Customer Ratings & Reviews

I’ve been looking for another stream friendly USB Microphone, mainly needing it to just work and sound great. I’ve always wanted to try out the Elgato Wave microphones, so when I saw the Wave:3 MK.2 was just releasing I decided to pick one up. Pros: - Easy to use. - Multi-function dial control. - Easy to see Mute Light. - Comes with adapter for monitor arms. Cons: - None. Out of the Box: I always appreciate when an accessory for the PC is simply Plug-&-Play, which the Wave:3 Mk.2 does just that. I was able to plug it in and start using it without any extra downloads, the multi-function dials on the front allows for complete control and calibration without the need for additional software. But to get the most out of the microphone, and because I’ve used it before with great success, I installed the Wave Link to manage the audio output channels. Software: Wave Link is a powerful tool that helps you configure the Wave 3 Mk.2, setting up virtual audio channels that helps make managing audio output simple and easy. On the device page for the Wave:3 Mk.2 there are 3 tabs: Input & Monitoring, Effects, and Settings. On Input & Monitoring, the gain and monitoring levels can be set through the app, but also can be adjust on the front of the microphone with the dial. The Gain Lock prevents other applications from taking control of the gain levels. The Clipguard tames loud bursts, think of an over excited reaction or scream, so that the audio doesn’t distort. Direct self-monitoring can be enabled, which removes all post processing effects from the feed to reduce latency, so you can catch and adjust your input sound immediately. Effects offers voice effects from both Hardware and Software enhancements. For Hardware effects there is a Lowcut Filter (cuts low-end noise like typing & rumbling but can impact depth of voice), Expander (Reduces ambient noise without impacting your voice), Voice Tune (Adds Analog Compression based), Compressor (Smooths out the highs and lows), and Equalizer (Add’s EQ effect). There is only one Software Effect, Voice Focus which uses AI to remove background noise and echoes. Each effect is easily managed with a toggle on button, if there are additional options then a little settings option will display to the right which can be clicked to bring up an additional settings page with more options. Additionally, at the bottom of the device page, you can perform a sound check with the built-in recording tool to check out the impact of each of the related sound effects. On the Mixes tab by default, Wave Link by default will have a System Audio (first column), Personal Mix, Stream Mix, and Chat Mix. These can all be customized to your specific uses and setup, allowing for endless customization. The best part is you can configure all these audio mixes then manage them in OBS or even switch between them with a hot key or additional stream deck. It can easily become the most powerful tool on your stream, without any hardware needed. Build: One of my favorite features of the Elgato hardware is their simplicity and build quality, they just feel premium. The Wave:3 Mk.2 is no different, the microphone is well built and sturdy, you don’t have to worry about where you grab it. The stand is heavy enough to keep it in place on most surfaces, even Solid and quality build. Base stand is heavy enough that it will not easily fall over, though you might want to attach it to a mic arm for better positioning. Included with the microphone is a thread adapter for most microphone mounts. Buttons: There are only 2 buttons on the Wave:3 Mk.2: on top there is a touch to mute button and the Dial on the front is a push button to select different effects. The simplified buttons help make using the microphone easy. The effects that can be changed on the multi-function dial are Microphone Gain, Voice Tune, Monitoring Output Volume, and Self-Monitoring mix. You can check each of these by selecting the icon on the microphone and turning the dial while checking in Wave Link to see the corresponding option change. This doesn’t cover all the features, but most of the settings you’d want to quickly check during a stream. Quality: I found the Wave:3 Mk.2 was great for streaming and general vocal recording. Clear, crisp, and easy to adjust. The default settings were good enough to get started, though I did need to tweak the effects to help clean up the background sounds like HVAC and cars from outside. There is an obvious difference between the Wave:3 Mk.2 and say a headset microphone, the volume of sound and clarity is obvious. When you start to compare two similar USB condenser style microphones, the differences will become more nuanced. I was very impressed by the depth and range of sound I was able to capture, one of my biggest comments while using a headset microphone is that I’m too quiet, so being able to up to gain and capture everything I say clearly was a huge improvement. I did need to up the Microphone Gain quite a bit, though with the noise filtering effects on like Voice Focus, I was able to filter out all the background noises. One trick I did find helpful for fixing any audio quality issues was to disable all other audio software while recording, using only the Wave Link to make the adjustments. This made it easier to just open up OBS or the recording tool and just use it without having to adjust microphone settings in the recording tool as well. Conclusion: If you’re looking for an easy to use yet great quality USB microphone for Streaming or recording, Elgato has you covered with the Wave:3 Mk.2. It’s a great step up in quality and features from a headset microphone while keeping all of it simple to use. I’m very glad I picked it up and look forward to using it!

