As a direct successor to the popular soundbar-and-subwoofer system launched eight years ago, the Razer Leviathan V2 was expected to be a significant improvement in every possible regard. While it does offer a better design, smarter controls, a more engaging virtual surround sound experience, and nice RGB effects, not everyone will be pleased by the fact that it no longer offers analog and optical connectivity. Razer decided to limit its inputs to USB-C and declare it as a PC-only soundbar. Sure, you can connect it to Nintendo Switch via Bluetooth too, but then you have to deal with wireless latency, which is just high enough to get in the way when playing rhythm and other timing-sensitive games.

A bigger issue I have with the Leviathan V2 is that you can't get it to sound good in Bluetooth mode. This is because, for best performance, you have to activate the THX Spatial Audio technology and select the Music sound profile in the corresponding Windows application. However THX Spatial Audio isn't available in Bluetooth mode, creating an inconsistent listening experience.

I also had plenty of trouble with the Synapse 3 software suite, which would allow me to configure the lighting effects and controls of the Leviathan V2, but not its sound properties. The integrated audio equalizer usually did nothing, only to occasionally come back to life. That's why it's best to leave it flat and simply switch to the THX Spatial Audio app for sound configuration. This is where you'll find a working equalizer, as well as everything related to the virtual surround sound prowess of the Leviathan V2. I don't say this lightly, but do give the THX Environmental Mode a try, assuming you're playing a supported game. It creates an immersive experience, further amplified by the lively nature of the sound coming out of the soundbar and the accompanying subwoofer – when adjusted properly.

In the end, I'm left feeling a bit torn. The Razer Leviathan V2 is essentially an exceptionally compact and good-sounding PC 2.1 sound system, marred with software issues that you really shouldn't have to deal with after coughing up $250. If you have more patience than I do, I can give it a soft recommendation, but I'm not convinced enough to officially award it our Highly Recommended badge.