How to Improve Headset Sound Quality While Gaming

Headsets are a crucial part of the gaming experience. They allow you to communicate with your teammates and listen to instructions. They have become very popular for multiplayer shooting games. There are many headsets available on the market, and there is a range of gaming platforms that they can be used in. However, sound quality can vastly differ for a number of reasons. This guide will take you through all the steps you can take to ensure you are getting the best quality sound possible. The sound quality can play a major role in how effective they are. There are a number of ways that you can increase sound quality while gaming.

There are a number of ways that you increase the sound quality of your headsets while gaming on a PC.

1. Dedicated Sound Card

One of the best ways to improve the sound quality on your PC is by upgrading the sound card. This is a physical card that you can place within your PC gaming setup. A dedicated sound card can make a considerable difference to sound quality. The best high-end headphones will require a suitable sound card for them to function at their highest levels. There is a range of sound cards on the market, and it is important to check their reviews.

2. Sound Software

The sound software that you use can also have a massive effect on sound quality. By default, most PCs will have "Realtek" installed. However, there are other types of software available that can finetune your audio experience for a better gaming experience. We recommend using DFX audio enhancer to improve the sound quality of your headsets. This sound software allows you to access options that are not available on the default software. Thereby, letting you increase the sound quality.

3. Sound Settings

You can also change the sound settings in order to customize them for the best gaming experience. The settings can have a drastic influence on sound quality. You should access the settings menu and make sure you have "stereo" on for headphones. This option is the best for reproducing high-quality sound within your headsets.

The Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) is an immensely popular gaming platform, and there is a range of methods that can be applied to improve the sound quality of your headsets while gaming. These tips are also compatible with the previous generation console which is the PS3.

1. Microphone Volume

Many users complain about microphone volume being too loud or high. You can change the volume of the microphone by going to audio device settings. This will give you an option to adjust the microphone and headset volume. This can make a huge difference to the overall sound quality. Furthermore, it can drastically improve your gaming performance.

2. Game/Chat Mix

Another important sound setting will be the game/chat mix. This is a ratio of how the sound is allocated. This allocation can affect sound quality. Therefore, it is important to finetune this setting so that you get the maximum sound quality from your headset. You should go on the audio device settings menu and make sure output is set to "all audio." You can then hold the ps button while you are in the game. The top will show you a volume bar, where you can change the game and chat volume settings. The game and chat mix can have a significant bearing on how clear the in-game sound effects are to you. An increased sharpness of these effects can give you the extra advantage that you need to up your overall gaming performance.

3. Optimal Output Settings

The PS4 allows you to change your output settings. However, the default settings are not always the best ones for sound quality. You can change these settings by going to the sound and screen settings menu. From this, you will find the audio output settings menu. You can use this menu to change the audio formats.

The XBOX is the main rival to the PS4. There are a number of ways that you can ensure that you receive optimum sound quality while gaming on this console.

1. Windows Sonic

Microsoft has unveiled a new audio platform which they have titled "Windows Sonic." This is a relatively new feature that has the potential to make a massive difference to headset quality while gaming. It focuses on full immersion and gives the gamer a better experience. This feature is only compatible with certain headsets. You can check if your headset is compatible by visiting the Microsoft Sonic website. You can enable this feature by going to Display and Sound settings. From this menu, you can access audio output and headset format. You will see a windows sonic option which you should select. The increased clarity that Sonic brings can give you a nice edge of your gaming rivals.

2. Sound & Chat Mixer Settings

As with the PS4, the XBOX ONE also allows you to change the chat mixer settings. You can change these settings by double-tapping the XBOX button while in-game. You can then select the settings icon where you will see the chat mixer options. The correct mixer settings that are tailored to you, will significantly improve the overall sound quality.

3. Spatial Sound

Another nifty feature of XBOX ONE is ‘spatial sound.' This is a new development that aims to maximize sound quality and ensure it is at a crisper level. This is available through Windows Sonic and Dolby Atmos. Both of these developments elevate the sound levels if there are compatible headsets in use. These higher sound levels are designed to provide a more immersive gaming experience.

