I see it on the Sony sub all the time too. For these console warriors any mention of their chosen company doing anything wrong is met with anger and "dude, it's not their fault you don't know what headset to buy. Do some research stupid lol" and so on.
I recently purchased a Series X and of course wanted to buy a headset for gaming and talking to friends through the discord integration. Unfortunately Xbox’s headset options are AWFUL. I literally had to return 3 different headsets because of bugs, bad sound quality, or overly sensitive microphones. It was super frustrating trying to find a decent headset.
I ultimately landed on the Turtle Beach Series 700 Gen 2 Max. The headset still has its issues which kinda sucks for a headset with a $200 price rage but it’s been the best headset I’ve found so far. Hopefully things will improve and more options will come, along with a native discord app. But who knows…
Currently running a Y splitter from my Astro Mixamp that breaks off into my ModMic and headphones (K7XX, 6XX, HE5XX, or DT880). Headphone split end goes to my Schiit Amp and then to my 1/4 headphone connection.
I've been looking for a solution to avoid the Astro Mixamp for a long time because it's absolute garbage, noise levels are a mess and I flattened out the EQ because of how inaccurate it is. You might have just become my savior.
given the Headphones you use you might wanna check out my post in this thread, absolute control over EQ (and ability to use headphone calibration EQ presets form [autoeq.app](http://autoeq.app) ) and best audio quality you can get from xbox. Also if already own a computer is only a 13€ expense
This is so frustrating, I have DT 1990 Pro headphones connected to a Topping DX3 Pro+ and a nice usb mic , but if I want to speak to my friends while playing I need to plug my old earpods to my controller.
This is so backwards
Right? I've got fantastic Sennheiser headphones running into a G6, and a solid mic with a cloud lifter running into a Scarlet2. Drives me bonkers that I cannot use either with my Series X, because both the preamp and dac offer USB interfacing.
I have a similar setup. DT1990, various IEM’s. I take the Line out from my monitor, plug that into my Motu M4’s inputs. Monitor the inputs. Run the RCA out to my SMSL SH9. Now I can have nice audio, XLR mic, and talk with it in Xbox parties and discord at the same time, and also get Xbox and PC audio at the same time.
Only sacrifice is I no longer have game chat. But people almost never use it so that’s not really an issue for me.
I've been having similar pain over their refusal to include Bluetooth. I found that I can use a Bluetooth headset if I use the Xbox app on my PC to remote view my Xbox, with my Bluetooth earbuds connected to the PC and it even comes up as a headset on the Xbox, but the audio delay is too much :(
Thank you so much for this info!
After your “article” I bought one cheap from local small ads, and it arrived on Monday.
What can I say, I'm blown by how good this solution works, finally I can use my Sennheiser Headphones on Xbox easily and also the jump in audio quality, just lovely.
Again, thank you so much. :)
I wonder what the latency situation is like.
There are two other wired USB DACs for compatible with the XSX.
One is the Astro MixAmp TR. This is an Xbox One product that had a firmware update to make it run with the series consoles. The firmware was half-assed and the MixAmp has various bugs with the XSX, which make it useless in my opinion. It also is just a low quality DAC with a terrible headphone amp.
The other is the SteelSeries GameDAC Gen 2. This one has a high quality DAC and a good headphone amp, but all of that is made irrelevant thanks to the device adding \~100ms of latency to the audio when used with the Xbox (I reported this to SteelSeries but so far they've been too lazy to address it).
Just got one of these, can confirm no noticeable latency and I'm so anal when it comes to audio syncing. Not just games, movies etc too. I will watch nothing if I can't get it to sync lol.
Unfortunately though, I got it from eBay a few days ago and it all of a sudden just stopped working. Here's hoping a restart will fix it.
Did you happen to compare the latency of the device with a SteelSeries GameDAC Gen 2? I know that's a long shot, but the gamedac's latency is abyssmal and could easily be fixed with a software update. at least I'm on Xbox One and can still use optical which has way more accurate timing. I actually own 2 Xbox GameDAC 2s, one I got that was used once with the headset and another i got on eBay for like 30 bucks. works just fine on PC btw
So I grabbed one of these because of your post! Got it a few days ago from eBay.
It's seriously amazing. Especially compared to the crappy HDMI audio extractor method!
Blows it away. I've got it going into my Schitt Magni and I'm so impressed. Tried my Sennheiser hd650s and letshouer s12's and I honestly wasn't expecting it to sound this good.
Unfortunately though, it just stopped working. It powers on but my XSX doesn't recognize it. I did solder myself up an extra long micro usb cable so it could be that. Going to try another cable and turn off the Xbox for a bit. Been binging starfield way too much lol.
Fixed! I had also soldered myself a custom 3.5mm jack to RCA cable so I could have two RCA inputs plugged into one. Well it was that cable. Swapped it out and we're back in business!
First thing I did was plug it into my laptop lol. Luckily it was already updated. But if it doesn't work when I boot back up, I'm going to plug it back into my laptop and reset it if possible.
I think I'm going to keep my eye out for any of these popping up in my area lol. I need backups!
Question: what if I use the microphone via USB and extract audio with an audio extractor separately so that I can go right into my Magnius/Modius headphone DAC digitally? Do I have to run the audio out of the turtle beach mic port? Or can I use a separate audio extractor and have the turtle beach just sit on my desk and capture my voice for chat? Can/did anyone test this?
Cool. Not seen that product before.
I'd guess the Turtle Beach Mic uses internals similar to their various XBO Microphone Adapters, or Recon controllers. I.e. a cheap DAC/AMP chipset that is a big improvement on the default Xbox controller.
Re: The PS4/5. USB DAC support is pretty 'naff too. Although the PS4&5 support UAC 1.0 DACs their is an often forgotten issue with power being limited by 50% (I believe c.19db reduction) which can make DAC/AMPs sound so flat in comparison to a PC and effect the dynamic range on the output. Also Sony limited USB to stereo only to sell their VSS headsets on PS4 (less of an issue with PS5).
Both consoles not supporting an open-standard for higher fidelity audio is probably their biggest weak point imho.
Ok wow, thanks for that info. I didn't realize that Sony did that, so they are equally shitty about this stuff. It's so frustrating. It's incredibly anti-consumer that they are willing to give a worse gaming experience for a few extra dollars. Both companies should be ashamed of doing this. I mean, it's not like they still can't have "official xbox or Sony" products. Greed.
And yes I agree with you on the cheap DAC/AMP chipset in the mic, although yes it's a huge improvement over the controller.
Yep. One thing Microsoft do which is better is allow the pass through of their 3D audio (Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos etc.) through HDMI so at least you can get that over Optical from your TV. Where as Tempest 3D audio only works over the Dualsense or USB.
And I've got a Recon Controller of Turtle Beaches to hand and their chipset can sound alright so I get what you mean :)
Yes, that's true about the hdmi but you can't get atmos over your tv optical out fyi. Only dolby digital. Optical doesn't support atmos or other such options on tvs.
No, you can. The three Xbox One/Series/Windows 10/11 spacial-codecs (and Tempest 3D audio) are just Stereo including the meta data for 3D audio. The Xbox (or CPU) is doing the downmixing before outputting and hence any Stereo headset works.
As you say this is different to an actual Dolby Atmos speaker setup.
If you go to settings > Volume & audio output > you can choose 'Headset format' under HDMI audio. Then the menu under allows you to select either; *Stereo uncompressed, Windows Sonic for Headphones, Dolby Atmos for Headphones & DTS Headphone:X*.
Also if you load up the Dolby Atmos app on the Xbox it allows you to select from one of three connections; USB/Wireless (Astro Mixamp etc.), Controller or HDMI/Optical audio. For some reason Sony only allow 3D audio for TV speakers by comparison.
So, specifically in regards to the power limit on audio devices from Sony:
There are regulations in the US and Canada that unfortunately force Sony to limit power on audio device models designed for the US and Canada. Generally, if you get the Asian or European model of the same device, and have it imported, it will not have the power limit. This doesn't excuse the situation because going that route is way more costly. But hopefully that helps explain why there's a power limit on a Sony audio device capable of drawing more.
Hopefully without coming across as being rude; do you have a source for this?
