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An introduction to Elgato Wave XLR MK.2, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Wave XLR MK.2 is a powerful mic interface with built-in DSP effects, Wave Link integration, and Stream Deck control.
— Elgato official site
What is Wave XLR MK.2?
The Wave XLR MK.2 is a USB audio interface from Elgato for XLR microphones. It is a compact single-mic unit for connecting an analog XLR mic to a computer for streaming, calls, or recording.
Inside is the Wave FX Processor chip, described as developed with LEWITT Audio. It brings Clipguard 2.0 distortion protection, on-device DSP effects, and support for VST inserts.
A dial with an LED ring adjusts settings such as gain, headphone volume, and the mic/PC mix. The MK.2 adds Voice Tune and headphone volume control to the dial and ring, and a capacitive touch mute button is included.
Companion software Wave Link 3.0 handles routing and mixing of multiple audio sources, and Voice Focus AI noise suppression is available. Stream Deck integration allows one-touch control of mic settings.
Wave FX Processor
An onboard chip processes the mic signal, combining hardware and software processing in one path, which may help shape sound without loading the computer.
Clipguard 2.0
A multi-layer protection against distortion, useful when sudden loud voices occur in streams or commentary.
VST insert and DSP effects
In addition to onboard DSP effects, VST effects can be applied to the mic and used across apps without virtual devices, according to the maker.
Dial, LED ring, and touch mute
Gain, headphone volume, and the mic/PC mix are set with the dial, and a capacitive button mutes the mic, handy for adjusting without touching the screen mid-stream.
Voice Focus AI noise suppression
Included with Wave Link 3.0, it removes background noise using AI and may help in rooms with ambient noise.
Stream Deck integration
Mic settings can be controlled from a Stream Deck, which helps people who already use one for streaming.
48V phantom power and headphone output
It supplies 48V for condenser mics and has a 3.5 mm headphone output for zero-latency monitoring, with support for higher-impedance headphones noted.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bit depth | 24-bit |
| Sample rate | 48 kHz |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz (XLR input, 32-ohm headphones) |
| Dynamic range (XLR input) | 135 dB |
| Equivalent input noise (A-weighted) | -130 dB |
| Max input level | 6 dBV |
| Gain | About 80 dB |
| Power consumption | 900 mA max |
| Weight | 320 g |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | 93 x 118 x 73 mm |
| Input | XLR (balanced) |
| Headphone output | 3.5 mm stereo |
| Host | USB-C |
| SKU | 10MAN9901 |
What is included and system requirements
- Wave XLR MK.2 unit
- USB-C to C cable (150 cm)
- Quick Start Guide
- Supported OS: Windows 11 (64-bit) or later, macOS Sonoma 14.2 or later
- Free software: Wave Link (download)
How to use it
- Connect the mic to the unit with an XLR cable.
- Connect the unit to a USB-C port on the computer with the supplied cable.
- Download and install Wave Link for free from the maker's site.
- For a condenser mic, enable phantom power.
- Set the gain with the dial and check the input on the LED ring.
- Plug wired headphones into the 3.5 mm jack for zero-latency monitoring.
- Choose the Wave XLR as the input in your streaming or call app.
- Set effects and noise suppression in Wave Link as needed.
Who it may suit
- Streamers moving to an XLR mic
- Stream Deck users
- People who want to shape sound without loading the computer
- Those wanting a compact desk setup
Good to know before you buy
- Windows 11 or later and macOS Sonoma 14.2 or later are required.
- It has one XLR input and a 48 kHz sample rate.
- Wired headphones are needed for zero-latency monitoring.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
See Wave XLR MK.2 on the product page
Sources: elgato.com (checked 2026-10-27)
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