Headset: XM6 drivers are nice, but the NC is just alright.

In the fiercely competitive world of gaming audio, headsets promise everything from pinpoint accuracy to immersive soundscapes. The H9 II steps into this arena with a bold claim: "Developed with Fnatic." This collaboration immediately sets expectations high, suggesting a headset engineered not just for sound, but for the demands of elite competitive play. Weighing in at approximately 260g, it aims for long-session comfort, equipped with advanced noise canceling, carbon composite drivers, a boom mic designed to cut ambient noise, and dual wireless connectivity to keep game and chat perfectly in sync. After putting its features under the microscope, it’s clear the H9 II is a serious contender for gamers who value precision, comfort, and versatile performance.

Acoustic Arsenal for the Digital Battlefield

The H9 II’s most compelling argument for serious gamers lies in its sound delivery. Sony has seemingly pulled out all the stops, integrating the same driver unit found in the acclaimed WH-1000XM6 headphones. This isn’t just a marketing blurb; it’s a commitment to high-fidelity audio that truly translates into gaming performance. The headset promises, and largely delivers, full-spectrum clarity that allows you to discern everything from the faint rustle of distant footsteps to the deep, unsettling rumbles of an incoming ultimate. For competitive players, this level of detail can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Beyond raw audio power, the H9 II leverages Sony’s INZONE algorithm, customizing its 360 Spatial Sound to your unique ear shape. This personalized audio profile is designed to enhance enemy detection, giving you an almost unfair advantage by precisely pinpointing sound sources in a 3D space. It’s not just about hearing sounds; it’s about knowing exactly where they’re coming from. The involvement of Fnatic’s VALORANT and Apex Legends teams in developing specific FPS EQ presets further solidifies its competitive credentials, offering finely tuned audio profiles that accentuate critical in-game sounds.

Adding another layer to immersion and focus is the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC). In a chaotic environment, the ability to switch seamlessly between complete immersion via ANC and situational awareness through transparency mode is incredibly valuable. Whether you’re blocking out distractions to clutch a round or need to hear your doorbell, the H9 II offers flexibility without compromise.

• WH-1000XM6 derived driver unit for full-spectrum clarity, from subtle footsteps to profound rumbles.
• Sony INZONE algorithm with customized 360 Spatial Sound precisely maps audio for enhanced enemy detection.
• FPS EQ presets developed directly with Fnatic’s VALORANT and Apex Legends pro teams.
• Seamless Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode for focused play or environmental awareness.

Ergonomics for Extended Engagements

Comfort is paramount for any gaming headset, especially for players who embark on marathon sessions. The H9 II addresses this head-on with a design philosophy centered around endurance. Tipping the scales at an approximate 260g (without the mic), it’s genuinely lightweight for a feature-packed wireless headset. This low mass significantly reduces strain during prolonged use, a common pitfall for heavier models.

Beyond just the weight, the pressure-balanced design ensures that the headset sits comfortably without creating hot spots or undue pressure on the temples or top of the head. This is complemented by soft-fit ear cushions that cradle your ears, providing a plush experience while contributing to sound isolation. The slider-lock headband structure is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to set your preferred headband length once and trust it to remain stable throughout your session. Fnatic’s feedback on fit and sound isolation clearly played a role here, ensuring the headset not only feels good but also provides a consistent acoustic seal crucial for competitive play.

• Approx. 260g lightweight design for minimal fatigue during long gaming sessions.
• Pressure-balanced construction evenly distributes weight and reduces strain.
• Soft-fit ear cushions for enhanced comfort and improved passive noise isolation.
• Slider-lock headband provides a stable, fixed fit without constant readjustment.

Battle-Ready Broadcast: The Detachable Mic

In team-based games, crystal-clear communication is as vital as superior audio. The H9 II understands this, featuring a boom mic that’s designed to cut through the noise, both in your environment and in the digital one. The flexible, unidirectional cardioid mic is engineered to capture your voice with super wide bandwidth, ensuring your commands and call-outs are relayed with exceptional clarity.

What truly sets this mic apart, however, is its AI-powered precision in cutting ambient noise. This isn’t just basic noise gate; it’s an intelligent system that identifies and isolates your voice while actively suppressing background distractions like keyboard clicks, fans, or even chatter from your room. The detachable nature of the mic also adds a layer of versatility, transforming the H9 II into a high-fidelity listening device for music or movies when voice chat isn’t needed. Fnatic’s involvement in mic tuning reinforces the idea that this is a communication tool built for the heat of battle, where every word matters.

• Flexible, detachable unidirectional cardioid boom mic ensures clear voice capture.
• Super wide bandwidth for detailed and natural voice transmission.
• AI-powered ambient noise cancellation precisely cuts out background sounds.
• Mic tuning refined through feedback from Fnatic pro players.

Uninterrupted Flow: Connectivity & Personalization

A modern gaming headset needs to be versatile, seamlessly integrating into a gamer’s ecosystem, whether they’re on PC, console, or mobile. The H9 II excels here with a comprehensive suite of connectivity options that cater to every scenario. For competitive play, the ultra-low latency 2.4GHz wireless connection via a USB-C dongle is non-negotiable, ensuring minimal delay between game action and audio feedback. This is crucial for fast-paced titles where even milliseconds can impact performance.

Beyond dedicated gaming, the inclusion of Bluetooth classic, Bluetooth LE audio, and a traditional 3.5mm wired connection makes the H9 II incredibly adaptable. You can easily switch between your gaming rig, smartphone, or even a different console without needing multiple headsets.

The ability to personalize your audio experience is another significant advantage. Through the INZONE Hub software on PC (Windows) or the Sony | Sound Connect App on mobile, you gain granular control over EQ presets, spatial sound settings, and even mic controls. This empowers you to fine-tune the sound to your specific preferences or the demands of the game you’re playing.

Finally, practical features like quick charging and the option to play while charging enhance convenience. A mere 5 minutes of USB-C quick charge provides up to 1 hour of playtime, a lifesaver when you’ve forgotten to charge overnight. The inclusion of a soft pouch for transport is a nice touch, ensuring your headset, dongle, and cables are protected on the go.

• Ultra-low latency 2.4GHz wireless via USB-C dongle for competitive gaming.
• Multiple connectivity options including Bluetooth classic, Bluetooth LE audio, and 3.5mm wired.
• Customizable sound profiles via INZONE Hub (PC) and Sony | Sound Connect App (Mobile) for EQ, spatial sound, and mic settings.
• USB-C quick charging (5 mins charge = 1 hour play) and play-while-charging functionality.
• Soft pouch included for convenient and safe transport.

The H9 II positions itself as a premium gaming headset forged in the crucible of professional esports, and it largely lives up to that promise. The blend of high-fidelity audio driven by Sony’s acclaimed drivers, personalized spatial sound, a genuinely effective AI-powered mic, and supreme comfort makes it a formidable tool for competitive gamers. Its extensive connectivity and customization options ensure it’s a versatile companion for any setup. While the price point may place it firmly in the premium segment, for serious players seeking a competitive edge and an immersive, comfortable experience for their extended engagements, the H9 II is an investment that truly delivers.