Fractal Scape Review: Stunning Looks, Superior Sound
▼ Summary
– The Fractal Scape headset features a sophisticated Scandinavian minimalist design with clean lines and subtle lighting that distinguishes it from typical gaming gear.
– It offers impressive sound quality and build quality for its $199.99 price, competing well with more expensive models like Sony’s InZone H9 II.
– The headset includes convenient hardware controls, such as a volume knob and EQ button, and uses a web tool called Adjust Pro for easy customization of settings and lighting.
– It provides flexibility with two microphone options—a detachable boom mic and a built-in mic—and features a magnetic charging dock that simplifies power management and doubles as a stand.
– While the Scape supports 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity with multipoint pairing, it lacks simultaneous multi-source audio and active noise cancellation found in pricier competitors.
The Fractal Scape gaming headset combines striking Scandinavian minimalism with exceptional audio performance, offering a premium experience without the typical gamer aesthetic. Priced at $199.99, this device stands out for its sophisticated design and impressive sound quality that rivals more expensive competitors.
Fractal’s Scape headset features clean lines and understated color options in gray or black, allowing it to blend seamlessly with modern home or office setups. Subtle LED lighting around the ear cups provides a tasteful accent, a rare instance of gaming lighting that enhances rather than distracts. A prominent knob on the left ear cup, reminiscent of Apple’s Digital Crown, handles volume control and media playback with intuitive clicks for track navigation.
On the right ear cup, a dedicated button cycles through three equalizer presets, putting audio customization directly at your fingertips instead of hiding it in software. All configuration happens through Adjust Pro, a streamlined web tool that manages EQ settings, microphone sidetone, LED themes, and firmware updates. Users can select from ten lighting themes including “campfire” and “northern lights,” set custom colors, or disable lighting entirely. A portable version of Adjust Pro works offline without installation, reflecting thoughtful design throughout.
Microphone flexibility is another strong suit. The Scape includes both a flip-to-mute boom microphone for crystal-clear communications and a built-in microphone for convenience. While the boom mic delivers solid recording quality, the integrated microphone serves adequately when detached. A noise cancellation feature activated by holding the mute button effectively reduces background disturbances like fan noise, with sidetone levels adjustable via the web app.
Battery performance meets practical needs, offering over 40 hours without LEDs or approximately 24 hours with lighting enabled. The included magnetic charging dock eliminates charging hassles by serving as both a power station and display stand, while also extending the range of the 2.4GHz transmitter. The headset automatically powers down when docked and reactivates when removed, and can be used while charging via USB-C.
Connectivity includes 2.4GHz wireless through the dock’s transmitter and Bluetooth with multipoint support for two devices, though simultaneous audio mixing isn’t available. While less versatile than some premium headsets that handle multiple sources, the Scape works reliably across gaming consoles, computers, and mobile devices. The transmitter alone can connect to other devices like the Nintendo Switch, providing flexibility for different setups.
Where the Scape truly excels is sound reproduction. Music and games come through with remarkable warmth and detail, competing favorably with headsets costing significantly more. Compared to Sony’s $349.99 InZone H9 II, the Scape delivers comparable audio quality without active noise cancellation, though the design, charging dock, and customization options present compelling advantages. It clearly outperforms the Astro A20 X in audio fidelity despite similar pricing.
Fractal’s inaugural headset achieves a remarkable balance of style, substance, and usability. While missing some premium features like ANC or multi-source audio mixing, the Scape delivers outstanding value through its elegant design, superior sound, and thoughtful accessories, establishing itself as a top contender in its class.
(Source: The Verge)
