Arctis 9X uses the "Xbox Wireless" technology that was developed by Microsoft.
"Xbox Wireless" is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft for connecting accessories to Xbox One consoles. Like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct, Xbox Wireless enables controllers and select headsets to establish a direct wireless connection with the console, while avoiding the complexities that come with adapters or physical cabling.
The frequency that this technology operates on can experience minor interference that becomes more noticeable while using a wireless headset such as the 9X.
Troubleshooting:
- Restart your router. If possible, move it further away. If you have a router that operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz, please disable one or the other.
Reset your Arctis 9X
There is a pinhole under the ear cushion (non-mic side) that has a reset button. Use something like a paperclip to press down into it to reset the 9X. Now re-pair it to your Xbox.
and/or
Reset your Xbox:
Please reset it with the instructions below; it will reset the OS and delete all potentially corrupted data without deleting your games or apps.
System > Settings > System > Console info > Reset console > Reset and keep my games & apps.
- Move away from devices that operate in the 2.4 GHz - 5 GHz range. Some examples:
- Wireless Speakers
- Smart Thermostats
- Cordless Phones
It is a good practice to turn off and unplug electronic devices temporarily to see how it affects the wireless interference issue.
1. Make sure your Xbox firmware is up to date. Instructions for updating can be found here: http://support.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-one/console/update-xbox-one-console
2. Make sure there is a direct line of sight between you and the Xbox to ensure nothing can be blocking the signal.
3. Try moving closer to the Xbox to see if the signal quality improves.
4. If you are using an external hard drive with your Xbox try temporarily disconnecting it to see if signal quality to the headset improves. USB 3.0 devices are known to cause 2.4GHz interference: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/products/docs/io/universal-serial-bus/usb3-frequency-interference-paper.html
5. Check to see if there are any other wireless devices nearby and disconnect them. *Devices operating on the 2.4 or 5 GHz bands such as speakers and smart home devices* If the interference is clear, connect them back one at a time to isolate the issue.
6. If you have a wireless router in the room, make sure that it is at least 5 feet away from the Xbox (further if you are using a powerful router).
7. Try temporarily unplugging the router and see if the signal quality to the headset improves. If it improves, then the router is the source of the interference. Proceed to Step 8.
*Warning - SteelSeries is not responsible for any third-party hardware. Only proceed if you are knowledgeable in navigating your router's settings.*
In your router's settings disable either the 2.4 or 5 GHz bands. Xbox Wireless uses both bands, so by restricting the router you should create clean space for the headset to operate.
Want to try reconnecting the 9x? Check out our How-To video below!