Elgato Wave:3 - Premium Studio Quality USB Condenser Microphone for Streaming, Podcast, Gaming and Home Office, Free Mixer Software, Sound Effect Plugins, Anti-Distortion, Plug ’n Play, for Mac, PC
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AI Verdict
This is the perfect USB mic for streamers who want a simple way to mix audio, but plan on buying a separate boom arm for it.
The Wave:3 is a strong fit for its target audience of streamers and content creators because its core strength isn't just the microphone hardware, but the integrated Wave Link software. This software solves the common, frustrating problem of mixing multiple audio sources for a stream, a task that previously required complex virtual cables or expensive hardware mixers. The Clipguard feature also provides a safety net that is invaluable for live content.
If you need to record interviews or a group podcast, look for a microphone that offers multiple selectable polar patterns like bidirectional and omnidirectional.
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Pros
- Wave Link software is a powerful virtual mixer for controlling multiple audio sources.
- Proprietary Clipguard tech automatically prevents audio distortion if you get too loud.
- Captures clear, detailed speech with its 24-bit/96kHz analog-to-digital converter.
- Capacitive sensor on top allows for silent muting with a light touch.
- Zero-latency headphone jack on the back for real-time audio monitoring.
Cons
- Only has a single cardioid pickup pattern, limiting its use for multi-person recording.
- The included desktop stand is short, not very stable, and picks up desk vibrations.
- The microphone body is mostly plastic, which feels less premium than some competitors.
- Wave Link software can be buggy, with users reporting connectivity issues and settings resetting.
Dimension Scores
The 24-bit/96kHz conversion and Lewitt co-designed capsule deliver crisp, broadcast-quality audio that users consistently praise.
The combination of the powerful Wave Link mixing software and the hardware Clipguard feature is a game-changer for streamers.
It provides a standard USB-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack, but lacks an XLR output for upgrading to a professional audio interface later.
While the microphone itself is compact and light, the build is mostly plastic and the included desktop stand is flimsy and too short.
Best For
- Solo streamers who need to mix game, music, and voice chat audio on the fly.
- Gamers and home office workers who want clear voice quality for calls and don't want to mess with complex settings.
- Content creators who use an Elgato Stream Deck for physical control over audio levels.
Not Recommended For
- Musicians trying to record instruments or vocals in a studio setting.
- Podcasters who need to record multiple people in the same room with one microphone.
- Users who need an XLR output to integrate with professional audio interfaces.
Watch Out For
- The included desktop stand is too short for proper mouth placement, requiring you to hunch over; a boom arm is almost a necessity.
- The Wave Link software, while powerful, has a learning curve and can be confusing to set up for the first time.
- As a sensitive condenser mic, it will pick up a lot of background noise like keyboard clicks and fans if not positioned correctly and without noise filters.
- Some users report software bugs like the mic not being detected or audio channels resetting randomly, requiring a restart or replugging the device.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 840006618072 |
| ASIN | B088HHWC47 |
| Brand | Elgato |
| Color | Black |
| Language | English |
| Material | Metal, Plastic |
| Model Name | Wave:3 - Premium Studio Quality USB Condenser Microphone |
| Item Weight | 1.29 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Elgato |
| Power Source | USB |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Connector Type | USB Type-C |
| Special Feature | Clip |
| Audio Sensitivity | 15 Decibels |
| Hardware Platform | Mac, PC |
| Item model number | 10MAB9901 |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Frequency Response | 20000 Hz |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Product Dimensions | 4.88 x 5.79 x 9.92 inches |
| Included Components | Wave:3, USB-C Cable, Desktop Stand, Boom Arm Adapter, Quick Start Guide |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 115 dB |
| Microphone Form Factor | Boundary |
| Connectivity Technology | Auxiliary, USB |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 4.88 x 5.79 x 9.92 inches |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming, Streaming |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00840006618072 |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising thing about the Wave:3 isn't the mic itself, but how the Wave Link software completely changes the game for streamers. It effectively turns a simple USB mic into a digital audio mixer, allowing you to control game, chat, and music volumes independently for your stream and your headphones. The Clipguard feature is another standout, preventing audio distortion when you get loud and saving streams from harsh audio spikes. However, almost everyone agrees you should throw the included desk stand in a drawer and immediately mount the mic on a boom arm. The stand is too short, wobbly, and a magnet for keyboard vibrations.
