Well, update isn’t really the perfect word here. Eliminated is more like it. However the Gunnr is the new gaming interface from Texas-based Schiit Audio, and there are a few careful inclusions to the product over the Hel.
More info in the press release below.
“October 2, 2024, Corpus Christi, TX. Today, Schiit Audio launches Gunnr, the most powerful and versatile gaming interface available anywhere. Featuring up to 2000mW RMS output per channel, exclusive Soundstage Control for hearing into the gaming environment, and the ability to run portably with a single USB-C connection, Gunnr is the best choice for mission-critical gaming. Gunnr is available now at schiit.com for $229.
“Gunnr replaces Hel,” said Jason Stoddard, Schiit’s Co-Founder. “It’s more powerful, more capable, and more versatile than Hel by any measure.”
Gunnr introduces two exceptional new features: Soundstage Control and Linear Override.
Soundstage Control is an industry-exclusive feature that adds analog Width and Presence knobs to the front panel, for instant, fingertip adjustment of critical parameters that can give a competitive edge.
Width expands or contracts the scope of hearing. Turning the knob to the right makes everything sound more expansive, and can help identify sounds that would normally be masked. Turning it to the left blends the channels, which can make music sound more natural on headphones.
Presence enhances or suppresses sounds that people are most sensitive to. Turn the knob to the right to bring voices forward, or to hear small disturbances (wind rustling, twigs snapping, guns cocking). Turn to the left to suppress voices, to fix music mixes that are too shouty, or to compensate for headphones with too much midrange.
Linear Override is a first-in-the-industry power supply that allows Gunnr to run with a single USB-C cable (no other external power), for exceptional portability—or the customer can plug in the supplied AC wall power supply, to override the USB power, boost the rails, increase gain, and deliver the full 2000mW of RMS power per channel.
“Whether you’re a gamer or an audiophile, whether you’re using hard-to-drive headphones or IEMs, Gunnr gives you the flexibility you need,” said Jason. “The Width and Presence controls are completely bypassable, if you want a completely pure signal path. There are 3 levels of gain, including negative gain, which means you’ll always have the right gain for any headphone. And you get both USB and optical inputs, as well as an analog preamp output.”
Gunnr also features an all-new chassis with significant refinements, including “fastener-free” design for a sleeker look, and a solid, milled aluminum knob for aesthetics and better feel.
Gunnr is available now at Schiit.com in black finish for $229, including the AC wall power adapter. Customers who don’t need the wall adapter for higher power can choose to go without it and save $15.”
Interview with Jason Stoddard on The Occasional Podcast in the embed below or subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform including iTunes, Android, Google, Deezer, Spotify, iHeartRadio and more.
More info: Schiit Audio GunnR