Razer Nari Ultimate

Video games are evolving at rapid speed. Graphics are becoming almost indiscernible from real visuals, with incredible levels of detail and higher frame rates. Even input devices are today far more versatile, with freedom for the player like never before. That’s certainly true no matter whether you play with a controller with built-in motion feedback, motion controllers, VR, touchscreen, mouse or keyboard.

Sound is no different in its scope. It is extremely spatial, composed by well-known composers with scores composed especially for gaming and the headsets normally utilised by gamers. As such, sound is finely tuned to the specific contexts of gaming ambience.

Truly Innovative Tech

Razer, one of the best-known suppliers of gaming accessories, delivers something special with the unveiling of HyperSense technology. HyperSense was developed together along with the German company, Lofelt. The goal was to allow gamers the chance to truly immerse themselves into the games they play at a deep level, achieved by haptic feedback. The Nari Review’s Guide singles out titles like Doom and Battlefield for those looking to enjoy the best possible results from this technology.

Sound Specs

It was convenient for me that I could download codes for Battlefield V for Xbox One from a bundle. With the Xbox One, Switch and other mobile devices, you can do so via cable. A corresponding 3.5mm cable for audio and microphone connection is included with the Nari headset. To activate the HyperSense technology, the headset simply needs to be switched on to get started. The green logo with three snakes begins to glow, with plenty of quaking effects commencing before the game prologue is even through. While you’re thrown into the midst of various scenarios – sometimes as a foot solider, sometimes at the controls of a tank, sometimes as a fighter pilot – you’re always thrown straight into the midst of the action. This headset, you’ll be glad to hear, makes the most of this. However, it has to be said the rumble effect of the controller is almost timid by comparison to the headset and its output. However, the feedback from the headphones utilises much more in the way of sensory stimuli, thanks in large part to the fact the Razer with HyperSense covers a wider frequency range. More precisely, everything in the 20 to 200 Hz range makes the ears flutter. In a game like Battlefield, where explosions are forever hitting your ears, the headphones find plenty to keep busy with. In fact, it’s a whole new playing experience that could perhaps only otherwise be achieved by a powerful subwoofer. The Nari Ultimate, however, delivers the experience with the convenience of a modestly proportioned headset. Should the HyperSense immersion overwhelm you, you need only switch off the headset when using the cable, reducing the device to basic operation with the additional running of the HyperSense functionality. The Nari Ultimate then becomes a bass-heavy headset, which is still fit for task when it comes to rewarding gaming.

In contrast to the wired use with Xbox consoles, the wireless connectivity works with Playstation 4. A 2.4 GHz receiver is included with the headset itself, which also hides discreetly in the right earpiece. If it is plugged into one of the USB ports of the PS4, the headset is instantly recognised. Interestingly, only then does the mute button for the microphone seem to work. With the Xbox, this had to be constantly changed via console settings.

The microphone itself is decent enough, but speech comes across as thin and barely intelligible. Some settings are still achievable thanks to the software scope of this headset, however. Much has to be said about the positioning of the microphone itself, with the mic being perched at the left earpiece and boasting a retractable design that allows you to keep it in front of the mouth, or push it back so it’s barely noticeable when not in use. It’s an innovative idea that makes this headset a multifunctional one.

Unlock More Capabilities with Top Software

Once you’ve installed the Synapse software on your computer, you can adjust the sound of the headset on one side, while fine-tuning the headset lighting on the other side.

You’ve plenty of points of personalisation with this headset. In the Chroma Studio, you can opt to change the colour of the headset logo. There are 16.8 million colours to pick from, with additional effects and colour transitions optional. You can adjust the transitioning with a rhythmic setting or have it triggered by incoming audio signals. These can effects can also be layered so you can create a truly unique design. If you have more Chroma devices from Razer, you can combine them for a dazzling light show with this headset added to your accessory arsenal.

The audio setting potentials of this headset are equally as extensive. Within these settings, you can opt to activate THX Spatial Audio to savour surround sound, while basic tuning and improvements can also be made, such as bass boost or changes to the intensity of haptic feedback. This is complemented by a 10-band EQ with ready-made profiles, while your user-defined settings can be saved at will. There’s further improvements to select from, with options including ambient noise reduction. If you like to hear yourself talk while you game, activate the ‘Listen In’ option here. Be careful when making adjustments to settings, however. Too many can hamper the speech quality of this headset. All settings can be easily saved in profiles, with the current setting saved to your headphones when it’s powered down. Should you then use the headset with another computer system, those settings will be ready and waiting for you to pick up and play with. Remember however, if you choose to deactivate HyperSense, it cannot be reactivated via the headset alone.

Switches, Knobs, Wheels

On the left side of this headset is the 3.5mm input, along with a USB port for charging the headset. A charging cable comes included with the headset itself. There’s also an on/off switch, an LED to update on status, a microphone mute button, plus a game/chat balance wheel. With the latter control feature, you can adjust game and chat volumes in relation to one another, making it a welcome perk for those playing co-op campaigns. The USB receiver and volume wheel are hidden discreetly on the right-hand side of the headset.

In the Box

In addition to the Nari headset itself, there’s a manual, plus extra goodies like manufacturer stickers and all the appropriate cables to get you connected. You can access software download links from the Razer website, although bear in mind you’ll need to register an account with them first before you’re able to grab the Synapse software.