What is the P5 General and Why Does It Matter?
The P5 General review represents a breakthrough in PlayStation 5 connectivity for controller adapter users, offering a fundamentally different approach to console authentication. Unlike traditional adapters such as the Brook or P5 Mate, this device functions as an authentication controller rather than a signal adapter, making it the most advanced PS5 USB solution currently available on the market.
For gamers using XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, Titan2, and other input devices on PlayStation 5, the P5 General solves several critical issues that have plagued adapter-based solutions for years. This comprehensive review explores everything you need to know about this innovative device, from its technical advantages to setup instructions and potential drawbacks.
How the P5 General Works: Authentication vs. Adapter Technology
The Problem with Traditional Adapters
Most PS5 adapters on the market, including popular options like Brook and P5 Mate, require connection between your XIM device and the PlayStation console. This intermediary positioning means your XIM cannot communicate directly with the PS5. Instead, every signal must pass through the adapter first, which inevitably alters the output signal.
This signal processing creates noticeable differences in aiming precision and smart action responsiveness. Many gamers have reported that their gameplay feels slightly “off” when using these traditional adapters, and the P5 General finally addresses this fundamental issue.
The P5 General Authentication Solution
The P5 General takes a revolutionary approach by functioning as an authentication device in USB stick form. You simply plug it into port 3 of your XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, or Titan2, allowing your device to communicate directly with the PS5 over USB. This direct connection means your output remains completely unaltered and unprocessed by any intermediary hardware.
Think of the P5 General as a companion device for your input adapter rather than a signal adapter. It handles authentication in the background while your XIM, Cronus, or Titan maintains a pure, direct connection to the console.
P5 General Review – Device Compatibility
The P5 General offers broad compatibility across multiple popular gaming input devices:
Primary Compatibility
- XIM Matrix – Full support with all features
- Cronus Zen – Complete compatibility
- Titan2 – Fully functional
- ReaSnow – Compatible with all features
Platform Compatibility
This device is specifically designed for PlayStation 5 users only. Gamers on other platforms (PC, Xbox, PlayStation 4, etc.) won’t need this device and should look for platform-appropriate solutions.
Key Advantages of the P5 General
1. Unpatchable Design
One of the most significant benefits of the P5 General is its unpatchable nature. Unlike software-based solutions that can be blocked by system updates, this authentication method provides long-term reliability and peace of mind for users.
2. Cost-Effective Solution
At under $30, the P5 General costs approximately half the price of competing adapters. This makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious gamers who want reliable PS5 connectivity without breaking the bank.
3. Direct USB Connection Benefits
By bypassing remote play entirely, users gain access to several features that are typically unavailable:
- Spotify integration while gaming
- HDR (High Dynamic Range) support for enhanced visuals
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smoother gameplay
- Reduced input lag compared to remote play solutions
4. Improved Detection Avoidance
Approximately five games currently attempt to detect XIM and adapter users, with two of them using remote play as a detection indicator. The P5 General allows users to avoid these detection methods by playing directly over USB, making it significantly harder for anti-cheat systems to identify adapter usage.
Valorant, which cannot be played via remote play at all, becomes accessible with the P5 General USB solution.
5. Polling Rate Flexibility
The device supports all standard polling rates from 125 Hz up to 1,000 Hz, allowing users to optimize their setup based on their specific gaming needs and preferences.
6. Universal Adapter Compatibility
The P5 General works seamlessly with multiple input adapters including XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, Titan2, and ReaSnow, making it a versatile addition to any gaming setup regardless of your preferred input device.
Setup and Installation Guide
Prerequisites for XIM Matrix Users
Before setting up your P5 General with XIM Matrix, ensure you have the latest XIM firmware installed. A recent firmware update specifically added support for the P5 General and Games controllers. This update is essential for compatibility and must be completed first.
Step-by-Step Setup Process (XIM Matrix)
- Update XIM Firmware: Install the latest firmware version that includes P5 General support
- Connect P5 General: Plug the device into the back port of your XIM Matrix (the port next to the Ethernet port)
- Connect to PS5: Connect your Matrix to the PlayStation 5 console
- Configure Connection Settings: Open your XIM configuration and navigate to connection settings
- Set Connection Method: Change the connection method to “Xbox and PS4”
- Select Polling Rate: Choose your preferred polling rate at the bottom of the settings menu
Setup for Cronus Zen and Titan2 Users
For Cronus Zen and Titan2 users, setup procedures may vary slightly depending on your device’s specific configuration requirements. Consult your device’s documentation for the appropriate port to connect the P5 General and any specific configuration settings needed for PS5 authentication.
