CS2 Music Kits Guide: Complete Audio Customization Reference
A comprehensive guide to Counter-Strike 2 music kits, covering all kit types, how to acquire them, StatTrak variants, notable artists and composers, audio settings optimization, and factors that affect music kit value. Learn how to personalize your CS2 audio experience.
What Are Music Kits?
Music kits are cosmetic items in Counter-Strike 2 that replace the game's default soundtrack with custom music composed by various artists and musicians. Introduced in the September 2014 CS:GO update, music kits have become a popular way for players to personalize their gaming experience without affecting gameplay mechanics.
Each music kit contains a complete set of audio tracks that play during specific in-game events. These range from menu music to round-specific cues, bomb timer tension music, and the coveted MVP anthem that plays when you're selected as the round's Most Valuable Player. While most of these sounds are only audible to the kit owner, the MVP anthem is the exception—other players can hear your personal anthem when you earn MVP.
Music kits are purely cosmetic and offer no competitive advantage. They're an expression of personal taste, allowing players to enhance their immersion or enjoy music from artists they appreciate while playing. The CS2 music kit library includes compositions spanning multiple genres, from electronic and metal to orchestral and ambient soundscapes.
Understanding Music Kit Value
Music kits occupy a unique position in the CS2 economy. Unlike weapon skins that have float values, patterns, and wear conditions (see our Float Values Guide), music kits are binary—they either exist in your inventory or they don't. Value comes primarily from rarity (discontinued kits), artist popularity, and whether it's a StatTrak variant. The MVP anthem quality often drives desirability since that's the only part other players hear.
Music Kit Track List
Every CS2 music kit contains a standardized set of audio tracks designed to accompany specific game events. Understanding which tracks play when helps you evaluate whether a kit's style matches your preferences.
| Track Name | When It Plays | Audible To |
|---|---|---|
| Main Menu | Background music on main menu screen | You only |
| Round Start (CT) | Beginning of each round as Counter-Terrorist | You only |
| Round Start (T) | Beginning of each round as Terrorist | You only |
| Bomb Planted | Immediately after bomb is planted | You only |
| Bomb Timer (10 Seconds) | Final 10 seconds of bomb timer | You only |
| Round Won | When your team wins the round | You only |
| Round Lost | When your team loses the round | You only |
| MVP Anthem | When you're selected as round MVP | All players |
| Death Camera | When you die and view your killer | You only |
| Choose Team | Team selection screen | You only |
The MVP Anthem: Your Public Sound
The MVP anthem deserves special attention because it's the only track from your music kit that other players can hear. When you're awarded MVP at the end of a round (for most kills, bomb plant/defuse, or hostage rescue), your personal anthem plays for everyone in the server. This makes the MVP anthem quality a significant factor in kit desirability.
Some players choose music kits primarily based on their MVP anthems, selecting tracks that are satisfying to hear repeatedly or that make a statement to opponents. Anthems range from triumphant orchestral swells to aggressive metal riffs to electronic buildups, each setting a different tone for your victories.
How to Get Music Kits
There are several methods to acquire music kits in CS2, each with different availability and cost considerations.
🛒 Steam Community Market
The primary marketplace for music kits. Buy and sell with other players. Prices vary based on rarity and demand. Both regular and StatTrak versions available. Access via Steam Community Market.
🎮 In-Game Store
Valve occasionally offers music kits directly in the CS2 in-game store. Limited selection that rotates over time. Fixed pricing set by Valve. Regular versions only (no StatTrak).
🎁 Random Drops
Music kits can drop randomly as end-of-match rewards. Very rare occurrence compared to case/graffiti drops. Regular versions only. Requires Prime status for drop eligibility.
🔄 Trading
Trade with other players through Steam's trading system. Can be part of larger skin trades. Both regular and StatTrak available through trades. Follow safe trading practices.
StatTrak Music Kit Acquisition
StatTrak music kits are notably harder to obtain than their regular counterparts. They cannot be purchased from the in-game store or received as random drops. The only methods to acquire StatTrak music kits are:
- Steam Community Market – Purchase from other players at market rates
- Trading – Trade directly with other players
- Third-party marketplaces – Some external trading sites list StatTrak music kits
This limited acquisition path contributes to the higher market value of StatTrak variants compared to regular music kits.
Buying Tips
When purchasing music kits from the Steam Community Market, consider listening to the kit's tracks on YouTube or fan sites before buying. The market listing doesn't include audio previews, and you can't return items after purchase. Many community members have uploaded music kit showcases that let you preview all tracks before committing to a purchase.
StatTrak Music Kits
StatTrak music kits function identically to regular music kits but include an additional feature: an integrated counter that tracks the number of MVP awards you've earned while the kit is equipped. This counter appears in your inventory when viewing the item.
The StatTrak mechanic for music kits mirrors the concept used on weapons (covered in our StatTrak Complete Guide), but instead of counting kills, it counts MVP achievements. For players who frequently top scoreboards or clutch rounds, a high MVP count on a StatTrak music kit becomes a point of pride.
