OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Elgato Wave 1 Review | 76 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price: ~£45
  • Connection type: USB
  • Transducer type: electret condenser
  • Max SPL: 120 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: 48 kHz
  • Output connector type: USB-c

Elgato Wave 1 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

7.1

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

7.0

Technical Score

25.0%

7.6

User score

Very good
7.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.1

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.2

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

8.8

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.2

Connectivity

3.0%

7.7

Design

3.0%

6.3

Accessories

Very good
7.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.8

User reviews

30.0%

2.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.9
(33)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.9
(33)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Very good
  • 7.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Mute function

    20.0%

    10

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 7.5
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    1.0

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 6.0
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    4.6

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    1.0

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 8.5
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    10

    Mute function

    15.0%

    10

    Volume control levels

  • 6.2
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.0

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    4.0

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    10

    Height

    10.0%

    7.8

    Width

  • elgato-wave-1
  • elgato-wave-1
  • elgato-wave-1
elgato-wave-1
elgato-wave-1
elgato-wave-1

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Elgato Wave:1 is a premium USB condenser microphone featuring a 17mm electret capsule with a cardioid polar pattern, delivering broadcast-grade audio at a 24-bit/48 kHz resolution. Its standout technical characteristic is proprietary Clipguard technology, which prevents distortion by rerouting audio to a lower volume path when input levels peak, complemented by a frequency response of 70 Hz to 20 kHz and a maximum SPL of 120 dB (140 dB with Clipguard). Main pros include its seamless integration with the Wave Link software for advanced digital mixing, zero-latency monitoring via a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a compact, robust build quality that fits easily onto any desk. However, notable cons include the lack of on-device gain control, requiring software for adjustments, and the absence of a touch-to-mute capacitive sensor found on higher-tier models, relying instead on a physical dial press that can cause audible clicks.

Technical Specifications of Elgato Wave 1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.1

Audio Performance

20.0%

6.2

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

8.8

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.2

Connectivity

3.0%

7.7

Design

3.0%

6.3

Accessories

7.0
Elgato Wave 1 has a technical score of 7 points, which is higher than 56.3% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.8

User reviews

30.0%

2.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.9
(33)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.9
(33)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

7.6
Elgato Wave 1 has a user score of 7.57 points, which is lower than 82.4% of microphones.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
2.4
Elgato Wave 1 has a popularity of 2.4 points, which is lower than 62.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.1

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

8.0
Elgato Wave 1 has a quality-to-price ratio of 8 points, which is higher than 47.7% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

electret condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

17 inch / mm
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more
Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

USB-c
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 includes a headphone output. 62.9% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 includes a 3.5 mm jack. 62.8% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
Elgato Wave 1 does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
Show more
Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

48 kHz
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

24 bit
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

48 kHz
Elgato Wave 1 supports an interface sample rate of 48 kHz which is higher than that of 2.4% of microphones and equal to that of 55.3% of microphones.
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

24 bit
Elgato Wave 1 supports an interface bit depth of 24 bit which is higher than that of 41.8% of microphones and equal to that of 57.1% of microphones.
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Show more
N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Elgato Wave 1 is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Elgato Wave 1 supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Elgato Wave 1 does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
Elgato Wave 1 does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

no
Elgato Wave 1 does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Elgato Wave 1 includes a mute function. 67.8% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Elgato Wave 1 includes onboard gain control. 51% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

2
Elgato Wave 1 offers volume output of 2 which is higher than that of 84.6% of microphones and equal to that of 14.4% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 supports a flat DSP mode. 25% of microphones offer this processing option.
Clipguard can be disabled in Wave Link.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
Elgato Wave 1 offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
Show more
Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Elgato Wave 1 requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Elgato Wave 1 supports USB bus power. 85.9% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

141 mm
Elgato Wave 1 is 141 mm tall, which is shorter than 87.7% of microphones.
With stand.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

66 mm
Elgato Wave 1 is 66 mm wide, which is wider than 66.8% of microphones and equal in width to 0.5% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

40 mm
Elgato Wave 1 is 40 mm thick, which is thinner than 94.7% of microphones and equal in thickness to 0.5% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

555 g
Elgato Wave 1 weighs 555 g, which is lighter than 52.6% of microphones and equal in weight to 0.6% of microphones.
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

plastic
Show more
Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; cable; mount adapter
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

no
Elgato Wave 1 does not include a shock mount. 50% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 includes a pop filter. 60.9% of microphones include this accessory.
Internal pop filter.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

no
Elgato Wave 1 does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

2.5 m
Elgato Wave 1 has a cable length of 2.5 m which is longer than that of 62.6% of microphones and equal to that of 15.5% of microphones.
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 is compatible with Android. 65.8% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 is compatible with iOS. 61.3% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
Elgato Wave 1 is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more

Elgato Wave 1 vs the average microphone

  • Supports loopback audio
    Elgato Wave 1 supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports loopback routing for combining input and system audio.
    When it matters: When you want to send your microphone signal and system audio into one stream or recording feed.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Elgato Wave 1 supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    Elgato Wave 1 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
    When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.

