The software is not required for the GSP 670. The headset can also be used with a smartphone or a Playstation, where there is no software. Manual: https://www.eposaudio.com/globalassets/__pim/products/gsp-670/1ebce359-595c-4cf4-8d43-d961bade380f_16716_gsp670_gsa70_qg_a03_0720_a3toa7_v1_sp19_int_original.pdf Also with this H3 Hybrid the software is only optional. "the software does add value" https://www.eposaudio.com/globalassets/__pim/products/h3-hybrid-white/4587c9a7-94ec-409c-9eef-472eded12ba0_23708_h3_hybrid_userguide_a01_0821_en_int_original.pdf Presumably the software can convert 5.1 sound into a kind of stereo surround sound, which sounds different from pure stereo sound.