Introduction
HyperX has built a reputation as a top manufacturer of high-performance gaming gear and peripherals. Two of their most popular products are the Quadcast and Quadcast S microphones. These stylish and feature-packed USB condenser mics have become go-to choices not just for gamers, but also for streamers, podcasters, musicians, and content creators of all types.
At first glance, the Quadcast and Quadcast S look very similar. But there are some key differences between them that are important to understand. In this in-depth comparison, we‘ll break down everything you need to know about the HyperX Quadcast vs Quadcast S – from detailed specs to real-world performance to common issues like the Quadcast not showing up in NGENUITY software. By the end, you‘ll have all the info you need to decide which of these mics is the best choice for your specific needs and budget.
HyperX Company Background
Founded in 2002 as a high-performance product division of Kingston Technology, HyperX started out making gaming-focused computer memory modules. They soon expanded into other PC components and peripherals like SSDs, USB flash drives, headsets, keyboards, mice, and mousepads.
In 2019, the HyperX brand really took off after hardcore gamer PewDiePie became a brand ambassador. This helped propel HyperX to become a leading gaming gear brand with a devoted following.
HyperX was acquired by HP in 2021 for $425 million. As of 2022, HyperX products are used by over 20% of professional gamers. The brand has sold over 1 million microphones to date.
Quadcast Overview
Released in March 2019, the HyperX Quadcast was positioned as a premium all-in-one standalone mic targeted primarily at gamers and streamers. It features an eye-catching design with distinctive red LED lighting and an anti-vibration shock mount.
Some of the Quadcast‘s key features include:
- Tap-to-mute sensor with LED status indicator
- Four selectable polar patterns: stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional
- Convenient gain control adjustment knob
- Internal pop filter and shock mount to reduce noise
- Flexible adapter that fits both 3/8" and 5/8" thread sizes
- Multi-device and platform compatibility (PC, PS4, Mac, etc.)
The Quadcast delivers impressive sound quality for the price with a wide dynamic range. It has a fairly flat response that captures vocals accurately, with the integrated pop filter helping to minimize plosives and other harsh sounds.
While not a true professional-grade mic, the Quadcast punches above its weight class. The versatile features and solid performance made it a hit with its target gaming/streaming audience. But it also started gaining traction with podcasters, YouTubers and other content creators looking for an affordable mic that was a clear step up from basic entry-level mics.
Quadcast S Overview
Launched in September 2020, the HyperX Quadcast S is an enhanced version of the original Quadcast. It keeps the same core design and features while adding customizable RGB lighting effects as the main new feature.
Compared to the Quadcast‘s signature red LED lighting, the Quadcast S allows you to personalize the mic‘s look with up to 16 million color variations and dynamic effects. This lighting is controlled via the HyperX NGENUITY software.
The other notable change is that the Quadcast S uses a USB-C to USB-A cable, while the original Quadcast has a mini USB to USB-A cable.
Apart from the new lighting and USB-C connectivity, the Quadcast S is essentially identical to the regular Quadcast in terms of specifications:
- Polar patterns: stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional
- Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Sensitivity: -36dB
- Weight: 254g
- Cable length: 3m
- Compatibility: PC, PS4, PS5, Mac
So the Quadcast S maintains the same audio quality and versatile functionality as the original, while adding some extra flair and customization via the RGB lighting. This further broadened the mic‘s appeal, making it an even more popular choice with gamers, streamers and content creators who wanted to personalize the look of their setup.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Now let‘s take a closer look at how the HyperX Quadcast and Quadcast S stack up in a direct head-to-head comparison:
Similarities:
- Overall design and build (aside from color options)
- Three 14mm electret condenser capsules
- Tap-to-mute functionality
- Four selectable polar patterns
- Gain control adjustment
- Integrated pop filter and shock mount
- 3/8" and 5/8" thread adapter
- Multi-device compatibility
Differences:
- LED lighting – Quadcast has static red LED, Quadcast S has dynamic RGB
- Available colors – Quadcast: black, Quadcast S: black, white (limited edition)
- Cable – Quadcast: mini USB to USB-A, Quadcast S: USB-C to USB-A
- Software integration – Quadcast S works with NGENUITY app to customize lighting, original Quadcast does not
- Price – Quadcast S costs slightly more than Quadcast
As you can see, the core specs and features are virtually the same between the two models. The main differences really come down to the Quadcast S‘ expanded lighting options and USB-C connectivity.
Audio Quality & Performance
When it comes to sound quality, both the Quadcast and Quadcast S deliver very good results, especially for the price point. The triple condenser capsule design is able to capture rich, detailed audio.
With the gain set around 50-60% on a Windows PC, you get a nice, balanced sound without having to be too close to the mic. The tone is relatively neutral and flat, capturing the natural character of your voice without sounding overly harsh or colored.
The shock mount and pop filter do an effective job cutting down on rumbles, vibrations, and plosives. You may still pick up some room sound if you‘re in an untreated space, but overall the Quadcast does well at honing in on your voice and minimizing background noise.
