Injecting 25 years of experience into a new line of gaming headsets, Logitech claim to have created a superior all-around audio headset.
Product on Review: G633 Artemis Spectrum
Manufacturer: Logitech
Street Price: UK: £124.99, US: $149.99
Logitech have been a long standing brand in regards to quality PC and gaming peripherals and need little introduction. The G633 Artemis Spectrum comes as part of their latest gaming headsets which have set out to be the complete audio package for gamers.
As we are looking at the G633 it is worth noting that the primary difference between itself and the G933 is that the G633 is wired only, most other functions and features are identical. They are a virtual 7.1 surround headset with vibrant customisable RGB lighting. They are powered by Logitech’s own Pro-G 40mm drivers and take advantage of Dolby 7.1 and DTS Headphone:X as part of a fully featured software package. These headsets are compatible with the Xbox ONE and the PS4 so console gamers don’t have to miss out either. Other features include 3 programmable G-keys and a foldaway noise reducing microphone and multi source audio mixing, which allows you have your primary audio input travelling through USB and you could use the 4 pole adaptor to answer your phone while still gaming. Other features include 3 programmable G-keys and a foldaway noise reducing microphone.
Overview by Logitech
Experience games like never before
Get expansive cinematic sound with G633 Artemis Spectrum Gaming Headset. 7.1 Dolby or DTS Headphone:X Surround Sound and Pro-G audio drivers deliver incredible sound fidelity. Hear enemies sneaking around behind you, special ability cues, immersive environments, and inspiring gaming soundtracks the way they were meant to be heard. Artemis Spectrum is a gaming headphone worthy of serious audio fans.
Get expansive cinematic sound with G633 Artemis Spectrum Gaming Headset. 7.1 Dolby or DTS Headphone:X Surround Sound and Pro-G audio drivers deliver incredible sound fidelity. Hear enemies sneaking around behind you, special ability cues, immersive environments, and inspiring gaming soundtracks the way they were meant to be heard. Artemis Spectrum is a gaming headphone worthy of serious audio fans.
Technical Specifications
System Requirements
Windows® 10, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, PS4™ or Xbox One™
USB port or 3.5mm audio port
Internet connection for optional software download
Package Contents
– Headset
– 3.5mm analog cable w/ audio controls
– USB data cable
– Custom tags (left/right)
– User documentation
Headphone
– Driver: 1.6 in (40 mm)
– Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
– Impedance: 39 Ohms (passive), 5k Ohms (active)
– Sensitivity: 107dB SPL/mW
Microphone (Boom)
Microphone Pickup pattern: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
Size: 4mm
Frequency response: 100Hz-20KHz
Connection Type: USB
LCD Display: No
Audio Controls: Yes
Microphone: Yes
Microphone Type: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
Noise Canceling: Yes
Warranty Information: 2-Year Limited Hardware Warranty
Windows® 10, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, PS4™ or Xbox One™
USB port or 3.5mm audio port
Internet connection for optional software download
Package Contents
– Headset
– 3.5mm analog cable w/ audio controls
– USB data cable
– Custom tags (left/right)
– User documentation
Headphone
– Driver: 1.6 in (40 mm)
– Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
– Impedance: 39 Ohms (passive), 5k Ohms (active)
– Sensitivity: 107dB SPL/mW
Microphone (Boom)
Microphone Pickup pattern: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
Size: 4mm
Frequency response: 100Hz-20KHz
Connection Type: USB
LCD Display: No
Audio Controls: Yes
Microphone: Yes
Microphone Type: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
Noise Canceling: Yes
Warranty Information: 2-Year Limited Hardware Warranty
Packaging & Bundle
The packaging is fairly plain, with the Logitech G logo doing most the selling as part of the gaming line of products, with a basic description stating the G633 to be a RGB 7.1 surround gaming headset.
At the back there is greater detail given of the features listed in a selection of languages.
The included inline remote is attached to a braided 4 pole to 4 pole 3.5mm jack, and can be used simultaneously with the USB connection. On one side you can select between the inline microphone or headset microphone.
On top there is a play pause button, which can be used to answer the phone too, and at the side there is a microphone mute switch, microphone and volume dial.
As the G633 is wired, the primary cable many will be using is the 3m USB to microUSB cable.
Closer Look
From the overview you can see that the earcups are quite thick, and the construction is based on a curved plastic frame. There is soft material on the headband and earcups for comfort and a helpful tab to pull out the microphone. A nice thing in particular with this design is that there are no hardlined cables.
Thick padding on the headband to help keep things comfortable.
The earcups are large, plenty enough to fit over most peoples ears and have a soft padding with breathable fabric over them. On the right you can see the adjustment strap coming out, which is made of metal for extra robustness.
The side view gives an interesting perspective to the design, almost like a plate metal as you would expect to see as part of a futuristic armour/visor. The side panel are magnetically removable and customisable for the keen modders out there.
At the base of the left earcup you will find the micro USB and 3.5mm port.
