Testing Methodology
For testing we will be using the PC output as well as Blu-Ray.
Before running these tests, the headphones were properly burned-in, in order to bring out the full characteristics of the sound. This is done in order to allow the speakers in the headphones to burn-in since they often sound different out of the box. This headset was burned-in for at least 48hrs before testing occurred.
Music
All music was tested at a neutral preset in order to show what out of the box performance is like. I realize everyone has different tastes in music, but I myself am a classical and classic rock fan, and I think those two genres are appropriate for this headset. So without further adew, here is my selection:
First on the list is Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen with full HD quality to receive the richest sound available, and this is where I’m going to get into the headset’s negative aspect, but also its saving grace. The DRACCO is very well-suited to moderate and heavy bass levels. As a result, things like clear voice and moderate tones feel a bit toned down or muffled; not a bit like another song from the band We Will Rock You, where the percussion element comes through quite nicely and makes the urge to add in your own sound effects almost beyond your control.
The second piece I listened to was Beethoven’s 9th symphony, specifically the 4th movement. A fairly well-known selection to any classical music fan or student of music, but even if you’re neither, you’ve most likely heard the famous Ode to Joy clip in various places. Fortunately, this is another area where the DRACCO can work its magic. For the most part. The intro and chorus have a very comfortable range easily exploited by the DRACCO’s bass capabilities.
And finally Back in Black by AC/DC and Spieluhr by Rammstein. The DRACCO and these songs were made for each other. Pretty much all throughout the tracks, amazing beats were felt. So yeah, if you’re going to use these for music at all, I’d recommend sticking with heavier, more pounding types of genres because the “lack of support” for higher toned stuff is fairly detectable.
Movies and TV Shows:
Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (Blu-Ray):
This is a series that needs no introduction at this point, or so I hope. Star Wars isn’t necessarily heavy-handed when it comes to the soundtrack. Its orchestral range mostly goes for woodwind, brass, and string. As for the sound effects, if you’re familiar with any of the movies from either the prequel or sequel trilogy, they’re also not like the deep sounds found in other action movies. So, I picked a scene near the end where the Death Star is destroyed since this is probably the greatest opportunity in the movie to show off the loud-noise and explosion factor.
After repeating the scene more than a few times, I almost got my wish. The deep sounds came through well enough, but the more high-pitched spaceship and laser sounds again seemed a bit muffled.
Atlas – Uncovering Earth:
I’m a stickler for marine exploration and any and all documentaries pertaining to it, so it only makes sense to include an episode dedicated to life in and around the mediterranean.
This was…something of a mix. The good news is the narrator’s voice was deep and clear enough to take advantage of the headset, as well as some great recordings of animal sounds and ship movements along the ocean surface. On the other hand, as before, more moderate and light recordings just feel like they’re not coming through completely.
Games
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive:
But whereas movies aren’t really the DRACCO’s strong suit, first-person-shooters (FPS) are a specialty. Most of the important sound assets are resonated beautifully through the speakers and really add to the overall experience of a virtual firefight. Shooting a gun or hearing a grenade explode even from the next room has a very satisfying punch to it and sends a shockwave through your ears that makes it feel all the more realistic. The biggest advantage though is the level of sensitivity which means you can track enemy movements from a good distance away.
Arma 2:
Originally, I was going to go with Metro for its environment sounds, but it’s just as well I use Arma since that presents a great opportunity to hear afterburners and other heavy aircraft test their might. I flew a few sorties around the standard maps, in 3rd person mode so I could actually hear the engines, and let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like hearing a jet engine at maximum speed while firing missiles into the ground. Well, I can pretend anyway. I’m ranking this as one of the top experiences with sound and military simulators.
Noise:
Surprisingly enough, I was able to play a few of the Call of Duty games at maximum volume without disturbing anyone else in a 10ft radius. So, as a point of reference, if the sound coming from this headset can be heard well by others, you’re probably listening to ear-damaging levels and should probably turn the volume down. Just saying.