    Importance: LOW

    Elgato Wave 1 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports flat DSP mode
    Elgato Wave 1 supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
    Clipguard can be disabled in Wave Link.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
    When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

    Importance: LOW

    Elgato Wave 1 supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
  • 16 mm thinner body
    Elgato Wave 1 is thinner than the average microphone (40 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
    What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
    When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

    Importance: LOW

    Elgato Wave 1 is thinner than the average microphone (40 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.40 mm vs 56 mm
  • 44 mm shorter body
    Elgato Wave 1 is shorter than the average microphone (141 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
    With stand.
    What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

    Importance: LOW

    Elgato Wave 1 is shorter than the average microphone (141 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.141 mm vs 185 mm
  • Supports loopback audio
    Elgato Wave 1 supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    Elgato Wave 1 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Supports flat DSP mode
    Elgato Wave 1 supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
  • 16 mm thinner body
    Elgato Wave 1 is thinner than the average microphone (40 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
  • 44 mm shorter body
    Elgato Wave 1 is shorter than the average microphone (141 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.

Total
Recording
Controls & Features
Design
  • 50 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Elgato Wave 1 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (70 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
  • 2 dB SPL lower limit
    Elgato Wave 1 has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (120 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • 1.5 dB narrower dynamic range
    Elgato Wave 1 has a narrower dynamic range than the average microphone (95 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Elgato Wave 1 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    Elgato Wave 1 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
    When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Elgato Wave 1 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • 50 Hz higher low-frequency limit
    Elgato Wave 1 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (70 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
    What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.

    Importance: LOW

    Elgato Wave 1 has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (70 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.70 Hz vs 20 Hz
  • 2 dB SPL lower limit
    Elgato Wave 1 has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (120 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Elgato Wave 1 has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (120 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.120 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • 1.5 dB narrower dynamic range
    Elgato Wave 1 has a narrower dynamic range than the average microphone (95 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Elgato Wave 1 has a narrower dynamic range than the average microphone (95 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.95 dB vs 96.5 dB
Total
Audio Performance
Recording

Graphic comparison of Elgato Wave 1 and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.9
33 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.9
33 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Elgato Wave 1?

  • Exceptional audio quality for the price, often compared to professional studio microphones.
  • Powerful Wave Link software provides a high-quality virtual mixing solution that is intuitive for beginners.
  • Proprietary Clipguard technology effectively prevents audio distortion during loud moments or screaming.
  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to mount on boom arms without needing heavy-duty tension.
  • Seamless integration with other Elgato products like the Stream Deck for quick control.
  • Sturdy build quality with a smudge-resistant finish and a stable, padded metal desk stand.

What customers dislike about Elgato Wave 1?

  • High sensitivity makes it prone to picking up significant background and ambient room noise.
  • Lacks physical onboard input gain controls, requiring software to adjust levels.
  • Fixed cardioid polar pattern limits its versatility for multi-person recording sessions.
  • Some users find it lacks a bit of 'warmth' or bass in the lower frequency range.
  • The mute button requires a firm press which can cause the lightweight microphone to topple if not stabilized.
  • Requires using the 3.5mm jack on the microphone itself for zero-latency monitoring to avoid echo.