I picked this up because I needed a good USB mic for recording content, gaming, and regular calls without a complicated audio setup. I make short form video content and I'm also on Discord and Teams constantly. I wanted something that sounds good everywhere without me having to change settings every time I switch apps. - Unboxing/Design/Build - Out of the box the build quality impressed me. The mic body is wrapped in a steel mesh grill, the desk stand has some weight to it so it doesn't slide around. The whole setup looks clean on my desktop so I can use it in professional setups too. It's an all black finish with an 8ft USB-C cable that's gives me some extra length if I need it. - Setup - Setup was easy. I downloaded their software, Wave Link, plugged in the mic to my laptop (USB-C). The software really walks you through everything. There's an Auto Gain feature where you talk at your normal volume and it sets your levels automatically for you. I had everything ready to go in about 5 minutes. - Features/Performance - The major feature here is that the audio processing happens on the mic instead of relying on your computer. There are 6 built in effects you can toggle on and off through the Wave Link software. There's a low cut filter to get rid of the rumble. an expander that eliminates keyboard clicks or loud fans, a compressor that keeps your volume consistent, a 4-band equalizer, and voice Tune that can add a broadcast style sound to your voice. I've been running the expander and the voice Tune together and there is definitely an impact. My voice sounds full and the little background noises in my room disappear. It does all of this without sounding over processed or manufactured. Clipguard is another upgrade. This prevents audio clipping and distortion if it gets a little crazy during your stream/gaming. Even when I get loud the audio stays clean. There's no crackling whatsoever. The multifunction dial is something I use every day. You press it to switch between gain, headphone volume, your mic/PC monitoring mix, and Voice Tune. The tap to mute on top is silent with no clicking sound or vibration so you can mute mid recording without any sounds being picked up. Wave Link is where you can really setup your customization. You can set up separate mixes for your headphones, stream, and voice chat. Each can have their own volume levels. Your settings also directly save to the Mic so if you move computers, from work to home, your sound profile moves with you. As for the sound itself, it's a condenser mic so it picks up more detail than a dynamic mic would. voices come through clear with the mids and roll off in the low end that keeps it from getting muddy. If you're in a quiet room the cardioid pickup pattern does a good job of eliminating noises from the sides and behind you. If you're in a loud space the expander and voice Focus AI noise suppression help but it's never going to fully isolate your voice in a noisy environment. The MK.2 records at 48kHz, this is plenty. For streaming, podcasts, calls, etc. this is the standard. Pro Tip: Make sure you install Wave Link so you get all the features that come with this mic. - Pros/Cons - *Pros * Onboard DSP processing (no latency on effects) * Clipguard 2.0 * Easy setup * Intuitive software * 8 ft USB-C cable * Stable desk stand * Sound check * Customizable LED * Wave link available on Windows/Mac/Arm64 *Suggestions/Needs Improvement * 48 kHz is max sample rate, great for most but a few might need 96 depending on use * No shock mount if you need it for your desk Overall, I'm happy with this mic. The audio quality is clean, the built in effects actually make a difference and are simple to use. The setup was quick and easy, and the software is very easy to navigate. If you're a content creator, streamer, podcaster, or even someone who wants better audio for conference calls, this mic does the job well.

The Wave:3 MK.2 is a plug-and-play microphone that uses built-in hardware to produce top-notch audio that can be further refined with Elgato’s downloadable software. The mic is robust, sleek, and built intuitively. It provides a push-and-turn button that can toggle through settings, has an LED light to show changes in setting without the need for software, and has a highly responsive tap-to-mute touch button at the top of the mic. The mic comes with built-in DSP that can be controlled directly from the mic itself, no software needed. This means I can plug it in basically to any device and use it right away, including my phone (it will use the phone for power though). I tested it out on my phone and the mic managed to keep my voice steady and level despite my rapid voice fluctuations between high and low plus distance changes. The only downside to having used it without the software was that background noise was captured too. The Elgato Wave Link software is simple and streamlined, while easy beginners to grasp. As someone who is not versed in the technical aspects of using a mic, Elgato makes it very easy to learn the terms and how effects are applied. The app includes quick-info pop-ups plus links to their articles that explain very clearly what purpose each effect is for, and I feel a lot more confident tinkering and finding the right adjustments with the knowledge I gained from them. For reference, I downloaded the app onto my iMac with 26.3.1 OS. Installation was quick and simple. I had to disconnect and reconnect the mic after I installed the app for it to find it but once I did that, it took me swiftly through the mic set-up process. You can easily re-do the “Setup Tour” at any time afterwards under the device’s setting tab. On of the main benefits of using the mic with the software is the Voice Focus feature, an AI-powered effect that can omit background noise. I did a sound check with and without this effect on and the difference was palpable. I recorded in a noisy environment – kids loudly chattering close by, fan blowing, water cooler loudly humming – and without it, I can hear everything, but with it – nothing but my voice. I tested this mic’s abilities in several environments and with a variety of vocal highs and lows. It will capture even nearly inaudible whispers and bring them up to par with loud, exited, boisterous exclamations. It’s perfect for any creative from ASMR to sport’s commentator. That said, I did notice clipping when using the Voice Focus on the strongest setting. It may be user error, and perhaps I have to figure out how to tweak my settings better, but this happened when I rapidly changed my vocal tone and did not happen when I tested it on my phone under similar circumstances, so it definitely was something to do with the software. The mic has an audio jack in the back for plugging in headphones and hearing one’s voice without notable latency. This monitors the input in real time, allowing me to gauge just how well sound is getting picked up and ensuring the gain is just right for my desired volume. One downside is that, if the input gain is high, every sound will be heightened. I can even hear my mouse swipe on the mousepad which can be distracting when I know voice focus is on and this will not be heard in what is actually being produced. Secondly, since it involves a wired headphone, some may find the extra wire hanging around them to be bothersome. I personally have no issue with it though. Overall, this is a great mic that will even out your vocals and add a professional quality to your creative work. It is immensely fun to play around with, and I know it will boost the quality of the videos I help a creator record and produce, whilst giving me less work during the editing process. It is highly intuitive and easy on beginners while requiring very little set-up time.

