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There is a downside to this though, and it’s not a minor one: once Sonar is up and running, you have to set your system’s default audio device to one of the new outputs the app creates during installation. If you switch between speakers and headphones, changing devices in your system tray will no longer work, you can only do it in the GG app. There is also no main sonar output, so you have to choose one of the groups as your default system output, and then your System Volume Control will only affect programs assigned to that section. To make matters more confusing, the Nova 3 has a volume wheel that moves independently of everything else.
I’m really impressed with how much practical value the app offers, but I’m a little disappointed with how my system audio settings look even when I’m using my desktop speakers. I managed to find some workaround to keep my main volume knob working, but it seems like it shouldn’t be that complicated. It’s a shame, because I’ve become really fond of the app, but having to navigate to a specific piece of software to change the volume of my speakers is a bit annoying.
Conclusion
Photo: Brad Bourque
The Arctis Nova 3 is one of my favorite gaming headsets, but the software is going to be a deal-breaker for some people. They offer a great amount of practical value, but you have to make some concessions.
I know how much people don’t like messing with their system settings, something I think I’m more tolerant of than average, and it still annoys me. Just know that the mobile app has a subset of features and it’s all upside down for console gamers.
I find the Nova 3 so comfortable and their sound so impressive for the price that I’m willing to overlook the loss of my mute button. They have a great sound profile that is only enhanced by the equalizer profile, long battery life with fast charging and excellent system compatibility, all at a very reasonable price. Even with the much more premium Arctis Nova Pro on my desk, I often find myself reaching for the Nova 3, and that’s saying a lot.