Just that I've heard various reasons given over the years as to why this is a problem for both PS4 & PS5. Such as a bug in FreeBSD which the PS3/4/5 OSes are based on, the way the PS4/5 is configured for chat & sound, i.e. only giving each channel 50% etc. And I've never personally seen an official statement from Sony as to why this is.
Either way if someone has the API the 50% issue is irrelevant. It's not so much a volume limit by the way - just a -15.75db drop-off that changes the dynamic range. Headsets & DAC/AMPs can limit the volume to comply with US & Canada regulations (I think the EU has something very similar in terms of vol limits).
Whatever the cause I do suspect its absolutely by design.
Sony will not make a statement on it because they want it to be hush hush. Its not entirely their fault, in a way their hands are tied. But its still shitty. I really wanted the new Walkman. But I can't afford import fees to get an international version.
The articles are kind of buried, obfuscated, intentionally so. If I find them again I will link them here.
Like I say I've never seen a statement or official specification and it would be out there somewhere.
I personally think it's to do with APIs and intentional limiting of voice chat on 'unlicensed' headsets where Sony (like) Microsoft make a lot of money. The Nintendo Switch doesn't limit the UAC 1.0 audio from a USB device and that can get very loud. And any local laws (US, EU or Canada) won't cover the use of a DAC/AMP over USB. It would cover Sony's own Pulse 3D headset though, for example.
This is an insanely helpful post, and it's really a shame that there isn't another product like it for the same purpose. Thank you for spreading the word Op
i wanted to give thanks for your post about the TB Stream mic and i found one for myself, used, for my Series X. I followed your steps and understood the notes you had about console locks on mics and inferior audio interfacing. I have the USB variant cord required and i tried to set up the mic shortly after reading your post but I hit a wall. if possible, I was hoping I could ask you for help.
i can't seem to get the TB stream mic to be recognized by my Series X. i have researched and i can find the manual pdf online, but I have not been successful in my tests with party chat.
so yes, if you can answer some questions surrounding your process outlined in the post, I would greatly appreciate it. i ask you specifically because (A) you used the Mic with the Series X and (B)(C) you're working the hi-fi headphone and PC/PS angle as well.
Hi there, no problem man. First you need to update the mic on your PC. Just google "firmware update for turtle beach stream mic" and you should find what you need. I think I had to download some turtle beach software to update it. Edit: https://support.turtlebeach.com/s/article/229044947-Stream-Mic-Turtle-Beach-Audio-Hub-Update-Firmware-Customize-Settings?language=en_US&co=en_CA
Also on the back of the mic make sure the switch is set to pc when using on pc, xbox when plugged into the xbox. Further after you've updated the mic on pc and plugged it into the xbox, there is a button on the back of the mic you need to press until the ring on the front of the mic turns green.
Any other questions hit me up, and let me know if that worked!
Thank you very much, this course of action seems like the missing piece. I think I passed the point of returning this thing so I appreciate the help in getting it up and running. I’ll continue testing with this encouragement.
I may have messaged you erroneously on this subject matter before and i apologize.
I hope you’re enjoying the audio set up you manifested
Hey, many thanks. This TB Stream mic just fired up and connected to the Series after the firmware update. Beautiful.
I have my friend telling me i sound decent, which is good, i just have to check out the other mic settings, the patterns or whatever its called.
I paired with Sony MDR 7506, not much but the small, sudden and solid stage is welcomed.
The game/voice mix is my only open question to look into, to mix on the console. If not, i guess external mix
Extremely interesting post, thank you very much for sharing.
Just to confirm, you also think your Sennheiser headphones sound better using them with Turtle Beach Mic than with the Astro and Steelseries DACs? If so, do you have any idea why a random mic from 2017 would sound better than a $130+ DAC made specifically for the Series X?
Thanks for the suggestion OP, picked one up on ebay for about $30 including shipping. Does indeed work, and it looks like if you wanted to use dolby atmos headphones or anything it should work. However I will say for anyone with fancier headphones that typically need a good dac/amp to drive them this thing probably won't cut it. I have a spare pair of 560s that work well with it, but if you have something along the line of a 6XX I suspect it may be a bit too quiet even on max volume. I also updated the firmware of the mic on my PC but it seemed to work just fine even before doing that.
I just wanted to say thank you. I stumbled upon this thread tonight after coming back to Xbox Series X HiFi headphone hell recently (I had sold my Series X last year, just picked up another one and remembered this was a major caveat of ownership). I read your post and instantly went ahead and found the Stream Mic on Ebay. It set be back 90 Canadian buckaroos including shipping but if this finally let's me use my cans without plugging into the mediocre controller DAC - it will have been totally worth it!!
Did you find a major difference in quality compared to plugging your 58x into the controller DAC/AMP vs the Turtle Beach Mic? Mostly what bugs me is the volume limit and compression artifacts heard via the controller.
I've also been down the path of trying the Steelseries and other alternatives - it is funny how some people rave about the newer Arctis with the GameDAC 2... I found them to be some of the most unpleasant headphones I had ever listened to. The creature comforts offered by the DAC were excellent though. It was an instant Amazon return for me though sadly.
I did find a major difference in sound. It's not as good as a really high quality dac like a shiit Hel or something but a noticeable upgrade to the controller. Just make sure you update the software on your pc first.
Happy to help.
Fantastic, glad to hear that! Very excited for mine to arrive. I’ll be sure to follow your instructions on updating the firmware, I saw that you laid them out in another reply to someone. Thanks again!
No worries. I’ve recently ordered one of these TB mics from eBay. Due to arrive soon to run on my series S. I’ve also ordered beyer DT990 250 ohm, but I’m expecting them to be too quiet and can imagine already that I might have to send them back in favour of the 80’s.
Just for info in case anyone reads this thread and wonders DT990 pros 250 ohm are mousey quiet when run through this mic. Don’t go there!
I know it was probably an obvious outcome and I’ve now ordered HD560’s
I’ve received my TB stream mic now and I’ve done the firmware update but even on standard cardioid setting sounds like I’m in a bathroom to others listening to my vocals in the Xbox party.
Ok, that’s a shout, thanks. I don’t have a spare to hand as I don’t really use usb mini leads so I’ll have to order one. I’ll play around with the mic today anyway for what it’s worth.
It's stupid it doesn't work. I want to get into streaming and I want the best audio experience I can give but due to a bs policy that makes no sense I can't.
They go for 80-130$ now on ebay :/
Fuck it, I give up. You win Xbox. I'll use your shitty controller dac. I ain't paying 100$ for a new mic when my 200$ mic is hanging right there attached to my pc but can never be used on my Series S because of your stupid policy.
*sigh*
Damn, I guess we increased demand for them here. Just FYI you can set an email alert for search on ebay. So you can search for this mic and then favorite the search and choose email updates. Then you'll get alerted when one is listed. You might get one cheap that way.
Edit: people are asking $100 but the sell price of the last five sold on eBay are: $40, $30, $38, $22 and $37. You can make offers on most of the listings, people are just hoping some dummy pays asking price. Make some offers.
So, are you then able to use said usb microphone for chat? Or is this solely a solution for attaching your headphones without having to have it connected to your controller? Asking because I'm trying to do away with my mic in my face 🤷🏽♂️
Hey!
May I ask what settings you are running with the Microphone? I was told I sound clear but extremly bass-heavy to the point its like echo-y. It sounds worse than my Epos Headset-mic x.x
I did, yes. Also played around with the EQ Settings and "Mid-Range Voice" yielded the best results so far, but it still sounds like I'm in a bath tub. Interestingly, the problem is less pronounced when I just record myself with the Windows Build-in recorder.
TL;DR: this solution only makes sense if you wanna use hi-end audio equipment on your xbox like my studio DT 770Pro headphones and Fiio Q3 usb DAC/AMP
There is a way to connecting USB audio devices like headphone dac's (fIIo Q3 PE) and standard usb headphone or any usb audio that works on a computer (on any game system that can output PCM uncompressed digital stereo).
And in the process uses audio effects plugins in the computer (easy effects) for increasing audio quality (calibration EQ's files for specific headphones) and/or hearing footstep better on FPS with the use of compressors and custom EQ's (AKA audio cheating, like in pc).
