The Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is a USB condenser microphone for streamers, podcasters and anyone who wants clear voice capture for recordings or calls. Its cardioid pickup pattern focuses on sound in front of the microphone, making it well suited to spoken voice at a desk.

A built-in Wave FX Processor handles voice processing on the microphone, so you can shape your sound in real time and monitor it through wired headphones. Clipguard 2.0 helps protect against distortion from sudden loud sounds, while VST inserts let you use audio effects across apps. Tap-to-mute, a multifunction dial and Auto Gain make common adjustments accessible while you record or stream.

Key features

• 16 mm condenser capsule captures detailed spoken audio.
• Cardioid pickup pattern is suited to a single speaker in front of the mic.
• Onboard DSP lets you hear voice processing in real time.
• Clipguard 2.0 helps prevent clipping when input levels rise unexpectedly.
• VST inserts apply effects directly through the microphone signal path.
• Auto Gain helps set a suitable microphone level for your voice and setup.
• A 3.5 mm headphone output supports low-latency monitoring.
• Wave Link software provides audio mixing and configuration on Windows and macOS.

Compatibility

Connect the microphone to a USB-C port on a Windows 11 or later PC, or a Mac running macOS 14.2 or later. Wave Link is available as a free download. Wired headphones connect to the microphone’s 3.5 mm stereo socket. A microphone arm can be used with the supplied thread adapters; an arm is sold separately. Good to know: Check that your computer has a USB-C port and that your headphones are wired, as wireless headphones are not included for direct monitoring.

In the box

• Elgato Wave:3 MK.2
• Desk stand
• USB-C cable (250 cm)
• 5/8-inch and 3/8-inch adapters

Specifications

With onboard processing, straightforward controls and headphone monitoring in one compact setup, Wave:3 MK.2 gives creators practical control over voice audio for everyday streaming, podcasting and calls.