Another popular gaming platform is the Nintendo Switch. Although it is lagging behind the PS4 and XBOX ONE in terms of sales, it is still a major console in 2018. It lacks some of the features of the other consoles, and it is generally inferior when it comes to audio reproduction. However, there are some steps that you can take to bring it up to par in terms of sound quality.

1. DAC

The Nintendo Switch lacks in the audio quality department when compared to the other gaming consoles. One key way of improving the sound quality on the Nintendo Switch is by using a DAC (digital to analog converter). This can bring up the sound quality dramatically as it makes the sound more fuller. The Switch is compatible with many USB DACs. You simply have to plug in the DAC, and the installation instructions will be easy to follow. A DAC also allows greater compatibility of headsets which means you can use audiophile headsets while gaming on Switch. In fact, one of the greatest benefits of the DAC is the ability to use headsets that are not otherwise supported by the console.

2. Stereo 5.1 Output - AV Receiver

The output is critical for a Nintendo Switch. It supports a stereo 5.1 output; however, this is only available in certain circumstances. The best way to maximize sound quality through a headset is by taking advantage of an AV receiver. The AV receiver will allow your headset to receive the superior Stereo 5.1 Output. This output will drastically improve the sound quality whilst gaming on the Switch.

Wireless gaming headsets have become incredibly popular due to their ease of use and convenience. However, wireless technology can sometimes cause a reduction in sound quality. You should follow these tips to maximize the sound quality of Bluetooth headsets.

1. Windows - Bluetooth Drivers

The first step with Bluetooth headphones is to ensure that your PC has the correct drivers installed. You can use a Bluetooth driver installer to check whether you have the best drivers for your device. The correct drivers will allow your headset to function more smoothly. Furthermore, it can increase the sound quality of your headset. One of the main reason for poorly performing wireless gaming headsets is the lack of updated Bluetooth drivers.

2. Optimizing Range

The quality of Bluetooth audio is reliant upon the signal of the Bluetooth connection. There are a number of ways you can ensure that this signal remains at its optimum level. You should reset the Bluetooth connection once a day. This can ensure that the signal remains strong which will keep the audio quality at its maximum. It is important to make sure the range is fairly close, and there are no devices interfering. Interference can cause significant audio to lose. Therefore, it is important to allow for a strong connection that will keep your sound quality at a high level.

There are also some general things that can you can try on all platforms to increase the sound quality. The most important consideration that you should make is to purchase high-end headphones. These will allow you to obtain the maximum sound quality from your gaming platforms.

1. EQ Presets

The EQ Presets can have a massive effect on sound quality. These presets can be changed; however, it is important to note which type of setting combinations work best. The presets for an optimal gaming experience will not be the same for the presets of an ideal music listening session. Lowering the bass and increasing the treble can be beneficial for shooting games such as Fortnite and PUBG. There is a variety of presets to choose from, so it is important to experiment with the one that works best for your particular game. You can find a range of guides online that show you the best presets for each game and console.

2. Headphone Maintenance

It is important to keep your headset clean and maintained. Physical damage to the headset or the ports can significantly reduce sound quality. Water damage can cause muffling. You should gently clean your headsets and earpieces every few days. If you get water into the device, it is important to remove them and give them time to try immediately. You should store your headsets carefully. Wear and tear can vastly diminish the sound quality of your headphones, and it is, therefore, essential to keep them in an optimum condition.

Read More:  How to Clean Headphones and Earbuds? »»

3. Power Cycle

If you notice that something is not quite right with your headsets, then a power cycle can be a fast and easy way to troubleshoot issues. Most minor headset problems can be solved by doing a power cycle. You can do a power cycle by unplugging your headset from the console. You should then completely power it down. You should hold the power button and the mute button together. The individual steps may differ depending on the make of the headphone, so it is important to consult the manufacturer's guide. After a power cycle is finished, you will no to reconnect/re-pair your headset.

You will now have a much better idea of how you can improve the sound quality of your headset while gaming. The sound quality of your headsets is monumentally crucial as this can give you an important advantage over your opponents. The gaming experience is amplified when the sound quality as its highest. You should make sure to try all the tips in this guide before considering replacement headphones. Following through with these tips will ensure that you get the best sound quality from your headsets.

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