The Wave 3 Mk 2 is a great microphone that’s a noticeable step up in quality compared to even the best headset mics I’ve used. It’s very easy to use and setup and while I’ve had some problems with the software crashing this is one of the most plug and play microphones I’ve used. The Wave 3 is around the same general size and envelope as the Yeti Nano that I’ve had for a while, meaning it’s relatively compact and doesn’t take up a lot of space. A weighted base is included, but it can also be mounted to a mic arm via the ¼” threaded mount or ⅝” / ⅜” with the included adapter. The front of the microphone has a control knob surrounded by an LED ring for monitoring. The knob is just a touch too shallow for me and I have a hard time getting my fingers around it - if it was just a little bigger or had some type of grippier material around the edges it would help it a lot. At the back is a USB-C connection and headphone port. Up top there is a capacitive mute switch. The build quality feels good and without the base it’s fairly lightweight and shouldn't put much stress on whatever it’s mounted to. The cable included is USB-C to USB-C and is made of a nice flexible braided material at a total length of 2.5 meters, which should be enough to feed down most mic arms with length left to connect to a PC. Setting up the Wave 3 via the Wave Link software was about straightforward as it gets. The initial setup guides you through the the on-device controls and has a step to help auto-set the gain. The auto-gain function was extremely helpful to me as I do have an ideal setup for a condenser mic and have struggled to find the sweet spot for this in the past. With the mic positioned at around 15-18 inches from my mouth, it set my gain at 30 dB. Getting to the actual quality of the Wave 3, it’s fantastic. My voice sounds full and clear in a way that you just can’t get on a headset mic, even positioned farther away. The software gives you a lot of options for tuning the sound from this microphone and they’re presented in a way that makes them easy to use and understand. The Sound Check is handy as well as it lets you play back something you’ve recorded and add or take away effects in real time to understand how they’re affecting your sound. Most of the effects reside on the microphone itself too and don’t require anything running in the background to use them once they’re set. The one software effect I did use was voice focus which is an AI tool that is supposed to help reduce echo and background noise and it made a noticeable difference for me in my space where the microphone is farther away and I do get some echo with it turned off. The only problem I’ve had with the Wave 3 wasn’t with the Wave 3 itself, but the Wave Link software. Version 3.1 that I was using crashed a lot on me in the course of enabling/disabling and adjusting various settings. It was hard to pin down any one thing I did that would cause it - it felt almost cumulative. It was never a show stopper and once I got my settings dialed in it was fine. Something to be aware of, but fortunately software can be updated, so I’m hopeful it won’t be an issue for long. Overall I’ve been impressed with the Wave 3. It’s a great-sounding microphone that doesn’t require a lot of setup to get there.

I was thrilled to get my hands on the Elgato Wave 3 MK.2 microphone, especially since I enjoy singing on the Singsnap platform and was eager to try it out. Although I own several mixers, I often struggle to configure the settings correctly for my iMac Mini and Singsnap. This microphone simplifies the process with its built-in, on-board features, including Clipguard 2.0 for improved distortion prevention, integrated DSP allowing EQ, compression, and effects, a dedicated Wave FX Processor chip for real-time processing, Auto Gain that automatically calibrates levels, and the ability to save settings directly on the mic with Settings Storage. It also includes LED Feedback through an enhanced LED ring to display levels, supports sample rates up to 96 kHz, has an integrated pop filter, and offers a dynamic range of 110 decibels ~ making the setup for singing straightforward and hassle-free. The mic features a tilt adjustment and a mute button on top, which turns the circular LED red when activated. To adjust the controls, you press the knob once to change Gain, twice to toggle Voice Tune from weak to strong, a third time for headphone audio, and a fourth press lets you control the PC/MAC audio level. Connectivity options include a USB-C port on the back and a 3.5mm headphone jack. One aspect I particularly appreciate is the green LED ring indicator that shows my voice levels, making it easy to monitor my singing or speaking. It also reacts to ambient sounds in the room by lighting up around the control knob. Since I prefer standing when I sing, I attached the microphone to a floor-standing mount using the provided adapter. Alternatively, there’s a sturdy circular stand included which is ideal for sitting at a desk or table and works well too. For setup, I downloaded the free Wave Length 3.0 app from Elgato’s website, though using it remains optional. The download process was smooth, and I even installed an available update. This app allows you to manage input and monitoring, toggle effects settings, adjust input gain manually or automatically, control headphone output volume, and balance the PC/mic mix. There’s also a Direct Monitoring option that filters out software effects during self-monitoring to eliminate latency. The Effects section encompasses Hardware Effects like Clipguard, Enhanced Lowcut, Expander, Voice Tune, Compressor, and an adjustable Equalizer, as well as Software Effects such as Voice Focus ~ an AI-powered acoustic effect adjustable from subtle to strong. Within the Settings menu, you can customize the mute LED color and brightness or start a setup tour. The app also supports creating up to five different channels. I’m truly amazed! This microphone’s outstanding construction and superior sound quality surpass even my $400 microphone. The free software available for download, combined with its user-friendly design, makes it an unbeatable deal. Among all the microphones I own, the Wave:3 MK.2 has quickly become my top choice. My vocal recordings are coming out wonderfully ~ smooth and full-bodied! I really enjoy using it, especially considering its excellent price. Definitely a win-win purchase!

