QuadCast Usage
Setup of the QuadCast couldn’t be easier, as it was quickly recognized by Windows and made available as a recording device. Simple tweaks to Discord and Streamlabs OBS were needed to make it our input device, but other than that, the HyperX QuadCast was really a great example of plug-and-play.
In our time with the QuadCast, we have used it in a variety of scenarios, trying out the various polar patterns. However, for our most common uses, streaming and podcast recording, the Cardioid setting is what we have defaulted to. In order to take advantage of the Cardioid pattern, we chose to install the included threaded adapter and mount the QuadCast on a standard microphone arm. This allowed us to have the microphone right in front of us for great audio pickup of our voice, and reduced audio pickup from our keyboard and mouse.
We also utilized the QuadCast’s Cardioid setting to record episode #178 of the ThinkComputers Weekly Tech podcast, and we could definitely tell a difference between the QuadCast and our previous headset mic. The audio had a much more realistic sound to it, and the QuadCast was able to pick up more vocal range as well. The integrated pop filter did a decent job toning down our plosives, though a few made it through now and then.
Below are a few audio samples from the QuadCast, as well as from our current gaming headset microphone, the Corsair VOID PRO RGB Wireless.
HyperX QuadCast Stereo
HyperX QuadCast Omnidrectional
HyperX QuadCast Cardioid
HyperX QuadCast Bidirectional
Corsair VOID PRO RGB Wireless
The most handy feature of the HyperX QuadCast that we found ourselves using time and again is the tap-to-mute sensor on the top if the microphone body. It is so easy to access, and the glowing red indicator makes knowing the status of the microphone about as obvious as can be.
Final Thoughts
We had a good suspicion way back in January at CES that the QuadCast was going to be a great addition to the HyperX lineup, and now that we have spent some quality time with it, we can say that we were correct. The all-around solid build of the QuadCast emphasizes the quality that we have come to know and expect from HyperX, which goes to show that they took the time to design this microphone with great results in mind. Speaking of design, the QuadCast doesn’t just look good, but the simple to use tap-to-mute function and gain control dial give you quick and easy access to essential features.
Versatility is something we have mentioned a few times in this review, and we want to circle back on that. Offering four polar patterns, the the QuadCast is equipped to provide microphone duties in a ton of situations, from streaming and podcasting, to round-table discussion recordings. Add to that the ability to use the standard base for a desk top installation, or the dual-threaded microphone arm adapter, and the use cases for this microphone expand into areas that other solutions don’t. In both installation methods, you still get to take advantage of the anti-vibration shock mount, which can be lost with some other microphone designs, so we applaud HyperX for that design choice.
Overall, the QuadCast from HyperX is designed to provide a step up to the next level in audio quality, and we think it is more than capable of doing so. With a ton of great features built in, the $139.99 price of the QuadCast places it above a few standalone streaming microphones, yet below many of the higher end microphones from traditional brands like Rode and Audio-Technica. For an initial entry into the standalone microphone realm, the quality and versatility of the HyperX QuadCast makes it a great option to explore, earning it a solid 9 out of 10, and our Recommended Award.
Pros:
- Looks Good
- Solid Build Quality
- Four Polar Patterns (Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional)
- Built-in Anti-Shock Mount
- Tap-to-Mute Sensor and LED Illumination
- Microphone Arm Adapter Included
Cons:
- Gain Dial Not Accurately Marked