HyperX QuadCast 2S review: Your favorite streamer’s next USB mic

back in 2020, HyperX QuadCast S Was usb microphone It appears that every Twitch streamer had their own stream. Now, the QuadCast 2S is here to try to surpass its predecessor. And what does it bring to the table? Too many LEDs for starters.

The original Quadcast illuminated only in red, while Quadcast S Brought full RGB support, and even supported gradients of colors from top to bottom. The QuadCast 2S literally takes this even further, with a twist. The new mic has over 100 individually addressable LEDs placed in an array around the mic, allowing for more complex patterns such as a spiral gradient rainbow. This is a welcome addition, especially for a microphone that’s likely to be seen.

HyperX has added some less flashy features that also make for a compelling upgrade, though many of these were first introduced on the QuadCast 2. It includes a multifunction knob that controls input gain and headphone volume and acts as a VU (volume unit) meter to keep you from reaching extremes, as well as a redesigned shock mount.

illuminate polar patterns

One of my favorite features on the original Quadcast S was the knob on the bottom to adjust gain, which was both convenient and subtle. This is gone in the new model in favor of a more distinctive knob that protrudes towards the front. It may not be as stylish, but it is more useful.

There’s a semicircle of LEDs around the knob that change color depending on what you’re doing. If you’re turning the knob while using it as a microphone, it will light purple to indicate the gain level. When you’re not touching it, it switches back to the VU meter, indicating how close you are to peak, so you can adjust accordingly.

You can also press and hold the knob to change the polar pattern, indicated by the LED ring at the top of the mic. It cycles between cardioid, bi-directional, stereo, and omnidirectional patterns, with red LEDs on the sides of the mic lighting up so it can pick up sound.

This is the most intuitive way to change the polar pattern I’ve seen. for comparison, blue yeti USB microphone is all one needs a tutorial To understand its mysterious symbols. Here, you simply press and hold the button until the red lights are pointing in the direction you want to record from. Now I want this feature on every microphone I use. (it Is Available on cheap Quadcast 2.)