I've tested my fair share of Nacon RIG headsets, but each and every time I write up my reviews, I usually have to preface that they're purely available at UK and European retailers. That all changes today as accessory maker just announced the US availability of the RIG R5 Pro HX, R5 Pro HC, and the white version of the R5 Pro HS headset.
Starting yesterday, those of you in the US hunting for the best gaming headset for your setup can now pick up the RIG R5 series headsets at Amazon, Best Buy, and directly from the official Nacon online store if you prefer to go straight to the source.
Nacon RIG has some of the most confusing naming conventions for their headsets, as they sound pretty similar. So while I'm here, let me give you the lowdown on what does what, in case you're interested in grabbing the newly available R5 series cups. The first to release across the pond is the RIG R5 Pro HX.
The $69.99 (Amazon) RIG R5 Pro HX is an officially licensed headset designed for Xbox Series X/S players. It's essentially an Xbox iteration of the RIG R5 Pro HS that I reviewed late last year, which comes equipped with 40 mm Graphene Coated audio drivers, high-fidelity audio support with a frequency response of 20 Hz - 40kHz, and Dolby Atmos audio support. There's also a 6mm flip-to-mute microphone attached to this wired headset.
The $69.99 (Amazon) RIG R5 Pro HC isn't licensed for either the Xbox or PS5 players, but aimed more at PC and multiplatform gamers. It shares the same form factor and list of features, including compatibility with the Snap+Lock mod system, which allows you to personalize the earcups. In fact, all of these newly available R5 series headsets do, which happens to be my favorite feature when I reviewed the R5 Pro HS model.
The Snap+Lock mod system allows you to attach interchangeable magnetic Mod Plates to earcups to change up their style. Each pair comes with a basic set, with the R5 Pro HS being packaged with a pair featuring Sony logos to better tie in with the PS5. You need to buy these Mod Plates separately via the Nacon store if you want anything different, but interestingly, the brand provides STL Files for 3D printing, so you can design and create your own.
The last of the headsets to be available today is the Nacon RIG R5 Pro I've just mentioned, but it's a new white model that's available across US retailers. It swaps the boring all-black headband and earcups for a blinding white alternative. In all honesty, judging from the marketing images, it much better suits the white Sony pixel-pusher, but no matter if you grab it or the black version, you're still getting access to the same wired headset with the same bunch of features.
If you want to read more about Nacon RIG headsets, check back in with my ramblings in the future. I'm currently testing the Nacon RIG R5 Max HD headset, which includes a DAC dongle and a pair of fancy 40mm GrapheneQ audio drivers.
Check out our guides to the best Nintendo Switch headsets, the best PS5 headsets, and the best PC headsets for gaming for a bigger spread of cups to choose from.
