CM Storm Sonuz Review
Performance Testing
Setup
The Sonuz does not require and software given that the adaptors are 3.5mm audio plugs and not a USB therefore no drivers are required.
Comfort
Despite its odd shape, the Sonuz was very comfortable to use for long periods. The headset was easily adjustable and wasn't too tight that it crushed my skull nor was it too slack that it slipped. The cushioning on the headband, while small, ensured that the headset was very comfortable to wear. The ear cups, being faux velvet were again very comfortable and large enough that most of the ear sits inside the cup rather than being crushed beneath it.
As the cups are open, there is some noise escape, especially at high volume which may disturb those around you.
Music Test
Our first music test is via classical. Classical music with it's string, wind and brass instruments is perfect to test for clarity. Sadly, the Sonuz sounded slightly 'muffled' while playing this type of music which was a surprise considering the frequency response of the 53mm drivers. While it wasn't poor, it wasn't great either. Dance tracks however sounded infinitely better with pounding bass and clear synth. Rock music was very good with excellent percussion and guitar reproduction. Rap was generally good however, the vocals again sounded just a little muffled.
In general, the Sonuz is 'OK' for music but audiophiles may wish to look for a higher end model as in certain scenarios, the headset pales in comparison to other headsets specifically designed for music reproduction.
Gaming Performance
As the Sonuz is classified as a gaming headset we had high hopes it would perform well in this environment and we were not disappointed.
Battlefield 3 was sublime with bullet ricochets and voices clearly heard over the backdrop of explosions. COD: Modern Warfare 3 was also great to play with this headset.
The voice reproduction in Skyrim was good but I couldn't help feel I was watching the game rather than involved in it. The audio seemed to isolate me from the action because it sometimes sounded 'hollow' if that makes any sense. It wasn't an echo, rather the acoustics replicated like I was in a large room rather than an open environment. Not a deal breaker as software adjustments can rectify this however, I hadn't encountered this issue with other headsets.
Voice communication was good but due to the mic having pick-ups on both sides, ambient audio was inadvertently transmitted occasionally. This can again be rectified with sensitivity and better mic adjustment. Once this was done, there didn't seem to be any more interruptions.
The muffled mid-range sounds can be enhanced by removing a thin sliver of foam behind the ear cups which make the sound noticeably clearer/crisper. I personally prefer this type of sound rather than the dull mid-range the foam produces but either way, it is nice to have the option to modify them without affecting the warranty status.
Let's wrap this review up with my concluding thoughts...
Setup
The Sonuz does not require and software given that the adaptors are 3.5mm audio plugs and not a USB therefore no drivers are required.
Comfort
Despite its odd shape, the Sonuz was very comfortable to use for long periods. The headset was easily adjustable and wasn't too tight that it crushed my skull nor was it too slack that it slipped. The cushioning on the headband, while small, ensured that the headset was very comfortable to wear. The ear cups, being faux velvet were again very comfortable and large enough that most of the ear sits inside the cup rather than being crushed beneath it.
As the cups are open, there is some noise escape, especially at high volume which may disturb those around you.
Music Test
Our first music test is via classical. Classical music with it's string, wind and brass instruments is perfect to test for clarity. Sadly, the Sonuz sounded slightly 'muffled' while playing this type of music which was a surprise considering the frequency response of the 53mm drivers. While it wasn't poor, it wasn't great either. Dance tracks however sounded infinitely better with pounding bass and clear synth. Rock music was very good with excellent percussion and guitar reproduction. Rap was generally good however, the vocals again sounded just a little muffled.
In general, the Sonuz is 'OK' for music but audiophiles may wish to look for a higher end model as in certain scenarios, the headset pales in comparison to other headsets specifically designed for music reproduction.
Gaming Performance
As the Sonuz is classified as a gaming headset we had high hopes it would perform well in this environment and we were not disappointed.
Battlefield 3 was sublime with bullet ricochets and voices clearly heard over the backdrop of explosions. COD: Modern Warfare 3 was also great to play with this headset.
The voice reproduction in Skyrim was good but I couldn't help feel I was watching the game rather than involved in it. The audio seemed to isolate me from the action because it sometimes sounded 'hollow' if that makes any sense. It wasn't an echo, rather the acoustics replicated like I was in a large room rather than an open environment. Not a deal breaker as software adjustments can rectify this however, I hadn't encountered this issue with other headsets.
Voice communication was good but due to the mic having pick-ups on both sides, ambient audio was inadvertently transmitted occasionally. This can again be rectified with sensitivity and better mic adjustment. Once this was done, there didn't seem to be any more interruptions.
The muffled mid-range sounds can be enhanced by removing a thin sliver of foam behind the ear cups which make the sound noticeably clearer/crisper. I personally prefer this type of sound rather than the dull mid-range the foam produces but either way, it is nice to have the option to modify them without affecting the warranty status.
Let's wrap this review up with my concluding thoughts...
