Just one month after RIG unveiled its impressive, flagship R5 Max HD for PC and console players, the company is doubling down on its low-cost, high-spec ethic by finally following up with a wireless gaming headset. The R8 Spectre Pro HS and HX gaming headphones, for PS5 and Xbox, clearly mean business.
RIG’s new dual-wireless headset promises studio-grade audio and a host of improved technologies and bonus features that you don’t find together at the same sub-$200 price point. Combined with the modular build of the R8 Spectre Pro, there isn’t a notable competitor that promises as much for $179 RRP.
The R8 Spectre Pro again brings RIG’s textbook audio hardware to console players, using graphene-coated drivers specifically tuned for competitive gaming, helping to reduce distortion and targeting clearer positional audio and spatial awareness, giving FPS players an edge to identify directional cues in fast-paced multiplayer titles.
However, unlike the R5 Max HD, this headset is built from the ground up to help drive its dual-wireless tech; Michael Jessup, head of audio product at RIG, noted that headset developers typically only have two or three chipsets to pick from, so this time his team opted to adapt a new chipset not used in gaming headsets, creating a “hybrid solution.”
Wireless functionality is expanded with simultaneous 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth connectivity, letting users connect to their PS5 or Xbox while also pairing with their chosen mobile device for calls and notifications. What’s more, extra transmitters can be bought to switch between up to four devices; settings can be tuned with the RIG Navigator mobile app.
“Everything we do is built around this simple idea of audio above all,” Jessup said. “It’s not a tagline; it’s how we make decisions. It’s how we design and how we prioritize what goes into every product. So for us, that means putting the player at the center.”
He added that RIG wasn’t “chasing trends or adding features for the sake of it,” and is instead focused on building headsets that perform consistently, feel comfortable, and hold up for years to come,” with ultra-low latency performance and enhanced acoustic precision.
All about that base
A major focus of the R8 Spectre Pro is the battery life: up to 60 hours. “You could go a full week and not have to charge your headset,” said Jessup. To keep it topped up, the package also includes a charging base for storage, which RIG’s team was arguably more excited about than the headphones themselves.
“We know from previous headsets that have been very successful within the RIG lineup that users like a nice, simple way to charge their headset,” Jessup explained. The base has wireless pass-through, meaning players can take the USB-C transmitter and plug it into a console, PC, or the connected base to get wireless functionality to the headset, with the option of cable routing on three sides to fit any setup.
It also comes with RGB lighting effects, which are purely cosmetic, but users can cycle through to change the color, effects, brightness, and pulsing to complement their gaming rig. It’s also worth noting that the headset doesn’t just sit lightly into the base — it’s magnetized, meaning you don’t have to worry about knocking it over, or accidentally severing the charge.
As with the RIG headsets that have come before it, the R8 Spectre Pro uses the SNAP+LOCK modular system to let players replace ear cushions and decorative plates for a more personalized experience.
RIG R8 Spectre Pro HS (PS5) and HX (Xbox) key features
- Graphene drivers: 40mm drivers with graphene coating designed to reduce total harmonic distortion below 0.5%.
- 3D audio tuning: Tuned to support PS5 3D Audio and Xbox’s Dolby Atmos for stronger directional awareness in supported games.
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 40kHz range, with an emphasis on upper mid-range frequencies used in game cues.
- Dual wireless: Supports 2.4GHz wireless for gaming and Bluetooth 5.2 for voice or mobile audio.
- Full-bandwidth mic: Boom microphone supports 16-bit/48kHz capture with directional noise rejection, plus flip-to-mute ability.
- Long battery life: Up to 60 hours of use on a single charge via internal battery.
- Multi-system switching: Supports up to four USB-C transmitters to switch between devices.
- Wired mode: USB-C connection allows use as a wired headset when needed.
- Charging base: Includes desktop charging base for storage and recharging, with configurable lighting effects.
- Mobile app control: Companion app allows EQ adjustment, mic settings, and firmware updates.
- Modular design: Magnetic ear cushions and faceplates support replacement and customization.
The RIG R8 Spectre Pro wireless gaming headset is now available to buy in the U.S. for $179.99; both the HS and HX will arrive in Australia in May for AUD$349.99. Europe and other markets will have to wait until later in the year to get their hands on a pair.