Additional Setup Tips
If you need to connect more than three devices to your XIM Matrix (such as a mouse, keyboard, and controller), you can plug a USB hub into your Matrix to expand your connectivity options. Similar expansion options may be available for Cronus Zen and Titan2 depending on your specific setup.
Drawbacks and Limitations
No Rumble Support
The P5 General does not support controller rumble functionality. If your configurations rely heavily on rumble codes for specific games, this could present challenges. However, rumble codes are typically only useful in a limited number of games, so most users won’t find this to be a significant limitation.
If you’re unfamiliar with rumble codes, this limitation likely won’t affect your gaming experience at all.
No Audio Support
Currently, the device lacks audio support. Users will need to utilize either a USB sound card with their console or a USB headset for game audio. There’s potential for audio support to be added in future updates, but as of now, an alternative audio solution is required.
XIM Matrix Specific Features
While the P5 General is compatible with multiple devices including Cronus Zen and Titan2, some configuration features mentioned in this review (such as specific firmware updates and connection settings) are XIM Matrix-specific. Users of other devices should refer to their manufacturer’s documentation for device-specific setup instructions.
PS5 Exclusive
This device is specifically designed for PlayStation 5 users. Gamers on other platforms (PC, Xbox, etc.) won’t need this device and should look for platform-appropriate solutions.
XIM Apex Incompatibility
The P5 General is not compatible with XIM Apex. If you’re using a XIM Apex, you’ll need to continue using other connectivity solutions or consider upgrading to XIM Matrix for P5 General compatibility.
Performance and Real-World Usage
The most significant real-world benefit of the P5 General is the restoration of pure, unaltered aiming mechanics. Users across XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, and Titan2 devices have reported that their aiming feels noticeably more responsive and accurate compared to adapter-based solutions. The elimination of signal processing creates a more authentic gaming experience that closely mimics direct controller input.
For competitive gamers where milliseconds matter, the P5 General’s direct connection can provide a tangible advantage. The device essentially removes one layer of potential input lag from your setup, resulting in a more immediate and precise gaming experience across all compatible devices.
Where to Buy the P5 General
While the P5 General may eventually become available on Amazon and through the official XIM store, availability is currently limited due to the device’s recent launch (within the past week). The best way to purchase the device is through authorized retailers that specialize in gaming peripherals.
When purchasing, ensure you’re buying from a reputable source to avoid counterfeit products that may not function properly or could damage your equipment.
Is the P5 General Worth It?
For serious PS5 gamers using XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, Titan2, or other compatible input adapters, the P5 General represents an excellent investment. At under $30, it’s competitively priced while offering superior performance compared to more expensive adapter solutions. The combination of direct USB connectivity, unpatchable design, and restored gaming features makes it a compelling upgrade.
The device is particularly valuable for:
- Competitive gamers who need the most responsive and accurate input possible
- Players of detection-sensitive games like Valorant or titles that flag remote play users
- Users who want access to PS5 features like Spotify, HDR, and VRR
- Budget-conscious gamers looking for an affordable yet effective solution
- Multi-device users who own both XIM Matrix and Cronus/Titan devices
The lack of rumble and audio support may be dealbreakers for some users, but for most gamers, these limitations are minor compared to the significant performance and feature benefits.
Final Verdict
The P5 General earns high marks as a game-changing device for the input adapter community. Its authentication-based approach represents a fundamental improvement over traditional adapter technology, delivering unaltered signal output and direct console communication.
With its affordable price point, unpatchable design, broad compatibility across XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, Titan2, and ReaSnow devices, and restoration of critical PS5 features, the P5 General sets a new standard for PlayStation 5 connectivity solutions. While it has some limitations regarding audio and rumble support, these drawbacks are relatively minor for most use cases.
Rating: 9/10
Pros:
- Direct USB connection with no signal alteration
- Unpatchable authentication method
- Under $30 price point
- Supports 125-1000 Hz polling rates
- Enables Spotify, HDR, and VRR
- Better detection avoidance
- Compatible with XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, Titan2, and ReaSnow
- Works across multiple input adapter brands
Cons:
- No rumble support
- No audio support (requires USB headset or sound card)
- Not compatible with XIM Apex
- Limited availability at launch
- PS5 exclusive (no support for other platforms)
For XIM Matrix, Cronus Zen, Titan2, and ReaSnow users on PlayStation 5, the P5 General is highly recommended and represents the ultimate USB solution currently available on the market.