Allow us to preface this HyperX Quadcast Review by saying that it’s not too late to buy this microphone. Despite being a few years old, we tip that the HyperX Quadcast will share similar shelf lives to that of the Blue Yeti.
The advent of Twitch Streamers and the popularity of YouTube content creation ushered in a new mindset when it comes to assembling “the perfect” studio setup. For serious gamers, podcasters, and streamers, investing in professional-grade audio equipment is a necessity. For reals, you stand no chance without the right gear.
Fortunately, you do not need to go broke trying to score an XLR microphone as HyperX Gaming introduced the QuadCast back in 2019 as its first standalone gaming microphone. The QuadCast is a featured-packed USB condenser mic that is perfect for those looking for something flexible, affordable, and heavy-duty.
Despite being a few years old now, can the HyperX QuadCast stand strong in 2022 and beyond? Read on as we walk you through its features, pros, cons and more in this Hyperx QuadCast review. Don’t forget to hit us up in the comments section when you’re done with your thoughts on HyperX’s first ever standalone gaming microphone.
Now, let’s get into it!
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Hyperx QuadCast Design & Features
The cylindrical HyperX QuadCast microphone looks professional (yet angsty) with its matte black frame, distinctive red pop filter and honeycomb grille. Despite one, this microphone is heavy at 254g (710g with the stand and shock mount). This weight, combined with a metal body makes the Quadcast tough as nails and a microphone that sure could take a beating. Not that you should be beating up your microphone while streaming.
Housed at the top of the microphone you will find the one-tap mute sensor which allows you to easily control the units voice activation. When muted, the striking colour glow is actually astounding. Adding a stylish light show during your streaming, the flashing red light can also serve as your visual cue on whether the mic is ready to record or not and can therefore save you from saying something private while live. On the opposite side of the microphone, you will also find the large gain dial for easily tinkering on the overall sensitivity of the mic.
Adding a 3.5mm audio input and a micro USB port that can be valuable when monitoring the sound quality, the HyperX QuadCast inputs have everything you will ever need. This also allows you to play back without any feedback and is especially great if you are connected to a device with a dual-purpose port. There is nothing worse than streaming with subpar audio quality. This is common with cheap condenser microphones, and we find it impressive that HyperX managed to add these clever features for its users.
Immediately, you will notice that the QuadCast is longer than usual microphones. Fortunately, it can easily be positioned to be less intrusive on your minimalist workstation thanks to its short, adjustable stand. Using the tightening knob, you can tilt the stand to a maximum of 45 degrees, giving you enough room to find the best position based on your needs. It also has rubberized feet so that you can easily add them to your table without having to think of possible scratches.
You can also attach its shock mount with red elastic bands to help the mic filter through all the vibrations. However, we realized that the mount is not that effective in muffling minute noises (ex., mouse-clicking), which is why we highly recommend that you invest in a boom arm to add some distance.
Microphone Quality & Performance
When it comes to performance, the QuadCast is an extremely versatile standalone gaming microphone that enables gamers to precisely optimize based on their needs. Depending on your configuration, you will notice that the mic has great voice representation, however, it does still pick up ambient noise even with reduced sensitivity.
As for preventing sounds from vibrations, bumps, screeches, and rumbles, the elastic rope suspension of the shock mount proves to be useful. Although most USB desktop microphones have this feature, unlike the Quadcast, many do not provide true anti-vibration. You also do not need to install any software to adjust the settings, as you can manually do that all within the microphone’s body. This comes in handy for any gamers who hate loading up miscellaneous software.
Technically, the HyperX Quadcast can capture -36dB (1V/Pa at 1kHz) at a sample rate of 48kHz with a 16-bit depth and a frequency response range of 20Hz – 20kHz. While those numbers may not be as competitive to the Samson G-Track Pro, it is more than enough to guarantee crispness and warmth of voice. In terms of plosives, the built-in pop filter works, but it is better if you attach a separate filter to distorted recordings.
Compatibility
Certified by both Discord and TeamSpeak™, the Quadcast gaming microphone is guaranteed to work well during your broadcasts. In terms of compatibility, you will be relieved to know that it works with PC, PS5™, PS4™, and Mac®, as well as the most prominent platforms like OBS Studio and XSplit.
With all that considered, this microphone ensures that users can expect consistent and high-quality sound due to its impressive multi-device and program compatibility. What else can you ask for?
Price & Value
As with many peripherals, the price range for good microphones can be ridiculous. For an impressive gaming microphone at $109.49, the QuadCast is a solid choice for budding gamers and content creators. The HyperX managed to include all the important goodies and so much more to ensure high-quality output. On top of that, this condenser is worth the investment as it is durable and can last you a long time.
Numerous USB microphones cost double or triple the price, but they do not sound as crisp as the QuadCast. Suppose you’ve got the budget and want something that can easily blend well with your RGB setup. In that case, you can also consider its latest model, known as the HyperX QuadCast S. There is nothing much different between these models as the internals are literally the same on paper. The only major upgrade in the S version is that it is compatible with the HyperX NGENUITY Software Software, which offers you more customization for the quality and lighting of the microphone.
The Not So Good
There is no denying that the QuadCast has a lot going for it, but it isn’t without flaws. One important factor that you should consider before purchasing this is whether you are fine with its resolution. As stated, it is sensitive to 48kHz/16-bits which is on the lower end of the spectrum for condensers. There are others out there that have a minimum sample rate of 96kHz/ 24 bits. But given that it is priced competitively, it is still a good buy because you cannot easily find any microphones that offer the same features.
When connecting an earphone or headphone through the audio port, you might also struggle with how to adjust the volume output. Since the microphone’s body does not have any volume rockers, you will have to manually adjust using your PC.
If you are looking for a basic microphone, then this is also not suitable for you. There are tons of customers who are complaining about the vibrant red light that the QuadCast emits. At first, it might look really cool and “gamey,” but there are users who find it a bit distracting. For this reason, there are also available foam filters on Amazon to help lower the intensity of the light. With all these considered, many are recommending that HyperX should consider adding a button to turn the light off during use.
If you are also serious about the sound quality, you might want to look elsewhere and consider shelling out more. You can always look for XLR microphones or higher-end condensers from some of the leading brands in the market. But if you will ask us, the QuadCast is more than enough for your basic streaming, gaming, and recording needs.
Hyperx Quadcast Review Verdict.
Compared to traditional brands, the HyperX QuadCast is an entry-level microphone perfect for both professionals and enthusiasts. Right off the bat, it offers you a premium-looking device packed with essential features that can be seen only on expensive brands.
This is not a suitable device for those interested in a plug-and-play type of microphone, as the sound quality of the QuadCast will also depend on your configurations. With this being said, you will need to try multiple setups before you get everything dialled in exactly how you like it.
More importantly, we were highly impressed with what HyperX managed to fit within the microphone, and we do believe that it is a practical choice because of three reasons: (1) great value-for-money, (2) flexibility, (3) compatibility. That said, we recommend this to anyone looking for a decent USB mic to Livestream and record without shelling out a considerable chunk of money.
Thoughts on the HyperX Quadcast? Hit the comments below.
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HyperX Quadcast FAQs
As with any streaming microphone, we have no doubt that there are some pressing questions about the HyperX Quadcast. Browse through the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions our editors have received via our HyperX Quadcast review below.
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Content Disclaimer: This Hyperx Quadcast Review is independently written. We have not been commissioned by Hyperx Gaming, nor have we received any royalties for this article. This includes financial reimbursement, free advertising or the Hyperx Quadcast as a gift.
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