Today we will spend HyperX Cloud Alpha S review ($135) are wired over-ear gaming headphones with excellent 7.1 sound. They also received a detachable cable and a mixer with high-quality surround sound. HyperX Cloud Alpha S is a rather interesting model of the entire Cloud line. HyperX, unlike previous models, received a blue color and a direct bass control function.
During the review, HyperX Cloud Alpha S showed high sound quality - this is why it is so popular among players and e-sportsmen.
- Equipment and characteristics
- Video review
- Design and construction
- HyperX Cloud Alpha S drivers
- Job overview
- Sound overview
- Results: advantages and disadvantages
Equipment and characteristics
The set consists of:
- HyperX Cloud Alpha Headset
- Detachable microphone
- Detachable headset cable
- PC extension cable
- Transport bag
Characteristics
| Characteristics | Type |
| Common parameters | |
| Type | wired headphones |
| Model | HyperX Cloud Alpha S |
| Gaming headphones | Yes |
| Signal transmission method | wired |
| Construction type | covering |
| Sound scheme format | 7.1 |
| Headset function | There is |
| Appearance and design | |
| Headphone main color | black |
| Color of inserts and elements | blue |
| Backlight | No |
| Fastening method | headband |
| Design Features | soft ear pads, metal body |
| True Wireless Design | No |
| Acoustics | |
| Type of acoustic design | closed |
| Emitter membrane diameter | 50 mm |
| Minimum reproducible frequency | 13 Hz |
| Maximum playback frequency | 27000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 99 dB |
| Resistance (impedance) | 65Ω |
| Number of emitters on each side | 1 |
| Emitter type | dynamic |
| Microphone Specifications | |
| Microphone | There is |
| Microphone position | on headphones |
| Microphone mount | movable |
| Microphone sensitivity | -38 dB |
| Microphone functions and features | detachable microphone, flexible microphone |
| Wired connection | |
| Wired connection type | jack 3.5 mm, USB |
| Detachable cable | No |
| Length of cable | 2 meters |
| Cable plug shape | straight |
| Additional cable included | connecting cable jack 3.5 mm to USB (with remote control) |
| Adapter included | No |
| Cable Features | fabric braid |
Connection
Since our headset does not have fancy features, such as adjustable backlight, it does not require additional wires with MicroUSB to operate. In total, the set contains 2 wires in a high-quality braid. The main one is a cable with two 4-pin plugs of standard size 3.5 mm at both ends. The one that needs to be inserted into the cup is specially marked.
For more comfortable control of the headset, this cable has a built-in remote control with a volume shuttle and a microphone on/off button. It would seem like a small thing, but in the heat of battle it saves time and does not distract from the game!
To properly connect the headset to a PC, you will have to “uncover” a two-meter extension cord, which branches into 2 three-way plugs for a microphone and a stereo connector. They will provide full “communication” with computer sound cards. At the same time, the user will have more room for maneuver.
The Cloud Alpha headset is universal: compatible with PC, PS4, Xbox One, smartphones and other devices with a 3.5 mm jack.
Design and construction
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S headphones come in a cool box and a great package.
A big plus to the manufacturer for such a package. No need to buy anything!
The design is done in the best traditional Cloud style. There are no lights or any flashy elements; only a couple of details stand out against the background of the classic black color. However, this is not to say that the headphones are boring! They look very stylish, unlike their eye-catching counterparts. Everything is very strict, but it’s pleasing to the eye and there’s something to grab onto.
The headband of the HyperX Cloud Alpha S is made of metal. The parts that connect the bowls are matte blue, and the top is covered in a soft leatherette overlay. The design itself is very beautiful and does not evoke negative feelings.
The only downside is that the headphones are not foldable. Such an addition would definitely make HyperX Cloud Alpha S stand out from its competitors.
The earcups are made of durable matte plastic. The design is reliable, does not hold anything together, does not play. And the logo looks elegant on the front side. As for the ear pads, they are quite soft and have “memory”. A leatherette pair is 100% dust-proof. They are easy to take off and put on, so replacement will not be a problem.
