The Nacon RIG R8 Spectre Pro HS proves that headsets can still be great value in 2026

by · TechRadar

TechRadar Verdict

Nacon combines strong fundamentals like audio quality and construction materials with some sensible value-adds in its new R8 model, like the swappable earcup plates and cushions. There are small issues with the headband and overladen multifunction button, and it’s a shame not to have more granular control over the RGB zones, but this is a really attractive price for this many well-executed features.

Pros

  • +Tight, low-distortion sound
  • +Snap-lock earcups and cushions
  • +Replaceable battery

Cons

  • -Fiddly multifunction button
  • -Limited RGB customisation
  • -Short headband

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Nacon RIG R8 Spectre Pro HS: one-minute review

Nacon’s making moves lately. In the past couple of years, it’s expanded its offering and, frankly, upped the quality of its products, giving the establishment a headache in every vertical from sim racing to – most pertinently – audio.

This new RIG R8 Spectre Pro HS is a wireless headset model with a base station unit, USB receiver, and dual wireless connectivity that builds on the R5’s design with additional functionality. Graphene-coated drivers deliver a really distinctive, tight sound with no discernible distortion at max volume, while snap-lock earcup plates and foam cushions offer some customisation potential and extended lifespan. To that end, an easily accessible and removable battery makes it easy to keep the charge life nice and high.

The chunky design is informed by very generous padding around the earcups and headband, which does provide a lot of comfort but doesn’t entirely offset a short headband design, which can create an awkward fit with the lower earcup portion fanning out, so it’s worth trying these on and ideally wearing them for a few minutes before committing to making them your new multi-device audio pick.

Speaking of multi-device, it’s simple to set the R8 up with either console (I’m testing the PS5-compatible version - the Xbox version is branded as HX) or PC via the base station or USB receiver, and then pair a phone via the Bluetooth connection. Battery life and wireless performance are both strong, and it’s nice to have the option of a wired USB connection in your back pocket if you find yourself without charge and don’t want to leave the headset on the base station to charge.

There’s a lot of value and performance here, then, making the R8 a great all-round package. But it does come with some fiddly bits: specifically, a multifunction button that’s been tasked with more functions than any single button should be given, and a single RGB button on the base station that offers only limited customisation.

(Image credit: Future/Phil Iwaniuk)

Nacon RIG R8 Spectre Pro HS: Price and availability

  • List price: $179.99 (around £135 / AU$349.99)
  • Priced competitively against Fractal Scape & Razer BlackShark V2 Pro
  • UK pricing yet to be confirmed

Any discussion of pricing and value in 2026 is inherently depressing, but Nacon’s found a really aggressive price point for this R8 package, considering all the features it brings to the table.

$180 for a base station and dual wireless feels about right, particularly considering the build and sound quality. Nacon hasn’t revealed the UK MSRP yet, however, so quite how bargainous this will be to UK consumers remains to be seen.

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