ASTRO A20 Gen 2 Review: A Stellar Wireless Headset for Gamers

Description

ASTRO Gaming A20 Wireless Headset Gen 2 Review: A Personal Experience with Xbox Series X | S and PC Gaming

Ever felt like your gaming setup deserved an audio upgrade that doesn’t tie you down with wires? I took the plunge and grabbed the ASTRO Gaming A20 Wireless Headset Gen 2, and after using it for a couple of weeks, I’ve got insights you’ll want to hear.

A Day in the Life with the A20 Wireless Headset

The first test run was during a heated gaming session on my Xbox Series X. Let me tell you, the 2.4 GHz wireless signal was a game-changer. I could move around the room without losing connection, and the 50ft wireless range gave me freedom I didn’t even know I wanted. The flip-to-mute microphone was surprisingly handy when I needed to yell at my dog for chewing my controller mid-game. But, while these features were a win, I did notice the mic quality wasn’t as sharp as I hoped. My friends on Discord said I sounded muffled at times, which wasn’t ideal.

Switching over to PC gaming, the on-device audio balancing between voice chat and game audio was seamless. It’s perfect for those chaotic multiplayer matches where communication is key. However, the lack of noise cancellation was noticeable. Background noise filtered through, which could be distracting.

Comfort & Design: A Mixed Bag

The over-the-head design fitted well, and the lightweight 318 grams was a blessing for long gaming sessions. My sister, who borrowed it for her marathon movie-watching, agreed it was comfy. However, she did mention the ear cushions, while soft, made her ears warm after hours of use. That’s not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind.

Battery Life & Charging

The 15-hour battery life was impressive. After a full day of gaming and streaming, I still had juice left. Charging via the USB-C port was quick, but I wish it came with an extra charging dock for convenience.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to SteelSeries Arctis 7, the A20 falls slightly short in mic quality but excels in cross-platform compatibility. The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 offers better noise cancellation, but it’s heavier and less comfortable for extended use. Where the A20 shines is in its ease of switching platforms. The optional USB transmitter for PlayStation 5 compatibility (sold separately) makes it more versatile.

Value for Money

At its price point, the A20 Wireless Gen 2 provides solid performance. The dynamic drivers with a 20 Hz–20 kHz frequency range deliver crisp sound, and connectivity options are versatile. However, the mic quality and lack of premium noise isolation make it feel slightly overpriced compared to some competitors.

Features Rundown

The 3 EQ presets were fun to experiment with. Switching between bass-heavy modes and balanced audio was simple, thanks to the intuitive controls. The volume toggle buttons on the ear cup? Game-changing. I loved being able to adjust audio on the fly without pausing.

Final Thoughts on My Experience

The A20 Gen 2 is a solid choice for gamers, especially those who value wireless freedom and multi-platform compatibility. If you’re someone who prioritizes exceptional mic quality or noise cancellation, you might want to explore other options. But for casual gamers like me who want comfort and decent performance, this headset does the job well.

Pros

• Exceptional wireless range: The 50ft reach lets you roam freely.
• Multi-platform compatibility: Works with Xbox, PC, Mac, and optionally PlayStation.
• Comfortable wear: Lightweight and great for long sessions.
• 15-hour battery life: Reliable for extended use.
• Easy audio balancing: Customize game and chat volume effortlessly.

Cons

• Mic quality could be sharper: Muffled voice output is noticeable in high-stakes gaming.
• No noise cancellation: Background sounds can interfere during gameplay.
• Ear warmth: Prolonged use might get uncomfortable.
• Limited Bluetooth range: Connection drops if you stray beyond 15ft.

What Comes with the Product

• A20 Wireless Headset Gen 2
• USB-C to USB-A charging cable
• USB transmitter

How to Use Guide

1. Setup & Connection
   Plug the USB transmitter into your device (Xbox, PC, or Mac).
   Turn on the headset using the power button on the ear cup.
2. Audio Balancing
   Use the on-device buttons to balance game and chat audio.
3. EQ Settings
   Toggle between three EQ presets by pressing the small button next to the volume controls.
4. Microphone Usage
   Flip the mic down to talk, and flip it up to mute instantly.
5. Charging
   Connect the headset to a power source using the USB-C to USB-A cable.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Optimize Audio Settings: Customize the EQ presets for different games. For shooters, boost bass to hear explosions better. For RPGs, use balanced audio to appreciate dialogues.
• Storage Tip: Avoid storing the headset in hot or humid areas; it can impact battery life.
• Microphone Placement: Position the mic arm slightly away from your mouth to reduce distortion.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for updates via the ASTRO Command Center to improve performance.
• Consider an Extra Transmitter: If you use multiple consoles, purchasing the PlayStation-compatible transmitter makes switching seamless.

Warranty & Support Information

The ASTRO Gaming A20 Wireless Headset Gen 2 includes a 1-year limited warranty. This covers manufacturing defects such as faulty audio drivers or battery issues. For support, ASTRO Gaming provides:

• Online Troubleshooting Guides: Accessible via their website.
• Customer Support Team: Available via email or phone for queries.
• ASTRO Command Center Software: Offers firmware updates and advanced settings customization.

Make sure to keep your purchase receipt or proof of purchase when claiming warranty services.

Additional information