The Meta Quest 2 is the second version of the Oculus Quest virtual reality (VR) headset developed by Oculus Labs, the company that Facebook acquired and now renamed. The new VR headset connects with a computer via USB-C or Wi-Fi and has a 3.5mm jack output, since the built-in sound is not very convincing. The Logitech Chorus audio accessory for Meta Quest 2 is able to generate a convincing audio solution for anyone using these virtual reality solutions thanks to the use of Balanced Mode Radiator (BMR) drivers from Tectonic.
Tectonic BMRs combine bending wave mode technology with pistonic motion to create full audio range, wide directivity speaker drivers that provide wide directivity throughout a room and are able to be tuned to compensate the lack of bass response when used in close proximity to the ear, without being able to isolate or cause pressure to the user's head. This is a concept that was tested and is now proven since the original development for the Valve Index by Valve, an entertainment software and gaming technology company, the creators of Steam, a games distribution platform, and a pioneer of virtual reality (VR) products.
"From the start, we wanted to help more people discover all that VR has to offer," says Vadim Kogan, head of AR/VR business group at Logitech. "Chorus enhances the fit and comfort of Meta Quest 2, while allowing those who love long play sessions to stay immersed in their favorite games and experiences through the audio integration in a comfortable design built for the VR gamer."
The new Logitech Chorus is able to offer immersive audio thanks to its design with custom-tuned, open-back, rotating BMR drivers, and an integrated strap solution. This new design is the optimal solution for users of this virtual reality headset, which need to stay cool, while exploring the computer generated universes that Facebook is now promoting as "metaverse" and that also allows playing VR games. There's even some companies designing fitness activities for people using these things in the head, which presumably reinforces the neck muscles - assuming they don't hurt themselves by bumping against walls or falling down the stairs. Using standard headphones with these VR contraptions on the head would just contribute to the feeling of dizziness and loss of orientation due to additional isolation from the surrounding environment.
"Logitech Chorus combines the realistic audio that gamers want with the comfort and convenience that people need, all at a price that is lower than similarly featured audio solutions on the market today," explains Matt Green, senior manager, acoustics engineering at Logitech. “Chorus is more than the next step in audio for VR, it represents years of feedback from developers, gamers, and the VR community, and we couldn’t be more excited for this addition to the immersive VR experience."
Weighing in at 6.42 oz (182 grams), the Logitech Chorus is lightweight and comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and its stays in place on the VR headset (which weights 530 grams) and never needs to be removed or unplugged. Once connected, Chorus is fully integrated with USB-C passthrough so no separate power source is needed.
The Logitech Chorus for Meta Quest 2 is expected to retail for $99.99, and will be available at Logitech, and major retailers. www.logitech.com
www.tectonicaudiolabs.com