On the back of the HyperX Cloud Alpha S bowls there is a special panel for bass control. By and large, these are bass reflexes. The bowl is two-chamber and, according to the designers’ plans, has several options:
- Open. More attention is paid to bass;
- Not fully open. The sound is clearly defined and the balance is not upset;
- Closed. The bass is almost not felt, the sound is quite passive and boring.
At the bottom of both bowls of the HyperX Cloud Alpha S there are 2 mini-jack 3.5 mm connectors. The first is needed for the microphone, and the second for the wire. They have different shapes, so it's difficult to get confused. There can be no problems!
During the review of HyperX Cloud Alpha S, we noted that the mixer is small in size and has a couple of multifunction buttons. And of course the backlight, which lights up when any mode is activated. The wire is quite strong and solid - it cannot be broken.
The quality of the construction deserves special attention. The assembly and materials are made at a high level. As an advantage, the headphones do not have as much plastic as other models. There are metal parts, made of leatherette. There’s nothing to complain about!
Appearance and design
At first glance at the HyperX Cloud Alpha S gaming headset, it becomes clear that the new product is a further development of the original Cloud model, the design of which was laid down by the developers several years ago. But the manufacturer does not copy itself, but polishes and hones the product to an ideal state, and in the new reincarnation we will find interesting moments associated with the update.
HyperX Cloud Alpha S has a symmetrical design with fairly large ear pads that completely cover the hearing organs. The blue and black design of the new product was not chosen by chance: muted tones and neutral colors are ideal for any situation.
The side bowls are made of practical, tactile plastic that is highly resistant to fingerprints. The corporate logo, as a tribute to fashion and brand recognition, is located in the center of the structure.
A gaming headset could not be such if it were not equipped with the necessary microphone for transmitting messages to your teammates. It is placed on a flexible rod that can take any shape and connects to the peripherals using a 3.5 mm connector. At its end there is a foam head that filters out some of the unwanted noise.
When fully operational, the HyperX Cloud Alpha S looks truly remarkable. Owners of early Cloud models are well aware of what we're talking about: the wearing sensation is excellent, the microphone placement is quite convenient, and the one-piece design is perceived quite well.
The special metal frame enhances the quality effect and increases reliability during long-term wearing. The new product is perfect for any type of head thanks to height adjustment up to 42 mm and a comfortable stretch that allows you to find a balance between strong pressure and comfort.
There are no controls on the HyperX Cloud Alpha S headphones: you simply won’t be able to turn the volume wheel on your right ear with your usual thumb action. On the left earcup there is only a microphone connector, and additional options are placed on a separate device.
However, on the opposite side, HyperX Cloud Alpha S can provide so-called sliders - special niches with switches adjustable in three positions. The main idea of the manufacturer is to open and close additional access to the camera with a speaker and muffle low frequencies.
The interior of the headband uses polyurethane memory foam.
On the outside, it is decorated with a leather insert with characteristic seams made of blue threads and the HyperX logo, emphasizing the visual style of the headphones.
The design of the mounts is very durable, using a reinforced fork-shaped frame. There is a thin, barely noticeable wire between the headband and the earcups. L/R marks and additional cross-ventilation are also located here.
HyperX Cloud Alpha S features support for 7.1 virtual surround sound, using an external USB audio control unit with a built-in sound card, similar to units found in some other HyperX headset models. This remote control also has separate volume controls for chat and gaming, and a separate button for activating the microphone.
For ease of use, there is a special clothespin on the body.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S gaming headset features proprietary memory foam leatherette ear pads. Additionally, the compact contains a pair of ear pads with a fabric base. The attachments are very easy to replace.
Hidden behind the ear pads is a 50 mm speaker with neodymium magnets. It is slightly recessed into the body and rotated, which corresponds to the physiological structure of the ear. The sound coverage and frequency characteristics for the new product are as follows:
- Playback frequency - 13 - 27000 Hz
- Impedance - 65 Ohm
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S model has an average impedance by the standards of computer peripherals, so no additional equipment is required to “boost” it. But the situation changes when using a smartphone, with which the headset can also be used. Here the sound is already slightly muffled.
The new product uses a two-chamber bowl design designed to separate the bass from the mids and highs, which should provide clear sound and reduce various distortions.