This is simply a great microphone for streams, gaming with friends, video calls or any other time when you’re sharing your voice. I’ve gotten by with pretty decent built-in microphones, usually as part of headsets, but this blows those out of the water… and it should. Choosing a dedicated microphone like this should be more than just translating your voice in higher quality, it should provide better quality of life features and I think this one does this well. __ Design & Sound __ After a quick download of Elgato’s Wave Link desktop app and a firmware update, I was up and running with great sounding input. A built in pop filter prevents sharp sounds, leading to some nice sound capture at a natural distance. The dial on the front conveniently displays a monitor of your incoming volume (in green), as well as the cap you’ve set (in white). The dial’s button allows multi-selection between basic recording and other things, like headphone mix or monitor mix, as indicated by small icons molded into the front. Pressing it once, for example. turns on Voice Tune, a feature to easily adjust your voice to have more warmth for a more professional sound. On the top, a subtle capacitive mute button can be triggered by softly tapping the top of the mic. When you do, the LED light around the dial turns red. It’s a very convenient toggle. I also like how well it’s built. The base is weighty and cast metal with a screw mount that attached to the wings of the microphone. On the bottom, a silicone pad helps with vibration isolation and protects my desk from any scratches. When it’s on my desk, it feel like it’s quite sturdy, with no chance of toppling over. The microphone itself is black plastic with a metal screen, but it all has a good, premium feel to it. A headphone port on the back allows for headphone monitoring of your voice in near-real time (no latency) __ Software __ Through Wave Link, you can do all sorts of professional adjustments to your input. Here you can adjust hardware and software effects. The Lowcut filter can cut off lower sounds and prevent your recording from getting too bass-y, or use the Expander to help softly drop the sound when not speaking. Equalizer allows you to set a natural curve to ensure you capture a natural sound. Just about anything you’d want to adjust to avoid poor playback, it’s here, and it does the processing right on the microphone. The software also gives you quick access in your task bar for mixing your various computer audio volumes, so if you need to turn down your voice, or others, it's simple. __ Summary __ The combination of a solidly built microphone, and great, easy to use software goes a long way here. With onboard processing of your sound, plus pretty much all of the controls you want over it thanks to the easy to use Wave Link companion app (as well as some quick features from the mic itself) - it’s a well-rounded, professional mic that I would easily choose again in the future.

The Wave:3 is the microphone I wish was available when I first started streaming. Everything is just built in to the USB microphone and for the most part "just works". If you're thinking about getting into streaming, this is really the microphone you want to get before you go crazy on mixer and XLR equipment. Setup is really easy. Just plug this in to your computer and it's already working. The dial on the front offers feedback for what it's picking up as well as some basic controls. Where the real magic comes (in typical Elgato fashion) is the software integration. The Wave Link software offers crazy flexibility and customization of your entire audio stack without a lot of fuss. One of the nice additions for the Mk2 edition of the Wave:3 is the gain wizard which just listens to you and automatically sets up your gain for you. With the Wave Link software, you can do a lot of mixing and routing of audio to different virtual devices and then use those devices in your recording and broadcasting software to isolate only that audio. For instance, setting up Spotify to play on your music "device" and then having a separate audio track in OBS that can be separated from your VOD on Twitch. Or setting up whatever game you're playing so you don't hear all of your system sounds as well when recording. There's a lot you can set up to get your audio just right for your stream or recording. One of the biggest additions to the Wave:3 Mk2 is the onboard signal processing stack that lets your add EQ, compression and some VST effects right on the microphone instead of spending your precious CPU to do that. Not only do you save some frames in whatever game you're playing but you also eliminate almost all of the latency. It's a really welcome addition and, in my opinion, makes the Mk2 worth the extra few bucks. The controls on the microphone are nice and very versatile. Just tap the top of the microphone and you can mute and unmute. The knob in front can control your gain or headphone volume by clicking it in to switch what it's currently controlling. Not much else to say about these. It's fairly intuitive and easy to use. Audio quality is great for this price range. If you're just starting out or aren't ready to invest in a nice mixer/amp and XLR microphone, you aren't going to find a much better sounding USB microphone at this price point. With the onboard EQ, you can fine tune your voice exactly the way you like as well as adding some VST effects from the marketplace to change your voice completely if you want. Elgato always does a great job of making good hardware and then just sending it far past everyone else with great software to go with it and this microphone is no exception. For a USB microphone, I really don't think there's anywhere else I'd look if I was even getting close to this price range for my budget. I strongly recommend it to anyone getting started with streaming or recording video or audio.

Verdict: I really like the Wave:3 MK.2 microphone. There is a lot to love here! The mic itself feels premium and performs well, the LED with real time levels is really handy, controls are smart and intuitive, and software is simple and powerful. This mic replaced a mic I bought for voiceovers for YouTube videos a few years ago, and this mic performs infinitely better. Use case. I record a lot of voiceovers for YouTube videos for a channel that has several thousands of subscribers. We record a lot videos for social media advertising and content, and we do regular livestream events. First impressions. This mic feels like quality, and I love the heavy base. It comes with a nice USB-C cable and and threaded mount adapter. The QR code opens a pamphlet that is easy to read and provides a nice overview. Installation. For easy installation, use the USB C cable and the included base. If you have your own mic accessories, you can skip the base and mount directly on your existing setup. I downloaded the Wave Link but had some trouble opening the app after installation. I reinstalled and then it worked. Then, I had a bit of trouble with email authentication, and then finally got it to work. The app is simple but still quite useful with tools. Finally, the app has a great marketplace to have fun with your mic, such as voice changers. Sound. I was actually quite impressed with the sound quality. The internal pop filter works really well; it's a huge improvement compared to my current microphone. The headphone jack on the microphone allows for direct monitoring of your voice, adjustable through the knob. Auto-gain is useful to get going quickly with minimal drawbacks. I also love all the choices in the marketplace… pretty cool additional capabilities to add even more to your experience. Ultimately, the mic does a fantastic job capturing the richness of voices without picking up noise in the background. The single knob control works well and is very helpful for monitoring of current levels. The software adds easy adjustments, and the marketplace provides additional capabilities. I also love the tap to mute option. Things I like: - Premium feel with a heavy base - Nice tech and LEDs - Intuitive and simple controls - Tap to mute at the top - Nice software that adds to the experience - Option to use the base or other mic accessories for mounting Things I don’t like: - Very minor issues with app install and security authentication Overall, the Wave:3 MK.2 is a great microphone for streamers and other voice requirements. It works well and delivers quality, all at a decent price. I recommend this mic.

