Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX Gaming Headset Review

Description

Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX Review: A Gamer’s Honest Take

I’ve been using the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX for a couple of months now, and let me tell you, this headset has been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. As someone who spends countless hours gaming on both my Xbox Series X and PS5, I was craving a multiplatform wireless headset that could seamlessly connect across devices. When I came across this model, the features looked promising, so I gave it a shot. Here’s how it performed.

The Good: Outstanding Features and Sound Quality

The audio quality on this headset is phenomenal. With 50mm Nanoclear speakers, the sound is rich and immersive, making every gaming session feel like a cinematic experience. Whether it’s the subtle rustle of leaves in a stealth game or the booming explosions in a shooter, the surround sound does not disappoint. The Gen 2 mic also delivers crystal-clear communication, which is great for coordinating with teammates.

One of my favorite features is the simultaneous Bluetooth connectivity. I can connect to my console via the USB dongle and to my phone at the same time. Imagine this: you’re in the middle of a heated match, and your phone rings. Instead of fumbling with settings, you can take the call directly through the headset without interrupting your game. It’s a lifesaver, especially when multitasking.

Comfort: A Mixed Bag

The gel-cooled memory foam ear cushions are a godsend for long gaming sessions. However, the clamping force out of the box was a bit much for my larger-than-average head. I had to stretch the headband over time to make it more comfortable. The metal-reinforced headband feels durable, but the weight of the headset is noticeable. It’s not bothersome after a while, but some users might find it heavy.

Real-Life Story: Testing With Family

I let my younger cousin borrow the headset for his Minecraft session, and he couldn’t stop raving about the sound clarity. However, the headset’s tight fit made it less ideal for his smaller head. On the flip side, my coworker, who’s an audio enthusiast, appreciated the customizable EQ settings via the Turtle Beach Audio Hub app, which truly enhances the listening experience.

The Not-So-Good: A Few Drawbacks

While the 40+ hour battery life is impressive, the battery indicator is vague, showing only rough 25% intervals. Additionally, the USB dongle can be finicky. There were a few instances where I had to unplug and replug it to get the headset recognized by my PC. And don’t get me started on the mobile app; it’s functional but could use a serious UI overhaul.

Comparison to Competitors

Compared to other headsets like the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless or Corsair Virtuoso RGB, the Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX holds its ground in terms of sound quality and comfort. However, its app limitations and occasional dongle issues make it less user-friendly than the SteelSeries, which has a more seamless software experience. On the other hand, the Corsair Virtuoso lacks the simultaneous Bluetooth connectivity, giving the Turtle Beach a significant edge.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Considering its multiplatform compatibility, Bluetooth functionality, and stellar sound quality, this headset offers solid value for money. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the features you get make it worth considering. If you’re someone who games across multiple platforms and values audio quality, the investment is justified.

Final Thoughts on Features

From flip-to-mute mic functionality to customizable controls, this headset is packed with features. The dual volume wheels (one for game audio and one customizable) are especially handy. Just be prepared for a learning curve when setting up the app and dongle.

Pros

• Exceptional Sound Quality: The 50mm Nanoclear speakers provide rich, immersive audio.
• Simultaneous Bluetooth Connectivity: Easily multitask between gaming and phone calls.
• Long Battery Life: Over 40 hours of usage on a single charge.
• Comfortable Ear Cushions: Gel-cooled memory foam for extended wear.
• Multiplatform Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Xbox, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch.

Cons

• Tight Fit: The clamping force may be uncomfortable for larger heads.
• App Limitations: The mobile app is clunky and occasionally unreliable.
• USB Dongle Issues: Requires frequent unplugging and replugging for recognition.
• Vague Battery Indicator: Lacks precise battery percentage display.
• Weight: Slightly heavy, which might bother some users.

What Comes With the Product

• Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX Headset
• USB-C Charging Cable
• Wireless USB Adapter (Dongle)
• Quick Start Guide
• Turtle Beach Sticker

How to Use Guide

1. Charge Fully: Use the USB-C cable to charge the headset before first use.
2. Connect Dongle: Plug the USB adapter into your preferred device (console or PC).
3. Power On: Hold the power button on the headset until the LED indicator lights up.
4. Bluetooth Pairing: Press the Bluetooth button to pair with your mobile device.
5. Adjust Settings: Use the Turtle Beach Audio Hub app to customize EQ and mic monitoring.
6. Flip Mic: Pull down the mic for use; flip it up to mute.
7. Volume Control: Adjust game and Bluetooth audio using the separate volume dials.

Expert Tips & Recommendations

• Break-In Period: Stretch the headband gently for a more comfortable fit.
• EQ Customization: Use the app to fine-tune the audio for different games.
• Mic Maintenance: Keep the mic flipped up when not in use to reduce wear.
• Battery Management: Charge overnight to maximize battery longevity.
• Dongle Range: Ensure a clear line of sight for optimal connectivity.

Warranty & Support Information

The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 MAX comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This covers manufacturing defects but not wear and tear. For support, visit the Turtle Beach website or contact their customer service via email or phone. They also offer a comprehensive online FAQ section and firmware updates through their Audio Hub app. However, note that regional availability may affect warranty claims.

Additional information