In 2020, the HyperX QuadCast S was he USB microphone that all Twitch streamers apparently had on their streams. Now, the QuadCast 2 S is here to try to surpass its predecessor. And what does it contribute? Many more LEDs, for starters.
The original QuadCast only illuminated red, while the QuadCast S brought full RGB support and even supported top-to-bottom color gradients. The QuadCast 2 S goes even further with a twist, literally. The new microphone has over 100 individually addressable LEDs arranged in an array around the microphone, allowing for more complex patterns such as a spiral gradient rainbow. It’s a welcome addition, particularly for a microphone that’s so likely to be seen.
HyperX added some less flashy features that also make for a nice update, although many of them were first introduced in the QuadCast 2. This includes a multi-function knob that controls input gain and headphone volume and acts as a VU meter. (volume unit). to prevent you from reaching your peak, plus a redesigned anti-vibration mount.
Light up polar patterns
One of my favorite features of the original QuadCast S was the knob on the bottom for adjusting the gain, which was both convenient and subtle. That has been changed on the new model in favor of a more typical knob that sticks out from the front. It may not be as elegant, but it is more useful.
Photography: Eric Ravenscraft
The knob is flanked by a semicircle of LEDs that change color depending on what you’re doing. If you turn the knob while using it as a microphone, it will light purple to indicate the gain level. When you’re not touching it, it reverts to a VU meter, indicating how close you are to peak, so you can adjust accordingly.
You can also hold down the knob to change polar patterns, indicated by the LED ring on top of the microphone. It alternates between cardioid, bidirectional, stereo, and omnidirectional patterns, with red LEDs lighting up on the sides of the microphone to pick up sound.
This is the most intuitive way to change polar patterns that I have seen. For comparison, the Blue Yeti USB microphone almost requires a tutorial to decipher its arcane symbols. Here, simply keep holding the button until the red lights point in the direction you want to record from. I now want this feature on every microphone I use. (He is available on the cheaper QuadCast 2.)