Introduction

Recently, we reviewed the Creative SXFI Air, Creative's $99 Bluetooth and USB headphone with built-in Super X-Fi holographic audio technology and a host of other interesting features. The SXFI Air headphone is a lot of things, but not a serious gaming headset. That's exactly where the $130/€130 Creative SXFI Gamer steps in. Offering USB-C, USB Type-A and 3.5-mm analogue connectivity, as well as the outstanding CommanderMic microphone, the SXFI Gamer is currently one of the most interesting USB gaming headsets on the market.



We already covered the Super X-Fi technology extensively in the aforementioned SXFI Air review, after our hands-on session at CES, as well as our Creative Sound Blaster X3 and Creative SXFI Amp reviews. In essence, it's a combination of hardware (the built-in Super X-Fi ULTRA DSP) and software (head/ear mapping mobile app) working together to create a multi-speaker listening experience. While not all users like it equally, it's undoubtedly one of the most advanced virtual surround sound systems available today. On the Creative SXFI Gamer headset, it's backed up with an additional Battle Mode especially tailored around first-person shooters. There's a lot to unwrap, so let's get cracking!

Specifications

• 50-mm dynamic drivers (neodymium magnet)
• 20–20,000 Hz frequency response (specified by the manufacturer)
• Wired USB-C, USB Type-A and 3.5-mm analogue connectivity
• Closed-back, over-ear design
• Detachable CommanderMic microphone
• Super X-Fi holographic sound technology
• RGB lighting system
• Removable ear pads
• Built-in volume dial/microphone mute button/Super X-Fi toggle/RGB toggle
• 1.85 m Kevlar-braided USB-C cable (detachable)
• 1.6 m braided 3.5-mm audio cable (detachable)
• Weight: 349 g

The Package

The Creative SXFI Gamer comes in a sturdy cardboard box with distinctive Super X-Fi branding and a ton of information about the headset's key features. The design of the box feels busy and somewhat disconnected from the sleekness of its contents, but it is what it is. The headset is packed in a plastic clamshell that keeps it safe until it reaches its owner.


Here's what you'll find inside the box: the headset, detachable CommanderMic microphone, Kevlar-braided 1.85-meter USB-C cable, rubberized 1.6-meter audio cable (with 3.5-mm 4-pole TRRS plugs on both sides), small USB-C to USB Type-A adapter, and some paperwork.