The speaker is placed in a separate chamber and is securely closed from dust and sweat.
The design of the second chamber from a different angle: the slider for adjusting surround sound at low frequencies, such as bass, is clearly visible.
How to configure HyperX Cloud Alpha S drivers
Volumetric sound emulation works perfectly. When activated, the sound becomes more detailed and more positioned. There are two ways to transmit 7.1 audio, but to switch between them you need to install special drivers. I note that at first during the review, 7.1 sound did not work on the HyperX Cloud Alpha S. And nowhere does it say that you need to install drivers.
HyperX Cloud Alpha S drivers are not easy to download from the Kingston website. Following the link you will find 2 options for setting up the driver:
- This driver is suitable for action games. The emphasis is on low frequencies.
- The second driver will make the sound basically better without any accents.
Packaging and equipment
HyperX Cloud Alpha S comes in the usual half-cube packaging. The box's printing changed from red and black to white and blue, depicting headphones and listing the main advantages of the new product, including 7.1 virtual surround sound, bass switches and a dedicated USB unit with adjustable settings.
The headset is located in a central compartment made of plastic; a rich set of accessories surrounds the headphones around the perimeter.
First of all, it is worth noting the replaceable ear pads with shape memory in fabric design and a separate board with a built-in sound card.
These accessories are neatly hidden in a separate branded bag with the manufacturer’s logo. The idyll is completed by a user manual and a couple of brochures.
Overview of HyperX Cloud Alpha S
HyperX Cloud Alpha S are comfortable gaming headphones. They do not pinch, sit comfortably on the ears, the ear pads are large and will be good for all ears. The inside of the bowl is soft and has a memory effect.
Note that fabric ear pads are more comfortable, they don’t put pressure and you can stay in them for days at a time. But their noise insulation is not as good as a leatherette ear pad. Although you can easily play 5-6 hours in leather ones.
It’s worth mentioning about the headband. It is elastic and very high quality, and the nice lining on top only adds to the comfort. The weight of the HyperX Cloud Alpha S is average, it fits securely, and it’s not that easy to lose.
But we also note a drawback in terms of comfort of the HyperX Cloud Alpha S. Not only is the cable very hard, but the mixer is located at a distance of 1 meter from the earcup. Yes, there is a special clip, but how can you attach such a long cable to your clothes? A clear omission from the developers.
And this is a real problem. Leaving the cable on the table will not work - it will fall. And if you don’t attach it at all, you won’t be able to control the volume, since the mixer will be far away.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S mixer is equipped with the following functions:
- volume control;
- adjusting the sound of the chat in the game and the game itself independently;
- 7.1 surround sound emulation. There is also a microphone mute button on the side.
You can also connect via an audio cable without a mixer. Thus, you can either play or just go out into the city. However, the downside is that even with leatherette ear pads, noise isolation will be poor.
The HyperX Cloud Alpha S microphone is quite good. It is not difficult to set it up conveniently, the voice is easy to perceive and you can speak as usual without increasing the volume of your speech.
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2 comments
HyperX Cloud Alpha S Sound Review
HyperX Cloud Alpha S received high-quality sound that will be ideal for both gamers and music lovers - you rarely see such a combination in gaming headphones. Sound detail in games is excellent, sound localization is quite accurate. Both quiet and loud sounds are heard equally well.
The ear pads allow you to seriously adjust the sound and bass. If you want more powerful bass, simply open the controls and add leather ear pads. The sound is balanced at medium closeness - for me, this is an ideal balanced option that can be called multitasking.
When reviewing the HyperX Cloud Alpha S, the sound seemed best with leather ear pads and with the control in the middle position.
- Low frequencies are slightly accentuated. They occasionally buzz when listening to driving and fast music, but in fact you pay little attention to it. As the bass increases, the emphasis becomes more obvious. This is ideal for films and games where dynamics are important.
- Mids are quite smooth and balanced. The detail on the HyperX Cloud Alpha S is good and voices sound very natural. During destruction and loud sounds in the game, mid frequencies are not lost.
- High frequencies. There are already a couple of nuances here. When it comes to music, individual high-frequency instruments are synthetic. You can't say the same about games, the sound is super!
