HyperX Quadcast 2 non-LED just red

HyperX QuadCast 2 USB Microphone review – Bump, Shake, Stream

HyperX QuadCast 2 is a premium USB condenser microphone designed specifically for streamers, podcasters, gamers, and content creators. The device aims to offer high-quality audio with something more user friendly than professional studio equipment. The original QuadCast was well received, and the updated model offers improved sound clarity and enhanced usability, with the OG model’s sleek, modern aesthetic.

Fully Featured

HyperX QuadCast 2 features a striking visual design. The microphone features a cylindrical metal body encased in a sturdy metal frame. The black and red colourway is a brand staple and is well worked into a practical hardware design.

HyperX Quadcast 2 volume knob adjustment

The device is also sturdy and feels very well built. HyperX QuadCast 2 comes with an integrated shock mount, designed to eliminate vibrations caused by desk movements or accidental bumps. This is a very useful feature for gamers and streamers who frequently move their setups. The screw-in metal base is also heavy and features rubberised feet for further protection from movement noise.

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The tap-to-mute sensor located on top of the microphone is another standout addition. This large capacitive surface is conveniently located for use during live recordings or gaming sessions. And, unlike conventional mute buttons, it can also be activated silently given the lightest brush of the surface will suffice.

Standard Mic interface screw stand

The LED indicator remains illuminated when the mic is active and turns off when muted, providing a clear visual cue.

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There is also a versatile pushable dial on the front that allows users to choose between playback volume through the 3.5mm output, microphone gain, and microphone monitoring volume, as well as switch polar patterns.

USB-C mic with headphone output 3.5mm

There is a little ring around this dial that shows volume, and indicates mode with small mic and headphone icons. Clearly, HyperX Quadcast 2’s hardware layout had a lot of thought put into it. The result is something that offers quite a bit of functionality on-device without overloading it with dials and switches.

Power and Versatility

HyperX QuadCast 2 delivers clear, rich, and detailed audio that makes it ideal for spoken-word applications such as streaming, podcasting, and voiceovers. More impressive is that voice is captured equally as transparently in each of the four modes – Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional, and Stereo.

HyperX Quadcast 2 microphone app Windows Xbox USB-C

These four profiles cover practically everything you will use the mic for – lone recording or streaming, one-on-one interviews, roundtables and so on. Stereo mode even allows you to use QuadCast 2 as a music microphone if needs be.

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The device offers great versatility in one easy-to-use unit. The built-in anti-vibration shock mount also helps reduce background noise caused by desk movements. The microphone features a built-in pop filter, which effectively reduces plosives (harsh ‘p’ and ‘b’ sounds) and sibilance (bright ‘s’ and ‘sh’ sounds), making speech recordings sound smoother. However, for advanced sound processing, users may need additional software or external sound filters.

Easy Compatibility and Connectivity

The plug-and-play functionality of HyperX QuadCast 2 makes it extremely user-friendly. It connects via USB-C, ensuring seamless compatibility with PCs, Macs, PlayStation consoles, Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

HyperX Quadcast 2 stand metal weight anti bump

Unlike XLR microphones, no additional audio interface or mixer is required, a selling point for users who prefer a straightforward setup.

NGENUITY Software

HyperX’s NGENUITY software provides a suite of customisation options, including polar pattern selection, and microphone sensitivity adjustments. There are some nice LED patterns to choose from, like VU meters, button trails, and some more aesthetic choices.

However, it lacks extensive audio processing or equalisation settings. There is a high-pass filter, which works well, and that’s about it beyond audio levels and the mic capture mode. Advanced users may need third-party audio software like Voicemeeter or OBS filters for additional tuning.

HyperX Quadcast 2 Specifications

Microphone TypeCondenser
Connection TypeUSB-C
Device CompatibilityWindows PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Polar PatternsCardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional, Stereo
Sample Rate48kHz/16-bit
Frequency Response20Hz – 20kHz
Sensitivity-36dB (1V/Pa at 1kHz)
Pop FilterBuilt-in
Shock MountIntegrated anti-vibration shock mount
Mute FunctionTap-to-mute sensor with LED indicator
Headphone Jack3.5mm for real-time monitoring
RGB LightingRed (QuadCast 2), Customisable RGB (QuadCast 2 S)
Software SupportHyperX NGENUITY
Dimensions55mm x 225mm
WeightApprox. 710g (with stand and shock mount)

HyperX QuadCast 2 is an outstanding USB microphone for streamers, podcasters, and gamers who want high-quality sound without complicated setups. Its intuitive design, solid build quality, and audio versatility make it strong choice a for users who need professional-level clarity at a more affordable price. At an MRRP of €139/£109, it’s certainly still a premium option, but the sound quality and audio options are worth the price considering the cost of aforementioned gear in the prosumer or professional realms.

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While advanced audio tweaking options are limited in favour of plug-and-play simplicity, options like adjustable polar patterns, rudimentary audio monitoring and level customisation, and built-in pop filter will be enough for the device’s target market.

Vinny Fanneran
Harassed Adam Kelly into founding this site. Wrote about tech and games for the Irish Sun for many years, now dayjobbing with Reach Ireland at Galway Beo. Also spent some time as a freelance technology industry copywriter. Former editorial lead for Independent News & Media's PlayersXpo, former gaming editor of EliteGamer.
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