HyperX QuadCast vs Warm Audio WA-87 R2
A side-by-side look at HyperX QuadCast and Warm Audio WA-87 R2 for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
HyperX QuadCast
Four polar patterns, tap-to-mute, and a shock mount built right in
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Check price on Amazon
Warm Audio WA-87 R2
U87-style FET condenser with three polar patterns at a fraction of the price
See site
Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| HyperX QuadCast | Warm Audio WA-87 R2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Streamers and podcasters who want pattern flexibility and a professional look at a mid-range price | Studio-focused podcasters who want professional multi-pattern condenser flexibility without spending on a Neumann |
Key features
HyperX QuadCast
- Built-in anti-vibration shock mount
- Four polar patterns: cardioid, omni, bidirectional, stereo
- Three 14mm condenser capsules
- 16-bit / 48kHz resolution
- USB (Micro-USB) connectivity
- Tap-to-mute with LED indicator
Warm Audio WA-87 R2
- Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and -10 dB pad
- Large-diaphragm FET condenser XLR, requires 48V phantom power
- Three polar patterns: cardioid, omni, and figure-8
- NOS Fairchild transistor and Cinemag USA output transformer
- Maximum SPL 125 dB (132 dB with pad engaged)
Pros and cons
HyperX QuadCast
Pros
- Internal shock mount is a genuine convenience win
- Built-in pop filter reduces plosives without an add-on
- Tap-to-mute is instant and visually obvious
- Competitive price with pattern flexibility
Cons
- 16-bit/48kHz - newer QuadCast models offer better resolution
- Micro-USB port in an era of USB-C competitors
- Red LED is not adjustable on the original (non-S) model
Warm Audio WA-87 R2
Pros
- Three polar patterns enable cardioid, omni, and figure-8 recording configurations
- Premium passive components (Fairchild NOS transistor, Cinemag transformer) at accessible price
- U87-inspired voicing with full, present character
- High SPL ceiling handles a wide range of sources
Cons
- Condenser sensitivity demands acoustic treatment
- Requires 48V phantom power
- Multi-pattern capability is underutilized in basic solo podcast setups
The verdict
Choose HyperX QuadCast if
Streamers and podcasters who want pattern flexibility and a professional look at a mid-range price.
The QuadCast nailed the form factor for streaming setups - the internal shock mount and built-in pop filter genuinely reduce desk rumble and plosives without requiring separate accessories. The tap-to-mute is one of the most satisfying controls in this class.…
Choose Warm Audio WA-87 R2 if
Studio-focused podcasters who want professional multi-pattern condenser flexibility without spending on a Neumann.
The WA-87 R2 is the most honest U87 homage on the market - Warm Audio builds it with premium passive components and does not hide what they are doing. The cardioid pattern sounds full and detailed, with the characteristic presence…