Killer Audio from Razer for $99
# Razer Noma Speaker Review: A Game-Changer in Affordable Audio
Dave 2D takes a deep dive into Razer's latest speaker offering, the Razer Noma series, in his recent video review. While Razer is primarily known for its gaming peripherals like keyboards and headsets, the company has made waves with its entry into the audio market with the Razer Noma speakers. Priced at $99 for the base model, these speakers are positioned as a budget-friendly option that delivers surprisingly good sound quality. Dave explores the different variants of the Razer Noma series, their design, features, and overall performance.
## The Razer Noma Series: A Modern Take on Bookshelf Speakers
The Razer Noma speakers come in three distinct variants:
1. **Base Model ($99):** This is the entry-level option that offers decent sound quality for its price point.
2. **Noma Chroma ($150):** This mid-tier model adds RGB lighting and a DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) to the mix, making it more versatile for audiophiles and gamers alike.
3. **Noma Pro:** The premium version of the series, priced between $400 to $500, boasts THX certification, further solidifying its claim as a high-end audio solution.
While the top-tier Noma Pro sounds exceptional, Dave highlights that the mid-range models are where the real value lies. These speakers strike a perfect balance between affordability and quality, making them an excellent choice for gamers and music enthusiasts on a budget.
## Design and Build Quality: A Gamer's Aesthetic
One of the standout features of the Razer Noma series is its sleek and modern design. Unlike traditional bookshelf speakers that often have a dull appearance, the Noma speakers exude a "gamer DNA" with their clean aesthetic and edgy look. The design feels contemporary and complements any gaming setup or home theater.
In terms of build quality, Dave notes that these speakers are made from average-quality plastic but constructed well enough to deliver solid performance. The 3-inch drivers and base port on the back provide adequate bass and treble balance, ensuring a rich audio experience. While not as premium as higher-end models, the Noma series holds its own in terms of functionality and style.
## Features: Connectivity and Customization
The Razer Noma Chroma model stands out for its inclusion of RGB lighting, which can be customized through Razer's software. This feature allows users to create dynamic lighting effects or choose from preset profiles, adding a touch of personality to any setup. The USB-C connectivity and DAC in the Chroma variant make it an ideal choice for those who want high-quality audio without compromising on features.
The speakers also come with standard aux and headphone jack connections, making them compatible with a wide range of devices. Dave appreciates the simplicity of the controls, which include a volume dial and a bass control knob. The automatic gain feature on the bass control is particularly impressive, as it adjusts the EQ distortion-free, allowing users to crank up the bass without compromising sound clarity.
## Sound Performance: A Gamer's Best Friend
Dave highlights the Razer Noma series' exceptional performance in gaming scenarios. The positional audio and clarity of higher frequencies are standout features, making these speakers excellent for immersive gaming experiences. Whether you're playing first-person shooters or engaging in competitive games, the Noma speakers deliver crisp sound that helps you pinpoint player locations with ease.
While Dave acknowledges that the Razer Noma series isn't the best-sounding option out there, he praises them for their value and performance at this price point. Compared to other gaming speakers like the Logitech Clip Pro Media or Audioengine A2+, the Razer Noma series holds its own, especially in terms of bass handling and overall sound quality.
## Criticisms: Room for Improvement
Despite their many优点, the Razer Noma series isn't without flaws. Dave points out a few areas where these speakers fall short:
- **Top-Heaviness:** The design's top-heavy nature causes the speakers to wobble slightly if bumped, which could be a safety concern.
- **Port Placement:** The aux and headphone jacks are located on the back of the speakers, making them less accessible for those who prefer front-facing controls, especially in a gaming setup.
- **Premium Model Pricing:** The Noma Pro model's $400 to $500 price tag seems steep for its additional features (like RGB lighting and DAC) compared to the more affordable variants.
## Final Thoughts: A Strong Value Proposition
In conclusion, Dave 2D gives the Razer Noma series a thumbs-up for offering excellent sound quality at an accessible price point. While the top-tier model may not be worth the premium price, the base and mid-range versions deliver outstanding value for their respective price tags. If you're looking for speakers that combine modern aesthetics with solid audio performance, the Razer Noma series is definitely worth considering.
Whether you're a gamer looking to enhance your setup or a budget-conscious audiophile seeking high-quality sound, the Razer Noma speakers are a strong contender in the competitive world of audio gear.