Counter-Strike 2 has a completely new sound system that is more accurate. The sound effects of weapons in the game have been reworked and their balance has been adjusted to make shots sound more pleasant. Therefore, simply transferring the sound settings from CS:GO to CS2 will not work. In this article, Bo3.gg presents a guide to setting up sound in CS2.

Equalizer settings for CS2

One of the parameters that interests us in the sound settings in CS2 is the equalizer or EQ. The 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 prevent you from determining the distance and direction of the sound source, complicating the process of identifying opponents.

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

Natural is somewhere between the two previous parameters. This equalizer setting is more suitable for training modes such as Deathmatch, where there are constant sounds of gunfire and explosions. This option reduces the strain on your ears, which is especially useful during long training sessions.

L/R Isolation in CS2

CS2 also changed the way sounds are delivered through audio channels, which is quite different from CS:GO. Sounds from the left and right audio channels are mixed. This innovation makes it much easier to identify the source of the sound. On the other hand, the sound in CS2 is completely different from CS:GO. If you are ready to get used to the new sounds, leave this parameter at 0%.

Want to play in a classic style and hear sounds like in CS:GO? It is possible. Set this parameter in the range from 50% to 70%. Keep in mind that this configuration may make it more difficult to identify the source of the sound, but the game will sound more familiar.

Perspective Correction

The next option is very similar to the one we talked about 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 to determine the direction of the sound source more accurately. So if you want to keep the sounds the same as in CS:GO, turn this option off.

Please note that perspective correction does not have a significant impact on the perception of sounds in CS2. This option is enabled by default in the game, and if you did not experience discomfort, you may not need to turn it off.

Microphone Settings in CS2

The next setting is very similar to the one we talked about 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 to determine the direction of the sound source more accurately. So if you want to keep the sounds the same as in CS:GO, turn this setting off.

Please note that perspective correction does not have a significant impact on the perception of sounds in CS2. This setting is enabled by default in the game, and if you have not experienced discomfort, you may not need to turn it off.

Music Settings in CS2

CS2 also has detailed music settings. The parameter of each slider is individual for each player, and it is worth adjusting it to your taste. We only insist that you do not reduce the volume of the ten-second countdown before the C4 explosion.

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

Best Audio/Sound Settings in CS2

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

• EQ: Crisp
• L/R Isolation: 0%
• Perspective Correction: On

If you prefer not to adapt to the new system and want the sound in CS2 to resemble the audio experience of CS, choose the following settings:

• EQ: Natural
• L/R Isolation: 50-60%
• Perspective Correction: On

We also highly recommend disabling any additional audio tuning programs or similar software. Additionally, make sure to check for any active additional effects in your headphone settings in Windows or the need to update your drivers. These factors can affect your gaming experience.