The touch-sensitive mute functionality works seamlessly and the LED lighting provides clear visual indication of when the mic is active. Being able to switch between polar patterns is very useful, letting you quickly adapt to different recording scenarios, from solo voice-overs to multi-person interviews or podcasts.
While the Quadcast and Quadcast S aren‘t on the same level as higher-end professional mics, they offer impressive versatility and very solid audio quality for the money. Plenty of detail, good clarity, low latency, and convenient features add up to a mic that is more than capable enough for gaming, live streaming, podcasting, and even music recording.
Compatibility & Software
One of the biggest strengths of the Quadcast mics is broad compatibility. They will work well with Windows PCs, Macs, PlayStation 4/5 consoles, and popular streaming software like OBS, XSplit, Streamlabs, etc. Simply plug in via the USB cable and you‘re ready to start recording. No drivers or software required.
The Quadcast S has the added benefit of integrating with the HyperX NGENUITY app to customize the RGB lighting. However, some users have encountered an annoying issue where the Quadcast doesn‘t show up properly in NGENUITY.
There are a few possible causes and solutions to this "Quadcast not showing up in NGENUITY" problem:
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Make sure your Quadcast is plugged directly into the PC, not a USB hub. Try different USB ports if needed.
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Check that your Quadcast firmware is up to date. If not, download the latest firmware from the HyperX website.
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In Windows Sound settings, make sure the Quadcast input and output are both set as the default device. Disable any other mics.
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Uninstall and reinstall the latest version of NGENUITY. Then reboot your PC.
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If all else fails, contact HyperX support for further troubleshooting or a possible replacement.
It‘s unfortunate that this compatibility issue exists, as the RGB customization is one of the main selling points of the Quadcast S. But most users are able to resolve it with the steps above. And in terms of core functionality, both the Quadcast and Quadcast S maintain rock-solid plug-and-play compatibility with a wide range of devices and programs.
Quadcast vs Quadcast S: The Verdict
So when it comes down to it, which mic should you choose – the HyperX Quadcast or Quadcast S? Let‘s break it down:
You should buy the HyperX Quadcast if:
- You want a high-quality, versatile USB mic at an affordable price
- You don‘t need customizable RGB lighting
- You want the absolute best bang for your buck
You should buy the HyperX Quadcast S if:
- You want a stylish mic with personalized RGB effects to enhance your video content
- You need USB-C connectivity
- You don‘t mind paying a little extra for the added visual flair
In terms of pure audio performance and functionality, the two mics are practically identical. The Quadcast S just adds some bonus features, which may or may not be important to you depending on your specific use case.
If you‘re on a tighter budget or just want the best value option, the original Quadcast is the way to go. You get top-tier sound and features for a lower price.
On the other hand, if you‘re a streamer, YouTuber, or anyone else who places a premium on the visual aesthetics of your content and equipment, the Quadcast S is worth the upgrade for the dynamic RGB lighting. It‘s a great way to personalize your setup and add some extra style points.
Whichever model you choose, you can be confident you‘re getting a supremely capable and flexible microphone that will cover all your bases for gaming, podcasting, streaming, and more. The HyperX Quadcast series has earned its popularity through a winning blend of design, performance, and overall value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Quadcast S have better sound quality than the regular Quadcast?
A: No, the sound quality and general recording performance is the same between both models. The main difference is the Quadcast S‘ added RGB lighting.
Q: Is the Quadcast good for streaming?
A: Absolutely. The Quadcast and Quadcast S are both excellent choices for streaming. The tap-to-mute function, multiple polar patterns, and compatibility with popular platforms like Twitch and YouTube make them ideal for streamers.
Q: Can I use the Quadcast with a boom arm or mic stand?
A: Yes, both Quadcast models come with an adapter that fits standard 3/8" and 5/8" threaded mic stands and boom arms.
Q: Why is my Quadcast not showing up in Windows/NGENUITY?
A: There are a few possible culprits, including out-of-date firmware, incorrect sound settings, or USB hub issues. Try updating the firmware, setting the Quadcast as the default input/output in Windows, and plugging directly into the PC.
Q: What‘s the difference between a condenser and dynamic microphone?
A: Condenser mics like the Quadcast are best for capturing detailed, nuanced sounds in controlled environments. Dynamic mics are more rugged and better suited for louder sources. Condensers require phantom power, dynamics don‘t.
In Summary
The HyperX Quadcast and Quadcast S are two of the most popular and well-rounded USB microphones on the market. With excellent sound quality, intuitive features, multi-platform compatibility, and attractive designs, it‘s easy to see why they‘ve become go-to choices for gamers, content creators, and everyone in between.
While the Quadcast S adds some nice frills in the form of customizable RGB lighting and USB-C connectivity, the two models are largely identical in terms of core specs and performance. You can‘t go wrong with either one.
Ultimately, the choice between the HyperX Quadcast vs Quadcast S comes down to your budget and how much you value the extra style points from the RGB lighting. But no matter which one you pick, you‘ll be getting a top-tier USB condenser mic that is ready to level up your audio game.
