Elgato Wave:3 MK.2

Elgato Wave:3 MK.2
The Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 is a desktop USB condenser microphone with an electret capsule. It uses a cardioid pickup pattern, which focuses on the voice and suppresses unwanted background noise. It connects to the computer via a USB-C interface, which both supplies power and transmits the audio signal. The built-in hardware processor processes the signal with zero latency and prevents sound distortion. The digital converter operates at a 24-bit depth and a 48kHz sample rate. On the back, there is a 3.5mm stereo jack for direct voice monitoring.
Key Features of the Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 Microphone
- Desktop design with dimensions of 46×85×167mm and a weight of 250g without the stand
- Integrated pop filter and Clipguard 2.0 anti-distortion technology
- USB-C interface and 3.5mm stereo jack headphone connector
- Tap-to-mute and gain adjustment controls with LED indication
- Threaded adapter with 5/8" and 3/8" sizes for mounting on a boom arm
Suitable for Streaming and Podcasting
Sound Pickup and Directional Pattern
The condenser microphone uses a 16mm electret capsule. The sensor focuses on the area in front of it while suppressing unwanted noise from the sides. The frequency range of 70 to 20,000Hz captures the entire spectrum of the human voice. The converter operates with a bit depth of 24 bits and a sample rate of 48kHz, with a sensitivity of -20dBFS and a maximum sound pressure level of 130dB.
Ambient Noise Reduction and Wind Protection
The device includes an internal pop filter that dampens air blasts when pronouncing plosive sounds. The Clipguard 2.0 anti-distortion technology automatically reroutes the signal through a second path at a lower volume during a sudden increase in voice level. Smart signal processing suppresses unwanted noise and maintains a constant sound level, ensuring your voice remains clear even during emotional gaming moments.
Connectivity and Outputs of the Elgato Wave:3 MK.2
Connection is handled by a modern USB-C interface, which manages both data transfer and power. On the back, there is a headphone output with a 3.5mm stereo jack for connecting studio and gaming headphones. Real-time monitoring is zero-latency, handled directly by the built-in DSP-enabled processor. The package includes a 2.5m long USB-C cable. A light-up LED ring indicates the current setting status and operating mode, so you can see parameter changes instantly without needing to open the software.
Mounting and Design
The microphone weighs just 250g without the stand and measures 46×85×167mm, while the weight with the included desktop stand is 570g. For mounting on a boom arm, there is an integrated 1/4" thread on the microphone body. The threaded adapter included in the package offers compatibility with 5/8" and 3/8" boom arms. The device can be mounted on the recommended Wave Mic Arm MK.2 or Wave Mic Arm LP.
Software Compatibility
The device is fully compatible with the advanced Wave Link audio software. This program supports independent mixing of up to five different audio channels and the grouping of applications. Users can apply VST effects directly on the hardware Wave FX Processor. The system communicates seamlessly with Windows and macOS operating systems.
Technical Specifications
- Sensitivity: -20dBFS
- Maximum SPL: 130dB
- Dynamic Range: 110dB
- Bit Depth: 24-bit
- Sample Rate: 48kHz
- Headphone Connector: 3.5mm stereo jack
- Dimensions: 46×85×167mm
Package Contents
- 1× Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 microphone
- 1× desktop stand
- 1× USB-C cable
- 1× 5/8" and 3/8" adapter
Microphone Principle
Dynamic microphones are suitable for open performances, live broadcasts, music production, etc. They use a magnet and a moving coil to capture sound.
Condenser microphones are mainly used for studio purposes. They have higher sensitivity and lower noise. They require a separate power supply.
Frequency Range
The frequency range indicates the range of frequency values that the microphone records. The wider the range, the more sounds it can capture.
Low frequencies (e.g., 20–200Hz): Bass, the deepest notes of instruments (double bass, kick drum) and male voices.
Mid frequencies (e.g., 200–3,000Hz): The body of instruments, the foundation of the voice where the ear is most sensitive, important for speech intelligibility.
High frequencies (e.g., 3,000–14,000Hz): Treble, details, sibilance and the "shine" of the sound.
Air band (above 14,000Hz): Adds a sense of expensive, super-high-quality sound and space to recordings.
Sensitivity
Microphone sensitivity is the ratio of output voltage to acoustic pressure. It expresses how loud a signal the microphone produces at a given acoustic pressure; higher sensitivity means a stronger voltage and is suitable for quiet studios, while lower sensitivity is better for noisy environments as it reduces unnecessary amplification of ambient noise.
Specifications
Connection
Microphone characteristics
Power Supply
Features
Dimensions
Weight
| Code: | ELGHKw3m2 |
| Warranty: | 24 months |
| Links: | Producer's Website: |