Over the past few weeks we have maintained a close relationship with the first open back wireless headphone marketed for console and PC video games. Specifically, we test the Turtle Beach Atlas Airwhich among its core features offers 24-bit high-fidelity audio; 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity for a reliable connection on PC, PS5, PS4 and Switch, as well as mobile; Waves 3D immersive audio; a 16kHz microphone and windscreen; 40mm precision drivers; a battery that promises 50 hours and even a built-in 3.5mm audio port. All this is included in an accessory that weighs just over 300 gr.
Natural (and open) sound
Open systems typically offer a more defined and natural type of audio. But what exactly changes? The design helps it represent the sound by producing a spatial effect greater than its closed counterpartssomething that increases the level of immersion. For example, in the humming of the water jets in ‘PowerWash Simulator‘ or the flight of the broom in ‘Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions‘, you can hear more organic and less muffled tones than you usually get with closed models. In the Beta of “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6”, we could perfectly hear the direction of footsteps, bursts and gunshots. But it also sounds excellent with the brilliant soundtrack of ‘Visions of Mana’. In this respect, the ‘Atlas Air’ delivers an incredible result when it comes to music, providing rich bass, full mids and clear highs.
Of course, the open design has other quirks. For example, it doesn’t completely shield out ambient noise, so at least you’ll be aware of what’s going on around you. Another drawback is that they can’t be folded or rotated, making them less suitable for transport and city life. The “Turtle Beach Signature Sound” equalizer profile is active by default and has remained so throughout all gaming sessions. Although it may be considered anecdotal, good headphones have to sound good right out of the box, without having to go crazy making initial adjustments to the equalizers. That’s what the ‘Atlas Air’ does. In terms of versatility, when you don’t need it you can remove the microphone module and remove it from the set. Once it’s indispensable again, once connected it can be folded and moved directionally up and down, but it only remains active when folded. The sound quality of the microphone is generous due to a bandwidth of 16 bits and 32 kHz.
The floating design wins by a landslide in comfort
The design features a solution that connects the headband by means of three elastic bands that “float” over the head. But from the first moment, the element that really draws attention is its weight of just 301 grams (to be exact). It’s 100 grams lighter than the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, one of the most popular headsets at the moment, and it still works without any qualms. The headband itself doesn’t rest on your head, that’s taken care of by a fastening system with elastic bands that adapts wonderfully to the shape of each user. The ears also don’t come into direct contact with the bottom of the speakers, something that also helps improve comfort. In longer gaming sessions we didn’t feel any discomfort (glasses test included).
Configuration to the point
The headset also takes advantage of other special features, but they aren’t immediately apparent. When it comes to controls on the headset, the Atlas Air is split between three buttons: power, switching between wireless modes, and Bluetooth pairing. Volume is adjusted using a large dial on the outside. This is on the left, as are the other controls, microphone, and connection inputs. For a full setup, you need to activate the “Superhuman Hearing” option and use the “Swarm II” software. This tool allows you to configure the microphone and adjust the ratio between game and chat volume. Additionally, certain noises in games, such as enemy footsteps, are amplified and defined with greater depth.
In its box
The Atlas Air comes with a carrying case, USB-C and 3.5 mm cables, a USB transmitter for wireless connection and the corresponding Quick Start Guide. To start with, we have to note that in addition to the 2.4 GHz radio connection, it also supports Bluetooth. Therefore, it can be paired with all imaginable devices. According to the manufacturer, the battery should last up to 50 hours. The calculation is somewhat optimistic and should only refer to when operating via Bluetooth. In our tests it averages about 40 hoursenough for a week of video games and music, far surpassing models such as the ‘Stealth 700 Gen 2’, which provides approximately 20 hours.
Conclusion
The Atlas Air leaves us with a very good impression, both for its versatility and for the level of comfort and sound it offers without exceeding 300g. Thanks to its numerous connection options, it can be used with any device imaginable and its long battery life guarantees that nothing will get in your way during long gaming sessions. In its favour, it is wickedly comfortable, it offers a great level of sound, plenty of connection options and a battery that allows you to relax.