[Gaming Audio] Astro MixAmp presets + Best Audio Gear Guide + Headphone Reviews

[AMG]

HDMI 2.1 4x2 Matrix - 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz HDR with audio Extractor

I got this 4x2 Matrix back in December.

What I needed is this device does:

• HDMI Audio Extractor to feed my HiFi DAC/Amp with Optical Uncompress Audio, while maintaining 1440p at 120Hz on my gaming monitor. ✓
• Easy way to switch between PS5, XBSX, Nintendo Switch on my display.✓
• An extra HDMI output to feed my capture capture card on my streaming PC.✓

What this device can do:

• Display two sources(consoles) on different monitors at the same time or just one duplicated on two monitors or a monitor and a capture card supports HCDP
• Audio Extraction can handle: 5.1CH Dolby HD, DTS HD, Dolby Atoms, Dolby AC3, DTS o 2CH LPCM, which works great with my home theater AVR
• Solid HDR 10+ performance
• Supports ARC and CEC, meaning you can control the volume with the TV controller or AVR controller
• No input/display lag on splitter mode

What this device can't do:

• No VRR. ❌
• No Dolby Vision. ❌

I was trying to get this Matrix to simplify my HDMI + Display + Capture card chain, this device replaces:
+ Audio Extractor
+ HDMI 2.1 Splitter
+ HDMI Switcher. Need to switching between sources on my monitor individually.

Now, I can switch between consoles with one button and don't need to have to pass a HDMI cable to my capture card then back to my monitor in order to record or stream gameplay, this also saves me the need of having my PC(capture card) turned on in order to play.

Caveats that don't bothers me:
- No VRR. I'm OK with that; VRR has been very problematic. Adds input lag and flicker recording on most capture cards, even my elgato 4K Pro after its VRR compatible update, still has issues same, for the elgato HD60 X.
The games I play, don't use or work better without VRR.

- Dolby Vision, HDR10+ works great as you might know Dolby Vision is a "HDR implementation" branded by Dolby supposed to be better color calibrated. I don't miss it because my gaming monitor can't do HDR or Dolby.

My LG OLED does Dolby Vision and AVR also can do Dolby Atmos audio via eARC, with the console connected directly to the TV, so I don't need any extractor on this setup, that is at my home theater room where I put my consoles occasionally, and only for single player campaign games, like: RDR 2, GoW, Horizon Zero, etc.

I tried before:
HDMI Audio Extractor, HDMI Switch, and HDMI Splitter.

HDMI Splitter to avoid using capture card output which requires to have my PC turned on in order to play, no matter if I don't record game play or stream. From all of above only an HDMI Splitter can potentially add input lag, so be aware.

TL;TR This matrix 4x2 does the job 4X120Hz HDR without any input lag, but no VRR or Dolby vision outputs audio to feed an amplifier or HIFI audio system.

Final Thoughts
As you can see my case of use is very specific, I'm using many devices...
maybe you don't need a matrix if you...

Have one console and want a single HDMI 2.1 audio extractor for better audio, with 4K/120Hz VRR.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5WR19CQ/

if you are using two consoles a HDMI Switcher 2.1 with audio extraction, Dolby Vision, no VRR, no capture card support
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MNGIP2Y/


 

[entropy]

Excellent, thank you very much for taking the time to explain all this in so much detail!

[Pom3a]

Alan hi, I already asked you for information once and then I bought an ark mk2 on your advice. During this time I have changed a lot of headphones, it's time to upgrade. Now my favorite is the dt 900 pro, I play on the ps5. I want to buy Sundara and Loki equalizer , will arc mk2 pull them ? And do I need a preamp and what will it give ? And what is the most top-end bundle for ps5 today (headphones + equipment). I don't need a microphone output to the DAC right now, I use a dynamic studio microphone directly connected via USB to the ps5. Thanks.

[ceebs]

I would love to have my Series X, PS5 and PC all connected to my iFi Zen DAC V2/CAN combo and be able to switch between each of them.
With the availability of 4K 120Hz extractors (this one, for example), is this now a possibility?

Any advice would be welcome, as I can't find any information regarding my specific usecase, online.

