Shopping around for audio formats can be confusing, and there’s lots to consider. Should you get stereo or surround? Dolby Atmos or DTS? Should you get THX or something else? While there’s plenty of reading on those questions, we’re here to give you a quick and easy breakdown of THX Spatial Audio, how it works, how it compares to other formats, and what it means for gaming and movies.
Editor’s note: this article was updated on October 3, 2025, to update the information about compatibility.
What is THX Spatial Audio?
THX Spatial Audio is the software component that drives the illusion of 3D sound. This processing creates directional cues, resulting in sound that feels like it comes from all around your head.
It’s a system that converts ordinary stereo signals into a virtual surround environment, also known as spatial audio. THX serves the same core function in headphones as a driver does in hardware: producing the sound you hear in a more immersive way. As the variety of headsets and platforms shows, implementations also differ considerably.
Virtual surround processing
The stars of the show are the algorithms inside the THX Spatial Audio app.
- Most affordable way to get 3D sound
- Compact and lightweight (software only)
- Fairly robust
- Not the absolute best in terms of sound reproduction
Most users experience THX Spatial Audio through software on PC or in supported Razer headsets. A virtual engine creates a simulated 7.1 environment. This interacts with the stereo signal, which is forced to move back and forth across a digital stage. The software applies filters, or HRTFs, which acoustically amplify spatial cues and, thus, virtual sound sources are produced.
Wikipedia Commons A virtual surround processor consists of a (1) stereo input, (2) HRTF filter, (3) spatial algorithm, and (4) virtual output.
How does THX Spatial Audio affect my music and games?
Although the basic virtualization concept hasn’t changed much in close to 20 years, it has been refined considerably. THX Spatial Audio will, however, be prone to limitations depending on content and headphone quality.
Variations in performance can be attributed to different tuning profiles used and the compromises made in the design.
In terms of experience, it’s not bad — there are plenty of affordable models — but better spatial quality can be found if you’re willing to spend.
Comparing formats: THX Spatial Audio vs Dolby Atmos vs DTS Headphone:X
Edifier software shows virtualized sound fields with THX enabled.
- Lower hardware requirements
- More accurate positional cues in games
- More affordable
- Not as widely supported in movies and streaming
Headphones that use Dolby Atmos or DTS Headphone:X sport a distinct look in marketing: badges, logos, and licensed content. Although Atmos is typically found in streaming apps and Blu-ray, there are also examples of games using it. Some manufacturers use their own names for similar technology: “Windows Sonic,” “3D Audio,” or “Headphone:X” all refer to spatial virtualization.
Limited Time Deal!
The basic principle of operation for THX Spatial Audio is the same as the others: a digital signal is filtered through head-related transfer functions as an audio stream is passed through it. Rather than requiring hardware changes, the THX system lays out the processing in a 2D software layer that can be made extremely flat. Multiple filters are applied on both channels, producing a uniform spatial field where it stays.
Audeze’s planar magnetic headphones use proprietary magnets to create a magnetic field.
Due to the more complex structure of content licensing, Atmos and DTS models often cost more, are heavier in branding, and are less flexible, meaning they require specific apps to be used. In other words, many Atmos headphones need a license to run at adequate levels.
How does THX Spatial Audio affect gaming?
Planar magnetic and electrostatic headphones often require an external amplifier.
Because the flat digital field moves in unison and is well controlled, some issues with traditional stereo design that cause distortion are avoided.
The thin software layer has no physical resonance or energy storage, so it is free of distortion inherent in moving coil speakers. While this accuracy is much sought after, it’s unrealistic to produce on a grand scale for general consumers. The sheer expense of licensing and the fact that Atmos requires bespoke apps to even work means that THX is the domain of gamers who want something more flexible.
Benefits for gamers
The Razer Kraken Tournament Edition has clear branding that reveals THX Spatial Audio inside.
