You'll also use the software to set up lighting effects for the Corsair logos on the earcups. You can use iCue to create your own EQ presets as well as switch from stereo to 7.1 surround sound and there are sliders to adjust mic volume and sidetone level for hearing yourself in the headset through the mic, too. Even with it boosted, though, bass stays tight and punchy. But then there are presets for movies, FPS games, improved chat clarity and bass boost. Out of the box, the EQ preset, called PureDirect, is in fact flat. Corsair's iCue software gives you the tools to change that and much more, though. When I first started testing them out, the audio quality was good but flat. The best audio quality is 24bit/96KHz delivered with a direct USB connection. There's no Bluetooth, but there is a 3.5mm jack and a cable included. Wireless audio is handled strictly by Cosair's SlipStream ultralow-latency technology with a range up to 60 feet, but it requires you to plug in a small USB dongle.
Priced at $180 (AU$330, £150) and $210 (AU$350, £180), respectively, they have the look and feel of premium high-fidelity headphones with an aluminum frame and ear cups matched with memory foam cushions that really isolate external noise (and make your ears sweat some). Corsair's Virtuoso RGB Wireless and Wireless SE gaming headsets are perfect if you don't like your gaming gear to look all angular and aggressive, like it could suddenly transform into a robot.