To (re)conquer the ears of PC gamers, NZXT emphasizes the versatility of a complete audio ecosystem.
If it knew a long and prosperous period during the years 90 – 2000, the audio on PC is as it were… passed into the background.
Four separable elements
Of course, there are always purists for whom the sound of an integrated solution from Realtek is unbearable. There are also experts who swear by external DSPs and other monitoring speakers.
© NZXT
Like some brands like Edifier, even Logitech, NZXT seems however to consider that there are things to be done in particular in the field of speakers for our PCs. For this, the brand has planned the Relay system which it sees as a complete, modular and scalable environment to add sound to its configuration.
At the base of the Relay system, there is a small device called SwitchMix by its creators. The thing takes the form of a foot for headphones whose main feature is to automatically switch the audio stream to the headphones when it is removed from the support.
A “bonus” subwoofer
Conversely, as soon as the headphones are placed on the SwitchMix, the latter acts so that the audio flow goes back to the speakers. This base also works as a kind of audio mixer that allows you to adjust the sound volume of streams from video games and voice discussions, for example.
© NZXT
To do this, NZXT relies on a “ 24-bit/96kHz DAC delivers accurate, high-quality sound » and evokes the « DTS 7.1 surround sound support “. The SwitchMix comes with the Relay headset which has Hi-Res Audio certification and DTS Headphone:X compatibility. NZXT provides a “ optimal comfort thanks to the headband and earpads made of memory foam with imitation leather covering “.
The Relay range continues with 2.0 speakers which can be combined with a subwoofer. The speakers develop a total power of 80 watts and are based on the combination of ” silk dome tweeters and fiberglass woofers “. The subwoofer, finally, brings an extra bass – crazy that! – thanks to a 6.5-inch speaker and 140 watts of power.
© NZXT
On paper, the Relay kit looks interesting and the reputation of NZXT inspires confidence. Alas, it will be necessary to have a good budget, because if the helmet remains in the average (99.9 euros), it is necessary to add 139.9 euros for the Switch Mix, 259.9 euros for the speakers and 159.9 euros for the box!
Source: NZXT press release
0