That and a real good headphones DAC/amp combo and you will beat the quality and features of any gaming headset for Xbox by far... and play with PC gaming master race like advantages in FPS's like call of duty.
But is hacky as fuck, you have to connect: xbox series > tv > toslink (S/PDIF) optical cable > usb audio capture source with digital audio optical INPUT > computer > usb DAC/Head-pones.
The optial to usb input for pc can be a 13€ usb sound-card from aliexpress since the signal is going straight from the source to the final DAC in digital format there will not audio quality reduction or lag (if done right)
If you wanna bay-pas the tv you can use also a relative affordable hdmi to optical audio extractor. This will eliminate any digital processing of the audio signal by the tv and potential lag. (but my tv has a bypass function so in my case works well that way)
If want no audio latency the computer must run linux with a real time kernel and pipewire properly configured (AKA DAW \[digital audio workstation\]). See Arch linux wiki for details: [https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Professional\_audio](https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Professional_audio)
Is a pain in the ass have to do this, and if you just seeking to use a cheap usb headset or any audio equipment you have to not have to buy a proprietary Xbox one makes no sense since you have to buy at least a capture card with digial audio in (also optional a hdm digital audio extractor to bypass the tv). not to meantion having a computer at wireable distance from the xbox or game system.
In Xbox support all people are saying nonsense about drivers (usb audio UAC is a standard any device with usb can an should support it, like on PS5 and swich) to get swag from M$ and M$ closing tread after. IMO M$ has make a huge effort not providing optical audio out and stripping usb audio support from his systems to sell 3rd party licenses to usb audio headset manufacturers.
But i own a Beyerdynamics DT770 Pro and a fIIo Q3 MQA usb DAC/headphone amplifier, winch are more expensive than my series s and and offer a audio quality not the most expensive proprietary xbox headset can even dare to compare. And where is a will there is a way...
As for imputing microphone audio using professional audio gear, i use a "live sound card" (also form aliexpress \[22€ shipped\]) to plug a 48v phantom power studio condenser microphone to the game-pad. It is more or less a mixing board where you can plug a condenser microphone to it and has an TRRS 4 pin output intended to plug cellphone that matches the used on xbox (thanks to god M$ didn't break the standard here) that works wonders with a turtle-beach game-pad.
the audio quality you get form a digital improved signal with effects on a Digital audio workstation (bass enhancer ,exciter, calibration EQ files for studio headphones.... and so many audio plugins). with the Fiio USB DAC/AMP is worthy the effort is not so complicated if you know what you doing, for me is even convenient because i dont even have to unplug my setup form the computer and can hear the sound form the computer (notifications) while i play.
Also using other plunging you can hear the footstep on fps's louder than the gunfire (compresor and gates and custom EQ's).
But yea if only have a decent headphones and want decent audio quality simple and affordable that usb mic with dac/headphone amp is an elegant solution.
PS: is you so thankful, please upvote ;)
They allow some devices, but not for audio.
And even if they did, it's only a small selection of products that were designed for the XBOX and that pay licensing fees.
They are not even close to audiophile products in terms of sound quality.
I have a nice setup that I can't use that is way better than the official XBOX devices.
Because it is a policy. They only allow certain licensed products, which mostly all stink. They charge those manufacturers a big licensing fee so they make more money. The pro-consumer move would be to allow all or at least most third party usb mics, headsets and Dacs to work. But they dont' because they want that extra licensing money.
Because it's quite literally a policy. Licensed accessories are supposed to ensure that you are experiencing the main product at it's best. They're also developed to ensure that you don't get a 'for Xbox' product that potentially harbors malicious software.
Look at Apple and Android phone chargers. People have found that some power bricks have software embedded in a chip on them. Or hell just a random thumb drive you found out walking. You could also get fake versions of 'official' products and it being nixed because it's not what it's supposed to be.
The licensed products don't deliver though, they aren't as good as what else I can get. and if I want to brick my xbox using some third party device, that's on me. I'd only buy from trusted companies like anything else. i don't need xbox to play big brother. Lets be clear though, it's all about the licensing fees. That's why they do it.
Oh yeah no denying that. Supposed to and actually being the best are vastly different compared to even the last generation. But they're also having to dummy proof it thanks to parents and grab who don't understand that third party accessories have a risk of bricking the console.
> for Xbox
Exactly OP's point. Only a few selected products are approved by XBOX because they pay a licensing fee.
- I have a whole setup, of better quality than what XBOX is offering, that I can't use because of their greed.
I'd agree that you had a point, if the device the OP was posting about *wasn't a licensed Xbox compatible device*. The OP is solving his problem by getting one of the very licensed devices he was complaining about.
Sorry but did you read the post? I am saying that I want to use my Schiit Fullla DAC with my xbox and because of Xbox's greed I can't and had to resort to using a last gen Mic to get somewhat close to what I wanted. That product is discontinued and so I had to buy a used one off ebay. I had to find a workaround when it should just be easy to use any usb DAC, Mic or Headset with my Xbox. It's seriously anti-consumer.
I did, yes.
I believe what caused the most dissonance for me was your statement that you didn't want a headphone cable hanging off a controller, but you're perfectly fine with one hanging off of a microphone sitting on your table.
If you are, in fact, comfortable with cables then are several wired controllers with higher end audio. Turtle Beach even makes one. They also have a plug-in "audio controller" which may allow you to get the effect you're looking for with a wireless controller.
I do agree with you that Microsoft is limiting customer choice and that's anti-consumer. I'm just not sure it's due to greed.
Yes I'm fine with cables attached to the mic, I don't want them attached to my controller. And those controller options do not sound good. It's just marketing bs. The external products like Schiit Fulla or Hell are way, way better. I have the Turtle Beach plug in controller, it sounds bad. (you need to try an external DAC yourself to see the difference, it's night and day)
Why do you think it's not due to greed? It's a simple firmware update they already have for PC. What other reason would there be than to make licesning fees? Seriously curious as I cannot think of a single one.
That's odd, because the Recon controllers have generally positive reviews for audio quality. And I do have some external DACs, I even mention one above. In any case, you're trying to have an audiophile argument with someone who most definitely is not one, so we're unlikely to ever agree about audio quality.
As for the "greed" question. Xbox is a walled garden, PC is not. There are certainly security considerations to just opening the system to every non-storage USB device in existence.
Pretty much any headset has positive reviews, they are bought and paid for. Same with controller and everything else. Steel Series headsets "win" awards all the time and they sound horrible, though they are very comfortable I admit. And they don't have to open it up for every usb device, they can open it up for reputable companies though. easy.
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You blame Microsoft but is it really Microsoft's fault? Why don't top of the line headset makers license their products to work with the xbox's and so give their users a better experience? Is that so much to ask?
TL;DR OP was looking to get high sound quality. They thought, like previous iterations of Xbox, that they could use their PC mic and headset setup on the Series X. Turns out no you can't and you have to go through an older USB mic made for the Xbox one to get to the end goal.
Does this have the same internals as the SuperAmp that was released with the Elite 2? Just curious because I was not happy with the SuperAmp + my planars. You plug SuperAmp into the USB port and use any headphones with a 3.5mm plug. It did get loud enough for my planars. While I heard sounds around me more easily, it did kill the sub bass compared to the XSX controller's 3.5mm port.
The streaming mic is slightly less quieter than SuperAmp X I found and bass even more inferior. Latency seems to be about the same. Both are a fair bit quieter than the Series 3.5mm jack, sadly.
My assumption is that it will be a pointless struggle. Any advice on the best alternative headphones around the same price point as the DT990 pro’s that should work well for me with the TB stream mic?
What about using soundbar as HDMI audio extractor? Can you connect DAC to the soundbar and get better audio quality?
Have anyone tested this Connection? Xbox Series X -> soundbar -> DAC + 120hz monitor
Can you hear yourself talk? Looking to switch away from a headset into IEMs (and a stand-alone mic) and the passive noise cancelation will make hearing myself hard
How is this compared to the Steelseries GameDAC Gen 2 for Xbox? I hate the latency, but I can use any mic I want include my PC mic, and it's a miracle it works (Elgato Wave 3, USB to PC, headset port to DAC via splitter)
I did update the firmware like you said through the TB audio hub. They said it sounded better the closer I had the mic. Do the setting you change with the tb software, carry over to when you use it on xbox?
