Elgato Wave:3 MK.2
Streaming, Podcasting, Voiceovers, Content Creation, Live Broadcasting, Home Studio Recording, Video Conferencing
Overview
The Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is the second-generation USB condenser microphone designed for streamers, podcasters, and content creators who demand professional vocal quality with minimal setup. Featuring a groundbreaking Wave FX Processor that runs Clipguard 2.0, onboard DSP effects, and VST insert support directly on the microphone, it delivers studio-grade audio without external processing gear. The intuitive multifunction dial with LED ring, Auto Gain, and tap-to-mute makes real-time control effortless, while the free Wave Link software provides deep customization including multi-channel mixing and plugin integration. With a 16 mm condenser capsule, cardioid polar pattern, and built-in pop filter, the Wave:3 MK.2 captures pristine, focused vocals for streaming, podcasting, and content creation at an accessible $169.99 price point.
Key Highlights
- 16 mm condenser capsule with cardioid pickup and built-in pop filter for clear, focused broadcast-quality vocals
- Wave FX Processor with Clipguard 2.0 anti-distortion technology, onboard DSP effects, and VST insert support — no external gear needed
- Smart Auto Gain with intelligent algorithm finds the perfect level in seconds via a long-press on the multifunction dial
- Customizable LED ring around the multifunction dial provides real-time level monitoring, gain indication, and mute status at a glance
- Wave Link software for deep customization including multi-channel mixing, hardware DSP adjustment, and VST plugin integration
Video
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Elgato |
|---|---|
| Model | Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 |
| Type | USB Condenser Microphone |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid (unidirectional) |
| Capsule | 16 mm Condenser (integrated JFET) |
| Frequency Response | 70 Hz – 20,000 Hz |
| Sample Rate | 48 kHz |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Max SPL | 130 dB SPL typical at 1 kHz |
| Sensitivity | -20 dBFS typical at 1 kHz |
| Connectivity | USB-C, 3.5mm Headphone Jack |
| Ports & I/O | 1x USB-C (USB 2.0 HS) 1x 3.5mm Headphone Jack |
| Operating System | Windows 10 or later, macOS, iPadOS, Android (USB Audio Class 2.0) |
| DSP Features | Wave FX Processor with Clipguard 2.0, Onboard DSP (EQ, Compression), Voice Tune, Real-time Denoiser, VST Inserts Support, Limiter, High-pass Filter |
| Software | Wave Link (Windows & macOS, free download) |
| Headphone Output | 3.5mm stereo jack, zero-latency monitoring, supports headphones up to 250Ω |
| Mute Function | Tap-to-mute via multifunction dial |
| Dimensions | 46 × 85 × 167 mm (without stand, D x W x H) |
| Weight | 250 g (0.55 lbs) without stand |