Overview
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro (wired) is a closed-back gaming headset that works together with a dedicated controller, the GameDAC Gen2. It suits people who want one headset for both a PC and a console such as the PS5, and who care more about sound quality and a stable connection than about wireless convenience.
If you want no cables at all, or you need to keep spending low, compare other options first.
Its defining feature is the GameDAC Gen2, which contains an ESS Sabre Quad Core DAC. The headset does not plug straight into the console.
Audio passes through this desktop unit, which acts as both DAC and controller, so a PS5 or Switch gets much the same sound as a PC. The frequency response is 10Hz to 40kHz, and the headset is Hi-Res Audio certified.
It is designed for music and movies as well as games.
It uses 40mm drivers with 38-ohm impedance. The spec data lists the weight as about 280g including the cable.
A steel headband and adjustable ear cups let you fine-tune the fit. As of September 28, 2026, Amazon.co.jp showed 1,308 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5 stars (88% positive).
That is a steady rating for this price class.
Compatibility Guide
Supported platforms are PC, PS5, PS4, and Nintendo Switch. The GameDAC Gen2 connects over USB-C, and audio from the PC or console reaches the headset through it.
Think of the product as a USB audio device (the GameDAC) plus headphones, not as a standalone headset. That makes compatibility much easier to judge.
| Device | How it connects | What to check first |
|---|---|---|
| PC | GameDAC via USB | A free USB port and whether you can run the PC software |
| PS5 / PS4 | GameDAC into the console's USB port | Distance from the console to your desk and cable length |
| Nintendo Switch | USB connection | Whether you play docked or handheld |
| Xbox | Not listed as supported | Look for a model sold specifically for Xbox |
The GameDAC Gen2 has a Multi-System Connect feature with two inputs that can stay connected at once. For example, you can keep both a PC and a PS5 plugged in and switch between them on the GameDAC.
Because you never swap cables, the more often you move between PC and console, the more useful this becomes.
The cable between the headset and the GameDAC is detachable. If it breaks, you replace the cable instead of the whole headset, which matters for long-term use.
On the other hand, there is no wireless mode and no Bluetooth, so you cannot pair it wirelessly with a phone.
A commonly overlooked setup detail is where the GameDAC will sit. It needs to be within easy reach of its control knob, so plan for a small unit's worth of space near your keyboard or mouse pad.
On a PC, plugging directly into a rear motherboard USB port usually avoids the power and detection problems that front-panel ports can cause.
Product Info
On Amazon Japan the product is listed as SteelSeries ゲーミングヘッドセットヘッドホン Arctis Nova Pro 軽量有線密閉型ハイレゾ PC PS5 PS4 Switch 対応 DAC搭載 Hi-Fiサウンド 61527 ブラック調整可能. When you buy, check the model number 61527 and the color (black) against the listing.
It was released in May 2022 with an open market price, so there is no fixed list price.
As of September 28, 2026, Amazon.co.jp listed it at ¥38,329.
Prices change a lot with sales and stock, so check the listing for the current price before you buy. At the same time it had 1,308 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5 stars.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drivers | 40mm |
| Impedance | 38 ohms |
| Frequency response | 10Hz to 40kHz |
| DAC | ESS Sabre Quad Core DAC (GameDAC Gen2) |
| Connection | Wired USB-C / 3.5mm |
| Weight | About 280g with cable (as listed in spec data) |
| Microphone | Bidirectional noise cancelling (AI noise removal) |
| Hi-Res certification | Yes |
The listed accessories include the GameDAC Gen2, a USB-C to USB-A cable, a USB-C to USB-C cable, and a 3.5mm audio cable, among others.
The contents may differ by production batch. The warranty is described as the standard one year from SteelSeries, but confirm the terms with your retailer or the authorized distributor.
It sits in the high-end wired gaming headset segment. Its main advantage over rivals at this price is the combination of a built-in DAC and balanced sound.