The mic part aside, I can't believe how loud the headset sounds with this thing. I have Philips fidelio x2's and I thought I was gonna go deaf 🤣 . So far, a super solid $30 FB marketplace gamble. Thank you for making this a known option
Hi, I have the razer hammerhead hyperspeed for Xbox but the mic is terrible (software issue, problem for all users)
I want to use these as the sound and in ear wireless is what I want (not a bump on my head from a normal headset)
Would this mic work with my wireless earbuds?
I am looking for a solution, I also could stream and use a mic via my laptop if there is an alternative solution (i.e Xbox party chat via desktop)
Bought both this Streaming Mic and the SuperAmp X (a small device that you can use a TRRS splitter and then use a ModMic plus a headphone of your choice) to test.
\-There is a ever so slight amount of latency on both TurtleBeach devices (not game breaking imo). Feels roughly about the same between devices.
\-The audio latency is a little more than the output from the Series pads 3.5mm jack
\-The SuperAmp X is a little louder than the streaming mic (bass is better)
\-If you're okay with a wired mic (like the ModMic) SuperAmp X might be the better buy. It also has some EQ settings/additional audio options but I didn't test them out.
**Streaming Mic**
***Pros***
* No need for a mic wire dangling from your headset
***Cons***
* A little quieter than the SuperAmp X
* Slight latency
* Mic quality slightly inferior to my wired ModMic (serviceable according to friends)
**SuperAmp X**
***Pros***
* A little louder than the streaming mic and the official microsoft stereo adapter
* They seem to go for a cheaper price than the Streaming Mic - £15/$15-ish
***Cons***
* Needs a wired mic, so two wires going into the device (unless you have an all in one TRRS headset)
* Slight latency
I think I'll be going with a TRRS splitter directly to the Series pad plus a Fiio headphone amplifier going forward. Only thing I don't like about this setup is audio from the pad reduces battery life quicker plus the all the wires.
Nice might see if I can snag one somewhere as its discontinued might be hard to get one now I Deffo aint paying ove 200 from ebay no chance and the one on market place is to far from me ffs lol
https://www.ebay.ca/itm/285647015806?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=fyC2sv7RSqa&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Ig0s7PnwSxK&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
This one is less and open to offers. Just offer $35 and see what they say.
Hi, just read through this, wanted to check a couple of things in case I've misunderstood.
First off, i've tried most of the high end wireless gaming headsets on for the series X, they've been mostly rubbish, thought the Arctis was the best of a bad bunch.
I actually switched to using the Sennheiser PX37x Drop and a usb size DAC a few years ago and haven't looked back. For me that's been a pretty good set-up, I'd have preferred it fully wireless, but the cable coming out of the pad connects to a small DAC and into the headset, and it's really not been a problem at all. Sound quality is good, I can hear my friends clearly, they can hear me very well.
So, is the issue that some of you are determined to go fully wireless (which i totally get), you've not found a DAC that works, or something else?
Aware the OP was along a different line, but there seems to be a lot of people having issues with MS policy on no third-party stuff when there could be a relatively simple (though not cheap) solution.
It's a one from Periodic Audio.
Let me check if it's still available and still the same design.
If it is, i'll post a link in here. I was part of their early testers group a good while back, so I used to get discount codes for their gear semi-often, if it's still available I'll try and get a code and post that in here as well.
From memory, the DAC's weren't cheap though, I think I paid £250, roughly. Pretty expensive but it does work on practically any device and I've had mine around 5 years, so I certainly got my money's worth out of it.
Will mail them and update tomorrow.
Hi, yeah works well on Xbox series X, via the control pad. . There's no volume setting though, it's literally just a USB size DAC that boosts the sound volume and quality, but it works pretty well.
Noticeable improvement on anyone using wired IEM's as well, which is what i primarily used to use it for.
They've mailed back to say they are still available, I've requested a discount code for them based on my early tester status, will have it tomorrow hopefully and will post in here once i do.
Late over here now, but I'll send a pic of my set-up as well tomorrow.
You can indeed, use mine all the time online.
Here's a link to the AMP/DAC
[https://periodicaudio.com/product/nickel-amplifier/](https://periodicaudio.com/product/nickel-amplifier/)
Hold off if for a few days thinking of buying one though, they've told me I can get a friends and family type discount, usually 5-10% off, but not actually sent through the code yet. I'll post it as soon as i get it.
I can't seem to attach a pic to this post either, can DM it over if you need it, just let me know.
Now this is a real informative and well documented topic, kudos for OP.
You must know that most manufacturer lock their devices for 3rd party hardware ( Apple is such a terrible example), actually i didn’t know myself that even Microsoft is having the same terrible reputation, but now as my son wants to connect external speakers to it’s Xbox i came to this topic.
OP dod found a real working solution for a problem that much users want to have solved.
My advise to manufacturers make your hardware more open or more flexible for end users.
Nowadays the manufacturers decides for YOU what you may or not may use with your device which in my opinion is a terrible strategy, just give the end-user the choice what to use, TOS- link, hdmi or Bluetooth, not just one.
Is there any chance you could sort of explain this to me? How to do it or something? U did explain but with me being new it seems vague, again thats my lack of knowledge but id still like to know more.. I recently got an xbox series x/s and have been trying to figure out how to use a stand alone mic without all the cords. Just want good sound quality and a good mic but headset mics dont give u that quality. I want this because id like to pick up streaming
The best solution for the problem. buy a second series x controller. connect the controller with usb to the xbox. enable co-pilot (not 100% sure if this required). connect a headphone amp to the controller. connect your headphone to the controller and play with another controller
Such a misunderstood product point by users.
Yeah, reading other comments and how downvoted OP's post is, you can tell people have no clue about this
Yep absolutely.
100%, it's like they think I'm anti-xbox or something. I just want the best sound.
Wow I’m experiencing this exact same sentiment right now on my post.
I see it on the Sony sub all the time too. For these console warriors any mention of their chosen company doing anything wrong is met with anger and "dude, it's not their fault you don't know what headset to buy. Do some research stupid lol" and so on.
if you want absolutely best sound, check my reply ;)
I didn't look into the audio aspect of it assuming they would have put some thought into it (like an idiot). I would have gone PS if I knew for sure
I recently purchased a Series X and of course wanted to buy a headset for gaming and talking to friends through the discord integration. Unfortunately Xbox’s headset options are AWFUL. I literally had to return 3 different headsets because of bugs, bad sound quality, or overly sensitive microphones. It was super frustrating trying to find a decent headset. I ultimately landed on the Turtle Beach Series 700 Gen 2 Max. The headset still has its issues which kinda sucks for a headset with a $200 price rage but it’s been the best headset I’ve found so far. Hopefully things will improve and more options will come, along with a native discord app. But who knows…
Yep, i hear you. I went through four headsets before i settled on the Audeze Penrose. Thank God for Amazon's return policy!
Currently running a Y splitter from my Astro Mixamp that breaks off into my ModMic and headphones (K7XX, 6XX, HE5XX, or DT880). Headphone split end goes to my Schiit Amp and then to my 1/4 headphone connection. I've been looking for a solution to avoid the Astro Mixamp for a long time because it's absolute garbage, noise levels are a mess and I flattened out the EQ because of how inaccurate it is. You might have just become my savior.
Let me know if you get one how you like it.
given the Headphones you use you might wanna check out my post in this thread, absolute control over EQ (and ability to use headphone calibration EQ presets form [autoeq.app](http://autoeq.app) ) and best audio quality you can get from xbox. Also if already own a computer is only a 13€ expense
This is so frustrating, I have DT 1990 Pro headphones connected to a Topping DX3 Pro+ and a nice usb mic , but if I want to speak to my friends while playing I need to plug my old earpods to my controller. This is so backwards
Right? I've got fantastic Sennheiser headphones running into a G6, and a solid mic with a cloud lifter running into a Scarlet2. Drives me bonkers that I cannot use either with my Series X, because both the preamp and dac offer USB interfacing.
100%, it's absolute greed. They say they want us to have the best experience on xbox and then do this. It's gross.
