The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX gaming headset is a wireless headset designed for console gamers seeking quality audio without breaking the bank. With features like 50mm drivers, a flip-to-mute microphone, and compatibility with various platforms, it aims to deliver immersive sound and clear communication. In this review, I’ll share my personal experience with the Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX, covering its design, comfort, sound quality, microphone performance, battery life, and overall value.
Design and Comfort
The Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX sports a sleek, modern design with a sturdy plastic build. The headset feels lightweight, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions. The ear cups are well-padded with breathable mesh fabric, which helps reduce heat buildup during long play periods. The adjustable headband ensures a snug fit, and I found it accommodating even when wearing glasses, thanks to Turtle Beach’s ProSpecs glasses-friendly design.
One notable feature is the flip-to-mute microphone, which seamlessly integrates into the headset’s design when not in use. This not only keeps the mic out of the way but also provides a quick and intuitive way to mute yourself during gameplay.
Sound Quality
Equipped with 50mm drivers, the Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX delivers robust audio performance. The sound profile leans towards a bass-heavy output, which enhances the impact of explosions and other low-frequency effects in games. While this adds excitement to action-packed titles, it can sometimes overshadow mid and high frequencies, affecting the clarity of dialogue and subtle in-game sounds.
The headset features several EQ presets, including a “Superhuman Hearing” mode designed to amplify quiet sounds like enemy footsteps. In practice, this mode can provide a competitive edge in certain scenarios, though I found it to be a bit too sharp for casual listening. Overall, the audio quality is solid for gaming purposes but may not satisfy audiophiles seeking a more balanced sound.
Microphone Performance
The integrated microphone offers clear voice transmission, making it suitable for in-game communication and voice chats. The flip-to-mute function is convenient, allowing for quick muting without fumbling with buttons. However, the mic lacks advanced noise-canceling features, so background noises may occasionally be picked up during use. For most gaming situations, though, the microphone performs adequately.
Battery Life
Turtle Beach claims a battery life of up to 15 hours on a single charge for the Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX. In my experience, the headset consistently delivered around 14 to 15 hours of use before needing a recharge, aligning with the manufacturer’s estimate. Charging is done via a USB-C connection, and a full charge takes approximately 2 hours. While not the longest battery life on the market, it is sufficient for most gaming sessions.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX connects wirelessly through a USB dongle, providing a stable and low-latency connection. It’s compatible with various platforms, including Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, though specific models are tailored for each system. The headset lacks Bluetooth connectivity, which limits its use with mobile devices. However, for console and PC gaming, the wireless performance is reliable and hassle-free.
Controls and Features
All controls are conveniently located on the left ear cup, including volume dials for both game and chat audio, a power button, and a mode button for cycling through EQ presets. The layout is intuitive, allowing for quick adjustments during gameplay. The headset also includes a mic monitoring feature, enabling you to hear your own voice to avoid shouting during intense gaming moments.
Conclusion
The Turtle Beach Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX offers a compelling package for gamers seeking a wireless headset with solid performance at a reasonable price point. Its comfortable design, clear microphone, and immersive sound make it a strong contender in its category. While it has some limitations, such as a bass-heavy sound profile and lack of Bluetooth connectivity, these are minor drawbacks considering its overall value. If you’re in the market for a reliable gaming headset that won’t break the bank, the Stealth 600 Gen 2 MAX is worth considering.