Back in 2020, the HyperX QuadCast S was the USB microphone every Twitch streamer seemingly had on their streams. Now, the QuadCast 2 S is here to try to one-up its predecessor. And what does it bring to the table? A lot more LEDs, for starters.
The original QuadCast only lit up in red, while the QuadCast S brought full RGB support, and even supported gradients of colors from top to bottom. The QuadCast 2 S takes it even further with a twist, literally. The new mic has over 100 individually addressable LEDs laid out in an array around the mic, allowing for more complex patterns like a spiral gradient rainbow. It’s a welcome addition, particularly for a microphone that’s so likely to be seen.
HyperX added a few less flashy features that make for a compelling upgrade too, though many of these were first introduced on the QuadCast 2. That includes a multifunction knob that controls the input gain and headphone volume and acts as a VU (volume unit) meter to keep you from peaking, plus a redesigned shock mount.
Light Up Polar Patterns
One of my favorite features on the original QuadCast S was the knob on the bottom for adjusting gain, which was both convenient and subtle. That’s gone on the new model in favor of a more typical knob that juts out of the front. It might not be quite as stylish, but it’s more useful.
Photograph: Eric Ravenscraft