Getting the Most Out of It
On PC, SteelSeries software (Sonar) gives you detailed EQ control, including tuning that makes footsteps and gunfire easier to hear. Consoles cannot run that software, so there you adjust the sound with the GameDAC's own presets and settings.
A profile you build on PC does not carry over to a console exactly. Expect more tuning freedom on PC and less on console, and you will not be disappointed.
The microphone uses bidirectional noise cancellation with AI noise removal. If keyboard clatter or household noise is a problem, turn on noise removal and ask a teammate how you sound.
Closed-back cups can make your own voice sound muffled to you, which often makes people speak louder than they need to.
Comparison with Rivals
Within the same line, the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless X is the obvious alternative if you want to drop the cable. Going wireless means managing batteries and usually paying more.
The wired model's strength is that you never think about charging, latency, or dropouts.
If you only want something simple for a PS5, an entry model like the Arctis Nova 1P may be enough. It lacks a separate DAC unit like the GameDAC, but it costs far less and is simpler to set up.
For wireless options from other brands, look at the CORSAIR HS80 RGB WIRELESS and the Logicool G PRO X 2 LIGHTSPEED. Among wired headsets, the Alienware AW520H is a fair comparison.
The case for the Arctis Nova Pro comes down to two things: sound quality with the DAC included, and switching between two inputs. If you need neither, a cheaper headset will likely satisfy you.
Who It's For
- People who use both a PC and a console: Multi-System Connect switches between a PC and a PS5 or similar without replugging. If you want one headset for several devices, this alone justifies the purchase.
- Competitive FPS players: On PC, the software EQ can make footsteps easier to pick out, and the noise-removing mic helps keep chat clear.
- People who want one headset for games and music: The ESS Sabre Quad Core DAC and 10Hz to 40kHz range aim at sound quality that holds up beyond gaming.
- People who want to avoid wireless problems: Because it is wired only, there are no dead batteries and no interference. You can stream or play long tournament-style sessions without worrying about the connection.
Things to Check Before Buying
First, at close to ¥40,000 as of September 2026, it is expensive for a headset, and much of that price is the GameDAC Gen2. If you only play on PC and already own an external DAC or audio interface, you will not get full value from the GameDAC, and a cheaper headset may serve you better.
It has no wireless mode and no Bluetooth. It is a poor fit if you want to play from the couch or take phone calls on it.
The closed-back design isolates sound well but can get warm in summer, and the soundstage is not as open as an open-back headset. If you prefer a natural, open sound, try one in person if you can.
The spec data lists the weight as about 280g with cable. Weight has a big effect on comfort, so check the official SteelSeries spec sheet too.
Xbox is not among the supported platforms, so if you plan to use one, make sure you buy a model sold specifically for Xbox.
You may find lower prices on overseas marketplaces or as a parallel import. Those units may not include domestic warranty coverage, so for a product this expensive, check the seller and the warranty terms before you buy.
FAQ
Q. Can I use 3D audio and sound tuning on PS5? A.
Yes, through the GameDAC Gen2. Detailed EQ, however, is a PC software feature.
On consoles you adjust the sound with the GameDAC's own settings.
Q. Can I keep a PC and a PS5 connected at the same time? A.
Yes. Multi-System Connect supports two inputs, and you can switch between them without unplugging anything.
Q. Can I connect it wirelessly to my phone?
A. No. The headset is wired only and has no Bluetooth.
Q. What if the cable breaks?
A. The headset cable is detachable, so you can replace just the cable and keep using the headset.
Q. Does it work with Xbox? A.
Xbox is not listed. Supported platforms are PC, PS5, PS4, and Nintendo Switch, so look for a model made for Xbox.
Product Disclosure (Amazon)
- Manufacturer: SteelSeries
- Seller: Amazon.co.jp
- Fulfilled by: Amazon.co.jp
- ASIN: B09ZWF9BCJ
- Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.