The left side earcup also has a host of controls at the back, including a switch to choose default input by either PC/3.5mm jack modes, there are then 3x programmable G keys, by default G3 = EQ toggle, G2 = Suround mode on/off, and G1 = lighting effect toggle. These are then followed by a microphone mute button and a digital volume dial.
The foldaway microphone can be pulled out and extended and will auto mute when pushed up, but can be muted by the button at the back also. When muted a red LED indicator will come on.
Software & Lighting
The software for he G633 can be downloaded via the Logitech support page. The 3x G keys can be programmed for a variety of functions including various keystrokes and commands, while the lighting can be synced up with other Logitech RGB devices. There are various preset equaliser setting but you can create and save your own custom setting. There is also a warning that, if you set the headset to 96KHz sample rate in the windows options you will lose the ability to set custom EQ settings and lose the Dolby DTS and surround features, so if you want to use these settings, make sure you set the sample rates to 48KHz.
The lighting effects are vibrant with good colour reproduction, even for turquoise and various shades of violets and purples. It is a shame there aren’t some advanced effects like, audio reactive, though that is no reason to complain.
Performance Testing
Setup, Design & Observations
Setup is easy, though not as simple to explain to due being multi platform compatible. in 3.5mm mode, the headset is compatible with practically every device, including Xbox ONE, PS4 and mobile devices, but can also be used in PC mode for PS4 and PC. As we primarily tested with mobile and PC, the PC mode was used, followed with the installation of the software drivers.
I had to extending the earcups more than usual released the tight grip allowing me to find a comfortable fit, once over the ears the soft padding on the headband and earcups did a great job. They certainly feel on the heavy side of headsets but this never felt like a problem at any stage, though others may want to bare this in mind. Accessing the microphone boom was easy, though took a little getting used to, while the rear side buttons are noticeably well thought out and ergonomically formed. The most used features at the back are likely to be the volume control and microphone mute, which too are easy to access. Something worth noting is that the earpads are removable and hand washable.
Using the mixed input was quite awesome, meaning I could be in game while having my mobile phone connected, giving my direct alerts to messages and calls. The included 3m USB to microUSB cable is great as well many of these cables tend to be rather short.
Multimedia
In subjective listening tests, used a default flat EQ and set windows sample rate to 96K. There is a decent amount of creamy bass but seems muted compared to the strong mids while the treble seemed to be a little sharp, making listening to music from the 1975 sound quite messy. Changing the settings and using 48K sample rate made a slight noticeable difference when using the DTS Headphone, which actually helped improve things to a much more enjoyable level. Ultimately, the best sound quality came from use with a discrete sound card via the jack.
In games the Dolby Surround widened the audio but at the trade off of is with a slightly muted audio. The bass didn’t give the best rumbling sensation but its presence was still noted in the thick of action while the highs gave decent separation for clear footsteps and in game effects.
Microphone
The microphone has good pickup and volume to it though does have a little background hiss. Enabling the noise reduction makes the microphone of great quality, with just a tiny amount of static received by others in the conversation, allowing for a warm natural sounding voice. The in-line remote microphone allows for high quality phone calls and voice messages, but not quite to the same standard as the boom.
Conclusion
The G633 comes in with an interesting, futuristic design which can be seen in the stripes spanning the headband, the lighting and the earcups along with the foldable, extendable microphone. The features offered in terms of the whole package seem quite competitive, with the customisable G keys, customisable RGB lighting, removable cables, great construction and enjoyable audio quality for the gamer. There are premium features in regards to then inclusion of Dolby headphone and Dolby Surround that will allow users to customise their audio experience.
Though when we enter the market with this product, starts losing its appeal a little. The price point falling into a category between models from Corsair or SteelSeries, and while the G633 has many features, there are two primary considerations that slightly hold it back. One would be the smooth but muted bass, mid heavy with harsh highs audio profile which lacks in the balance and precision one would expect at this price point, relying on Dolby Headphone:X to improve the audio quality. The other is with the comfort. Though the padding is soft and accommodating, the total weight of the headset overtime did become a noticeable drag.
In summary, the G633 has many features that contemporary gamers look for in a headset. Stylish design, customisable lighting, cross platform compatibility, game enhancing audio and clear communications. This recipe will please many avid gamers, making the G633 worthy of consideration especially if found at a good price.
The G633 from Logitech offers a host of useful features that will impress the hardcore gamer.
Pros.
+ Good build quality
+ Excellent software support
+ Attractive lighting
+ Removable cables
+ Multi source audio mixing
+ Compatible with PC/PS4/Xbox ONE
Mediocre
+- For ‘optimal’ audio quality, it requires a lot of adjustment
+- Some may find them to be a little heavy
Cons.
– Price
– Not wireless
+ Good build quality
+ Excellent software support
+ Attractive lighting
+ Removable cables
+ Multi source audio mixing
+ Compatible with PC/PS4/Xbox ONE
Mediocre
+- For ‘optimal’ audio quality, it requires a lot of adjustment
+- Some may find them to be a little heavy
Cons.
– Price
– Not wireless
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