Review: Cloud Stinger, HyperX's entry-level headset

A HyperX is investing heavily in the production of accessories for Gamers. With a very famous (and respected) brand in components, from RAM memories to SSDs, the company's idea is to complete the experience of game lovers. One of the main contributors to improving this experience is the headset, which must be of sufficient quality to offer complete immersion in any title. This is where the Cloud line comes into its own.

The first model announced by the company was the HyperX Cloud Pro, followed by its second generation in 2015. Both supported virtual channels and were “tuned” specifically for gaming. This year, we have the presence of the Cloud Revolver, a headset that did not focus exclusively on games, but also on offering excellent quality when playing music. What did they all have in common? They were advanced models, and consequently more expensive.

There was a lack of a more accessible model, aimed at the casual gamerAnd Cloud stinger arrived exactly to fulfill that role.

design and comfort

The exterior of the Cloud Stinger is entirely made of matte plastic. Of excellent quality, in fact, giving the feeling of robustness in the hands. “Fragile” is a word that makes no sense here, unlike many models in this price range. The predominant color is black, with the HyperX logo highlighted on both sides.

On the top of the rim, we have – again – the HyperX logo in gloss black and in low relief. Despite its considerable size, the Stinger is surprisingly light. This is an essential requirement for anyone looking for a model to play for hours on end. Combine that with memory foam coated synthetic leather for one of the most comfortable models we've used to date.

The region of the rim that is supported on the head also has a memory foam. At the same time, it keeps the headset steady during use. I question, by the way, where the Stinger gets points in relation to the Revolver, despite this being more practical at the time of adjustment. The size adjustment reveals a metal plate inside, another feature that reinforces the Stinger's robustness.

Sound quality

With a closed design, the sound produced by Stinger is immersive, highlighting the bass and treble. The averages, if you will pardon the expression, were average. Despite this, the high quality of the drivers is undeniable, comparable to headphones of recognized brands within the same price range. Among them, the Sennheiser, Monster e Philips, when the comparison is made with other closed models.

In fact, the closed design is decisive when playing. In our tests, it enabled excellent passive isolation in games like Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon e Evolve stage 2. In addition to offering an in-depth experience. Even with two channels, the Stinger splits the audio channels pretty well, giving you a good idea of ​​enemy positions.

A plus point, and one that we really value in a headset, is the low impedance. With the volume at maximum, there is a high possibility of hurting the ear, as the sound gets really loud. This aspect makes it an excellent model for listening to music on smartphones, which do not have a very powerful amplifier. By the way, what makes the Stinger more suitable for this role than the Cloud II Pro, by comparison.

Microphone

This is the first HyperX model to feature a microphone that cannot be removed. At this point, despite the good behavior in games, we miss a little higher quality in conversations in apps VoIP. The other side of the conversation could hear us very well, but claimed that the tone of voice was slightly distorted. With a metallic touch, so to speak. Despite this, the external noise canceling worked very well.

Conclusion

O HyperX Cloud Stinger can be found with a suggested price of R$349. It's not a cheap value, but it's in line with its specifications and market segment. It's a good investment, though, as headsets don't have such a high change cycle. And, of course, it comes with HyperX's guarantee of running for a long time without any problems. Point where the company built its brand in the component segment, and is maintaining it in its accessories.

Data sheet:

Headset

• driver: neodymium 50 mm;
• Type: closed;
• Impedance: 30 Ohms;
• Pressure sound: 102 +/- 3dB;
• Answer de frequency: 18 Hz - 23 kHz;
• Weight: 275 grams;
• Cabo San Lucas (non-detachable): 1,3 meters;
• Y extender (phone and microphone): 1,7 meters;

Microphone

• Type: condensate;
• Answer de frequency: 50Hz - 18kHz;
• Sensitivity: -40 dBV;