

Any headset like this uses audio processing to mix the left and right channels in such a way to make the output sound similar to surround sound, but it's not actually "surround sound". They just don't tell you how virtual it actually is. One gripe I have with this headset, and basically any other gaming headset, is they make the claim to produce "virtual 7.1 surround sound". The headset does an awesome job of amplifying things like footsteps, gunfire and explosions.

The Cloud II's overall sound-quality for both high end and low end frequencies is great. The other 2 color-schemes are black/gunmetal, and white/pink. It comes in 3 different color-schemes, which is nice if you're not a fan of the black/red ones I featured up-top. They also come with a little rubber plug that you can use to hide the mic input. The cable runs into the left earcup and cannot be removed like the mic can.īy making the mic and USB sound card detachable, you're able to pop them off and have a pair of nice looking of over-ear headphones that you can use for pretty much anything. The earpads are held on by metal hinges which allows them to rotate in and out, unfortunately they don't swivel or fold away. The memory foam can be found in the headband and in both sets of earpads. The Cloud II's are made out of a combination of metal, plastic, memory foam, and a leather-like material which feels nice to the touch. They are actually Takstar Pro80 headphones, with a decent microphone slapped on. They look and feel more like a high-end pair of dedicated audiophile headphones, and that's because they are, or were, at one point. But, Kingston decided to go another direction when they designed the HyperX Cloud II gaming headset. Most gaming headsets feature sharp lines, glowing lights, bright highlights and usually look like something out of a science fiction movie. The USB sound card module also features braided cable, but it is roughly 6 feet long. The Cloud II is a wired headset, and features a braided cable which measures just over 3 feet long. Designįor starters, the HyperX Cloud II comes in 2 separate core-pieces, the actual headset unit, and a USB sound card module. You also get a number of accessories and modifications when you purchase the HyperX Cloud II, most importantly the USB sound card which acts as a built-in remote and works the headset’s built-in “7.1 surround sound”. The HyperX Cloud II also does well when used for music and movies, but it’s definitely not as bassy as you might like. The sound quality is amazing for what you’re spending, and it works great when it comes to outputting quieter sounds like footsteps or the rumble of an idling motor. It offers a number of features you would expect out of a headset at a higher price-point, and it performs like one as well. The detachable boom mic allows this unit to work as both a gaming headset, and something you can use for music while still looking good. The design is nice and basic and maintains a sleek and modern look. Kingston did something that a lot of other brands should start doing they took an already good pair of audiophile headphones, and slapped a mic on it. The Kingston HyperX Cloud II(2) gaming headset was an easy pick for the best gaming headset under $100, at this point in 2015 that is.
