ROCCAT is branching out from mechanical keyboards and high performance mice to throw their hat in the gaming headset market. Since being acquired by Turtle Beach in 2019, you’ll see some familiar tech here. Today we are taking a look at their brand new Elo Series, specifically the wireless Elo 7.1 Air and wired Elo X Stereo models.
Build quality and Design
The Elo series from ROCCAT is comprised of three models including: 7.1 Air (wireless), 7.1 USB and X Stereo (wired). Prices range from $49.99 – $99.99. The overall design is practically identical across each model, with each unit having a self-adjusting metal headband, leatherette wrapped ear cushions with memory foam (rotatable) that features extra padding for those with glasses and a unidirectional noise cancelling mic.
The Elo X is cross-platform, compatible with gaming consoles and PC through its 3.5mm jack. It’s lightweight, but also has a very solid feel from its quality components and frame. On the left earcup, you’ll find a Volume Dial and button to mute the detachable mic. The padded earcups are extremely comfortable, as is the excellent auto adjusting headband. After a couple hours of use, they can begin to get a little warm. I’d love to see a more breathable fabric or cooler memory foam used possibly in a future flagship model.
The Elo 7.1 Air features a wireless connection, RGB lighting and additional controls on the earcups that include a Mic Monitor Dial, Power Button and USB-C input for charging (cable included). These extras add some weight, but it still provides a highly comfortable fit. Simply plug in the USB receiver to your PC, download Swarm and you are good to go.
Performance
Both models have been fitted with 50mm drivers that are wonderfully balanced in providing clear highs, punchy midrange and solid bass on the lower audio spectrum. This means even the entry level Elo X model delivers some seriously impressive sound; especially considering it’s $49 price-point. This is also plug-n-play thanks to the 3.5mm wired connection across consoles and PC. The stereo sound and mic clarity is just outstanding for this sector.
The Elo 7.1 Air is for those wanting a similar experience, but with access to ROCCAT’s Swarm Software, RGB lighting and a wireless interface capable of a 24 hour charge. In Swarm, you can tweak the audio through a 10-band equalizer or select from ten different preset sound profiles (such as FPS, Action and Dynamic).
Other options under settings include Mic Monitoring, 7.1 Surround Sound, Noise Cancellation, Battery Status and Turtle Beach’s SuperHuman Hearing mode for extra precision in shooters. A second Illumination tab allows users to adjust the speed and brightness of the RGB lighting on each earcup.
Conclusion
The Elo Gaming Headset Series from ROCCAT delivers excellent performance at a great value. The Stereo X model is one of the best hardwired headsets you can grab right now under $50. The 7.1 Air builds upon that foundation by adding RGB lighting, wireless connectivity and a far greater depth in audio customization for $99. You simply can’t go wrong with either of these models. Both excel in their own ways, thanks to tremendous headset design and finely tuned drivers. We can’t wait to see what comes next from ROCCAT.
