The HyperX QuadCast 2 is a USB microphone vying for a spot in the competitive mid-range market. Priced at $150, it promises a compelling blend of features and performance. This review delves into the microphone's build quality, ease of use, and audio capabilities, examining whether it justifies its price tag. We'll explore its unique multi-functional dial, the four selectable polar patterns, and its overall sound signature, comparing it against other popular USB microphones in a detailed analysis.This in-depth evaluation covers everything from the unboxing experience and design aspects to a rigorous assessment of audio quality in various scenarios. We'll analyze its performance in different acoustic environments and discuss its strengths and weaknesses compared to competitors like the Rode NT-USB Mini and Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+. Ultimately, this review aims to determine if the HyperX QuadCast 2 is a worthwhile investment for streamers, podcasters, and anyone seeking a versatile and high-quality USB microphone.
Pros And Cons
- Solid sound profile
- Easy to navigate functions
- Easy mixing between computer playback and zero latency monitoring
- Includes microphone, cable, and desktop mount
- Built-in mute button
- Slight ringing when tapped
- Confusing pattern selection function
- Mute function lacks fade in/out, resulting in a click
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Unboxing and Build Quality
The HyperX QuadCast 2 arrived in a straightforward package. Inside, you'll find the microphone itself, a pre-installed desktop stand, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, and the usual documentation.
The microphone's build quality is surprisingly decent for its price point. While it's entirely plastic, it doesn't feel cheap or flimsy. The plastic shock mount is removable, allowing for mounting on other stands with 5/8" and 3/8" threading.
The multi-purpose dial on the front allows for gain, headphone volume, headphone mix, and polar pattern adjustment. It has a small amount of wobble, which isn’t a significant issue, but could be improved.
Microphone Operation and Features
The front dial controls gain, headphone volume, headphone mix, and polar pattern. A quick press cycles through these modes, while a long press changes the polar pattern.
The top features a capacitive mute button with an indicator light. The back houses a USB-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring and computer audio playback.
Four polar patterns are available: cardioid, omnidirectional, stereo, and figure-8, each with distinct audio capture characteristics. The top indicator light visually confirms the selected pattern.
Sound Quality Tests and Comparisons
The HyperX QuadCast 2 demonstrates good off-axis rejection in cardioid mode, minimizing background noise capture. Switching to omnidirectional significantly increases room tone pickup.
Proximity effect and mouth clicks are noticeable when very close to the microphone, but reduce at a normal speaking distance. The microphone shows reasonable rejection of typing noise on a mechanical keyboard.
Testing in both treated and untreated rooms highlights the microphone's ability to handle different acoustic environments. No significant resonant frequencies were observed.
Microphone Comparisons
The HyperX QuadCast 2 was compared to several other USB microphones, including the Samsung Go Mic, HyperX SoloCast, original HyperX QuadCast, Blue Yeti, Sennheiser Profile USB, Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+, Elgato Wave 3, Rode NT-USB Mini, Logitech Blue Yeti X, Shure SM57, and Neumann U 87 Ai. Comparisons highlighted differences in sound signature, price, and features.
These comparisons showed varying levels of clarity, warmth, and detail across different microphones. The HyperX QuadCast 2 performed well, offering a balance of clarity and warmth, though some listeners may find its sound to be slightly bright.
Conclusion and Verdict
The HyperX QuadCast 2 offers a solid overall performance with good sound quality for its price point. The multiple polar patterns are a useful addition, although the interface could be improved for easier pattern selection.
Some minor drawbacks include a slight ringing when tapped, and a mute function lacking a fade. However, these are minor issues that don't significantly detract from the overall user experience.
Compared to other USB mics in its price range, the HyperX QuadCast 2 stands out for its versatility and balanced sound profile. It’s a strong contender alongside top-tier mics like the Rode NT-USB Mini and Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+, but the choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences.