Kingston refresh one of our favourite headsets from last year to reach new heights with the HyperX Cloud II. Featuring an advanced USB DSP control box allowing for Virtual 7.1 audio, this will be something you won’t want to miss!
Product on Review: HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset
Manufacturer: Kingston HyperX
Street Price: £75 inc VAT
In the summer of 2014, Kingston’s HyperX team released their rebranded QPad QH-90 headset called ‘Cloud‘. With a refreshed appearance, added details, finishing touches at an aggressive price point, it was well received and has become a firm favourite. Continuing on with its success, the HyperX team have announced the arrival of the Cloud II that is due to hit the stores on February 9th.
As the direct successor to the Cloud, some may question why it wasn’t called the ‘Cloud USB’ or ‘Cloud v7.1′, though it comes more clear about the succession when you look at the fairly small yet important details. Aside from the extra £10-15 price tag and the a plug n’ play advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) USB soundcard with auto echo noise cancelling and on the fly virtual 7.1 surround, the Cloud II also has a native 4 pole 3.5mm jack, allowing it to be compatible with the XBOX ONE, PS4 and mobiles without the need for extra adaptor cables. This will ease the multi-use scenario further expanding your gaming audio in every aspect.
The inclusion of the USB soundcard at a fairly nominal fee over the original Cloud, ensures that even gamers without a sound card can enjoy the rich audio prowess of the Cloud II headset without the contraints of relatively limited integrated audio processing found on the majority of motherboards.
Overview by Kingston HyperX
Clarity never felt so comfortable.
HyperX Cloud II features a redesigned USB sound card audio control box that amplifies audio and voice for an optimal Hi-Fi gaming experience, so you can hear what you’ve been missing. Open up a world of detail that other gamers will never know — the rustle of a camper’s boot, the scuttle in a distant vent. Its independent audio and microphone volume control lets you adjust not only sound volume but
also mic volume and easily toggle Surround Sound 7.1 or the mic sound on and off.
This next-generation headset generates virtual 7.1 surround sound with distance and depth to enhance your gaming, movie or music experience. Pinpoint your opponents’ location in the game and strike before he sees you coming. It’s hardware driven and plug and play, with no driver needed. HyperX Cloud II has a digitally enhanced, noise-cancelling microphone with automatic gain control functionality and echo cancellation enabled through the USB sound card. The result is clearer voice quality and reduced background noise, with voice volume automatically increasing as in-game sound gets louder, to optimise team communication and in-game chat in intense battles. HyperX Cloud II is certified by TeamSpeak and optimised for Skype and other leading chat programs.
HyperX Cloud II is Hi-Fi capable, with 53mm drivers for superior audio performance and rich sound quality with crystal-clear low, mid and high tones and enhanced bass via the sound card.
Pro-gaming optimised, HyperX Cloud II is USB-powered for PCs and Macs and 3.5mm stereo-compatible for PS4 and Xbox One.
Its closed-cup design helps with noise cancellation in gaming tournaments and other loud environments so players can obliterate the enemy in peace. HyperX Cloud II comes in three new colours — Gun Metal, Pink and Red — and is covered by a two-year warranty and free technical support.
HyperX Cloud II features a redesigned USB sound card audio control box that amplifies audio and voice for an optimal Hi-Fi gaming experience, so you can hear what you’ve been missing. Open up a world of detail that other gamers will never know — the rustle of a camper’s boot, the scuttle in a distant vent. Its independent audio and microphone volume control lets you adjust not only sound volume but
also mic volume and easily toggle Surround Sound 7.1 or the mic sound on and off.
This next-generation headset generates virtual 7.1 surround sound with distance and depth to enhance your gaming, movie or music experience. Pinpoint your opponents’ location in the game and strike before he sees you coming. It’s hardware driven and plug and play, with no driver needed. HyperX Cloud II has a digitally enhanced, noise-cancelling microphone with automatic gain control functionality and echo cancellation enabled through the USB sound card. The result is clearer voice quality and reduced background noise, with voice volume automatically increasing as in-game sound gets louder, to optimise team communication and in-game chat in intense battles. HyperX Cloud II is certified by TeamSpeak and optimised for Skype and other leading chat programs.
HyperX Cloud II is Hi-Fi capable, with 53mm drivers for superior audio performance and rich sound quality with crystal-clear low, mid and high tones and enhanced bass via the sound card.
Pro-gaming optimised, HyperX Cloud II is USB-powered for PCs and Macs and 3.5mm stereo-compatible for PS4 and Xbox One.
Its closed-cup design helps with noise cancellation in gaming tournaments and other loud environments so players can obliterate the enemy in peace. HyperX Cloud II comes in three new colours — Gun Metal, Pink and Red — and is covered by a two-year warranty and free technical support.