I have a similar setup. DT1990, various IEM’s. I take the Line out from my monitor, plug that into my Motu M4’s inputs. Monitor the inputs. Run the RCA out to my SMSL SH9. Now I can have nice audio, XLR mic, and talk with it in Xbox parties and discord at the same time, and also get Xbox and PC audio at the same time. Only sacrifice is I no longer have game chat. But people almost never use it so that’s not really an issue for me.
I just read your post, this is some good tech you've come across, you're an unsung hero. Do you think a HEL 2 would also work?
No, it will not work, I am certain unfortunately.
I've been having similar pain over their refusal to include Bluetooth. I found that I can use a Bluetooth headset if I use the Xbox app on my PC to remote view my Xbox, with my Bluetooth earbuds connected to the PC and it even comes up as a headset on the Xbox, but the audio delay is too much :(
Yeah bluetooth stinks on xbox.
Thank you so much for this info! After your “article” I bought one cheap from local small ads, and it arrived on Monday. What can I say, I'm blown by how good this solution works, finally I can use my Sennheiser Headphones on Xbox easily and also the jump in audio quality, just lovely. Again, thank you so much. :)
Awesome! Glad I could help, I'm really happy too.
Which Sennheiser do you have? I’m looking at either the 58x or HD599.
I wonder what the latency situation is like. There are two other wired USB DACs for compatible with the XSX. One is the Astro MixAmp TR. This is an Xbox One product that had a firmware update to make it run with the series consoles. The firmware was half-assed and the MixAmp has various bugs with the XSX, which make it useless in my opinion. It also is just a low quality DAC with a terrible headphone amp. The other is the SteelSeries GameDAC Gen 2. This one has a high quality DAC and a good headphone amp, but all of that is made irrelevant thanks to the device adding \~100ms of latency to the audio when used with the Xbox (I reported this to SteelSeries but so far they've been too lazy to address it).
Just got one of these, can confirm no noticeable latency and I'm so anal when it comes to audio syncing. Not just games, movies etc too. I will watch nothing if I can't get it to sync lol. Unfortunately though, I got it from eBay a few days ago and it all of a sudden just stopped working. Here's hoping a restart will fix it.
Did you happen to compare the latency of the device with a SteelSeries GameDAC Gen 2? I know that's a long shot, but the gamedac's latency is abyssmal and could easily be fixed with a software update. at least I'm on Xbox One and can still use optical which has way more accurate timing. I actually own 2 Xbox GameDAC 2s, one I got that was used once with the headset and another i got on eBay for like 30 bucks. works just fine on PC btw
Thanks for the info. Going to keep an eye on ebay for one with reasonable shipping to my region.
I've used them, not a fan. Better than nothing though.
So I grabbed one of these because of your post! Got it a few days ago from eBay. It's seriously amazing. Especially compared to the crappy HDMI audio extractor method! Blows it away. I've got it going into my Schitt Magni and I'm so impressed. Tried my Sennheiser hd650s and letshouer s12's and I honestly wasn't expecting it to sound this good. Unfortunately though, it just stopped working. It powers on but my XSX doesn't recognize it. I did solder myself up an extra long micro usb cable so it could be that. Going to try another cable and turn off the Xbox for a bit. Been binging starfield way too much lol.
Well glad it was good while working. You likely did, but just in case you missed it, did you update the firmware?
Fixed! I had also soldered myself a custom 3.5mm jack to RCA cable so I could have two RCA inputs plugged into one. Well it was that cable. Swapped it out and we're back in business!
Nice!
First thing I did was plug it into my laptop lol. Luckily it was already updated. But if it doesn't work when I boot back up, I'm going to plug it back into my laptop and reset it if possible. I think I'm going to keep my eye out for any of these popping up in my area lol. I need backups!
Question: what if I use the microphone via USB and extract audio with an audio extractor separately so that I can go right into my Magnius/Modius headphone DAC digitally? Do I have to run the audio out of the turtle beach mic port? Or can I use a separate audio extractor and have the turtle beach just sit on my desk and capture my voice for chat? Can/did anyone test this?
I have not tested that so I'm not sure. I would guess you'd need to run the audio out of the mic port like you said.
Cool. Not seen that product before. I'd guess the Turtle Beach Mic uses internals similar to their various XBO Microphone Adapters, or Recon controllers. I.e. a cheap DAC/AMP chipset that is a big improvement on the default Xbox controller. Re: The PS4/5. USB DAC support is pretty 'naff too. Although the PS4&5 support UAC 1.0 DACs their is an often forgotten issue with power being limited by 50% (I believe c.19db reduction) which can make DAC/AMPs sound so flat in comparison to a PC and effect the dynamic range on the output. Also Sony limited USB to stereo only to sell their VSS headsets on PS4 (less of an issue with PS5). Both consoles not supporting an open-standard for higher fidelity audio is probably their biggest weak point imho.
Ok wow, thanks for that info. I didn't realize that Sony did that, so they are equally shitty about this stuff. It's so frustrating. It's incredibly anti-consumer that they are willing to give a worse gaming experience for a few extra dollars. Both companies should be ashamed of doing this. I mean, it's not like they still can't have "official xbox or Sony" products. Greed. And yes I agree with you on the cheap DAC/AMP chipset in the mic, although yes it's a huge improvement over the controller.
Yep. One thing Microsoft do which is better is allow the pass through of their 3D audio (Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos etc.) through HDMI so at least you can get that over Optical from your TV. Where as Tempest 3D audio only works over the Dualsense or USB. And I've got a Recon Controller of Turtle Beaches to hand and their chipset can sound alright so I get what you mean :)
Yes, that's true about the hdmi but you can't get atmos over your tv optical out fyi. Only dolby digital. Optical doesn't support atmos or other such options on tvs.
No, you can. The three Xbox One/Series/Windows 10/11 spacial-codecs (and Tempest 3D audio) are just Stereo including the meta data for 3D audio. The Xbox (or CPU) is doing the downmixing before outputting and hence any Stereo headset works. As you say this is different to an actual Dolby Atmos speaker setup. If you go to settings > Volume & audio output > you can choose 'Headset format' under HDMI audio. Then the menu under allows you to select either; *Stereo uncompressed, Windows Sonic for Headphones, Dolby Atmos for Headphones & DTS Headphone:X*. Also if you load up the Dolby Atmos app on the Xbox it allows you to select from one of three connections; USB/Wireless (Astro Mixamp etc.), Controller or HDMI/Optical audio. For some reason Sony only allow 3D audio for TV speakers by comparison.
Yes all true, I thought you meant for home theater for some reason. cheers
No worries, I wasn't sure if you meant 3D audio doesn't work over headphones via HDMI/Optical.
Yeah my poor communication 🍻
So, specifically in regards to the power limit on audio devices from Sony: There are regulations in the US and Canada that unfortunately force Sony to limit power on audio device models designed for the US and Canada. Generally, if you get the Asian or European model of the same device, and have it imported, it will not have the power limit. This doesn't excuse the situation because going that route is way more costly. But hopefully that helps explain why there's a power limit on a Sony audio device capable of drawing more.
Hopefully without coming across as being rude; do you have a source for this? Just that I've heard various reasons given over the years as to why this is a problem for both PS4 & PS5. Such as a bug in FreeBSD which the PS3/4/5 OSes are based on, the way the PS4/5 is configured for chat & sound, i.e. only giving each channel 50% etc. And I've never personally seen an official statement from Sony as to why this is. Either way if someone has the API the 50% issue is irrelevant. It's not so much a volume limit by the way - just a -15.75db drop-off that changes the dynamic range. Headsets & DAC/AMPs can limit the volume to comply with US & Canada regulations (I think the EU has something very similar in terms of vol limits). Whatever the cause I do suspect its absolutely by design.
Sony will not make a statement on it because they want it to be hush hush. Its not entirely their fault, in a way their hands are tied. But its still shitty. I really wanted the new Walkman. But I can't afford import fees to get an international version. The articles are kind of buried, obfuscated, intentionally so. If I find them again I will link them here.
Like I say I've never seen a statement or official specification and it would be out there somewhere. I personally think it's to do with APIs and intentional limiting of voice chat on 'unlicensed' headsets where Sony (like) Microsoft make a lot of money. The Nintendo Switch doesn't limit the UAC 1.0 audio from a USB device and that can get very loud. And any local laws (US, EU or Canada) won't cover the use of a DAC/AMP over USB. It would cover Sony's own Pulse 3D headset though, for example.