Expert reviews

T
tomshardware.com
25/07/2021
Elgato Wave:1 Review: Beginner's Dream

Elgato Wave:1 The Elgato Wave:1 is a sleek, compact cardioid condenser microphone tailored for beginner streamers and content creators who need professional-grade audio in an intuitive package. Designed alongside Lewitt Audio, it delivers exceptional, crisp, and natural sound quality that faithfully reproduces vocals without any compressed or nasally undertones. Its standout feature...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
29/12/2020
Elgato Wave:1 Review

The TechPowerUp review for the $120 Elgato Wave:1 highlights it as a top-tier, budget-friendly USB condenser microphone for creators, featuring high-quality audio developed with LEWITT, a robust build, and effective internal pop filter. Key features include Clipguard technology to prevent distortion and the powerful Wave Link software for mixing, though the software window cannot be...Read more

L
laptopmag.com
06/07/2020
Elgato Wave 1 review

The Laptop Mag Elgato Wave 1 review highlights the Elgato Wave 1 as a good, compact, entry-level USB microphone tailored for streamers and content creators. Designed in collaboration with Lewitt, the microphone delivers clear, precise speech recording with a frequency response of 70 to 20,000Hz, 115 decibels of dynamic range, and analog-to-digital conversion up to 24-bit/48 kHz....Read more

T
tweaktown.com
18/06/2020
Elgato WAVE: 1 Microphone Review

Elgato Wave: 1 Review Summary The Elgato Wave: 1 is a highly capable entry-level condenser microphone priced at $129.99, specifically engineered to meet the needs of streamers and content creators. Built with a robust metal frame and a heavy desktop stand that effectively minimizes desk vibrations, the physical design is simple and sturdy. In performance tests, it reigned superior...Read more

C
custompc.com
17/10/2023
Elgato Wave 1 review

The Elgato Wave 1 streaming microphone earns a 74% verdict from Custom PC for its elegant, compact design and solid audio quality tailored for voice recordings. Built with a durable metal mesh cover and a sturdy metal-and-plastic body, the device includes a solid metal stand with knurled knobs for tilt adjustments. Operating with a single cardioid pickup pattern capsule engineered...Read more

L
latestintech.com
20/06/2020
Elgato Wave: 1 Microphone Review

The Elgato Wave:1 is a premium, entry-level condenser microphone specifically tailored for streamers and content creators. Built with a sleek black exterior and a stable 555-gram weighted base, the mic features a 17mm Electret capsule with a cardioid polar pattern. It operates over a USB-C interface providing 24-bit resolution at a 48kHz sample rate, and delivers clear,...Read more

P
prosettings.net
13/07/2020
Elgato Wave 1 Review

The Elgato Wave 1 is an entry-level, all-in-one external microphone designed for streaming, content creation, and high-quality voice communication. Built from sturdy, non-cheap materials with a sleek, stealthy black design, it delivers a rich and full audio output that outperforms typical headset microphones. A major highlight of the product is the bundled Wave Link software, a...Read more

H
hexus.net
18/06/2020
Review: Elgato Wave:1

The Elgato Wave:1 is a sleek, 200mm-tall cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for streamers and content creators. Developed in collaboration with audio specialist Lewitt, it features a 17mm capsule, 24-bit resolution, a 48kHz sampling rate, and a 70–20,000Hz frequency response. Its hardware highlights include an internal pop filter, a switchable low-cut filter to...Read more

R
rockpapershotgun.com
28/09/2022
The Elgato Wave:1 is a great-sounding, easy-going USB mic

The Elgato Wave:1 is highlighted as an outstanding, plug-and-play USB microphone tailored for streamers, podcasters, and content creators. A major pro is its clear and rich audio quality, enhanced by a built-in pop filter and a cardioid condenser design. Its standout hardware feature is ClipGuard, which seamlessly switches between two sensitivity levels to prevent audio distortion...Read more

M
m.hexus.net
18/06/2020
Review: Elgato Wave:1 - Peripherals

The Elgato Wave:1 is a sleek, black 17mm cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for content creators and streamers, priced at £130. Built in partnership with audio specialists Lewitt, the microphone features 24-bit resolution, a 48kHz sampling rate, a frequency response of 70–20,000Hz, and a built-in low-cut filter. A key highlight of the hardware is its proprietary...Read more

E
eteknix.com
18/06/2020
Elgato Wave:1 Microphone Review

Summary of Pros and Cons Pros: Excellent Value: Provides near-professional broadcast quality at an accessible price point compared to expensive studio setups. High-Quality Audio Specs: Equipped with a 24-bit/48 kHz converter and a precise cardioid condenser capsule optimized for clean vocals. Sleek Aesthetic & Sturdy Build: Features a stylish, professional look ideal for being on...Read more

L
lanoc.org
29/09/2020
Elgato Wave:1 - LanOC Reviews

The Elgato Wave:1 is a compact cardioid condenser microphone tailored specifically for streamers and content creators. Measuring just 5.6 inches tall, its sleek, entirely blacked-out chassis is significantly more space-efficient on a desk than bulkier alternatives like the Blue Yeti X. Performance testing revealed that the microphone is highly sensitive, operating at a 24-bit...Read more

O
obli.net
06/07/2020
Elgato Wave 1 & 3 – The BEST USB Microphones for Streamers?

