Recs.
Updated
This is a closed back, over ear design headset with overall good sound quality. Bass is powerful while the highs have good clarity. This is enhanced by the 7.1 surround sound feature.
The headset is connected via USB, but also includes 3.5 mm jack functionality for improved compatibility with sound sources.
SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro Produces powerful bass and fairly detailed highs
The sound signature of the Hyper X Cloud II is fun, with boosted bass and highs, while the mids are slightly recessed. This results in game or movie sound effects getting a lot of detail and oomph. However, dialogue and more midrange-centric sounds may sound a bit softer in comparison.
Pro Enhanced soundstage and audio imaging via 7.1 surround sound
The optional in-line dongle features a button to enable virtual 7.1 surround sound, which gives the sound a much wider feel, with enhanced positional audio. This should help make it easier to identify and determine where objects or other players are in the game world based on sound.
Pro Can connect to 3.5mm or USB audio sources
The headset itself comes with a 3.5mm fixed cable which should work with a lot of audio capable devices. Then, there is the headphone dongle that features a 3.5mm female port to USB. This allows the headset to be used with most computers and devices which only feature USB as I/O.
Pro USB dongle gives extra functionality
If you decide to connect the headset to the USB dongle, you will gain access to extra features control options. On the dongle is the button to toggle 7.1 surround sound on or off and also features volume adjustments for the headphones and mic, along with a mute button.
Pro 2 sets of ear pads to choose from
Aside from the pads being easily removable, users also get a pair of velour ear pads along with the attached pair of faux leather ones. Not only does this give users a backup pair of ear pads, but this also gives the choice as to which pair fits comfort preferences better.
Pro Feels solid and sturdy
Plastic is the primary material of this headset, but the types chosen look and feel great and do not make creaks easily. The yokes and headband adjustment are made of brushed aluminum which adds a premium look and a welcome amount of heft to the product.
The wires are sleeved, so they look and feel more premium compared to just the bare wires.
Cons
Con Headset cable is fixed/non-removable
The 3.5mm cable on the headset is non-removable so should it get damaged, it will be very hard to replace, and may involve RMA or extensive DIY repairs. This also means that the headset is not ideal for mobile use as you will have to deal with the cable when traveling.
Con Short 3.5mm cable
The cable of the HyperX II is split up in two parts. The headset itself has a 43 inch (110 cm) cable, which can be a little bit on the short side depending on where your audio-ports are located. If you use the full length of the headset with a USB-port, the full length equals to around 10 feet (305 cm).