HyperX Solocast Review: Superior Recording on a Budget

What we like

The $59.99 HyperX Solocast is the perfect microphone to enhance video calls or snare podcasts narratives on a budget. The cardioid, electret condenser microphone offers plug-and-play on PCs, Macs, gaming devices, and the iPad. It captures audio at 16 bits.

The host device powers the HyberX Solocast over USB 2.0. It comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable. I replaced that with a USB-C to USB-C cable to connect it to modern devices without USB-A ports. It works just fine.

There isn’t much fancy with the HyperX Solocast. Plug it in. select it from your OS/app and start recording. A light tap on the top of the microphone mutes it. That is the only functional feature. And LED holds solid when on, and flashing when muted.

On the hardware side, the microphone comes with a standard mount so it can be attached to a boom or other stand. I use the included desktop configuration and it works fine at a desk.

What could be improved

I wouldn’t mind seeing companies like HyperX include a POP filter in the box. They aren’t expensive, but they do improve recording quality. I purchased an Aokeo metal mesh, foam and etamine layered microphone windscreen and cover for less than $9. Rubber bands hold the POP filter on the microphone. No tools or hardware to install.

HyperX Solocast: The bottom line

HyperX delivers a solid microphone that supports gaming or work scenarios. A great microphone for beginners, at a great price. The perfect complement to a video conferencing set-up

HyperX provided the HyperX Solocast for review.

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