Having a good microphone is important for anyone who streams, podcasts, games, or joins online meetings. Bad sound can really hurt the experience, and laptop microphones often don't provide good quality. Investing in better audio can significantly improve communication. I know this is true for me. Online meetings can be brutal when audio is disrupted or sounds poor. The Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is a high-quality USB microphone made for streaming, podcasting, gaming, and recording. It connects to your computer via USB-C and delivers clear audio at 24-bit/48 kHz. A key feature is the 3.5mm headphone jack, which lets you hear your voice and computer sounds together, ensuring a smooth experience. You can easily adjust sound levels with knobs and LED lights that let you control microphone gain, headphone volume, and mix your voice with computer audio. It also has a mute button that lets you silence quickly when needed. Elgato offers the Wave Link app, which helps you manage up to 9 audio input channels on Mac and Windows. This app lets you combine game audio, voice chat, music, and alerts into a single audio stream, making everything easier to control. The microphone comes with a sturdy desktop stand that can be adjusted for optimal audio capture while reducing background noise. The stand's padded base reduces vibrations, and you can detach it to use with boom arms or suspension systems if you want. A durable steel grille protects the microphone and minimizes breath and popping sounds. There are additional accessories and stands specifically built for the MK.2 that you can purchase, depending on your needs. For example, there's a Wave Pop Filter or a tripod stand for studio use. I'm an amateur musician who loves the idea of recording at home, so the tripod may be something I'll consider in the future. For $170, I'd say this microphone performs well beyond its price. Sure, there are more expensive "premium" mics you can purchase. Still, if you're starting out streaming or recording, or want to upgrade the sound for your online meetings, this mic will do all that and more.

I’ve been using the Elgato Wave 3 for my home office setup, and the jump in quality over my laptop and webcam microphones is night and day. On my conference calls I’ve asked the people on the other end could they tell the difference when I switch between my laptop mic and webcam mic and the Elgato Wave 3, it’s a big difference. The audio is incredibly crisp and full-bodied they said it had more depth. When comparing the mics the others sounded muted and thin by comparison—you could hear me for sure its richer. It actually makes my voice sound professional and "broadcast-ready". The setup is as easy as it gets, too. I have it connected directly to my laptop via USB-C, and I was honestly surprised by the immediate improvement in overall quality without needing a separate mixer or complicated gear. I didnt need to use seperate software to get this high quality audio. After loading the software/app WOW there is alot of options here. I personally like the "mute" button its easy touch not press that just works. For anyone who spends their day on video calls and wants to sound authoritative and clear, this is a fantastic investment.

The Elgato Wave:3 is a standout USB microphone built for streamers, podcasters, and voice-first creators. It pairs clean, professional sound with software that actually makes your life easier. While it’s purpose-built for solo voice work, it absolutely shines as a plug-and-play solution for podcasts, streams, calls, and voiceovers. Design and Build The Wave:3 looks and feels premium — compact, solid, and refreshingly simple. It connects via USB-C and includes a 3.5mm jack for zero-latency monitoring. On-mic dials give you instant control of gain, headphone volume, and your mic-to-PC mix. Setup takes minutes, so you can start creating right away. That’s a big win for beginners and busy creators alike. The design is clearly made by people who get streaming. The touch-sensitive mute button is silent and fast, so you won’t click your way through a tense moment. It’s responsive by design — just keep a light touch. Sound Quality For spoken word, the Wave:3 sounds polished and pro. Voices come through clear, balanced, and easy to understand — perfect for keeping listeners engaged. It leans crisp and intelligible over heavy bass, which helps you cut through in streams, calls, and videos. The cardioid pickup keeps the focus on you and dials down background noise from your keyboard, room, or that noisy AC. It handles loud moments well and keeps your levels under control, so you sound consistent even when things get exciting. Best Features Clipguard is the hero feature here. It stops distortion in its tracks when you laugh, shout, or get hyped on stream. No more ruined takes because you got too loud — it just saves you. Wave Link software is the other game-changer. Mix multiple audio sources with ease and set what you hear separately from what your audience hears. You get streamer-level control without the usual routing headaches. It’s not just a mic — it’s a complete audio workflow. Strengths • Clarity first: Your voice sounds clean and professional, every time. • Effortless to use: Simple setup, intuitive controls, reliable results. • Smart software: Clipguard + Wave Link make you sound better with less work. • Made for creators: Excellent for streaming, Discord, Zoom, YouTube, and solo podcasting. Things to Know The Wave:3 is optimized for single-person voice capture, so it’s cardioid-only. If you need to record a roundtable or capture a whole room, you’ll want a different setup. Some voices may sound a touch leaner due to the restrained low end, but good placement solves most of that. Verdict The Elgato Wave:3 nails what matters most: easy setup, clean sound, no-clipping peace of mind, and real monitoring control. It won’t add artificial color to your voice, but it will make you sound clear, confident, and in control with almost no effort. For streaming, Discord, Zoom, YouTube narration, or solo podcasting, it’s one of the smartest, safest buys in USB mics. It’s not just a good microphone — it’s a complete package that helps you create better, faster. For most creators, that’s exactly what you want.

