HyperX launches its first open-back gaming headset, the $150 Cloud Alpha Air
HyperX introduces the $150 Cloud Alpha Air, its first open-back gaming headset, along with a 47-gram mouse and new headset colors.
The Cloud Alpha Air uses plush foam earpads and a Bass Tube designed to maintain low-end response, addressing the typical bass loss of open-back designs. In a brief hands-on, Engadget said the headphones produced a satisfying, controlled deep rumble without overpowering mids and highs, and the bass highlighted low tones in games. The headset has an impedance of 34 ohms; when connected to a PC via a 3.5mm cable, overall volume was slightly subdued, so users may prefer the included USB adapter or their own DAC. EQ and sound profiles can be customized in HyperX's NGENUITY app.
Design features are minimal, with a volume wheel and mute button for the detachable microphone. Red 40mm dynamic drivers sit behind metallic grilles, while ultrasuede-covered foam earcups provide a comfortable fit, and the metal headband withstood Engadget's bend test. The package includes a 3.5mm cord, a PC extension cable with separate audio and mic jacks, a USB adapter with both USB-A and USB-C connectors, and a drawstring bag.
HyperX also announced new color combinations for the Cloud III S, Cloud III Wired, and Cloud Flight 2 headsets. The company's new Pulsefire Haste 3 Pro mouse features a carbon fiber shell weighing 47 grams, a Performance Sensor with up to 42,000 DPI, and up to 150 hours of wireless use at 1K polling. A $90 Pro Model offers the same sensor in a plastic shell, while a wired model costs $40. Engadget reported no new PCs beyond updated AMD-based Omen 35L configurations.
The Cloud Alpha Air is currently wired only; a HyperX representative declined to comment on a possible wireless version. The new peripherals are scheduled to go on sale in September.