The $220 PlayStation speakers from Sony come with one feature that I really wish every desktop configuration included.
Sony revealed its first PlayStation wireless speakers nearly a year ago, coinciding with the announcement of Wolverine's release date. Now, we finally have the launch date for gamers to start using them. The Pulse Elevate wireless speakers will be available on November 12, as indicated by Sony in an update on August 18 regarding the original announcement. Preorders will open on September 1 at 10 am local time, or 10 am ET in the US.
The Midnight Black version will be available worldwide through PlayStation Direct and select retailers, while the White edition will have more limited availability. Priced at $219.99, the company has surprisingly transferred much of the technology from its Pulse gaming headset line to these speakers.
How Sony created a headset for your desktop
Each Pulse Elevate speaker is equipped with a planar magnetic driver, which is the same foundational driver technology utilized in the Pulse Elite headset and Pulse Explore earbuds. Additionally, each unit features its own woofer for enhanced bass, and supported PS5 games can leverage Tempest 3D AudioTech for spatial audio.
The speakers can be connected to a PS5, PC, Mac, or PlayStation Portal via Sony's PlayStation Link, which ensures lossless audio with minimal latency. A USB-C PlayStation Link adapter is included in the package. Bluetooth connectivity is also available, and the unique aspect is that both types of connections can be used at the same time. This allows you to hear PS5 audio through PlayStation Link while simultaneously listening to music or taking a call from your phone over Bluetooth.
This setup not only focuses on audio output; Sony has also enhanced accessibility for voice chat through these speakers. A microphone integrated into the right speaker employs AI-driven noise cancellation to minimize background noise. During a hands-on demonstration by PlayStation in June, the system reportedly isolated a speaker's voice even amid loud music played through the Pulse Elevate speakers.
PlayStation
Multiple configuration possibilities
The Pulse Elevate speakers aren’t tethered to their charging docks permanently. Each speaker has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 12 hours, enabling you to pick them up and pair them with a PlayStation Portal or any other Bluetooth device in your home. Both speakers can also be angled to direct the sound toward the listener's position. Sony allows PS5 users to adjust EQ, volume, and microphone settings through the console's interface, with comparable PC controls anticipated post-launch.
Sony's latest gaming audio equipment isn’t a budget-friendly desktop accessory, but the concept intrigues me far more than standard gaming speakers. Sony has incorporated planar drivers, wireless technology, spatial audio, and intelligent microphone features from its headset range into this desktop experience.
PlayStation
The potential impact for gamers
Many gamers engaged in competitive titles are familiar with the annoyance of entering a lobby where a teammate is using a laptop microphone. This often leads to speaker audio causing a loud echo that can be extremely distracting and frustrating. Another common issue arises when a gamer inadvertently leaves their microphone on while playing audio loudly through their PC speakers, disrupting the entire team chat. Therefore, a product like this could greatly benefit players who, for various reasons, prefer not to wear a headset.
Beyond that, the most significant advantage is evident. Sony’s PlayStation Pulse Elevate simplifies party chat for anyone weary of using a headset for extended periods. The discomfort caused by headphones pressing against the head is a key reason many people opt for earphones or in-ear monitors. However, even those can lead to ear fatigue after lengthy gaming sessions. Therefore, these new gaming speakers offer an effective solution to that issue. Furthermore, they can also connect with smartphones, ensuring that mobile gaming is not overlooked.
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The $220 PlayStation speakers from Sony come with one feature that I really wish every desktop configuration included.
Sony has announced the price and release date for its first PlayStation wireless speakers, which feature planar magnetic drivers, wireless gaming audio, and the capability for voice chat without a headset, priced at $219.99.