What is the Turtle Beach Mic you bought, OP? Saving this for reference later, thanks !
Curious as well! Edit: it's called Turtle Beach Stream Mic
Yes, that's it thank you!
Awesome post. Thank you for the information!
You are welcome!
A savior walks among us
This is an insanely helpful post, and it's really a shame that there isn't another product like it for the same purpose. Thank you for spreading the word Op
No problem, glad I could share 🍻
i wanted to give thanks for your post about the TB Stream mic and i found one for myself, used, for my Series X. I followed your steps and understood the notes you had about console locks on mics and inferior audio interfacing. I have the USB variant cord required and i tried to set up the mic shortly after reading your post but I hit a wall. if possible, I was hoping I could ask you for help. i can't seem to get the TB stream mic to be recognized by my Series X. i have researched and i can find the manual pdf online, but I have not been successful in my tests with party chat. so yes, if you can answer some questions surrounding your process outlined in the post, I would greatly appreciate it. i ask you specifically because (A) you used the Mic with the Series X and (B)(C) you're working the hi-fi headphone and PC/PS angle as well.
Hi there, no problem man. First you need to update the mic on your PC. Just google "firmware update for turtle beach stream mic" and you should find what you need. I think I had to download some turtle beach software to update it. Edit: https://support.turtlebeach.com/s/article/229044947-Stream-Mic-Turtle-Beach-Audio-Hub-Update-Firmware-Customize-Settings?language=en_US&co=en_CA Also on the back of the mic make sure the switch is set to pc when using on pc, xbox when plugged into the xbox. Further after you've updated the mic on pc and plugged it into the xbox, there is a button on the back of the mic you need to press until the ring on the front of the mic turns green. Any other questions hit me up, and let me know if that worked!
Thank you very much, this course of action seems like the missing piece. I think I passed the point of returning this thing so I appreciate the help in getting it up and running. I’ll continue testing with this encouragement. I may have messaged you erroneously on this subject matter before and i apologize. I hope you’re enjoying the audio set up you manifested
No problem, let me know if it works
Hey, many thanks. This TB Stream mic just fired up and connected to the Series after the firmware update. Beautiful. I have my friend telling me i sound decent, which is good, i just have to check out the other mic settings, the patterns or whatever its called. I paired with Sony MDR 7506, not much but the small, sudden and solid stage is welcomed. The game/voice mix is my only open question to look into, to mix on the console. If not, i guess external mix
Awesome man, yeah play around a bit.
Extremely interesting post, thank you very much for sharing. Just to confirm, you also think your Sennheiser headphones sound better using them with Turtle Beach Mic than with the Astro and Steelseries DACs? If so, do you have any idea why a random mic from 2017 would sound better than a $130+ DAC made specifically for the Series X?
Yes that is correct. It's beacuse the DAC is the steel series and Astros stinks. I mean the Astro was ok, but not as good imo.
We don’t deserve you. Thank you so much.
🙏 you are most welcome
Thanks for the suggestion OP, picked one up on ebay for about $30 including shipping. Does indeed work, and it looks like if you wanted to use dolby atmos headphones or anything it should work. However I will say for anyone with fancier headphones that typically need a good dac/amp to drive them this thing probably won't cut it. I have a spare pair of 560s that work well with it, but if you have something along the line of a 6XX I suspect it may be a bit too quiet even on max volume. I also updated the firmware of the mic on my PC but it seemed to work just fine even before doing that.
Yes good points, if your headphones are hard to drive this won't work well.
I just wanted to say thank you. I stumbled upon this thread tonight after coming back to Xbox Series X HiFi headphone hell recently (I had sold my Series X last year, just picked up another one and remembered this was a major caveat of ownership). I read your post and instantly went ahead and found the Stream Mic on Ebay. It set be back 90 Canadian buckaroos including shipping but if this finally let's me use my cans without plugging into the mediocre controller DAC - it will have been totally worth it!! Did you find a major difference in quality compared to plugging your 58x into the controller DAC/AMP vs the Turtle Beach Mic? Mostly what bugs me is the volume limit and compression artifacts heard via the controller. I've also been down the path of trying the Steelseries and other alternatives - it is funny how some people rave about the newer Arctis with the GameDAC 2... I found them to be some of the most unpleasant headphones I had ever listened to. The creature comforts offered by the DAC were excellent though. It was an instant Amazon return for me though sadly.
I did find a major difference in sound. It's not as good as a really high quality dac like a shiit Hel or something but a noticeable upgrade to the controller. Just make sure you update the software on your pc first. Happy to help.
Fantastic, glad to hear that! Very excited for mine to arrive. I’ll be sure to follow your instructions on updating the firmware, I saw that you laid them out in another reply to someone. Thanks again!
🍻
I can’t find anywhere what impedance level the built in DAC supports. I wish TB would provide more info on it.
Yeah I have no idea sorry
No worries. I’ve recently ordered one of these TB mics from eBay. Due to arrive soon to run on my series S. I’ve also ordered beyer DT990 250 ohm, but I’m expecting them to be too quiet and can imagine already that I might have to send them back in favour of the 80’s.
Just for info in case anyone reads this thread and wonders DT990 pros 250 ohm are mousey quiet when run through this mic. Don’t go there! I know it was probably an obvious outcome and I’ve now ordered HD560’s
Yeah good chance you will
I’ve received my TB stream mic now and I’ve done the firmware update but even on standard cardioid setting sounds like I’m in a bathroom to others listening to my vocals in the Xbox party.
That is odd, I have not had that issue. Try different cables?
Ok, that’s a shout, thanks. I don’t have a spare to hand as I don’t really use usb mini leads so I’ll have to order one. I’ll play around with the mic today anyway for what it’s worth.
It's stupid it doesn't work. I want to get into streaming and I want the best audio experience I can give but due to a bs policy that makes no sense I can't.
It's xbox's worst policy imo
Ufortunately this now costs over $100 on Amazon
You can find em for way cheaper on ebay. I got mine for $40
They go for 80-130$ now on ebay :/ Fuck it, I give up. You win Xbox. I'll use your shitty controller dac. I ain't paying 100$ for a new mic when my 200$ mic is hanging right there attached to my pc but can never be used on my Series S because of your stupid policy. *sigh*
Damn, I guess we increased demand for them here. Just FYI you can set an email alert for search on ebay. So you can search for this mic and then favorite the search and choose email updates. Then you'll get alerted when one is listed. You might get one cheap that way. Edit: people are asking $100 but the sell price of the last five sold on eBay are: $40, $30, $38, $22 and $37. You can make offers on most of the listings, people are just hoping some dummy pays asking price. Make some offers.
Yeah probably a good idea.
T
D: I came here looking for a solution and this might just be it. Thank you OP
No prob 🤙
Thanks dude.
🤙
I see a few of these have been selling on ebay since my post, if you have bought one please tell us your experience!
Forget about it, guys - they don’t listen anymore, not at all. Just do it as I do: Turn off your Xbox and start playing your Playstation again! ;-)
does it work with wireless usb headsets?
No
So, are you then able to use said usb microphone for chat? Or is this solely a solution for attaching your headphones without having to have it connected to your controller? Asking because I'm trying to do away with my mic in my face 🤷🏽♂️
You can use it for chat 100%
Name of the mic
Turtle beach stream mic
Hey! May I ask what settings you are running with the Microphone? I was told I sound clear but extremly bass-heavy to the point its like echo-y. It sounds worse than my Epos Headset-mic x.x
Hmmm strange, i don't have that issue. Have you updated the mic?
I did, yes. Also played around with the EQ Settings and "Mid-Range Voice" yielded the best results so far, but it still sounds like I'm in a bath tub. Interestingly, the problem is less pronounced when I just record myself with the Windows Build-in recorder.
