SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Headset review - Introduction

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Headset

SteelSeries, a Danish manufacturer founded in 2001, has a broad range of PC components and peripherals. That included the headsets; at the moment, there are 42 models available (so there’s plenty to choose from) on the manufacturer’s website. The Arctis series was first launched in 2016; the Arctis Nova is applicable from 2022. Today we’re checking the Arctis Nova Pro headset, which was announced in May ’22 and is a successor to the Arctis Pro + GameDAC. There’s also an Xbox version and the wireless edition (with an Xbox variant as well), but that’s one hundred bucks more expensive.

What makes this (premium) product stand out from the other headsets besides a lovely look? The main thing is the GameDAC Gen 2, which consists of ESS Sabre 9218PQ40. It is an external sound card (with a built-in OLED display) with a volume wheel and many features. Both the headset and DAC are “Hi-Res Audio” certified. DACs max audio format is 96 kHz, 24bit, the frequency response is 5-40,000 Hz, and the SNR is 111 dB. The Nova Pro drivers have a frequency response range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz. It is possible to plug in two systems at once and swap between them with a press of a button. One of the selling points is compatibility, as it’s possible to connect with the following:

• PC
• Mac
• Playstation 5
• Playstation 4
• Nintendo Switch 
• Mobile devices (android)

There are two different ways of connecting this device. You can use the 3.5 mm cable connection or the GameDAC Gen 2.

The Arctis Nova Pro is built to last with relatively lightweight (295g) and durable materials, plus (leatherette) memory foam ear pads designed for long-lasting comfort. The microphone is bidirectional and retractable. The headphone’s impendence is 38 Ohms. Inside the Arctis Nova Pro, 40 mm Audio drivers should deliver excellent sound. The sensitivity is 93 dB. The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro is compatible with the SteelSeries GG software. Using Sonar Audio Software Suite, you should have a total sound immersion with 360° Spatial audio*. It is fully compatible with Tempest 3D Audio for PS5 / Microsoft Spatial Sound. This headset is priced at 249.99 USD/279.99 EUR. The product carries a 2-year warranty. Well, let’s hit the next page.