Razer Readies Megalodon 7.1 Surround USB Headset

Why have 5.1 surround strapped to your ears (like the Creative HS-1200 or Tritton Audio Xtreme we've tested here) when you can have 7.1 instead? Razer would certainly prefer you to think that way: they've just announced the Megalodon, a 7.1 surround USB headset with microphone that the company plans to release in Q4 of this year for $149.99 (ouch!). There area few things about the Megalodon (named, if you're curious, after a giant prehistoric shark) that have our juices going.

First, there's the Megalodon's Maelstrom audio processor, which has a military parentage and a new take on HRTF (head-related transfer function, i.e. the way we process sound location) in an effort to make surround more real. Razer may be pulling out the fancy marketing stops, but they also include a demo on the Mastodon's product page that's made us a believer. Second, there's the remote control, which combines the Megalodon's on-audio processor with volume controls, a noise gate, and a mute button. The same pod also allows switching between 2.0 stereo and 7.1 surround mode for applications that don't need the extra directional sound. Convenience means never having to open a software panel to adjust your settings. Finally, there's the plug and play USB installation - meaning not having to install more crap on your hard drive. We'll be looking forward to the Megalodon's release in a few months.

Filed under USB Headsets & USB Speakers