Kingston HyperX Cloud and Cloud II headsets are among the best that we have tested throughout the years at Tech-Critter.Com; and for those of you who have experienced them will surely agree that it is a worthwhile investment. This time around, Kingston launched the HyperX Cloud Core, a streamlined version of the original two that retains much of the features from it's predecessors. Big thanks to the folks at Kingston for the provision of the Cloud Core headset, that is available in the local market for RM249.00.
Specifications
Headset
Transducer type: dynamic Ø 53mm
Operating principle: closed
Frequency response: 15Hz–25,000 Hz
Nominal impedance: 60 Ω 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: 3.5mm mini stereo & mic plug (4 pole)
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 kΩ
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)
Packaging
Following in it's brother's footsteps, the Cloud Core comes in an overall red/black cardboard box that depicted the actual headset up on the front along with the product name and highlights of key features.
The back labels the features where they belong on the headset.
Team sponsorship on one side.
And more features highlighted on the other side.
In terms of documentation, you'll have a quick start guide and a headset information guide(in case the exterior of the box has yet to reveal any information you're looking for).
Opening the box, you'll get the Cloud headset encased in the same luxurious protective soft foam. What's different here are that the accessories are not bundled together this time. No extra earpads, no airplane adaptor, no soft pouch and certainly no USB soundcards.
The Headset
This is what the core version of the Cloud is all about, just bare necessities to get going. Still the same quality headset and Kingston still bundled the extension cable so that's a big plus in my opinion.
The removable microphone design is back to the original elongated design that belonged to the original Cloud headset.
And the very long, braided extension cable for the PC, a great inclusion given by Kingston.
Nothing has changed in terms of appearance, the metal plate at the earcups and supports are as sturdy as ever.
Soft leatherette cushions are as soft as ever. Sad that the replacement cushions are not bundled here as I am a fan of the cloth type that they had in the previous editions of the Cloud headsets.
I did wish that they have a more elegant solution to the microphone cover though.
If you do lose it, it'll be apparent that something is a miss when the microphone is not plugged in.
No issues with the Microphone plugged in, still fits like a glove and looks great!
The extension provided by the metal support stays the same so caution to those of you with larger sized cranial to test fit before buying.
Gotta love the cushioning on the headband, soft and comfy as always.
And yes, the sewn edges at the top of the headband with the HyperX logo adds to that premium look.
Testing
The Cloud Core has a lightweight construction and leather padded headband that doesn't actually gives much pressure on the top of your head. It's pretty comfortable we'd say and the noise isolation is done right on the Cloud Core all thanks to the default pleather cushion and there's hardly any signs of sound leaking.
Gaming wise, the Cloud Core works the best with FPS games - Footsteps of the enemy, direction where gunshots are fired and all the sound you will need to own the game. If you're not a hardcore FPS gamer, the Cloud Core still works RPG, RTS, Racing games, given that is has a very decent soundstage compared to most gaming headset we have previously tested that is heavily leaning towards the bass.
If you're more into music and movies, be it PC and laptops or on the go portable media devices such as your music player, mobile phones, the Cloud Core fits the role just as well.
Gaming wise, the Cloud Core works the best with FPS games - Footsteps of the enemy, direction where gunshots are fired and all the sound you will need to own the game. If you're not a hardcore FPS gamer, the Cloud Core still works RPG, RTS, Racing games, given that is has a very decent soundstage compared to most gaming headset we have previously tested that is heavily leaning towards the bass.
If you're more into music and movies, be it PC and laptops or on the go portable media devices such as your music player, mobile phones, the Cloud Core fits the role just as well.
Conclusion
Compared to most gaming headset around the price of RM 249.00, the Cloud Core is no doubt a steal, REALLY. Who would have guessed that Kingston, one of the giant in the memory industry could make such a well balanced headset that works just as well for both gaming and other entertainment purposes? We definitely will and without any hesitate, recommend the Kingston HyperX Cloud Core to anyone who is looking for a bang for the buck gaming headset but on a limited budget. A Tech Critter Gold and Recommended award it is!
Pros
- Good sounding headphones
- Braided cables
- Sturdy and Comfortable
- Included PC extension cables
- Detachable microphone
Cons
- Cable on headset could be longer
- Rubber cover on microphone port is prone to loss
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