The Razer Barracuda V2 Pro is the latest iteration of the Barracuda Pro lineup. Building on the success of the original and its hybrid gaming streetwear design, the Barracuda V2 Pro offers marked improvements, focusing on exceptional sound quality and an improved microphone experience. With a host of features, most notably the hybrid noise-cancellation system, these wireless gaming headphones deliver a premium audio experience at a premium price point.
Built on a noticeably similar structure to the original Barracuda Pro, the V2 Pro offers a couple of key design differences. Most notably is the detachable HyperClear Full Band microphone that complements the internal beamforming mics (the original only featured the latter). While the V2 Pro’s internal beamforming mics are good enough for phone calls, I wouldn’t want to rely on them for gaming sessions or streaming.
“Where the Barracuda V2 Pro’s really shine, though, is in the audio listening experience.”
The inclusion and quality of this new HyperClear Full Band microphone is an upgrade to the Barracuda’s design. It allows for solid, broadcast-quality audio when streaming or on Discord. In testing, the open microphone capture was clean and clear, doing a solid job of representing the lower register of my voice without issue.
The microphone comes with both EQ presets that can amplify the primary audio source as well as AI noise cancellation. I found the mic EQ presets to be helpful and was even able to dial in specific frequencies thanks to Synapse. As for the mic AI noise cancellation, it does a solid job of eliminating background noise, but there is a faint yet noticeable compression of the audio source. It’s not terrible, simply present.
The Barracuda V2 Pro is also fully foldable, allowing for compact storage for travel. While the original did feature a carry case, which is notably missing from the V2 Pro, I find the collapsible design more convenient for travel, especially when bag space is at a premium. It’s the first pair of closed-back headphones I feel are compact enough to comfortably take in my backpack while flying.
One more notable design change is the weight of the Barracuda V2 Pro, which weighs in at 285 g compared to the V1 Pro’s 340 g. With a difference of 55 g, that is a significant weight reduction. More fascinating still is that the V2 Pro boasts up to 70 hours of use (ANC off), while the original Pro could only manage 40 hours. It’s an impressive feat while still maintaining the build quality of the original.
As for wear, while the leatherette memory foam cushions are plenty comfortable, the headband creates a very secure, albeit a bit tight, fit on the head. It’s not uncomfortable for long listening sessions by any means, but I did find that while wearing glasses at night, there was a bit more pressure from my glasses’ arms than I like. Additionally, as a closed-back headset with leatherette cushions, your ears get warm during long gaming sessions.
Connectivity has also seen some updates with the Barracuda V2 Pro. While the original Barracuda Pro could connect to both Wireless 2.4 GHz via dongle and Bluetooth, players would need to hot-swap between the two signals. The V2 Pro allows for simultaneous connection, meaning you can have audio from both sources playing at the same time. Synapse even provides options for how you want the two audio sources managed.
Where the Barracuda V2 Pro’s really shine, though, is in the audio listening experience. Equipped with 40 mm Razer Triforce Bio-Cellulose drivers, the default sound is warm with minimal frequency distortion. Testing revealed virtually no noise across the signal bands, and I could hear the mids and highs to be exceptionally clear without being too bright. The low end, likewise, was punchy without dominating the audio profile, resulting in an exceptionally clean mix overall.
“This immersion becomes more prominent when the Active Noise Cancellation is engaged, which is, dare I say, one of the best I’ve tested in the sub-$200 range.”
This translated to a gaming experience that was full, rich, and clear. When the 7.1.4 surround sound was engaged (there is a nifty auto profile switcher in Synapse that allows for automatic game-specific audio profile swapping), the overall experience was quite impressive. The soundstage was robust, directional audio was pinpoint accurate, and the audio experience was immersive.
This immersion becomes more prominent when the Active Noise Cancellation is engaged, which is, dare I say, one of the best I’ve tested in the sub-$200 range. With four levels of ANCE to choose from, it’s easy to dial the experience in, with the most powerful level all but silencing external noise from your listening experience. Running through DOOM: The Dark Ages was a treat on the Barracuda V2 Pro, offering a rich and full audio experience. Razer has truly dialled in the immersive audio experience with the Barracuda V2 Pro.
The Barracuda V2 Pro is an excellent-sounding headset that offers great adaptability in connectivity, an impressive soundscape, and an audio profile that is rich and full. While the wear could be a bit more comfortable, especially for those with glasses, the overall experience with the Barracuda V2 Pro is impressive. While the $200 price might be a bit steep, the audio experience does push these headphones squarely into premium audio territory.