Technical Specifications
Headset
Transducer type: dynamic Ø 53mm with neodynium magnets
Operating principle: closed
Frequency response: 15Hz–25,000 Hz
Nominal impedance: 60 Ohm per system
Nominal SPL: 98±3dB
T.H.D.: < 2%
Power handling capacity: 150mW
Sound coupling to the ear: circumaural
Ambient noise attenuation: approx. 20 dBa
Headband pressure: 5N
Weight: 320g
Weight with microphone and cable: 350g
Cable length and type: 1m + 2m extension
Connection: single mini stereo jack plug (3.5 mm)
Microphone
Transducer type: condenser (back electret)
Operating principle: pressure gradient
Polar pattern: cardioid
Power supply: AB powering
Supply voltage: 2V
Current consumption: max 0.5 mA
Nominal impedance: <2.2 kOhm
Open circuit voltage: at f = 1 kHz: 20 mV / Pa
Frequency response: 50–18,000 Hz
THD: 2% at f = 1 kHz
Max. SPL: 105dB SPL (THD <1.0% at 1 KHz)
Microphone output: -39±3dB
Length mic boom: 150mm (include gooseneck)
Capsule diameter: Ø6
Connection: single mini stereo jack plug (3.5mm)
Transducer type: dynamic Ø 53mm with neodynium magnets
Operating principle: closed
Frequency response: 15Hz–25,000 Hz
Nominal impedance: 60 Ohm per system
Nominal SPL: 98±3dB
T.H.D.: < 2%
Power handling capacity: 150mW
Sound coupling to the ear: circumaural
Ambient noise attenuation: approx. 20 dBa
Headband pressure: 5N
Weight: 320g
Weight with microphone and cable: 350g
Cable length and type: 1m + 2m extension
Connection: single mini stereo jack plug (3.5 mm)
Microphone
Transducer type: condenser (back electret)
Operating principle: pressure gradient
Polar pattern: cardioid
Power supply: AB powering
Supply voltage: 2V
Current consumption: max 0.5 mA
Nominal impedance: <2.2 kOhm
Open circuit voltage: at f = 1 kHz: 20 mV / Pa
Frequency response: 50–18,000 Hz
THD: 2% at f = 1 kHz
Max. SPL: 105dB SPL (THD <1.0% at 1 KHz)
Microphone output: -39±3dB
Length mic boom: 150mm (include gooseneck)
Capsule diameter: Ø6
Connection: single mini stereo jack plug (3.5mm)
Features
– Advanced USB audio control box with built-in DSP sound card
– Hi-Fi capable with 53mm drivers for supreme audio quality
– Hardware-driven virtual 7.1 surround sound
– Comfortable, 100% memory foam on headband and leatherette cushions
– Pro-Gaming optimized with closed cup design for passive noise cancellation
– Compatible – USB connectivity for PC & Mac. Stereo compatible with PS4, Xbox One* and mobile
*XBOX ONE controller adaptor is needed, this one is one Microsoft unfortunately.
Packaging & Bundle
Front of packaging
The packaging has developed a little from the original cloud with a darker and aggressive gamer appeal with the added information about the new features and the included USB soundcard.
Reverse side
No space is wasted to tell you about all the features at the back and side with photos and diagrams.
Inner sanctum
Instead of a black inner box, we are greeted with a grey box, this may reflect the colour choice of headset as this is the gunmetal version, it is also available in red and limited edition white/pink.
Opened to glory
The packaging is as we come to expect, top class cut foam protection with a message from the team behind the product.
Included accessories
The bundle is as extensive as before (including aeroplane adaptor, with exception to a 4-pole mobile adaptor which is no longer needed and the inline remote/cable extension is replaced with a USB soundcard/control box.
The Cloud II with braided cable and 4-pole 3.5mm jack on top of the included carry case
Close up of the USB Soundcard
Alternative velour ear pads are included
Closer Look
The Cloud II overview
The design is similar to the previous with exception to the colour. Note, the stitching on top of the headband actually fixes a wear issue observed with the QPad versions, where the edges start to ‘peel’ after substantial use.
Side view
Adorned with the HyperX brand logo set into beautiful brushed gunmetal aluminium. The headband has soft memory foam running the full length for maximum comfort.
Macro love
Large earcups
Something worth mentioning is that, unlike the QPad QH-90 which has real soft leather earpads, the default earpads here are PU leather. There are pros and cons to each material, such as leather isn’t as breathable, making hot sweaty days potentially a little more unpleasant, though leather is arguably more durable and more plesant to the touch. Though, saving on the cost of leather with PU leather, you still get that leather feel, that is more breathable. PU leather is a common choice for many headsets and though may not be as durable as real leather, it should still last the life of the warranty. Remember that the Cloud II comes with a plush velour alternative, and as they are replaceable there is no major concern regardless.
