Elgato Wave DX

Elgato Wave DX

A simple XLR dynamic with focused pickup that needs an interface but keeps the cost of entry low.

  • Dynamic
  • XLR
  • Cardioid

PCPR score

7.5

Good

Best price we’ve seen

$99.99Nov 9

Checked recently. Confirm at the retailer.

R1

The short version

The Wave DX is Elgato's 3-pin XLR dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern and a 50–15,000 Hz response, designed to work with common audio interfaces without a separate signal booster. SoundGuys rates it a reliable value among XLR dynamics but notes that no XLR cable is in the box and that Elgato's bundles raise the total cost. It suits streamers building an XLR chain around an interface such as Wave XLR, and is less useful for anyone wanting USB convenience.

Pros

  • Dynamic capsule with a cardioid pattern that rejects room noise, per Elgato
  • Works with standard audio interfaces and stands via 3-pin XLR and common threads
  • SoundGuys considers it a clear value next to far pricier XLR dynamics

Cons

  • No XLR cable in the box, SoundGuys notes
  • Requires an audio interface; there is no USB output or headphone jack
  • Elgato's bundled extras raise the total price, per SoundGuys

Best for

  • Streamers adding an XLR dynamic to an existing interface
  • Budget podcasting setups

J3

Full specifications

Core

Type
Dynamic

Connectivity

Connection
XLR

Performance

Pickup patterns
Cardioid

Fit

Needs interface
Yes

Features

Mute control
No
Headphone monitoring
No

Compatibility notes

  • Needs an XLR audio interface or mixer such as Elgato Wave XLR.
  • Standard 5/8-inch mount with 3/8-inch and 1/4-inch thread adapters included, per Elgato.

P1

Where to buy

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AV1

Video reviews

No verified video reviews yet

We only list videos we’ve confirmed are about this product. You can search YouTube for reviews in the meantime.

AV2

What reviewers and owners say

  • SoundGuys

    Mixed

    Sees a dependable, affordable XLR dynamic that compares well with far pricier options, while pointing out the missing XLR cable and the cost of Elgato's add-on accessories.

  • Windows Central

    Positive

    Views pairing the Wave DX with Wave XLR as a strong, affordable creator setup, though the combination takes some effort to configure at first.

Summaries are written in our words. Follow the links for each source’s own review.

R9

Common questions

Does the Elgato Wave DX need an audio interface?

Yes. It has a 3-pin XLR output and no USB, so it connects through an interface or mixer.

Does it include an XLR cable?

SoundGuys notes that no XLR cable is in the box, so budget for one if your interface or mixer kit does not include it.

Do I need a booster such as a Cloudlifter?

Elgato states the Wave DX can connect to any audio interface without a separate signal booster.

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