In Counter-Strike 2, there is an entirely new sound system that has become more accurate. The game has undergone a revamp of weapon sound effects, and their balance has been adjusted to make the shooter sound more pleasant. Therefore, simply transferring sound settings from CS:GO to CS2 won't work. In this article, Bo3.gg presents a guide on configuring sound in CS2.

Equalizer settings for CS2

One of the parameters that interests us in sound settings in CS2 is the equalizer or EQ. Developers offer three configurations: Natural, Crisp, and Smooth. Each of these parameters changes the sound to some extent.

Most importantly, do not choose the Smooth configuration. It will hinder your ability to determine the distance and direction of the sound source, complicating the process of locating opponents.

For matchmaking, the Crisp setting is the most suitable. Thanks to this parameter, you will hear gunshots and footsteps better, which is crucial when playing CS2. With this configuration, you will fully experience the new sound system.

Natural is something in between the two previous parameters. This equalizer setting is more suitable for training modes like Deathmatch, where constant sounds of gunfire and explosions are present. This option allows you to reduce the strain on your ears, which is particularly useful during extended training sessions.

L/R isolation in CS2

In CS2, the delivery of sounds through audio channels has also been changed, which fundamentally distinguishes it from CS:GO. Sounds from the left and right audio channels are blended. Thanks to this innovation, it has become much easier to determine the source of the sound. On the other hand, CS2 sounds completely different compared to CS:GO. If you are ready to get used to the new sounds, leave the settings of this parameter at 0%.

Want to play in a classic style and hear sounds like in CS:GO? It's possible. Adjust the setting of this parameter in the range between 50% and 70%. Keep in mind that such a configuration will make it more difficult to determine the source of the sound, but the game will sound more familiar.

Perspective сorrection

The next option is very similar to the one we discussed in the "L/R isolation in CS2" section. Depending on the position of the sound source relative to the player, you hear it differently. Perspective correction should help more accurately determine the direction of the sound source. So, if you want to keep the sounds the same as they were in CS:GO, disable this parameter.

Note that perspective correction does not significantly impact the perception of sounds in CS2. This option is enabled in the game by default, and if you haven't experienced any discomfort, you may not need to disable it.

Microphone Settings in CS2

The next option is very similar to the one we discussed in the "L/R isolation in CS2" section. Depending on the position of the sound source relative to the player, you hear it differently. Perspective correction should help more accurately determine the direction of the sound source. So, if you want to keep the sounds the same as they were in CS:GO, disable this parameter.

Note that perspective correction does not significantly impact the perception of sounds in CS2. This option is enabled in the game by default, and if you haven't experienced any discomfort, you may not need to disable it.

Music Settings in CS2

In CS2, there is also a detailed music settings option. The parameter of each slider for each player is individual, and it is worth adjusting them to your liking. We only insist that you do not lower the volume of the ten-second countdown to the C4 explosion.

The ten-second timer before the C4 explosion is the main sound cue that can help win rounds for both attackers and defenders. Considering that in CS2, the blast radius of C4 has increased on all maps, this signal can help save your life.

Best Audio/Sound Settings in CS2

We have prepared two optimal sound settings configurations in CS2. To fully utilize the new sound system and its features on the Source 2 engine, set the following settings:

• EQ: Crisp
• L/R isolation: 0%
• Perspective correction: Enabled

If you don't want to adapt to the new system and prefer to hear the sound in CS2 like in CS:GO, choose the following options:

• EQ: Natural
• L/R isolation: 50-60%
• Perspective correction: Enabled

We also strongly recommend disabling any additional programs for sound settings or similar. Also, don't forget to check if you have any additional effects activated in the headphone settings in Windows or if your drivers are up to date. These things can interfere with your gaming experience.