphone is rigid, making it nearly impossible to adjust its position
- Given that the microphone operates on a surround basis, it is prone to picking up ambient noise. However, it’s worth noting that noise reduction options are available through third-party software and built-in functionalities such as those offered by Discord
- The fit of the headset is rather snug but you can modify aspects like the size of the headband for comfort
- Although the earmuffs don’t possess the ability to move up or down, making adjustments to the headband can offer a similar effect.
Conclusion
The Corsair HS80 MAX Wireless is a great choice for those looking for something to pair with their PlayStation 5 or PC. It’s a gaming headset that delivers on its promises, offering a superior audio experience that enhances your gaming.
For its price, this headset offers exceptional comfort. It possesses a lightweight quality, yet not to the extent that it feels insubstantial or absent. The quick charging feature is noteworthy and the supporting software comes laden with versatile features suitable for diverse activities – be it enjoying music, watching movies, or engaging in gaming pursuits, both single and multiplayer online.
While it delivers commendable audio output, it admittedly doesn’t match up to the high-end headsets available in the market. If you’re aiming for such premium-quality audio devices, be prepared to loosen your purse strings. However, taking into consideration its cost-effectiveness, this headset is remarkably sturdy and reliable. I would highly recommend this to individuals who are seeking a regularly usable device without feeling the pinch of overspending.
To read up on more great Gaming Headsets, check out our growing Gaming Headset, Earbud and Mic Category.
Most Common Q&A
(1) How do I know when my Corsair HS80 is fully charged?
The status LED will pulse while being charged and turn solid green at full charge.
(2) How do I get Dolby Atmos on my Corsair HS80?
- Install the Dolby Access app from the Microsoft store.
- Once Dolby Access is installed, open the program, and click the “Products” Section.
- Select “Dolby Atmos for Headphones”.
- Your connected CORSAIR headset will appear here.
(3) How do I enable 7.1 surround sound on Corsair?
Plug in the included USB adapter to enable 7.1 surround sound on PC, delivering immersive multi-channel audio. Easily plug in and adjust your on-ear volume and mute controls on-the-fly.
(4) How do I activate Dolby Atmos on Android?
- Tap “Settings” and open “Sounds and vibration”.
- If you have Android version 9.0, tap “Advanced sound settings” and then “Sound quality and effects”. …
- Slide the “Dolby Atmos” switch to activate it.
- Additionally, there are different sound-effects available.