The Elgato Wave 1 and Wave 3 are USB microphones built for streamers that offer excellent, low-noise sound quality optimized for speech, thanks to Elgato's partnership with microphone expert Lewitt. A major strength is the Clipguard feature, which stops audio distortion if you suddenly laugh or shout. They also have a helpful Lowcut filter to lower low frequencies under 120 Hz. The...Read more

(Translated)Show original
B
bonedo.de
18/06/2026
Elgato Wave:1 and Wave:3 - Podcast microphone with Lewitt know-how", "Elgato Wave:1 and Wave:3 - Podcast microphones with Lewitt expertise

The Elgato Wave:3 is a professional, studio-quality USB microphone designed primarily for content creators, podcasters, and streamers. Developed in collaboration with the renowned Austrian audio manufacturer LEWITT, the microphone features a 17 mm cardioid condenser capsule and a 24-bit/96 kHz analog-to-digital converter to deliver broadcast-quality audio. It features a compact,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
ginjfo.com
18/06/2020
Elgato Wave:1 review - GinjFo", "Elgato Wave:1: The complete review - GinjFo

The GinjFo review identifies the Elgato Wave:1 as a premium, aesthetically pleasing desktop microphone designed for streamers, featuring specialized anti-saturation technology that prevents audio clipping during loud spikes. The device is praised for its high-quality construction and integration into the Elgato ecosystem, delivering professional-grade voice capture. However, the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
muycomputer.com
29/06/2020
Elgato Wave 1 Review: Pure Luxury for Your Voice", "Elgato Wave 1 Review: A Real Luxury for Your Voice

The Elgato Wave 1 is an elegant, professional-grade desktop microphone designed specifically for content creators and streamers, retailing at €139.99. Built from a solid combination of steel and plastic with a heavy non-slip rubber base, it comes completely pre-assembled and connects easily via USB Type-C. The microphone features a high-quality cardioid condenser capsule developed...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
gameit.es
03/07/2020
Elgato Wave:1 review, recording test, and unboxing

The Elgato Wave 1 is a cardioid microphone featuring a 17mm capsule, designed specifically for streamers and content creators to build a seamless ecosystem alongside Elgato's existing ecosystem. It is developed in collaboration with LEWITT Audio and features a frequency response of 70 Hz – 20 kHz, a sensitivity of -25 dBFS, and a dynamic range of 115 dB. Its physical build consists...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
thegamesmachine.it
18/06/2020
Elgato Wave 1 Review | The Games Machine

The Elgato Wave:1 is an elegant, cardioid electret condenser microphone designed primarily for content creators, streamers, and gamers. A major pro highlighted in the review is its ability to double as a full USB sound card, processing audio internally and featuring a 3.5mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring and complete computer output routing. Technical performance is...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
gamescore.it
20/07/2020
Elgato WAVE:1 Microphone Review

The Elgato Wave:1 is a premium, compact USB-C condenser microphone designed specifically for content creators and streamers. Developed in collaboration with audio expert LEWITT, it features a 17mm electret capsule, a cardioid polar pattern, and delivers high-quality 24-bit/48 kHz audio resolution. A standout feature is its proprietary "Clipguard" anti-distortion technology, which...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

fduce-sl40
FDUCE SL40

Microphones

8.1
maono-dm30
MAONO DM30

Microphones

7.9
fifine-ampligame-am6
FIFINE AmpliGame AM6

Microphones

7.6
fifine-ampligame-am8
FIFINE AmpliGame AM8

Microphones

7.3
hyperx-solocast
HyperX SoloCast

Microphones

7.2
mackie-chromium
Mackie Chromium

Microphones

7.2
cad-audio-u37
CAD Audio U37

Microphones

7.2
fifine-t669
FIFINE T669

Microphones

7.2
oversteel-elinvar
Oversteel Elinvar

Microphones

7.1
fifine-k683a
FIFINE K683A

Microphones

7.8
woodbrass-bird-um1
Woodbrass Bird UM1

Microphones

6.9
fifine-ampligame-a6t
FIFINE AmpliGame A6T

Microphones

6.8

Compare Elgato Wave 1 with

VS
VS

Compare