[AMG]

Hi ceebs!

Unfortunately ifi Zen DAC V2 is USB input only, lacks of other digital inputs like SPDIF(RCA) or TOSLink(Optical) you can't not connected to a HDMI audio extractor, like the one you posted, there isn't an optical input to feed the DAC.

The only solution is to switch to a different DAC, with optical or SPDIF.

That's the only drawback I see on ZEN DAC, most entry level DAC from china(Topping, SMSL, Fiio, FX-Audio) or US(Schiit, Mayflower) came with additional digital inputs.

I remember you mentioned getting audio gear from US is trouble some or expensive.

Chord Electronics UK is a leading company on HiFi audio, they offer the Chord Mojo2 and AMAZING World class DAC/Amp, nothing from China or US can get even close to it, but it is premium product it worths every penny for sure. Not sure how committed you are to Hi-Fi audio, is about $650 usd.

Chord Mojo2 is a cigarette box portable DAC/amp combo, powerful it has USB, SPDIF(3.5mm) and TOSLink(optical) inputs you can feed with the Optical signal coming from the still required HDMI Audio Extractor.

Mayflower ARC MK2, also have SPDIF input and is 100% compatible with PS5 via USB. On the back has a switch that allows you to select between Optical(HDMI Audio Extractor from XBSX) and USB PS compatible. That's how I use it.
They ship worldwide I have seen fellas from UK getting that DAC/Amp, and very please with it.

Now, without wasting more... with the things you already have.
You can connect ZEN DAC V2 to PS5, if I remember this is compatible after a drivers update, and plug on a USB connector of the back.

And for XBox Series X, get a Y audio splitter connect to the controller and get the headphones out and connect to the 3.5mm input of the ZEN CAN, this way from the ZEN CAN you can switch between two sources: RCA(ZEN DAC) 3.5mm (Xbox Controller headphone out).

[Roman_M]

Good time friends Alan = respect!  😉 hi haven’t visited you for a long time (; I want to ask for help in choosing headphones for a girl ☺️

"I want a non-bass sound without a sound card to play the navel and hear everything. With a normal microphone + that would be comfortable to wear under glasses. Budget up to 200$ max"

Good luck to all of us at this time.  🤗

[AMG]

Good time friends Alan = respect!   hi haven’t visited you for a long time (; I want to ask for help in choosing headphones for a girl ☺️

"I want a non-bass sound without a sound card to play the navel and hear everything. With a normal microphone + that would be comfortable to wear under glasses. Budget up to 200$ max"

Good luck to all of us at this time. 

Most women prefers IEM (In-Ear Monitors) - picture below.


 it doesn't mess with their hair, it looks nice like jewelry, no problem with glasses finding the right tip fit is key to get the best comfortable wearing.

Audiophile HIFI IEM sounds better than any comercial (Sony, Apple) brand for less money and the high-end is way beyond on quality, close to headphones, don't need power amp to perform.

However most of them are wired, but you can use a Bluetooth receiver to make them wireless compatible,
like Earman Studio:


IEM Recommended:

Moondrop Kato


Thieaudio Legacy 4

This are magnificent with female vocals, Adele, K Perry, etc.

Tanchjim New Hana (Best overall)

Very balanced, perfect midrange natural vocals, great bass and cristal yet soft treble.

Every IEM can have an in-line mic, just choose the option that includes mic on the cable.

[Roman_M]

Good time friends Alan = respect!   hi haven’t visited you for a long time (; I want to ask for help in choosing headphones for a girl ☺️

"I want a non-bass sound without a sound card to play the navel and hear everything. With a normal microphone + that would be comfortable to wear under glasses. Budget up to 200$ max"

Good luck to all of us at this time. 

Most women prefers IEM (In-Ear Monitors) - picture below.


 it doesn't mess with their hair, it looks nice like jewelry, no problem with glasses finding the right tip fit is key to get the best comfortable wearing.

Audiophile HIFI IEM sounds better than any comercial (Sony, Apple) brand for less money and the high-end is way beyond on quality, close to headphones, don't need power amp to perform.

