HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset Review
Kingston HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset
Kingston has been a leader in the memory and storage market for close to 30 years. Being one of the leaders in the storage market is a great way to build your reputation; in today’s world companies are diversifying into other markets. Recently Kingston began expanding their HyperX line by developing headsets geared towards gamers. The headset market is filled with great companies such as Turtle Beach, SteelSeries, Razer and others. Kingston’s Cloud headset immediately gained attention and were found to be worthy of Kingston’s reputation.
At CES 2015, Kingston announced an update to the original HyperX Cloud gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset (product page). If you are familiar with the HyperX Cloud gaming headset, the HyperX Cloud II looks nearly identical. Physically, the difference comes from a difference in color options, and a new mid-line controller. What separates these headsets is the inclusion of virtual 7.1 Surround Sound thanks to a USB sound card on the HyperX Cloud II. The HyperX Cloud II has the same 53mm drivers as the original unit with a frequency response of 15 – 25,000Hz. Like the Cloud headset, the Cloud II includes a 2 year warranty from Kingston.
The design of the headset has a padded headband, user replaceable earcups, detachable microphone and an aluminum construction to keep the headset light. The Cloud II will be available on February 9th 2015, and is expected to have a suggested retail price of $99.99. Three color options for the Cloud II will include the Gunmetal (KHX-HSCP-GM), Red (KHX-HSCP-RD), and a limited edition Pink (KHX-HSCP-PK). Like t he original Kingston Cloud headset, the Cloud II will be compatible with the PC, and MAC, along with mobile and gaming consoles using a 3.5mm connector.
As we just mentioned, the Cloud II is capable of 7.1 Surround Sound, and includes a mid-line controller. The controller is where you can activate the 7.1 Surround Sound option with the push of a single button and includes a USB DSP sound card. Of course that’s not the only thing that the controller can do.
HyperX Cloud II Gaming Headset Features and Specifications
- 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
| Headset Specifications | |
| Transducer Type | Dynamic 53mm; neodynium magnets |
| Frequency Response | 15Hz – 25,000Hz |
| Nominal Sound Pressure Level | 98+/- 3dB |
| Sound coupling to the ear | Circumaural |
| Ambient noise attenuation | approximately 20 dBa |
| Weight | 320g |
| Weight with microphone and cable | 350g |
| Cable length and type | 1m +2m extension |
| Connection | Single mini stereo jack plug (3.5mm) |
| Microphone Specifications | |
| Transducer type | Condenser (back electret) |
| Polar Pattern | Cardoid |
| Frequency Response | 50 – 18,000 Hz |
| Length mic boom | 150mm with gooseneck |
| Connection | Single mini stereo jack plug (3.5mm) |
Let’s take a look at what is included with the Kingston HyperX Cloud II headset before we take a listen to how they sound.