Razer Leviathan V2 review Multi-Driver PC Gaming Soundbar with THX Spatial Audio

Description

Immersive Audio with the Razer Leviathan V2 Soundbar

The Razer Leviathan V2 (model number RZ05-04160100-R3U1) has been a fantastic addition to my desktop setup. As someone who spends significant time gaming, streaming, and even working from my desk, I was eager to test out this multi-driver soundbar and subwoofer combo. Razer’s reputation for gaming peripherals is well-known, and this product does not disappoint in several areas, though a few quirks stood out during my usage.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features is its compact design, which fits snugly beneath my monitor. The sleek, black finish and detachable rubber feet not only keep it stable but also ensure the soundbar angles perfectly toward me. I appreciated how the design minimized desktop clutter, something I struggle with constantly. At just 4.5 inches in depth and 23.6 inches in width, it’s a space-saver without compromising on presence.

The Razer Chroma RGB lighting is an absolute delight. With 18 customizable lighting zones, I could match the soundbar’s lighting to my gaming rig or set it to sync with in-game effects. It’s not just an aesthetic feature; the dynamic lighting added a layer of immersion to my gaming experience. However, I could see how someone uninterested in RGB might find this feature unnecessary.

Audio Performance and THX Spatial Audio

This soundbar truly shines in its audio delivery. Equipped with 2 full-range drivers and a down-firing subwoofer, the sound output is rich, clear, and enveloping. Games, especially titles with intricate sound design, became more immersive thanks to the 7.1 THX Spatial Audio support. Pinpointing the location of footsteps in FPS games or reveling in the booming soundtracks of RPGs felt incredibly satisfying.

When I used it for music or movies, the soundstage was detailed and lifelike. That said, the 98 dB signal-to-noise ratio ensures minimal distortion, even at higher volumes. While the 60-millisecond latency on Bluetooth was hardly noticeable during casual music playback, serious gamers might prefer sticking to wired connections to avoid any delays.

Key Benefits

• Compact form factor fits neatly under monitors without adding clutter.
• THX Spatial Audio delivers stunning, immersive sound for gaming and entertainment.
• Customizable RGB lighting enhances the gaming or desktop aesthetic.
• Low-latency Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity supports seamless switching between devices.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are some flaws worth mentioning.

• Lack of waterproofing means it’s best kept far from potential spills.
• The subwoofer connection is wireless, which is convenient, but I did notice occasional hiccups when the Bluetooth signal struggled in my crowded home office.
• It’s marketed as compact, but some may find the soundbar a bit wide for smaller desks.

Ease of Use and Connectivity

The Bluetooth 5.2 technology was a game-changer. I effortlessly connected the soundbar to my PC, smartphone, and even my Nintendo Switch, switching between devices using the Razer Audio App. Pairing was straightforward, and the connection stayed stable within the 10-meter Bluetooth range. However, setting up the Razer Synapse software for advanced customization took a bit of patience.

Through the app, I tweaked everything from the RGB lighting effects to the audio settings, tailoring the sound to suit different activities. The Dolby Digital 7.1 audio encoding didn’t just amplify sound; it elevated the entire listening experience, whether I was gaming or binging on Netflix.

Competing Products

When compared to similar soundbars like the Creative Sound Blaster Katana V2 or the Logitech G560, the Leviathan V2 holds its own. The Creative Sound Blaster offers comparable sound quality but lacks the extensive RGB customization that Razer provides. On the other hand, the Logitech G560 impresses with its built-in lighting projection, but its audio fidelity falls short of the Leviathan’s THX Spatial Audio.

Where the Leviathan stands out is its low-latency Bluetooth 5.2 and compact footprint. However, I’d say the Logitech G560 has a slight edge in terms of immersive lighting for users looking for a more dynamic visual experience.

Price Performance

In terms of cost-efficiency, the Leviathan V2 offers great value for its feature set. The audio performance is top-tier for a gaming soundbar, and the RGB lighting is a bonus for those who enjoy visual customization. While it might not be the most affordable option in its category, it justifies its price with superb build quality, advanced audio features, and multi-device connectivity.

For anyone who wants a high-quality gaming sound setup without investing in a full surround sound system, this soundbar is a fantastic choice. However, if you’re strictly looking for something budget-friendly, there are simpler alternatives that might suit you better.

This soundbar/subwoofer combo is a great blend of style, performance, and functionality, but it’s not without its quirks. Whether you prioritize immersive sound, RGB lighting, or seamless device switching, the Leviathan V2 is worth considering for your desktop setup.

Additional information