However most of them are wired, but you can use a Bluetooth receiver to make them wireless compatible,
like Earman Studio:


IEM Recommended:

Moondrop Kato


Thieaudio Legacy 4

This are magnificent with female vocals, Adele, K Perry, etc.

Tanchjim New Hana (Best overall)

Very balanced, perfect midrange natural vocals, great bass and cristal yet soft treble.

Every IEM can have an in-line mic, just choose the option that includes mic on the cable.

Friend, can you tell me something from the full-sized ones?  microphone + headphones together, What would be a maximum of $ 200.  She would like a little something else, if you can offer something in this spirit, it will be great (; For games / without a sound card and other things / by wire / microphone + headphones / audibility of steps in pubg and competitive games / For a girl 👸

[Bagura32rus]

Hi Alan, I need your advice.  A PS5 friend has an ARC Mk2 and bought a shiit loki mini and a shiit modi 3, how do you get it to work?

[AMG]

Hi!

As you know, ARC MK2 is a DAC+AMP, meaning DAC with an integrated AMPlifer, and is tuned (EQ) for gaming, it has a button to boost bass for more dense body explosions.

--Mayflower ARC---
[DAC] - - - [AMPLIFIER] - - - >[Headset/Headphone/Speakers]

Schiit Modi is a HIFI DAC only, DAC produces sound but its output is very very low... it needs and Amplfier to be audible. He needs Schiit Magni or any other AMP in order to be able to listen sound on its headphone/speakers.

Schiit Loki is an analog Equalizer, its place in the chain is between the DAC and the AMP so, the sound that comes from the DAC is tune to your liking (Loki) and then Amplifed by the AMP and output to your headphones/speakers

--Schiit Devices---
[DAC]- - - [EQ - Loki]- - - [AMPLIFIER]- - - >[Headset/Headphone/Speakers]

I'm not sure if Schiit Modi DAC is compatible with PS5 via USB, or only Optical and this needs an HDMI Audio Extractor.

You can't use ARC MK2 with Schiit Modi and Loki. MK2 is a all-in-one, while schiit devices are modular.

In order to have a functional audio system with Schiit, you need an AMP like Schiit Magni, to complete your audio system.

Does Schiit Modi+Loki+Magni, sounds better than Mayflower ARC MK2?,
Well Modi DAC can handle higher quallity files than 24bits/96000Hz, up to 32 bits/192000Hz. This doesn't really matters because PS gaming PCM format is capped to 24 bits/96000.

Schiit Its sound presentation is more defined, better resolution and pleasent to hear but a little to bassy for gaming IMO. ARC is more airy nice soundstage and highlights footsteps in games.

The advantage of having a Loki on Schiit system is that you can change the sound to your liking or to make footsteps more audible to tune it similar to ARCMK2.

Schiit is better audio quality overall, ARC is lower resolution yet good enough and tuned for gaming with a microphone.

Anyways, hope it helps.

[Bagura32rus]

Hi!

As you know, ARC MK2 is a DAC+AMP, meaning DAC with an integrated AMPlifer, and is tuned (EQ) for gaming, it has a button to boost bass for more dense body explosions.

--Mayflower ARC---
[DAC] - - - [AMPLIFIER] - - - >[Headset/Headphone/Speakers]

Schiit Modi is a HIFI DAC only, DAC produces sound but its output is very very low... it needs and Amplfier to be audible. He needs Schiit Magni or any other AMP in order to be able to listen sound on its headphone/speakers.

Schiit Loki is an analog Equalizer, its place in the chain is between the DAC and the AMP so, the sound that comes from the DAC is tune to your liking (Loki) and then Amplifed by the AMP and output to your headphones/speakers

--Schiit Devices---
[DAC]- - - [EQ - Loki]- - - [AMPLIFIER]- - - >[Headset/Headphone/Speakers]

I'm not sure if Schiit Modi DAC is compatible with PS5 via USB, or only Optical and this needs an HDMI Audio Extractor.

You can't use ARC MK2 with Schiit Modi and Loki. MK2 is a all-in-one, while schiit devices are modular.

In order to have a functional audio system with Schiit, you need an AMP like Schiit Magni, to complete your audio system.