- Position and scene. In the game, you can easily determine where the enemy’s shots or steps are coming from. You feel the space widely, there are no changes in moderation and without any distortions. When listening to music, the stage is not very wide, but much more detailed than other gaming headphones.
- Naturalness. When reviewing the HyperX Cloud Alpha S, the headphones are clearly aimed at low frequencies, this makes the gaming dynamics extremely natural. Loud and harsh sounds have rough bass and harsh treble. However, all the same, when you listen to music, you can hear unnecessary synthetics. Simply put, these are far from headphones for music, but if you don’t get carried away, then listening to music on the HyperX Cloud Alpha S will be very pleasant.
Gaming HyperX Cloud Alpha S are ideal for eSports. Excellent drawing and detailing, balance allow you to better feel the playing space and improve orientation in it. You can listen to music in the HyperX Cloud Alpha S headphones, but you can still hear some bugs. And at the same time, any genre in them will sound “normal”. Perhaps the headphones are worse than headphones for music, but you can adjust the bass and the overall sound. In this case, the music becomes much more colorful!
Review of the HyperX Cloud Alpha gaming headset with dual-chamber speakers
Continuing the theme of gaming headsets, the hero of today's review is of particular interest. Every time we get a new product under the HyperX brand at the time of release, I mentally begin to rub my hands in anticipation. Indeed, it’s no secret that HyperX headsets have taken one of the leading positions on the market and have won many positive reviews both among journalists and directly from users.
And the headset that came to our laboratory is even more interesting, because even visually there is a noticeable similarity with the Cloud and Cloud II models, which gives additional hope for success. So, let's get acquainted with the new product in the HyperX model line - Cloud Alpha.
| Headphones | HyperX Cloud Alpha |
| Products webpage | hyperxgaming.com |
| Audio channels | 2.0 |
| Speakers, mm | 50 mm, with neodymium magnets |
| Principle of operation | Closed |
| Impedance, Ohm | 65 |
| Frequency range, Hz | 13–27 000 |
| Nominal sound pressure level, dB | 98 |
| Connection interface | 4-pole mini plug (3.5 mm)/two 3-pole mini plug (3.5 mm) for speakers and microphone |
| Weight, g | 336 |
| Microphone | |
| Sensor type | electret condenser |
| Frequency range, Hz | 50–18 000 |
| Sensitivity, dB | –43 |
| Cost, $ | ~117 |
The packaging continues the design tradition of other HyperX models and is decorated in black and red tones. On the front side there is an image of the headset, as well as mentions of compatibility with all kinds of devices: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Mac, Mobile, Nintendo Switch and VR. We also see logos indicating that the headset is certified in the popular VoIP services TeamSpeak and Discord.
The reverse side still demonstrates the headset, but describes its structural elements in a little more detail.
Under the dust jacket there is a box that is still not dangerous to drop and on which you can even sit - the packaging of the headset is very rigid and reliable. It’s just not clear where the foam material that held both the Cloud and Revolver models went.
The Cloud Alpha package has everything you need: in addition to a headset and microphone, there are two cables for connecting to various devices 1.3 and 2 m long, a soft synthetic carrying bag and, of course, some printing.
Appearance and ergonomics
The attentive reader will notice that the differences from Cloud Alpha's predecessors are not so great and lie in the details. Actually, it’s no secret that the entire line originates from the Takstar Pro 80 headphones. Aluminum, plastic and eco-leather are still used in the design. Everything together looks reliable and harmonious.
The headband is single and without external suspension, thanks to which the headphones fit snugly to the head. It is based on an aluminum frame, and the part adjacent to the head is filled with proprietary memory foam. But given the fact that the headband is not very wide and is filled with foam quite densely, the soft part is still more elastic than, for example, in the Revolver model with a wider headband. In general, the headband is very successful and does not create the slightest inconvenience.
On the outside of the headband, as always, there is the HyperX logo, although in the Cloud Alpha it is pressed out rather than embroidered.
The connection of the headband frame to the headphones allows them to be tilted by 45 degrees. This will be useful for users with larger head sizes. I note that part of the aluminum frame is now profiled, which will slightly reduce the weight of the structure, and the thickness of the aluminum makes it possible to make such a lightening without a significant reduction in rigidity as a whole.