- Smaller requirement than multi-driver setups
- Excellent positional response
- Can delegate modes for each genre (in multiple EQ profiles)
- More affordable than Atmos licensing
THX Spatial Audio is much smaller than hardware surround systems, and its main application is in gaming and movies. These incorporate a digital armature that rests on a pivot between two software profiles. When it’s centered within the audio field, the signal has no net force acting on it.
- Davidson at English Wikipedia The spatial processor rests on a pivot and makes small rotations due to the surrounding signal, causing the diaphragm to create virtual sound waves.
When a signal is sent through the filter wrapped around the stereo field, the algorithm makes the audio move. This motion causes the attached output to move and create sound cues.
How do THX profiles affect my music and games?
Because they’re so small, it’s possible for headsets, like the Razer BlackShark V2, to use multiple EQ modes. Doing so delegates a specific range of sound to each profile — an individual mode will usually handle competitive play, and the rest will be handled by one to three others, allowing profiles tailored to each type of content. Another example, the Razer Opus takes this concept further, with custom EQ packed into its software.
Best headsets with THX Spatial Audio in 2025
The Razer BlackShark V2 Pro are wireless gaming headphones with their own THX Spatial Audio support.
- Integrated THX profiles
- Require Synapse or THX app
- Lightweight and comfortable headsets
- Affordable compared to Atmos headphones
Headsets that use THX Spatial Audio are more common than electrostatic models and don’t require special amps. They work by applying the spatial algorithm inside the headset or through software, and the profiles can be updated over time. It’s the same principle as surround emulation but in reverse.
Wikipedia Commons With THX Spatial Audio, the signal is propelled to and from a pair of software layers.
Headsets that use THX are much more affordable than hardware-based solutions and require only the software app, reducing the overall cost.
How do THX headsets affect my music?
Because the profiles are tuned with no resonance or energy storage, they are free of the distortion inherent in multi-driver headphones. While this accuracy is much sought after, it’s unrealistic to expect full Atmos integration at the same price. The sheer expense of Dolby licensing and the fact that it requires bespoke apps to even work means that THX models are the domain of gamers first.
How to enable THX Spatial Audio on PC & consoles
The THX Spatial Audio app shows multiple EQ profiles inside Windows.
- Software installation required
- Available through Razer Synapse or THX Spatial Audio app
- Compatible with PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and mobile
THX operates on a completely different principle than conventional surround technologies. They work by applying a virtual audio layer across the stereo signal. When game audio is applied across the filter, the entire sound field moves back and forth due to digital attraction and repulsion. It’s the same principle as other virtualizers but with its own layer.
Wikipedia Commons With THX software, the stereo signal is processed by a virtual plate system.
Activating THX requires downloading the app, selecting the default playback device, and choosing the profile. This makes the sound output switch to virtual surround.
How does enabling THX affect my games?
Because the virtual diaphragm has no moving parts, it can be applied instantly without distortion. While this is desirable, it still requires system-level support. Many headsets come bundled with the license, while others may require a separate purchase.
Is THX Spatial Audio worth it in 2025?
Because THX is often bundled free with Razer headsets, it is cost-effective compared to Atmos. While the accuracy is valuable, it may not be realistic to expect cinematic reproduction for general consumers.
Most consumers will be perfectly happy with THX Spatial Audio headsets.
Of course, if audio is your passion and you can pursue that passion, Atmos and DTS-driven headphones or earbuds are worthy of potential upgrades. Although these formats require a bit more shopping around, plenty of options exist. As the Razer Nari Ultimate demonstrates, THX Spatial Audio doesn’t have to set you back hundreds of dollars.
Conclusion
THX Spatial Audio = competitive gaming advantage + immersive movie surround. If you are shopping for a headset, look for models with built-in THX licensing.
Future: possible combination with Snapdragon Sound + LE Audio.
FAQ
What is THX Spatial Audio?
THX Spatial Audio is the virtual surround sound component that simulates a 360° sound field.
Is THX better than Dolby Atmos?
It depends. THX is stronger in gaming, while Atmos is common in movies and streaming.
Does THX Spatial Audio work on any headphones?
Yes, as long as the software is installed, it works with any stereo headset.