Does Schiit Modi+Loki+Magni, sounds better than Mayflower ARC MK2?,
Well Modi DAC can handle higher quallity files than 24bits/96000Hz, up to 32 bits/192000Hz. This doesn't really matters because PS gaming PCM format is capped to 24 bits/96000.

Schiit Its sound presentation is more defined, better resolution and pleasent to hear but a little to bassy for gaming IMO. ARC is more airy nice soundstage and highlights footsteps in games.

The advantage of having a Loki on Schiit system is that you can change the sound to your liking or to make footsteps more audible to tune it similar to ARCMK2.

Schiit is better audio quality overall, ARC is lower resolution yet good enough and tuned for gaming with a microphone.

Anyways, hope it helps.

Thank you for your reply.  Can you recommend a DAC for ps5?

[JarBOR]

HDMI 2.1 4x2 Matrix - 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz HDR with audio Extractor

I got this 4x2 Matrix back in December.

What I needed is this device does:

• HDMI Audio Extractor to feed my HiFi DAC/Amp with Optical Uncompress Audio, while maintaining 1440p at 120Hz on my gaming monitor. ✓
• Easy way to switch between PS5, XBSX, Nintendo Switch on my display.✓
• An extra HDMI output to feed my capture capture card on my streaming PC.✓

What this device can do:

• Display two sources(consoles) on different monitors at the same time or just one duplicated on two monitors or a monitor and a capture card supports HCDP
• Audio Extraction can handle: 5.1CH Dolby HD, DTS HD, Dolby Atoms, Dolby AC3, DTS o 2CH LPCM, which works great with my home theater AVR
• Solid HDR 10+ performance
• Supports ARC and CEC, meaning you can control the volume with the TV controller or AVR controller
• No input/display lag on splitter mode

What this device can't do:

• No VRR. ❌
• No Dolby Vision. ❌

I was trying to get this Matrix to simplify my HDMI + Display + Capture card chain, this device replaces:
+ Audio Extractor
+ HDMI 2.1 Splitter
+ HDMI Switcher. Need to switching between sources on my monitor individually.

Now, I can switch between consoles with one button and don't need to have to pass a HDMI cable to my capture card then back to my monitor in order to record or stream gameplay, this also saves me the need of having my PC(capture card) turned on in order to play.

Caveats that don't bothers me:
- No VRR. I'm OK with that; VRR has been very problematic. Adds input lag and flicker recording on most capture cards, even my elgato 4K Pro after its VRR compatible update, still has issues same, for the elgato HD60 X.
The games I play, don't use or work better without VRR.

- Dolby Vision, HDR10+ works great as you might know Dolby Vision is a "HDR implementation" branded by Dolby supposed to be better color calibrated. I don't miss it because my gaming monitor can't do HDR or Dolby.

My LG OLED does Dolby Vision and AVR also can do Dolby Atmos audio via eARC, with the console connected directly to the TV, so I don't need any extractor on this setup, that is at my home theater room where I put my consoles occasionally, and only for single player campaign games, like: RDR 2, GoW, Horizon Zero, etc.

I tried before:
HDMI Audio Extractor, HDMI Switch, and HDMI Splitter.

HDMI Splitter to avoid using capture card output which requires to have my PC turned on in order to play, no matter if I don't record game play or stream. From all of above only an HDMI Splitter can potentially add input lag, so be aware.

TL;TR This matrix 4x2 does the job 4X120Hz HDR without any input lag, but no VRR or Dolby vision outputs audio to feed an amplifier or HIFI audio system.

Final Thoughts
As you can see my case of use is very specific, I'm using many devices...
maybe you don't need a matrix if you...

Have one console and want a single HDMI 2.1 audio extractor for better audio, with 4K/120Hz VRR.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5WR19CQ/

if you are using two consoles a HDMI Switcher 2.1 with audio extraction, Dolby Vision, no VRR, no capture card support
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MNGIP2Y/


 

I have Ps5, Sony Inzone m9, Mayflower arc mk2 , Avstar 1x1 Hdmi 2.1 audio extractor [email protected] HDR, Sennheiser HD560S + Antlion Modmic Uni. Need advice how to connect to work properly. Thx in advance.

