Is 7.1 Surround Sound Possible on Headphones?

Yes, 7.1 surround sound is possible on headphones, but it’s simulated rather than the true multi-speaker setup you’d get in a home theater system. Most gaming headsets that claim to offer 7.1 surround sound use virtual surround sound technology. This means they simulate the experience of sound coming from different directions—front, rear, left, right, and even above or below—using sophisticated audio processing algorithms.

Virtual 7.1 surround sound in headphones relies on:

• Software (like Dolby Atmos or DTS Headphone:X) that processes stereo audio and adjusts the sound to create the illusion of directionality.
• Multiple Drivers or Advanced Signal Processing: Some headsets use multiple drivers in each earcup or sophisticated algorithms to create the perception of space and directionality.

Although virtual 7.1 isn’t as perfect as true surround sound from speakers (because it’s confined to your ears), it still provides a significant improvement over traditional stereo audio, especially for gaming and immersive media.

How to Set Up 7.1 Surround Sound on Headphones

1. Choose the Right Headset
   Not all gaming or audio headsets support virtual 7.1 surround sound, so it’s important to select one that does. Some popular brands and models come with built-in 7.1 surround sound, while others require specific software or external devices (like a DAC or USB sound card) to unlock 7.1 capabilities.

2. Install the Required Software
   Many gaming headsets, like Razer, SteelSeries, and Corsair, require you to install a proprietary application that enables virtual surround sound. Some software options you might need include:

   • Dolby Atmos: Available for both PC and Xbox, this is one of the most popular surround sound technologies for headphones.
   • DTS Headphone:X: Another leading surround sound software often used in headsets from brands like Turtle Beach.
   • Windows Sonic: A free, built-in surround sound solution for Windows 10 and Xbox users.

   For headsets that don’t have software support, you can also use external sound cards or DACs (Digital to Analog Converters) that provide virtual surround processing.

3. Configure the Audio Settings
   Once your headset is connected and the software is installed:

   • Open the software (e.g., Razer Synapse, SteelSeries Engine, or Logitech G Hub).
   • Enable 7.1 surround sound or virtual surround in the software settings.
   • You may also need to adjust the settings in your operating system’s audio settings (e.g., Windows Control Panel or Mac OS Audio Settings) to select 7.1 or stereo mix as the default output.

4. Adjust the Sound Profile
   Many 7.1 surround sound headsets and their respective software offer custom sound profiles for different types of media (e.g., gaming, movies, music). Experiment with these settings to find the one that works best for you.

Where to Buy 7.1 Surround Sound Headphones

You can buy 7.1 surround sound headphones from a variety of online and in-store retailers. Here are some of the most popular platforms:

• Amazon: Amazon offers a vast selection of gaming headsets with 7.1 surround sound, including top brands like Razer, SteelSeries, and Corsair.
• Best Buy: Best Buy carries many well-known brands, and you can often find in-store deals or get the headset immediately from a local store.
• Newegg: Known for computer hardware, Newegg has a solid selection of gaming headsets, including 7.1 surround sound options.
• Walmart: Walmart also has many gaming headphones with virtual surround sound available online or in-store.
• Manufacturer Websites: You can buy directly from brands like SteelSeries, Razer, Logitech, Corsair, and others, often with discounts or bundles.

Top Brands for 7.1 Surround Sound Headsets

Here are some of the best brands that offer 7.1 surround sound headphones:

1. Razer

   • Razer Kraken V3 Pro: Known for THX Spatial Audio, which offers 7.1 surround sound. Razer is a go-to choice for many competitive gamers.
   • Razer Nari Ultimate: This headset offers THX Spatial Audio for 7.1 surround sound and haptic feedback for a more immersive experience.

2. SteelSeries

   • SteelSeries Arctis Pro + GameDAC: This headset offers True 7.1 surround sound and high-fidelity audio through the GameDAC. It’s ideal for audiophiles and gamers who want premium quality.
   • SteelSeries Arctis 7: A popular mid-range option with virtual surround sound and great comfort.

3. Logitech

   • Logitech G Pro X Wireless LIGHTSPEED: A wireless option with 7.1 surround sound support via software and Blue VO!CE microphone technology. This is perfect for professional streamers and gamers.
   • Logitech G935: Known for its Dolby Surround Sound and strong wireless connection, this headset delivers great performance for gaming.

4. Corsair

   • Corsair HS70 Pro Wireless: This headset offers virtual 7.1 surround sound using Dolby Audio, providing immersive audio with great comfort and a strong wireless signal.
   • Corsair Void RGB Elite Wireless: Another solid option for wireless gaming with 7.1 surround sound and a customizable RGB design.

5. Turtle Beach

   • Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2: Features Windows Sonic 7.1 surround sound and SuperHuman Hearing for a competitive edge.
   • Turtle Beach Recon 200: An affordable option for those looking for 7.1 surround sound without breaking the bank.

6. Astro Gaming

   • Astro A50 Wireless (Gen 4): This high-end headset supports Dolby Atmos 7.1 surround sound and is perfect for serious gamers looking for premium sound quality.
   • Astro A40 TR + MixAmp Pro: Known for its great sound and customizable options, the MixAmp Pro allows you to adjust your 7.1 surround sound for the best experience.

7. Creative

   • Creative SXFI Air Gamer: Offers Super X-Fi technology that simulates 7.1 surround sound tailored to your ears for a truly personalized listening experience.
   • Creative Sound BlasterX H7 Tournament Edition: Great for those on a budget, this headset provides immersive surround sound and excellent comfort.

Conclusion: Is 7.1 Surround Sound Worth It for Headphones?

In conclusion, 7.1 surround sound on headphones is a worthwhile upgrade for gamers, movie enthusiasts, and audiophiles looking for a more immersive experience. While true 7.1 requires physical speakers, virtual 7.1 creates the illusion of surround sound by simulating different audio sources around you.

To set it up, ensure you have a compatible headset, install the required software for surround sound, and adjust the audio settings accordingly. You can purchase high-quality 7.1 headsets from brands like Razer, SteelSeries, Logitech, and Corsair.

Popular options like the Razer Kraken V3 Pro, SteelSeries Arctis Pro, and Corsair HS70 Pro Wireless provide excellent virtual 7.1 surround sound. Whether you’re gaming, watching movies, or listening to music, these headsets will deliver an enhanced audio experience