Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 review

The Wave:3 MK.2 is Elgato's second version of its streaming mic, and its strength is the software around it. The mic uses a cardioid condenser capsule with an internal pop filter and records at 24-bit, 48 kHz over USB-C. Clipguard 2.0 works at the hardware level to stop distortion when you shout, and onboard DSP plus VST inserts let effects run before the signal reaches your apps. Auto Gain and a multifunction dial cover gain, Voice Tune, headphone volume and monitor mix, and you tap to mute. Wave Link, which is free for Windows and macOS, handles up to five mixes with app grouping, so your stream can hear game audio while your recording does not. Compared with the original Wave:3, Elgato lists a higher max SPL of 130 dB and wider dynamic range of 110 dB. The catch is the capsule type, which picks up more room noise than a dynamic mic, and there is no XLR output. We compared documented features and published prices; we did not test it.

Who it is for

Streamers who want their mic, effects and stream audio mixes managed in one app.

Price

$169.99 at Elgato US when checked.

Add to cart - $169.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 8, 2026.

Key features

• Condenser capsule with cardioid pickup and internal pop filter
• Clipguard 2.0 to prevent distortion at the hardware level
• Onboard DSP effects and VST inserts
• Auto Gain and a multifunction dial for gain, Voice Tune, headphone volume and monitor mix
• Wave Link app with up to 5 mixes and app grouping

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Wave Link separates stream and recording mixes
• Strength: Stream Deck control through the Wave Link plugin
• Strength: 130 dB max SPL, up from 120 dB on the original Wave:3
• Weakness: Condenser capsule hears more of the room
• Weakness: USB only, no XLR output
• Weakness: Elgato lists mic arms as sold separately

Key facts

• Type: Condenser, cardioid
• Frequency response: 70 Hz to 20 kHz
• Resolution: 24-bit, 48 kHz
• Dynamic range: 110 dB
• Weight: 250 g without stand

Where it ranks

Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is No. 4 in our Best USB Microphones verdict.