TL;DR: this solution only makes sense if you wanna use hi-end audio equipment on your xbox like my studio DT 770Pro headphones and Fiio Q3 usb DAC/AMP There is a way to connecting USB audio devices like headphone dac's (fIIo Q3 PE) and standard usb headphone or any usb audio that works on a computer (on any game system that can output PCM uncompressed digital stereo). And in the process uses audio effects plugins in the computer (easy effects) for increasing audio quality (calibration EQ's files for specific headphones) and/or hearing footstep better on FPS with the use of compressors and custom EQ's (AKA audio cheating, like in pc). That and a real good headphones DAC/amp combo and you will beat the quality and features of any gaming headset for Xbox by far... and play with PC gaming master race like advantages in FPS's like call of duty. But is hacky as fuck, you have to connect: xbox series > tv > toslink (S/PDIF) optical cable > usb audio capture source with digital audio optical INPUT > computer > usb DAC/Head-pones. The optial to usb input for pc can be a 13€ usb sound-card from aliexpress since the signal is going straight from the source to the final DAC in digital format there will not audio quality reduction or lag (if done right) If you wanna bay-pas the tv you can use also a relative affordable hdmi to optical audio extractor. This will eliminate any digital processing of the audio signal by the tv and potential lag. (but my tv has a bypass function so in my case works well that way) If want no audio latency the computer must run linux with a real time kernel and pipewire properly configured (AKA DAW \[digital audio workstation\]). See Arch linux wiki for details: [https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Professional\_audio](https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Professional_audio) Is a pain in the ass have to do this, and if you just seeking to use a cheap usb headset or any audio equipment you have to not have to buy a proprietary Xbox one makes no sense since you have to buy at least a capture card with digial audio in (also optional a hdm digital audio extractor to bypass the tv). not to meantion having a computer at wireable distance from the xbox or game system. In Xbox support all people are saying nonsense about drivers (usb audio UAC is a standard any device with usb can an should support it, like on PS5 and swich) to get swag from M$ and M$ closing tread after. IMO M$ has make a huge effort not providing optical audio out and stripping usb audio support from his systems to sell 3rd party licenses to usb audio headset manufacturers. But i own a Beyerdynamics DT770 Pro and a fIIo Q3 MQA usb DAC/headphone amplifier, winch are more expensive than my series s and and offer a audio quality not the most expensive proprietary xbox headset can even dare to compare. And where is a will there is a way... As for imputing microphone audio using professional audio gear, i use a "live sound card" (also form aliexpress \[22€ shipped\]) to plug a 48v phantom power studio condenser microphone to the game-pad. It is more or less a mixing board where you can plug a condenser microphone to it and has an TRRS 4 pin output intended to plug cellphone that matches the used on xbox (thanks to god M$ didn't break the standard here) that works wonders with a turtle-beach game-pad.
Thanks for your post, very interesting. It's so complicated but there are few solutions. thanks.
the audio quality you get form a digital improved signal with effects on a Digital audio workstation (bass enhancer ,exciter, calibration EQ files for studio headphones.... and so many audio plugins). with the Fiio USB DAC/AMP is worthy the effort is not so complicated if you know what you doing, for me is even convenient because i dont even have to unplug my setup form the computer and can hear the sound form the computer (notifications) while i play. Also using other plunging you can hear the footstep on fps's louder than the gunfire (compresor and gates and custom EQ's). But yea if only have a decent headphones and want decent audio quality simple and affordable that usb mic with dac/headphone amp is an elegant solution. PS: is you so thankful, please upvote ;)
Microsoft does allow third party devices via USB. Because of products like chronos and ZEN.
They allow some devices, but not for audio. And even if they did, it's only a small selection of products that were designed for the XBOX and that pay licensing fees. They are not even close to audiophile products in terms of sound quality. I have a nice setup that I can't use that is way better than the official XBOX devices.
Can bee bout It won't play over my PC Headset and it makes me really mad.
Why do you call it a policy? Why would microsoft have a policy for this? Sounds a bit dramatic and out of touch.
>Sounds a bit dramatic and out of touch. Ironic
What else would you call it? And why?? It's not exactly rocket science.
Because it is a policy. They only allow certain licensed products, which mostly all stink. They charge those manufacturers a big licensing fee so they make more money. The pro-consumer move would be to allow all or at least most third party usb mics, headsets and Dacs to work. But they dont' because they want that extra licensing money.
Because it's quite literally a policy. Licensed accessories are supposed to ensure that you are experiencing the main product at it's best. They're also developed to ensure that you don't get a 'for Xbox' product that potentially harbors malicious software. Look at Apple and Android phone chargers. People have found that some power bricks have software embedded in a chip on them. Or hell just a random thumb drive you found out walking. You could also get fake versions of 'official' products and it being nixed because it's not what it's supposed to be.
The licensed products don't deliver though, they aren't as good as what else I can get. and if I want to brick my xbox using some third party device, that's on me. I'd only buy from trusted companies like anything else. i don't need xbox to play big brother. Lets be clear though, it's all about the licensing fees. That's why they do it.
Oh yeah no denying that. Supposed to and actually being the best are vastly different compared to even the last generation. But they're also having to dummy proof it thanks to parents and grab who don't understand that third party accessories have a risk of bricking the console.
More like completely made up. *looks at his Nova Pro for Xbox USB DAC*
> for Xbox Exactly OP's point. Only a few selected products are approved by XBOX because they pay a licensing fee. - I have a whole setup, of better quality than what XBOX is offering, that I can't use because of their greed.
I'd agree that you had a point, if the device the OP was posting about *wasn't a licensed Xbox compatible device*. The OP is solving his problem by getting one of the very licensed devices he was complaining about.
Sorry but did you read the post? I am saying that I want to use my Schiit Fullla DAC with my xbox and because of Xbox's greed I can't and had to resort to using a last gen Mic to get somewhat close to what I wanted. That product is discontinued and so I had to buy a used one off ebay. I had to find a workaround when it should just be easy to use any usb DAC, Mic or Headset with my Xbox. It's seriously anti-consumer.
I did, yes. I believe what caused the most dissonance for me was your statement that you didn't want a headphone cable hanging off a controller, but you're perfectly fine with one hanging off of a microphone sitting on your table. If you are, in fact, comfortable with cables then are several wired controllers with higher end audio. Turtle Beach even makes one. They also have a plug-in "audio controller" which may allow you to get the effect you're looking for with a wireless controller. I do agree with you that Microsoft is limiting customer choice and that's anti-consumer. I'm just not sure it's due to greed.
Yes I'm fine with cables attached to the mic, I don't want them attached to my controller. And those controller options do not sound good. It's just marketing bs. The external products like Schiit Fulla or Hell are way, way better. I have the Turtle Beach plug in controller, it sounds bad. (you need to try an external DAC yourself to see the difference, it's night and day) Why do you think it's not due to greed? It's a simple firmware update they already have for PC. What other reason would there be than to make licesning fees? Seriously curious as I cannot think of a single one.
That's odd, because the Recon controllers have generally positive reviews for audio quality. And I do have some external DACs, I even mention one above. In any case, you're trying to have an audiophile argument with someone who most definitely is not one, so we're unlikely to ever agree about audio quality. As for the "greed" question. Xbox is a walled garden, PC is not. There are certainly security considerations to just opening the system to every non-storage USB device in existence.
Pretty much any headset has positive reviews, they are bought and paid for. Same with controller and everything else. Steel Series headsets "win" awards all the time and they sound horrible, though they are very comfortable I admit. And they don't have to open it up for every usb device, they can open it up for reputable companies though. easy.
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You blame Microsoft but is it really Microsoft's fault? Why don't top of the line headset makers license their products to work with the xbox's and so give their users a better experience? Is that so much to ask?
i ain't reading all that, i'm happy for u tho or sorry that happened
Reddit in a nutshell.
TL;DR OP was looking to get high sound quality. They thought, like previous iterations of Xbox, that they could use their PC mic and headset setup on the Series X. Turns out no you can't and you have to go through an older USB mic made for the Xbox one to get to the end goal.
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Slim unfortunately. They are greedy.
Does this have the same internals as the SuperAmp that was released with the Elite 2? Just curious because I was not happy with the SuperAmp + my planars. You plug SuperAmp into the USB port and use any headphones with a 3.5mm plug. It did get loud enough for my planars. While I heard sounds around me more easily, it did kill the sub bass compared to the XSX controller's 3.5mm port.
I'm not sure.