StatTrak Music Kit Characteristics
| Feature | Regular Music Kit | StatTrak Music Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Audio tracks | Full track list | Identical full track list |
| MVP counter | None | Tracks total MVPs earned |
| In-game store | Sometimes available | Never available |
| Random drops | Possible (rare) | Not possible |
| Market availability | Common | Rarer, higher priced |
| Price premium | Base price | Typically 2-5x regular price |
Is StatTrak Worth the Premium?
Whether a StatTrak music kit is worth the additional cost depends on your priorities. The music itself is identical between regular and StatTrak versions—you're paying exclusively for the MVP tracking feature and the prestige of the "StatTrak" designation.
Consider StatTrak if:
- You frequently earn MVP awards and want to track your achievements
- You view the counter as a long-term collectible showing your gameplay history
- You prefer having the "complete" version of items
- You plan to keep the kit long-term rather than trading frequently
Regular versions may be better if:
- You primarily care about the audio experience
- You switch music kits frequently based on mood
- Budget is a consideration
- You're testing kits before committing to a favorite
Notable Artists & Composers
CS2 music kits feature compositions from a diverse range of artists, including Grammy-winning musicians, renowned video game composers, and electronic music producers. Valve has partnered with artists across multiple genres to offer something for virtually every musical taste.
Featured Artists Overview
The music kit library includes contributions from artists known in gaming, film scoring, and mainstream music. Notable contributors include composers who have scored AAA video games, electronic artists with millions of streams, and musicians who have performed at major gaming events. The variety ensures that whether you prefer aggressive metal, ambient electronica, or orchestral compositions, there's likely a kit that matches your preferences.
Genre Diversity
Music kits span numerous genres and styles:
- Electronic Synthwave, EDM, dubstep
- Metal Heavy, progressive, djent
- Orchestral Cinematic, epic scores
- Ambient Atmospheric, minimal
- Rock Alternative, hard rock
- Hybrid Electronic-orchestral fusion
According to Music Business Worldwide, video game music licensing has become a significant revenue stream for artists, with in-game music kits representing a unique form of direct artist-to-player connection. CS2's music kit system allows artists to reach millions of players who experience their compositions during gameplay.
Community Favorites
While preferences are subjective, certain music kits have developed strong followings in the community. Kits with distinctive MVP anthems, composers with gaming-culture recognition, or tracks that enhance the tension of competitive play tend to be particularly popular. The CS:GO/CS2 subreddit frequently discusses music kit recommendations, with community polls revealing shifting preferences over time.
Audio Settings & Optimization
CS2 provides granular control over music kit volume, allowing you to customize how prominently the music features in your gameplay experience. Finding the right balance between music and game audio is essential for both enjoyment and competitive performance.
Music Volume
Master volume for all music kit sounds. Affects all tracks equally. Recommended: 10-30% for competitive play.
Round Start Volume
Controls round start music loudness. Many players lower this to focus on early-round callouts.
Round End Volume
Volume for victory/defeat music. Can be set higher since round is over when it plays.
MVP Volume
Your anthem volume when earning MVP. Also affects how loud others' anthems sound to you.
Bomb/Hostage Volume
Bomb timer tension music and hostage scenario audio. Critical for timing—don't disable completely.
Ten Second Warning
Specifically controls the 10-second bomb timer music. Essential audio cue for defuse timing.
Death Camera Volume
Music that plays when viewing your killer. Purely atmospheric; safe to lower if distracting.
Main Menu Volume
Menu background music. Personal preference; no competitive impact.
Competitive Audio Recommendations
For serious competitive play, audio clarity is paramount. Many professional players and high-rank competitors use specific music settings to maintain audio awareness while still enjoying their music kit. According to community discussions on ProSettings, which tracks professional player configurations, audio optimization is a key factor in competitive performance.
Recommended competitive settings:
- Overall music volume: 10-20% to prevent masking footsteps and gunfire
- Ten Second Warning: Keep audible—this is a critical gameplay cue
- Round Start: Lower (5-10%) as it plays during crucial buy-time callouts
- MVP/Round End: Personal preference since round is complete
- Main Menu: Personal preference; no in-match impact
Music Kit Categories
CS2 music kits can be categorized by their availability status, release context, and special characteristics. Understanding these categories helps when evaluating kit rarity and potential value.
| Category | Description | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Regular music kits available through normal channels | In-game store, Market, drops |
| Exclusive | Limited release kits from special events or promotions | Market only (if tradeable) |
| StatTrak | Kits with integrated MVP tracking counter | Market and trading only |
| Discontinued | Kits no longer available through primary channels | Market and trading only |
Special Release Music Kits
Some music kits have been released in conjunction with specific events, operations, or promotions. These include:
- Operation-themed kits: Released alongside CS2 operations with thematic ties
- Collaboration kits: Created in partnership with esports organizations or gaming events
- Artist series: Multi-kit releases from single artists or labels
- Promotional kits: Released for specific marketing campaigns or game milestones
The context of a kit's release often affects its long-term collectibility. Kits tied to memorable events or featuring artists with strong community connections tend to maintain interest over time.