This is a microphone that does what it is supposed to do and does it well. There is plenty of flexibility when it comes to creating the perfect sound. Connection and Setup: First, mount the mic to the included stand. It also comes with an adapter if you want to mount it to an arm instead. It allows you to adjust the up/down angle. The connection is easy. Use the included USB cable to connect to your computer and download the Wave Link software from the Elgato website. You will want to do this. This software installation is straightforward, and I had no problems installing it and finding my mic. Incidentally, you will want to update the firmware from Wave Link. I had no problems with this. One other thing that happens when you first run the software is it will want to do a gain test. It asks you to say a passage provided and will set the gain by your voice and save that setting. Finally, there is a connection to output the sound to a pair of headphones. It is a 1/8” jack. This is used for monitoring the sound that is picked up from the mic to make sure it sounds fine during a session. Size and Build Quality: The size is small, so it is easy to fit on your desk or wherever you want to put it. The build quality is excellent with everything being tight and made from premium materials. Sound Quality: The sound quality is very clear and the people I am video calling with agree. There are a ton of settings in the software to change the sound, but I have personally found that they only make a slight difference for me, but they’re worth playing around with. I am not a steamer and that is probably where the sound settings do make a difference. Maybe you’ll find more of a difference than I did. The default sound works fine for me and sounds excellent. Software: As I mentioned above, the software was easy to install and found the mic right away. First thing you will notice is that there is a VU meter that tells you the volume of the sound based on the gain you have set. You don’t want it to go above the yellow value. Most of the pages have a sound check that allows you to test record with various settings. You change the sound settings the way you want to try them, use the sound check feature to record something and play it back with the settings you selected. This was not obvious how to use it. First, you must make sure that you have selected the correct output. It’s also not obvious that to record, you must press the trash can button even if nothing has been recorded. This changes it from playback to record. Not obvious to me until you stumble upon how to do this. There are plenty of settings to play with. • Lowcut filter • Expander • Voice tune • Compressor • Equalizer • Voice Focus There is another page that allows you to change the mix for personal, stream, and chat. You can set this for the microphone or the system. I haven’t really figured out how to use this though. Probably my use case doesn’t require it. I really use it for recording and for video calling, not for streaming. On the main page you have: • Input gain (already set through the test when you first install the software) • Gain lock • Clipguard • Output volume (used for headphone monitoring) • Self-monitoring (used for headphone monitoring) • Direct monitoring (used for headphone monitoring) As I mentioned, play with these settings to really get a feel for what they do. The software is laid out well and easy to understand (except for the test recording before you figure out the secret of how to use it). Hardware Controls: First off, there is a knob that is surrounded by a VU meter that works perfectly, testing the gain setting. When you press the knob, it changes the setting you want to update. There are several settings, gain, headphone volume, and mic/headphone mix. There are different LEDs that light up depending on what function you are adjusting. Turning the knob adjusts the selected function and the ring around the knob shows the amount of the adjustment. This all works great and is very easy to understand. And Finally: This is a microphone I can definitely recommend. The sound quality is excellent. The build quality is excellent, it is easy to use, the software is laid out well, and there are plenty of settings to make the already excellent sound even better. But you are best off playing with the settings yourself. The software makes testing different settings very easy with the test record/playback functionality.

This review will not go in-depth on every feature and technical advantage this mic has over its competitors. You may be asking why, and it’s because it’s just great out of the box. If you’re an audiophile, I could see you tweaking the settings. I’ve owned a different brand of mics for the past ten years. You HAD to adjust the de-esser, de-popper, limiter, noise reduction, etc. This Elgato mic is plug-and-play. I’m actually so shocked. I like to stream as a hobby. Every time I got the competitor mic, I spent up to an hour adjusting my settings. I would watch multiple tutorials. Even after spending that time, I feel like I never got it perfect and to be honest, I’m not even sure if perfection was possible. Out of the box, the Wave 3 is great at removing sounds from far away. You cannot hear any fans, loud cars passing by (they are barely audible), or computer noises. It doesn’t even pick up chewing noises! If you are eating, the person on the other end cannot hear it. This blew my mind, and it’s funny because my audience is used to my chewing ASMR. They call this feature “voice focus,” and it’s turned on by default. I like the muting functionality. I just slide a finger over the top of the mic to mute. Then the indicator light turns red to show you are muted. You can also tap it. The pop filter is built in. What!? Let me say that again… The pop filter is BUILT IN. No sock or external pop filter needed. Has any competitor even done that yet? I know ClipGuard is keeping me from peaking. Basically, if I get excited on stream, the software will prevent me from being ear-piercingly loud to my audience. This is turned on by default. What I do find a little distracting is the gain meter. However, I did find out you can lower the brightness to 0%, effectively hiding the lights. It does hide the mute, though. I hope they make them separate options. One brightness for mute and one brightness for dial adjustment. Since my software can tell me if I’m muted or loud, I will most likely just change the brightness to 0%. Out of the box, you get a heavy-weighted stand for the mic and an 8-foot USB-C to USB-C cable. You can twist your mic into an existing microphone arm if you have one. I’m more ecstatic about this mic than I have been for other reviews I’ve left on Best Buy. It’s a game-changer of a product. Other microphones are a D out of the box. They become a B grade after some tweaks. This is an A out of the box, and I can imagine the potential for an A+ is there. Unfortunately, I have not had enough time to tweak it. There is a section called mixer, where you can adjust the volume levels of other programs and change how your microphone sounds in other programs. Even if you add a lot of effects, you can still get live feedback on how you sound without those effects. There is a marketplace to download effects. There are several basic adjustments in the software that can be made. A lot fewer settings than its competitors, so it’s much simpler in that regard. Well done.