[AMG]

HDMI 2.1 4x2 Matrix - 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz HDR with audio Extractor

I got this 4x2 Matrix back in December.

What I needed is this device does:

• HDMI Audio Extractor to feed my HiFi DAC/Amp with Optical Uncompress Audio, while maintaining 1440p at 120Hz on my gaming monitor. ✓
• Easy way to switch between PS5, XBSX, Nintendo Switch on my display.✓
• An extra HDMI output to feed my capture capture card on my streaming PC.✓

What this device can do:

• Display two sources(consoles) on different monitors at the same time or just one duplicated on two monitors or a monitor and a capture card supports HCDP
• Audio Extraction can handle: 5.1CH Dolby HD, DTS HD, Dolby Atoms, Dolby AC3, DTS o 2CH LPCM, which works great with my home theater AVR
• Solid HDR 10+ performance
• Supports ARC and CEC, meaning you can control the volume with the TV controller or AVR controller
• No input/display lag on splitter mode

What this device can't do:

• No VRR. ❌
• No Dolby Vision. ❌

I was trying to get this Matrix to simplify my HDMI + Display + Capture card chain, this device replaces:
+ Audio Extractor
+ HDMI 2.1 Splitter
+ HDMI Switcher. Need to switching between sources on my monitor individually.

Now, I can switch between consoles with one button and don't need to have to pass a HDMI cable to my capture card then back to my monitor in order to record or stream gameplay, this also saves me the need of having my PC(capture card) turned on in order to play.

Caveats that don't bothers me:
- No VRR. I'm OK with that; VRR has been very problematic. Adds input lag and flicker recording on most capture cards, even my elgato 4K Pro after its VRR compatible update, still has issues same, for the elgato HD60 X.
The games I play, don't use or work better without VRR.

- Dolby Vision, HDR10+ works great as you might know Dolby Vision is a "HDR implementation" branded by Dolby supposed to be better color calibrated. I don't miss it because my gaming monitor can't do HDR or Dolby.

My LG OLED does Dolby Vision and AVR also can do Dolby Atmos audio via eARC, with the console connected directly to the TV, so I don't need any extractor on this setup, that is at my home theater room where I put my consoles occasionally, and only for single player campaign games, like: RDR 2, GoW, Horizon Zero, etc.

I tried before:
HDMI Audio Extractor, HDMI Switch, and HDMI Splitter.

HDMI Splitter to avoid using capture card output which requires to have my PC turned on in order to play, no matter if I don't record game play or stream. From all of above only an HDMI Splitter can potentially add input lag, so be aware.

TL;TR This matrix 4x2 does the job 4X120Hz HDR without any input lag, but no VRR or Dolby vision outputs audio to feed an amplifier or HIFI audio system.

Final Thoughts
As you can see my case of use is very specific, I'm using many devices...
maybe you don't need a matrix if you...

Have one console and want a single HDMI 2.1 audio extractor for better audio, with 4K/120Hz VRR.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5WR19CQ/

if you are using two consoles a HDMI Switcher 2.1 with audio extraction, Dolby Vision, no VRR, no capture card support
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MNGIP2Y/


 

I have Ps5, Sony Inzone m9, Mayflower arc mk2 , Avstar 1x1 Hdmi 2.1 audio extractor [email protected] HDR, Sennheiser HD560S + Antlion Modmic Uni. Need advice how to connect to work properly. Thx in advance.

You don't need the Avstar HDMI audio extractor, Mayflower ARC MK2 is USB compatible with PS5, just make sure PS option is selected (at the back of the unit) and connect Mayflower ARC MK2 to a USB port at the back of your PS5.

Modmic Uni on the ARC mic input and HD560S on the headphone input and you are ready to go 

[JarBOR]

Ok Thx

[Tirayear]

Hello friends
I would like somes advices if possible please. I hope it dont break forum's rules.
I have some gear i barely use and i would like to sell them.
Can you tel me where can i post it ?
List :
Soundblaster X7 (all accesories in the box)
Logitech G13 (box included)
Hdmi 2.0 audio extractor (box and accesories)

I want to sell all in package for cheap.