Value Factors & Market
Unlike weapon skins which have complex value determinants like float values (see our Float Values Guide) and patterns, music kit value is determined by simpler factors. Understanding these can help you make informed purchasing decisions or identify potentially valuable kits.
📊 Rarity & Availability
Discontinued kits or those with limited release windows command higher prices due to finite supply. Market listings for rare kits may be sparse, leading to price volatility.
🎵 Artist Recognition
Kits from well-known artists or composers with existing fanbases often have sustained demand. Gaming-culture artists with esports connections are particularly valued.
🏆 MVP Anthem Quality
Since the MVP anthem is the only publicly-heard track, its quality significantly impacts desirability. Distinctive, satisfying anthems drive preference regardless of other tracks.
📈 StatTrak Premium
StatTrak versions consistently trade at 2-5x the regular version price. The premium reflects both scarcity and collector appeal of the tracking feature.
🎨 Thematic Appeal
Kits that match popular playstyles, map aesthetics, or community trends may see increased demand during relevant periods.
📅 Age & History
Older kits from early CS:GO eras are increasingly rare as supply diminishes through accounts going inactive or items being "consumed" through trading.
Market Considerations
The music kit market is significantly smaller than the weapon skin market. This means:
- Lower liquidity: Rare kits may take longer to sell at desired prices
- Price volatility: Fewer listings mean larger price swings on individual sales
- Manipulation risk: Small markets are more susceptible to price manipulation
- Stable commons: Popular, widely-available kits have more predictable pricing
For general information about navigating the Steam Market, including fee structures and best practices, see our comprehensive Skin Trading Guide.
Regular vs StatTrak Comparison
Understanding the practical differences between regular and StatTrak music kits helps inform your purchasing decision.
Regular Music Kit
- Full audio experience identical to StatTrak
- Available from in-game store (some kits)
- Can drop as random reward
- Lower market prices
- More abundant market supply
- Good for players who switch kits often
- No tracking features
- Focus purely on audio customization
StatTrak Music Kit
- Identical audio experience
- Never available in-game store
- Cannot drop as random reward
- Higher market prices (2-5x)
- Scarcer market supply
- Better for committed, long-term use
- Tracks total MVP awards earned
- Additional collectible/prestige element
The choice ultimately depends on what you value. If you're purely interested in changing your game's soundtrack, regular versions offer the complete audio experience at lower cost. If you appreciate the tracking feature, collectibility, or prestige of StatTrak items, the premium may be worthwhile for your preferred kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are CS2 music kits?
Music kits are cosmetic items that replace the default in-game music with custom soundtracks. They change music during various game events including main menu, round start, bomb planted, MVP screen, and more. Music kits don't affect gameplay but provide a personalized audio experience.
How do I get a music kit in CS2?
Music kits can be obtained through: purchasing from the Steam Community Market, buying from the in-game store during special sales, receiving as rare random drops while playing, or trading with other players. StatTrak versions can only be obtained from the market or through trading.
Can other players hear my music kit?
Only your MVP anthem is audible to other players—it plays for everyone when you're awarded MVP at round end. All other tracks (menu music, round start, bomb timer, etc.) are only audible to you. This allows personal customization without affecting teammates' audio experience.
What is a StatTrak music kit?
StatTrak music kits track and display the number of MVP awards you've earned while the kit is equipped. The counter appears in your inventory and adds a collectible element. StatTrak versions are rarer (not available from store or drops) and typically 2-5x more expensive than regular versions.
Do music kits affect gameplay?
No. Music kits are purely cosmetic and provide no competitive advantage. The only gameplay-relevant aspect is the 10-second bomb timer music, which provides an audio cue for defuse timing—but this cue exists with the default music as well.
Can I preview a music kit before buying?
The Steam Market doesn't include audio previews. However, many community members upload music kit showcases to YouTube where you can hear all tracks before purchasing. Searching "[kit name] music kit showcase" typically yields results.
How do I equip a music kit?
Go to your CS2 inventory, find the music kit, right-click and select "Equip." You can also access music kit selection through the game's loadout menu. Only one music kit can be equipped at a time.
Can I sell or trade my music kit?
Yes. Music kits are tradeable and marketable items. You can sell them on the Steam Community Market or trade them with other players through Steam's trading system. There's typically a one-week trade hold on newly acquired items unless both parties have Steam Mobile Authenticator enabled.
Why are some music kits more expensive than others?
Price depends on: rarity (discontinued kits are scarcer), artist popularity, MVP anthem quality (the only publicly-heard track), StatTrak status, and overall demand. Older kits with limited supply and popular artists tend to command the highest prices.
Should I keep my music on during competitive matches?
Many competitive players keep music at low volume (10-20%) to maintain audio awareness for footsteps and gunfire. However, keeping the 10-second bomb timer music audible is recommended as it provides essential timing information for defuse attempts.
Last updated: December 2025