Embroidered HyperX logo
Adjustable size
The Cloud II headset with microphone
Performance Testing
Setup, Design & Observations
Setting up with a PC is very simple, plug in the USB then plug the jack into the control box and await for propriety drivers to install. The control box seems fairly well made, the buttons click firmly when pressed. Once plugged in, the HyperX logo and the 7.1 button light up red, as implied, you can switch directly to the virtual 7.1 mode by pressing the dedicated button. On the side of the control box there is also a microphone mute switch. The downside to having no dedicated software support is that you have to do without any equaliser or any additional effects, as well as being limited to 16 bit/ 48,000 Hz audio resolution, but this will not be an issue for gamers.
The headset itself is identical to the previous Cloud, retaining excellent build quality and touches. You will find soft feel plastic trims, gorgeous lightweight brushed aluminium and braided semi-modular cables, the Cloud II does a lot ‘right’. The memory foam earpads are soft and forgiving that can completely circle my ears.
Another difference is in the removable microphone, the microphone barrel at 6mm diameter is smaller when compared to the previous Cloud’s microphone at 6.5mm, this results in a visibly more stout microphone head, However, judging from the specifications, the Cloud IIs microphone is likely to be an improvement which may be reflected by the improved frequency pickup range (from 100-12,000 Hz to 50-18000 Hz)
Multimedia
The dedicated USB soundcard does a great job in our music tracks, while I have the benefit of regularly listening to music through high quality equipment and can say that it doesn’t quite take full advantage of the headset’s performance, the supplied solution still allows the strengths and characteristics of the Cloud to shine through. Crystal highs, clear mids and rich powerful bass. Regardless, the included USB solution would be much more favourable over an integrated solution allowing for exceptional performance out the box. As there are no drivers included, you cannot equalise the sound to taste, however, the balance is good, and it is unlikely for someone to have an issue with it.
Taking advantage of the wide soundstage of the Cloud headset, the 7.1 virtual sound feature will be a gamers best friend. While it introduces a touch of background noise when activating, the open sound of the 7.1 rendering along with the rich and powerful performance can really bring games alive. Spatial awareness in FPSs is eeriely good for a virtual solution, and with little detriment to audio quality, locating those crunchy footsteps becomes a touch easier.
Microphone
The microphone is fairly sensitive and you may need to position the boom away from your mouth a little, once in the right place, the auto correction does well to adjust to the loudness of your voice. If you don’t want people to hear you eating or drinking, you can turn the sensitivity down directly via the control box. Voice is decribed as ‘good’, clear and very natural.
Conclusion
In our review of the original HyperX Cloud we really scraped around for some weak points, again with the Cloud II we find outselves in the same conundrum. Though there are differences worth noting. Firstly, we remind ourselves that this is a gaming headset, so must be considered as such. The Cloud is exceptionally good, capable of satisfying the gamer and audiophile alike, however, in the gamers world, the Cloud II pinpoints and addresses gamers more precisely. Many gamers forego the cost of a dedicated soundcard which can be for various reasons such as simply not being able to afford the ‘luxury’, ‘belief’ that is no need for one, or simply are apathetic towards it.
USB headsets really bring the best of both worlds into the light, improved audio processing over an integrated solution that allows for better quality input (yes it effects microphone quality too, a fact that many people seem to forget) and output. As it is semi-modular headset with a native 4-pole 3.5mm jack, this ensures hassle free versitility with current generation games consoles and mobiles while, should you really wish, you can get an adaptor to use it with your discrete soundcard or desktop amplifier.
The Cloud II didn’t remain static as a product either, the microphone is, subjectively, improved over the original Cloud, and the aesthetics are mindblowingly gorgeous being available in gunmetal, red or the limited edition white/pink. It is at this point where we again draw upon previously made conclusions from the impressive QPad QH-90 and Cloud headsets, using terms such as excellent and kickass, but by doing so, it becomes difficult to remain objective. To do so, I simply have to mention that the contruction, aesthetic, comfort and sound quality matches the luxury of the packaging, as far as gaming audio goes, it is a must have for gamers.
The only real downside to the Cloud II I can pluck at is that at £75, for those already with a discrete soundcard, you may as well get the Cloud as it would represent better value.
The HyperX Cloud II floats in like a fluffy slice of audio heaven that caters for all gamers.
Pros.
+ 53mm drivers
+ Excellent sound balance
+ Very comfortable
+ Quality construction
+ Attractive design available in gunmetal/red or limited edition white/pink
+ Included USB Soundcard w/ v7.1 rendering
+ Removable microphone
+ Choice of leather or velour earpads
+ Native 4-pole jack allows for versatility
+ Price
Cons
– None!
+ 53mm drivers
+ Excellent sound balance
+ Very comfortable
+ Quality construction
+ Attractive design available in gunmetal/red or limited edition white/pink
+ Included USB Soundcard w/ v7.1 rendering
+ Removable microphone
+ Choice of leather or velour earpads
+ Native 4-pole jack allows for versatility
+ Price
Cons
– None!
Click here for an explanation of our awards at Vortez.net.