There are recesses pressed into the inside of the frame that allow you to fix the headband in a suitable position; there are nine such positions.
What has really changed is the design of the ear cups. The manufacturer moved away from the more rounded shape of its predecessors, adding a clearly defined edge on the circumference. In addition, there is no hint of gloss left in the design of the headset. The combination of black matte plastic with a red logo and red anodizing of the headband frame is quite strict. However, it should be noted that the soft-touch plastic on the circumference of the bowls collects fingerprints, although not too much.
The ear pads are conditionally removable, that is, there is no special fastening, however, replacement is possible. They have become a little deeper in comparison with the first Cloud and are sewn more neatly. Eco-leather, as well as the filling, are very pleasant to the touch and when placed on the head. Due to the increased depth of the ear pads, the distance from the ear to the speaker has correspondingly increased, which should have a positive effect on the sound.
The bowls hide 50mm drivers with neodymium magnets, but unlike older solutions from HyperX, and most competitors, they use a dual-chamber driver design.
These cameras are designed to separate low frequencies from mids from highs, thereby preventing distortion and making frequencies more transparent. This design is usually found in more expensive solutions.
It is necessary to pay attention to the presence of a kind of bass reflex on the upper edge of each of the bowls.
It will reduce the low pressure in a completely closed design and generally have a positive effect on the balance of frequencies.
On the bottom edge of the left headset there are 3.5 mm jacks for the cable and microphone. The receiver for the main cable plug has guides that are designed to firmly secure it thanks to the mating pad on the plug. The microphone has a key that will prevent it from turning in the socket.
The microphone is unlikely to surprise you with anything. A fairly standard design on a flexible leg, allowing you to install the microphone in a comfortable position. I am pleased with the “wind protection”, which copes very well with breathing, exhalation, etc.
The cord is flexible and braided. The first section of the cable has a 4-pin 3.5 mm plug for connecting to mobile devices and set-top boxes. Accordingly, its length is only 1.3 meters. An extension cable 2 meters long is connected to the first cable and at its end has two 3.5 mm jacks - for headphones and a microphone separately. In addition, a small control panel is located on a short wire. The wheel controls playback volume, and the switch controls microphone activity. Unfortunately, there is no active backlight for the “mute” mode of the microphone, but when it is turned off, a red dot is visible on the switch.
Ergonomics and ease of use
The ergonomics of HyperX Cloud Alpha are unlikely to surprise fans of the series and, nevertheless, it cannot be ignored.
To begin with, it should be noted that for its layout without an internal suspension, the headset sits very nicely and does not put pressure on the top of the head. At the same time, the pressing force on the temples was chosen quite well - I easily spent 5-6 hours in the headset without the slightest fatigue. The manufacturer has found the right balance between reliability and ease of long-term use.
The depth of the bowls, as mentioned above, provided by the thicker ear pads allows the speakers not to “load” the sound directly into the ears, which again adds a little convenience.
I was a little disappointed by the lack of velor ear pads, which were included in previous models that did not have the Core prefix in the name. Although, to be fair, it is worth noting that the ear pads from the first Cloud can also be used on the Cloud Alpha.
The braid on the cord makes it convenient to operate them, and the fairly flexible cord does not strain if it is twisted.
The microphone can only be praised. My teammates liked it even more than that of the Revolver S. Largely due to its “wind protection”, which dampens loud sighs from bad moments and generally muffles the upper range of the recording. It is very convenient that the location of the connection point, combined with a fairly flexible leg, allows you to remove the microphone almost to the headband, and it will not interfere with its constant presence in non-gaming applications.
The control panel is identical to that of the first Cloud. Personally, the volume control wheel seemed a little small to me, although it copes with its functions.
The overall impressions are extremely positive. The layout of the headset will definitely appeal to those who don’t like large structures, and everyone else is unlikely to find any disadvantages in the ergonomics.
Sound impressions
HyperX Cloud Alpha is a headset that sounds very good and you can compare it with its predecessors, because few competitors can boast of similar sound quality.
To begin with, I will say that the new design of the speakers and the “bass reflex” in the upper part influenced the sound. The lows became less dense and no longer clogged the mids. They can still be added using the EQ, but their transparency is more pronounced.
