Wednesday during Gamescom 2011, peripheral manufacturer Razer revealed the "world's first" discrete 7.1 surround sound gaming headset, the Razer Tiamat 7.1.
According to Razer, the headset packs a total of 10 discrete drivers, 5 in each circumaural ear cup. These drivers represent the 7 surround sound channels plus subwoofer: 2 for center, 1 each for the left and right, surround sound left and right and surround back left and right, and 2 for the subwoofer. All 10 drivers work in unison to produce a true pinpoint positional surround sound.
"The Razer Tiamat 7.1 also gives gamers maximum customizability of their audio experience adjustable on a sleek control unit," the company said in a press release. "You can precisely fine-tune the volume of every audio channel, position, and bass depth, as well as conveniently toggle between the headset's 7.1 surround sound mode, 2.0 stereo mode or external speakers as long as they are also hooked up to the unit, so you'll have the right setup for your entertainment at all times."
In addition to the 7.1 model, Razer also revealed a heaper Tiamat 2.2 version using 4 discrete drivers, two of which are dedicated to bass. Both models feature leatherette ear cushions and a precise, unidirectional noise-cancelling microphone.
Along with the announcement, Razer has launched the "Experience the Power of 7 – with the Razer Tiamat 7.1" contest. Participants must answer two questions related to the product, invite seven friends via Facebook and/or Twitter, and like the product on Facebook.
"The Razer Tiamat headset range is the pride of our audio engineering, the world's first 10 driver headset, built to deliver the most powerful, clear and accurately produced positional audio gamers will ever need for the competitive edge," said Robert "RazerGuy" Krakoff, President, Razer USA. "Surprise the enemy trying to creep up for a stealth kill, when you can hear their footsteps loud and clear behind you."
So far both headsets are slated for a Q4 2011 release. The Razer Tiamat 7.1 will be priced at $179.99 (179.99 euro) and the Razer Tiamat 2.2 will be priced at $99.99 (99.99 euro).