“i was fighting with voicemeeter banana for YEARS and this one mic and its software fixed all my stream audio problems in like 15 minutes, i can't believe i waited this long.”
Common Praise
- The Wave Link software is a 'game-changer' for managing stream audio without needing a GoXLR.
- Clipguard is a lifesaver, it makes it almost impossible to distort your audio even if you shout.
- The capacitive mute button on top is silent and convenient to use mid-stream.
- Sound quality is crisp and clear right out of the box, with minimal setup needed.
- The ability to add VST plugins like EQs and noise suppression within Wave Link is incredibly powerful.
Common Complaints
- The included desktop stand is flimsy, too short, and basically useless for proper positioning.
- It's a condenser mic, so it's very sensitive and picks up a lot of background noise if your room isn't quiet.
- The Wave Link software can be buggy, sometimes failing to detect the mic or resetting audio channels.
- The main body of the microphone feels plasticky.
- There's only one cardioid pickup pattern, which is less versatile than mics like the Blue Yeti.
Ownership Tips
- You will absolutely end up buying a boom arm; the included stand just doesn't cut it for serious use.
- There's a slight learning curve to routing all your apps to the right channels in Wave Link, but once it's set up, it's magical.
- Because it's so sensitive, you'll start noticing every little noise in your room, from your PC fans to your chair creaking.
- The integration with a Stream Deck is seamless and makes on-the-fly audio adjustments incredibly intuitive.
- After a few months, you might experience a software bug that requires you to unplug and replug the mic to get it working again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a pop filter for the Wave:3?
It has a built-in internal pop filter that works quite well, but for very close talking, an external pop filter can still help reduce plosives.
What's the main difference between the Wave:1 and Wave:3?
The Wave:3 supports a higher 24-bit/96kHz audio sample rate, has a capacitive mute button, and its control dial can also adjust input gain and the PC/mic crossfade.
Can I use the Wave:3 with a boom arm?
Yes, it includes an adapter to mount on any standard boom arm, which is highly recommended by users over the included desk stand.
Is the Wave Link software free?
Yes, the Wave Link software is included for free with the microphone and is one of its biggest selling points.
Does the Wave:3 work on PS4/PS5?
While some users have reported issues, particularly with the PS4, it is generally expected to be recognized as a USB audio device. However, the powerful Wave Link software only works on PC and Mac.
How far away should I be from the mic?
Elgato recommends positioning the microphone about two fists' distance (around 6-8 inches) from your mouth for the best sound quality.
Buying Guide
When you buy the Wave:3, you're not just buying a microphone; you're buying an audio control center. The real star is the Wave Link software. Think of it as a digital mixing board on your computer that lets you control the volume of your game, your music, Discord, and your mic separately for what your audience hears versus what you hear in your headphones. If that sounds like something you need, this is for you. If you just need a simple mic for Zoom calls, this might be overkill.
Cardioid Condenser Capsule
This means it's designed to pick up sound primarily from the front, which is perfect for a single person speaking. 'Condenser' means it's very sensitive and detailed, great for voice, but it will also pick up background noise if you're not careful.
Wave Link App
This is its secret weapon. It's like having a multi-channel audio mixer just for your stream. You can make the game audio quieter for your viewers so they can hear you better, while keeping it loud for yourself.
Proprietary Clipguard Technology
Imagine you scream during a scary game. Normally, this would create a horrible distorted sound ('clipping'). Clipguard automatically turns the volume down for a split second to prevent this, saving your audience's ears.
24-bit/96kHz Converter
This is a measure of the audio detail the mic can capture. It's a professional-grade spec that ensures your voice is recorded with high fidelity, sounding clear and rich rather than muffled or digital.
Alternatives
If this mic's single pickup pattern is too limiting, search for a USB microphone with 'multiple polar patterns' to find options that include bidirectional (for two people) or omnidirectional (for a whole room) recording modes.
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