HyperX QuadCast S USB Microphone Review: RGB Infusion

The Excellent QuadCast USB Mic Gains Custom Lighting Zones

Readers of this site may be aware of the HyperX QuadCast microphone by now, if for no other reason than 50% of our current podcast regulars make use of one. And while I have been using the original QuadCast (reviewed here) for nearly two years now, the QuadCast S is a stylish new alternative.

The difference is simple: rather than the red-only lighting option of the original, the S version is fully customizable with multiple RGB zones. Oh, and now it uses a USB-C connection, rather than micro USB.

Via HyperX:

“The HyperX QuadCast is the ideal all-inclusive standalone microphone for the aspiring streamer or podcaster looking for a condenser mic with quality sound. QuadCast comes with its own anti-vibration shock mount to help reduce the rumbles of daily life and a built-in pop filter to muffle pesky plosive sounds. Instantly know your mic status with the LED indicator, and simply tap-to-mute to avoid awkward broadcasting accidents. With four selectable polar patterns, this mic’s prepared for nearly any recording situation and also features a conveniently-located gain control dial to quickly adjust your mic input sensitivity. The included mount adapter fits 3/8” and 5/8” thread sizes and is compatible with most stands. The QuadCast S model provides RGB lighting and dynamic effects that are customizable through HyperX NGENUITY software.

The QuadCast family is certified by Discord and TeamSpeak so you can ensure that your microphone is broadcasting loud and clear for all your followers and listeners, and you can also monitor your mic in real time using the convenient headphone jack on the back of the mic. Compatible with PC, PS4, and Mac as well as major streaming platforms like Streamlabs OBS, OBS Studio, and XSplit so you’ll be able to deliver quality sound to anyone tuning in.”

QuadCast S Design

The RGB effects are the big new feature, but without the lighting engaged the QuadCast S looks identical to its predecessor – and that’s a good thing. The QuadCast S arrives with a shock mount, metal stand, and a mount adapter to use it with a boom if desired.

The back of the mic offers a knob to select from four polar patterns, a 3.5mm headphone output which mixes system audio and live monitoring, and the USB-C cable input. The bottom of the mic integrates a gain control, and the top of the mic is a tap-to-mute sensor. And the lighting it tied to this mute control: the mic’s lighting indicates that you are live, and when muted the lighting turns off.

Software Control

While you certainly don’t need to use the HyperX NGENUITY software, it is required for lighting customization and granular control of the audio mix.

The only complaint I’ve ever had about the original QuadCast was the monitoring volume, which is pretty low, and the S was low, too. Out of the box, anyhow. Of course I hadn’t used NGENUITY software with it before this review, and I didn’t know that was adjustable in software (the default is 70%).

With granular control over the mic recording level, monitoring level, and system playback volume (the QuadCast S can be used as a Windows sound card and headphone amp), as well as lighting effects, the software is essential. I just wish it wasn’t exclusively a Microsoft Store app.

Usage Impressions

I’ll keep this short: the HyperX QuadCast S sounds just as good as its predecessor, which was already one of the best podcasting microphones I’ve ever used. Voices sound full and rich, it’s easy to dial in a good level with the on-mic gain control, and of course the tap-to-mute feature is very convenient.

Final Thoughts

The QuadCast S is another solid offering from HyperX, delivering great sound quality and convenient operation. The RGB integration looks great, but it does add to the cost. The Standard QuadCast carries a list price of $119.99, while the QuadCast S is $159.99. Is it worth $40 more for RGB? That is up to you, but these days the decision between the two of them might be made for you as availability can be a little tight (the QuadCast S is available directly from HyperX, but not on Amazon currently).

Quite simply, the QuadCast S is a very high quality USB mic that is equally suited for gaming, streaming, podcasting, and WFH use. If you don’t fancy the RGB effects you can get the same sound from the non-S model, but you can’t go wrong with either one.