The SteelSeries headset family has been expanded: the Arctis 9 Wireless. As the indirect successor of the Arctis 7, the most awarded gaming headset to date, the Arctis 9 would have to meet high expectations in comparison. But it is only intended as a price gap filler between the king of headsets and the Arctis Pro.
Accordingly, the Arctis 9 Wireless comes with proven SteelSeries quality and features, but no new technologies or outstanding sound wonders.
Technical details
| Type: | Over-Ear |
| Range: | radio, Bluetooth |
| Distance with wireless: | 12 m |
| Battery life: | 20 hours |
| Diaphragm diameter: | 40 mm |
| Impedance: | 32 Ohm |
| Frequency range: | 20 Hz – 20.000 Hz |
| Impedance (microphone): | 2,200 Ohm |
| Sensitivity (microphone): | -38 dBV / PA |
| Frequency range (microphone): | 100 – 6,500 Hz |
Two wireless technologies, many applications
With Bluetooth and the 2.4 GHz wireless connection via USB dongle, the Arctis 9 Wireless is able to play game sound from PC, PlayStation 4 or the Nintendo Switch, as well as being connected to mobile devices – all at the same time. So while playing, you can easily answer calls, communicate via VoIP chat or listen to music from your smartphone.
As you are used to from SteelSeries, the sound of the game is mainly oriented on the detail. Using DTS Headphone: X v.2.0, the Arctis 9 Wireless also produces a remarkable soundscape, which can certainly give you an advantage in the game. This way you can hear your opponents better, because every subtle noise is emphasized.
Sound settings On-Ear
Without having to interrupt the game’s tension while playing to go into the sound settings, the balance between game and chat audio can be adjusted using on-ear headphone control. The wheel can be used to fine-tune the chat mix individually.
In addition, the microphone can be muted on-ear, the volume can be adjusted and the Arctis 9 Wireless can be switched on and off. The frequency response uses a bandwidth of 20 Hz to 20 kHz for sound.
Compared to most other wireless headsets on the market, the Arctis 9 Wireless is still in the top league. But if you want really high resolution sound, you better use the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless.
The microphone
As with the sound, SteelSeries only relies on proven technology for the Arctis 9 Wireless microphone. The ClearCast technology already used in the previous Arctis headsets is also used here.
What the Discord-certified microphone does really well is the noise reduction provided by its bi-directional design. This is also used by deck crews on aircraft carriers, where noise is technically quite a problem. However, the Arctis 9 Wireless only operates in the frequency range of 100 to 6,500 Hz, which is perfectly adequate. But listen to a recording of our recording with the SteelSeries Arctis 9 Wireless:
The microphone can also be stored in the left on-ear earpiece in typical SteelSeries fashion.
More functions and accessories
In addition to the industry leading battery life of 20 hours, the new wireless headset from SteelSeries has a range of up to 12 meters. Integrated is also the Bluetooth version 4.1 – unfortunately not yet the more power-saving version 5.
Included in the packaging are the headset, the USB radio dongle and a USB charging cable.
All functions are later also compatible with the PlayStation 5.
Proven design
What you can really appreciate about the SteelSeries headset series is the combination of simple design and high wearing comfort. The Arctis 9 Wireless also comes with a ski goggle suspension, which guarantees a long comfortable wearing. It also leaves no room to slip on the head, making it the perfect companion for even the most passionate gamer.
The band is also again characterized by the characteristic line design, which was already used in the Arctis 7 and Arctis 9X. The handsets are kept visually simple and, like the entire headset, have excellent workmanship. The steel band also provides stability. The SteelSeries therefore also focuses on durability with the Arctis 9 Wireless, even when used frequently.
Accordingly, the headphone cushions have been designed for extreme comfort, with shape and workmanship inspired by athletics.
Software
The necessary software for the SteelSeries Arctis 9 Wireless can be installed quickly and offers plenty of scope for individual sound settings on the PC. A selection of surround and stereo profiles and an equalizer leave nothing to be desired. There is also a power option that allows you to select when the headset automatically switches off when you are not using it.
Conclusion
Ultimately, SteelSeries did not launch a new headset hammer, but only a gap-filler. Built in are proven gimmicks such as detail-oriented surround sound, a microphone with noise cancellation and the simultaneous use of PC or console with a mobile device.
There is no significant increase compared to the popular Arctis 7 model. However, for 200 euros you can get a decent headset that will satisfy gaming fans in particular. Who expects more does not have to change the manufacturer, however, but orients itself better at the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless, must reach for it in addition, clearly more deeply into the bag.
SteelSeries Arctis 9 Wireless
Workmanship
Wearing comfort
Sound quality
Recording quality
Features
Value for money
93/100
If you need the combination of good sound, best workmanship, robustness and a long battery life for numerous gaming sessions, the Arctis 9 Wireless is for you.