First and foremost, I think the audio quality this delivers is fantastic. Additionally, it does it with minimal effort, with the hardware itself, if that is the path you want to take. That said, the option is there to dig in deeper, and dial things in to a great level of detail, as the software is powerful (yet intuitive) and I think perfectly complements the hardware. The build is solid, with a nice weight (a little heft), that just “feels good in the hand.” The same can be said for the included desk stand (you also get a USB-C cable and 5/8” and 3/8” adapters). The stand will work for many, but I am searching for my mounting option as we speak. Buttons and dials all feel well built, are responsive, as well as well placed. Lastly, they are also informative. The multifunction dial has a LED ring that shows levels, some other data, and goes red when the capacitive mute button (on top of the mic) is activated. As for looks, well, that is a personal thing, but it is perfect for me. Straight lines. Black. Clean. Plain. As much as I like all of that, I think what they have done on the inside is what really matters. A lot of what happens is on device, which I alluded to above, with their internal Wave FX Chip. The mic does onboard digital processing (DSP), which gives you their Clipguard 2.0 tech (they claim it makes your voice unclippable, and based on what I am seeing, I think that is accurate), WAV effects processing, VST insert, as well as other effects. All nice to see. As a whole, everything…just sounds very good. Clean, crisp, nice levels. Full stop. On some level it really is a little plug and play for those that are looking for that. USB connectivity, headphone jack, the dial, auto gain, real time levels, tap to mute. All easy and there for you…with high quality audio. I think, on its own, with little effort, this is all many would need. I am probably in that crowd, honestly, as i am mostly using this for some gaming, calls, and meetings. That said, I have spent some time getting into the software, and I really think it is worth it with the level of customization available there. Elgato really gives you a nice level of control. Further, I think that is another nice aspect of this mic. The Elgato ecosystem. I think this would have a lot to do with your use case, and level of need, but I would prefer to have one piece of software to control any and all of my sound hardware. Not to mention everything they have beyond that (stream deck, cams, lighting, mounts…etc..). Perhaps not for everyone, just something io note. Ultimately, I think this is a great mic. It is easy to use, looks good, and, most importantly, delivers quality output. While my needs are not extreme by any means, they are easily met here. Very well. I also think I have some room to grow, if my needs change. For anyone like me, I think it is a great choice, as well as for those looking for some professional use cases. I think the quality and value is there.

The Elgato Wave:3 positions itself as more than just a microphone—it’s a complete audio solution tailored for creators who want professional sound without a complicated setup. Built with a cardioid condenser capsule and supporting up to 24-bit/96kHz recording, it delivers clear, broadcast-quality audio that immediately elevates streaming, podcasting, or voiceover work. Its plug-and-play USB-C connectivity makes it accessible for beginners, while the overall build quality and design feel premium enough for more advanced users looking to upgrade their setup. What truly separates the Wave:3 from lower-priced microphones is its intelligent audio processing and software ecosystem. Elgato’s proprietary Clipguard technology automatically prevents distortion by rerouting audio when levels spike, eliminating the need to constantly monitor gain levels mid-recording. Paired with the Wave Link software, users gain access to a full digital mixing interface that allows multiple audio sources—like game sound, chat, and music—to be controlled independently. This level of control is typically reserved for more complex and expensive XLR setups, making the higher price point feel justified for anyone serious about content creation. In real-world use, the Wave:3 excels at multitasking within a creator’s workflow. Whether you’re streaming gameplay, recording a podcast, or jumping between meetings and content production, the microphone maintains consistent clarity without requiring constant adjustments. The onboard controls, capacitive mute function, and real-time monitoring through the headphone jack streamline usability, while the internal pop filter and noise handling features reduce the need for additional accessories. This combination of hardware and software integration allows users to focus on creating rather than troubleshooting audio. Ultimately, the Elgato Wave:3 stands out because it bridges the gap between entry-level USB microphones and professional studio setups. Cheaper alternatives may capture decent audio, but they often lack the processing power, software integration, and reliability needed for consistent high-quality output. Investing in the Wave:3 means gaining a scalable audio solution that grows with your needs, whether you’re a beginner building your first setup or an experienced creator looking for a streamlined, high-performance upgrade. Elgato has the total package, read the set up instructions and download the applications to utilize all the incredible features this microphone has the capabilities.

I don't have a ton of experience with Elgato branded mics, so I wasn't really sure what to expect from the Wave:3. If this is at all typical of the kind of gear they usually make though, I think I've been missing out. The design of the mic should be familiar to anyone who's used a desktop condenser mic before, basically just an elongated brick with a few buttons and lights. It's definitely got a more understated, slightly classier look that helps give the impression that it's meant to be seen as professional equipment rather than attempting to appeal to the gamer aesthetic. The weighed metal stand does a very good job holding it in place on the desk, but if you do want to opt for something a bit more robust it includes an adapter that lets you screw it into a standard 3/8th post. Connectivity is digital only, provided by a rather generously long USB-C cable, with a jack in the back to connect headphones to serve as a monitor. Controls are almost entirely handled via a clickable knob at the front with an LED ring around the edge providing digital feedback. It's actually surprisingly intuitive - even without reading the instructions I was able to figure out most of the basic adjustments on my own with only a minute or two of experimentation. Of course all the good design in the world doesn't mean much if the audio quality isn't good. Fortunately, it really is. I did my first test run of the mic on a video conference call so that I could get everything dialed in before trying anything more technical and was pleased to find that it actually did a great job with noise rejection, only requiring the conferencing software to intervene in a couple of instances where my dog was being particularly active. I then followed it up with a more typical video game streaming scenario and am pleased to report that the audience immediately noted that I sounded better than usual. Everything came through crystal clear, even when I wasn't necessarily keeping track of where I was directing my voice, and I never had to touch the thing the whole night. It was actually quite boring - which is perhaps the best thing one can ever say about a piece of recording equipment. Now, granted, I don't have the best ear when it comes to picking out the finer details of sound mixing. I can tell that it is definitely doing a lot of pre-processing with the audio, and while I think it makes me sound great I'm sure there are some with more sensitive ears who might find that to be off-putting compared to a more analog solution. But for someone likes me who really doesn't have the time, interest, or need for a more complex recording setup, this is amazing and a very easy recommendation for anyone like me who wants a high quality mic that'll just with right out of the box.

