Esports competitors, streamers, or anyone interested in esports video production need mixing equipment to adjust the output of various sounds. Logitech G, which acquired Astro Gaming two years ago, has now introduced the ASTRO A40 TR + MixAmp Pro TR package in Hong Kong. It includes a headset that provides Dolby 7.1 surround sound and a redesigned MixAmp Pro mixing device that can mix into Dolby two-channel surround sound for output to live streaming programs or esports gameplay videos.
The ASTRO A40 + MixAmp Pro TR supports PlayStation 4, PC, and Mac platforms. It includes a micro USB interface for connecting to a computer for audio data transmission, an optical input for connecting to a PS4 console, two Firewire digital daisy-chain ports for connecting other MixAmp Pro mixers, and a 3.5mm AUX input/MIC OUT jack, a streaming output, and a headphone output. Compared to the previous generation, this version adds a 3.5mm AUX auxiliary audio input jack for connecting devices without optical output.
With just one USB-A to micro USB cable, you can transmit digital audio from your computer to the mixer. PS4 players can simply connect the 3.5mm cable between the headset and the mixer to listen to PS4/computer audio if they are purely using the headset.
Responsive Astro A40 TR Gaming Headset with Deep Bass
The Astro A40 gaming headset included in this package features cloth earcups for a more comfortable and snug fit. The headset uses a metal frame, allowing players to adjust the tightness, which feels good. The earcups themselves can be slightly angled outwards, allowing users with glasses to tilt them slightly to avoid excessive pressure on the glasses frames.
▲The microphone can be freely bent into the desired shape.
To further reduce the burden, the decorative plates on the outside of the earcups can be removed and replaced with other MOD KITs. If you prefer a lighter, less "fancy" setup, removing the plates allows for a more streamlined experience.
We tested the headphone's sound separation accuracy and sound quality using PC games and 7.1 surround sound test videos. The editor found that the ASTRO A40 has excellent resolution across all three frequency bands, with no bias towards certain frequencies. Moreover, the deep bass feel is very satisfying. Playing PUBG and Far Cry New Dawn provided clear and rich positioning. The deep bass of gunshots and explosions was particularly strong, and the wide soundstage allowed for echoes of battlefield artillery while also clearly hearing footsteps on the grass.
For streamers and game video producers, microphone sound quality is equally important. This detachable microphone offers ample volume and the clarity of a mid-range microphone.
Premium MixAmp Pro TR Mixer
The MixAmp Pro TR amplifier features a horizontal design, primarily in black and dark blue. The two rotary knobs control the master volume and the balance between game and microphone audio during mixing. To facilitate operation for esports players in dark environments, both knobs are illuminated. The knobs themselves offer moderate resistance and a good tactile feel, reminiscent of controlling a HiFi system, allowing for precise fine-tuning of volume to quickly immerse you in the game and get ready for action.
Esports players can set EQ modes, and on the main unit, you'll find four EQ buttons. After configuring them in the Astro Command Center software, you can quickly switch between them on the mixer.
The computer software also allows you to adjust the microphone input level, the volume of the streaming output port, and the volume of game and chat audio, among other settings.
Price:
ASTRO A40 TR Gaming Headset (PC/Mac/PS4 compatible) HK$1,299
MixAmp Pro TR Mixer (PC/Mac/PS4 compatible) HK$1,299
ASTRO A40 TR + MixAmp Pro TR Bundle Price (PC/Mac/PS4 compatible): HK$2,499
Inquiries: 2624 3500 (Logitech Hong Kong Limited)
(Credits to Unwire, https://unwire.hk/2019/08/29/astro-a40-mixamp-pro/game-channel/ , 2019/08/29)