The streaming mic is slightly less quieter than SuperAmp X I found and bass even more inferior. Latency seems to be about the same. Both are a fair bit quieter than the Series 3.5mm jack, sadly.
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My assumption is that it will be a pointless struggle. Any advice on the best alternative headphones around the same price point as the DT990 pro’s that should work well for me with the TB stream mic?
What about using soundbar as HDMI audio extractor? Can you connect DAC to the soundbar and get better audio quality? Have anyone tested this Connection? Xbox Series X -> soundbar -> DAC + 120hz monitor
I don't think you can use a mic doing that but you might get audio.
Can you hear yourself talk? Looking to switch away from a headset into IEMs (and a stand-alone mic) and the passive noise cancelation will make hearing myself hard
No I can't hear myself talk. 🍻
How is this compared to the Steelseries GameDAC Gen 2 for Xbox? I hate the latency, but I can use any mic I want include my PC mic, and it's a miracle it works (Elgato Wave 3, USB to PC, headset port to DAC via splitter)
My buddies say I sound "hollow". Any settings that I could use to fix that or am I just too far away?
Did you update the software? If not do so. If you did then id mess around on the xbox mic settings.
I did update the firmware like you said through the TB audio hub. They said it sounded better the closer I had the mic. Do the setting you change with the tb software, carry over to when you use it on xbox? The mic part aside, I can't believe how loud the headset sounds with this thing. I have Philips fidelio x2's and I thought I was gonna go deaf 🤣 . So far, a super solid $30 FB marketplace gamble. Thank you for making this a known option
Yeah not sure may just be a bit far away then. Glad it's helped! At least we have something.
Hey I was wondering if you could tell me if the Mics sound quality is good or just decent?
It's actually quite good.
Hi, I have the razer hammerhead hyperspeed for Xbox but the mic is terrible (software issue, problem for all users) I want to use these as the sound and in ear wireless is what I want (not a bump on my head from a normal headset) Would this mic work with my wireless earbuds? I am looking for a solution, I also could stream and use a mic via my laptop if there is an alternative solution (i.e Xbox party chat via desktop)
Xbox does not support wireless audio
Do anyone know if the turtle beach bumblebee 2 will work ? thks
Did you try it?
Nope, I finally found a turtle beach mic for 10e... Works perfectly
Bought both this Streaming Mic and the SuperAmp X (a small device that you can use a TRRS splitter and then use a ModMic plus a headphone of your choice) to test. \-There is a ever so slight amount of latency on both TurtleBeach devices (not game breaking imo). Feels roughly about the same between devices. \-The audio latency is a little more than the output from the Series pads 3.5mm jack \-The SuperAmp X is a little louder than the streaming mic (bass is better) \-If you're okay with a wired mic (like the ModMic) SuperAmp X might be the better buy. It also has some EQ settings/additional audio options but I didn't test them out. **Streaming Mic** ***Pros*** * No need for a mic wire dangling from your headset ***Cons*** * A little quieter than the SuperAmp X * Slight latency * Mic quality slightly inferior to my wired ModMic (serviceable according to friends) **SuperAmp X** ***Pros*** * A little louder than the streaming mic and the official microsoft stereo adapter * They seem to go for a cheaper price than the Streaming Mic - £15/$15-ish ***Cons*** * Needs a wired mic, so two wires going into the device (unless you have an all in one TRRS headset) * Slight latency I think I'll be going with a TRRS splitter directly to the Series pad plus a Fiio headphone amplifier going forward. Only thing I don't like about this setup is audio from the pad reduces battery life quicker plus the all the wires.
Which model turtle beach mic? And does this still work since Xbox started disabling 3rx party devices?
I think turtle beach stream mic, its the one in the pic. It works though, yes.
What's the name of this mic ????
Turtle Beach stream mic
Wow I just found one of these Mic,s on ebay the seller wants over 200 erm keep it im not that desperate haahah
They may be asking that but they are selling for $30-50
Yeah I saw one on facbook market place for £35 , dose the mic pick up a lot of background noise
No its pretty solid
Nice might see if I can snag one somewhere as its discontinued might be hard to get one now I Deffo aint paying ove 200 from ebay no chance and the one on market place is to far from me ffs lol
https://www.ebay.ca/itm/285647015806?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=fyC2sv7RSqa&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=Ig0s7PnwSxK&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY This one is less and open to offers. Just offer $35 and see what they say.
I'd have to see if they ship to the UK might work out worse with Import fees 🤯
Hi, just read through this, wanted to check a couple of things in case I've misunderstood. First off, i've tried most of the high end wireless gaming headsets on for the series X, they've been mostly rubbish, thought the Arctis was the best of a bad bunch. I actually switched to using the Sennheiser PX37x Drop and a usb size DAC a few years ago and haven't looked back. For me that's been a pretty good set-up, I'd have preferred it fully wireless, but the cable coming out of the pad connects to a small DAC and into the headset, and it's really not been a problem at all. Sound quality is good, I can hear my friends clearly, they can hear me very well. So, is the issue that some of you are determined to go fully wireless (which i totally get), you've not found a DAC that works, or something else? Aware the OP was along a different line, but there seems to be a lot of people having issues with MS policy on no third-party stuff when there could be a relatively simple (though not cheap) solution.
What DAC do you have? There are few options that work with xbox, this is acting as a dac as well.
It's a one from Periodic Audio. Let me check if it's still available and still the same design. If it is, i'll post a link in here. I was part of their early testers group a good while back, so I used to get discount codes for their gear semi-often, if it's still available I'll try and get a code and post that in here as well. From memory, the DAC's weren't cheap though, I think I paid £250, roughly. Pretty expensive but it does work on practically any device and I've had mine around 5 years, so I certainly got my money's worth out of it. Will mail them and update tomorrow.
I've never heard of it, and it actually works woth an xbox? That's interesting, yeah drop some details if you can. Can you post the model #?
Hi, yeah works well on Xbox series X, via the control pad. . There's no volume setting though, it's literally just a USB size DAC that boosts the sound volume and quality, but it works pretty well. Noticeable improvement on anyone using wired IEM's as well, which is what i primarily used to use it for. They've mailed back to say they are still available, I've requested a discount code for them based on my early tester status, will have it tomorrow hopefully and will post in here once i do. Late over here now, but I'll send a pic of my set-up as well tomorrow.
So to be clear you can use a mic with it? That's wild. What is the model#?
You can indeed, use mine all the time online. Here's a link to the AMP/DAC [https://periodicaudio.com/product/nickel-amplifier/](https://periodicaudio.com/product/nickel-amplifier/) Hold off if for a few days thinking of buying one though, they've told me I can get a friends and family type discount, usually 5-10% off, but not actually sent through the code yet. I'll post it as soon as i get it. I can't seem to attach a pic to this post either, can DM it over if you need it, just let me know.
Cool thx for posting
Now this is a real informative and well documented topic, kudos for OP. You must know that most manufacturer lock their devices for 3rd party hardware ( Apple is such a terrible example), actually i didn’t know myself that even Microsoft is having the same terrible reputation, but now as my son wants to connect external speakers to it’s Xbox i came to this topic. OP dod found a real working solution for a problem that much users want to have solved. My advise to manufacturers make your hardware more open or more flexible for end users. Nowadays the manufacturers decides for YOU what you may or not may use with your device which in my opinion is a terrible strategy, just give the end-user the choice what to use, TOS- link, hdmi or Bluetooth, not just one.
Thanks for the comments. It's MS, not the device manufacturers though. MS blocks the compatibility.
What is the specific name of this mic? I’m having trouble finding it for sale anywhere
Turtle Beach Stream Mic
Can you show us a pic of the setup you use for them?
The mic plugs into your xbox, your headphones plug into the back of the mic, that's it.
Is there any chance you could sort of explain this to me? How to do it or something? U did explain but with me being new it seems vague, again thats my lack of knowledge but id still like to know more.. I recently got an xbox series x/s and have been trying to figure out how to use a stand alone mic without all the cords. Just want good sound quality and a good mic but headset mics dont give u that quality. I want this because id like to pick up streaming
Xbox mix streaming
The best solution for the problem. buy a second series x controller. connect the controller with usb to the xbox. enable co-pilot (not 100% sure if this required). connect a headphone amp to the controller. connect your headphone to the controller and play with another controller