I have been using the Corsair Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 for some days now, and it is absolutely great. It picks up sound very richly, and my voice comes through clear and crisp every time. I know about Wave Link, although I have not integrated my microphone with it yet. I like that it is always available as an option to enhance the overall experience further. What stands out to me most is how easy this microphone is to use while still delivering broadcast-ready sound. Even in Zoom meetings, the quality of my audio stands out. The Wave:3 MK.2 is a USB condenser microphone designed for streamers, podcasters, and anyone who wants professional audio without a complicated setup. It makes my voice sound full, clear, and present, and that really shows when I am recording or on calls. The 16 mm condenser capsule captures the detail and richness in my voice very well, while the cardioid pickup pattern helps keep the focus on my voice by reducing noise from the sides and behind the microphone. The built-in pop filter is also a great feature, helping keep each session sounding clean and controlled. Another thing I really appreciate is the onboard DSP processing. The Wave:3 MK.2 includes useful effects such as Low-Cut Filter, Expander, Voice Tune, Compressor, and a 4-Band Equalizer, all of which help shape and polish the sound directly at the microphone. The tap-to-mute control on the top is simple and very convenient. The LED ring around the dial is another thoughtful detail because it clearly shows what is happening in each mode. I like that it gives real-time metering in Gain Mode, shows gain reduction when Clipguard activates, and changes color in Voice Tune Mode from warm orange to deep red depending on intensity. It also makes it easy to see the headphone and monitor mix levels at a glance. On top of that, the microphone is flexible to set up. It sits on the included desk stand for immediate use and can also be mounted to standard microphone arms using the included adapters. Overall, the Corsair Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 has been an excellent microphone for me. It delivers rich, clear, professional sound with very little effort, and I would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality microphone for streaming, podcasting, recording, meetings, or everyday use.

I didn't expect a USB microphone to make this big of a difference in how I sound on work calls, but here we are. The Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 has genuinely changed the way I show up in meetings, and I keep getting comments about how clear my audio is. Right out of the box, setup was painless. Plug in the USB-C cable, and you're essentially done. But where this mic really shines is once you download the free Wave Link app. That's where things get interesting for anyone doing a lot of remote work. Wave Link lets you build out independent audio mixes, so I've got one dialed in specifically for calls that blends my mic, any music I'm playing softly in the background, and system audio to be easily understood without causing disruptions. It sounds polished without any effort once you've got it set up. The mic itself sounds rich and full in a way that other USB mics just don't. There's a really nice condenser capsule tuned in partnership with LEWITT, an Austrian audio company known for studio gear, and you can hear the difference. My voice came through with a natural warmth and presence that makes you actually sound like you're in the room rather than on a laptop mic in a closet. The pickup pattern helps a ton here too, it focuses on your voice and does a solid job rejecting the random noise coming from elsewhere in the room. One feature I've come to really appreciate is Clipguard 2.0. If I get excited on a call and my voice spikes, it just handles it. No distortion, no clipping, nothing embarrassing. It works quietly in the background and you only notice it because problems don't happen. The Auto Gain wizard was a nice touch for initial setup. You hold the dial for a few seconds, talk normally, and it sets your gain level automatically. From there, the dial on the front of the mic makes it easy to adjust on the fly without ever leaving whatever app you're in. Tap the top to mute. That's it. It's one of those setups that feels like it was designed by people who actually use microphones. If you spend a lot of time on video calls and you're tired of sounding like everyone else on the call, the Wave:3 MK.2 is genuinely worth your attention. The Wave Link app alone makes it a versatile piece of kit, and the audio quality backs it all up.

Taking into account what it is, it's giving it' competition a real run for it's money in the USB mic space. Onboard processing helps volume adjustments to keep you from peeking and topping out, built in pop filter helps cut out some of that mouth noise. It's stand doesn't really do much to isolate the mic from the rest of your setup, so mechanical keyboards are going to thunk about into your recording like any other desktop stand mic. So I'd consider getting an arm to mount it on. On top of the mic is a capacitive mute button, I like this over the mute buttons on my other mics as there's no audible click caught right as you mute, so It's a nice silent cut-off when you need to mute yourself to cough, or say something you don't need recorded, take a phone call etc. There's a lot you get out of this mic, even without setting up elgato's software, but of course they offer a lot of additional features and effects that you can control through their software. So weather your just getting started or have been streaming a while and are looking to get away from using a headset mic and have a little more professional feeling and sounding setup, the Wave 3 mk2 here is a solid choice, and pairs well with their other streaming offerings. This mic will carry you nicely to the point when you decide you want to go all in on a high end XLR setup.

I have been needing a better microphone for my office computer for some time. The one I have has been adequate for video appointments, but as of lately I have had more issues with sound quality due to a change in the layout of the office. This is a nice simple sleek looking, and well built microphone. The controls are simple, and easy to work with. It is solid, all metal except a few plastic touch spots and the dial. I use it on the stand it came with, very stable. I did download the app for it, but the only instructions you have are via qr code, not actual manual. A bit annoying for an old guy like me, but I managed. The gain setting and headphone set up is very easy to work with. My voice sounds as annoying on here as it does in person. So far, my clients do feel it's an upgrade, and I'm getting much less cut out. It is a low/mid price mic, as there are much lower cost options, but there are some 2 to 2.5 times as much. Again this was one of the first I saw with much metal on it (stand base, grille, pivots, which for me, the sturdier the better. The dial and bottom is plastic, satin softer, but sturdy. It was plug and play really, and that was nice. The app helps you refine the sound some and set some locks, but I rarely get into that. I just like turn on and use. The value, the quality of sound, and ease of set up, I have to give thus five stars. I do reccomend this to friends and family.