Thanks to this, the mid frequencies acquired new details, but the high frequencies changed their character. There are still plenty of them, but now they don't ring so much as they whistle.
The sound in games is simply excellent, rich and bright, without obvious distortions or voids unfilled with the required frequencies. Battlefield delights with rich explosions, sounds of falling bombs and collapsing buildings. Positioning is also seamless.
Musical use of the headphones is also pleasant. The important fact is that the headphones can play exactly the way the equalizer is configured, and do not have their own strictly limited range, which cannot be corrected by settings.
I was pleased with the microphone recording quality. It is clear that there is no electronic noise reduction here, but the microphone itself is good and does not pick up unnecessary sounds, so only the owner’s voice is heard. In fact, certification by the creators of the Discord application also adds a bonus to the confidence that the gaming experience will be successful.
conclusions
The HyperX brand has once again pleased us with a quality product that can be called as such without any discounts. Excellent sound, enhanced by dual-chamber speakers, a detachable braided cable with volume control, and very comfortable ergonomics. It is also worth mentioning the design, which leaves no doubt about its reliability and durability. But the kit removed the velor ear pads found in the first versions of Cloud, but introduced technology that is used in much more expensive devices. And if the issue of price is not so important, then any user who chooses HyperX Cloud Alpha will definitely be satisfied with the choice.
The start of sales of HyperX Cloud Alpha in Ukraine is scheduled for September 27. The new product will be available in retail at a price of 2999 UAH. For Ukrainian customers who pre-ordered in Rozetka, Zona51 and MoYo stores from August 22 to September 26, the manufacturing company is offering a special shipping box for the headset as a gift.
Bottom line
HyperX Cloud Alpha S headphones are an excellent gaming accessory with high-quality sound. You will like them when listening to music, playing games, and even more so for movies. And professional assembly, high-quality materials and a complete set are a great advantage and addition to the headphones.
Listening to music
Perhaps the most interesting part of the test.
As usual, everyone’s ears are different, and it’s difficult to argue with the peculiarities of personal perception, so everything given below is the personal feelings of a person who has “dabbled” with various headphones in a very different price range: up to several thousand dollars. We will test the same as usual: complex rock compositions, jazz and blues, classical music, both performed on one instrument and by entire orchestras. All these genres have in common the complexity and versatility of sound. You can listen to the music as a whole, or try to highlight details, isolate parts of individual instruments, and see how cleanly the speakers handle certain moments. So let's get started.
BB King's vocals: a lush baritone, full of characteristic overtones and rough hoarseness, which has become the hallmark of Memphis blues, and indeed his compositions in general are excellent material for testing headphones. Rich vocals, complex and sonorous guitar parts, the characteristic sound of brass - everything merges into a single stream of stunningly harmonious combinations.
The headset easily passes this test: the sound is consistent, there is no “blockage” in frequencies, all test compositions sound like a single whole. At the same time, it’s worth listening a little - and you can easily set the dominant on music, vocals or individual parts. Listen to the work of a trumpet or saxophone, catch the work of drums or piano.
Queen's compositions can be described in a similar way: sonorous vocals, a wide variety of music and different playing techniques, and all this is heard not only in any other way than usual, but the ease with which you can switch attention from one instrument to another - deserves respect. At the same time, the sound of music does not turn into “simultaneous playing of different musicians”, the music remains music.
Rachmaninov’s piano works cannot be described in words: this is very complex music, even if only for one instrument. The work of the HyperX Cloud Alpha headset can be described as “trying with all its might”: in terms of sound purity, there are zero complaints, volume and depth are present. But this kind of music still needs to be listened to live.
In terms of orchestral music, this time the choice is somewhat unusual (although it is close to the target audience of the gaming headset). The Video Games Live concerts at Gamescom are an opportunity to see what your familiar background music looks like live. Everything is simple here: you see how someone plays - you try to hear this particular instrument. The impressions cannot be expressed in words.
You yourself are ready to predict the result of Cloud Alpha: yes, the sound is perfectly “divided” into components when necessary, but at the same time you can close your eyes and simply drown in the music.
