Unveiling the Elgato Wave XLR: Is it Worth the Investment?

The Elgato Wave XLR is a great audio interface for streamers, podcasters, and gamers alike. It features a premium XLR to USB-C connection, Wave Link App for mix multiple audio sources and create two independent mixes, Proprietary Clipguard Technology to prevents microphone distortion, and a Studio Grade Preamp for up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain amplifies insensitive mics. This product review is composed of reviews from verified customers who have used the product and are sharing their experiences.

Personal Experience

I recently purchased the Elgato Wave XLR audio mixer and I’m really enjoying it so far. I was looking for an audio mixer that had both XLR and USB connections and this fit the bill perfectly. I especially love the Wave Link software, which allows me to mix multiple audio sources and create two independent mixes. I’ve also been impressed with the sound quality, as the studio-grade preamp provides up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain. I do have one gripe, however, and that’s the fact that the output has a slight delay, which can be annoying when trying to monitor audio. Other than that, this is a great product and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile audio mixer.


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The Elgato Wave XLR: Features for Efficient Audio Mixing

The Elgato Wave XLR is an audio mixing interface that offers a wide range of features for streamers and content creators. It includes a premium XLR to USB-C connection, a Wave Link app to mix multiple audio sources, proprietary Clipguard technology to prevent microphone distortion, and a studio-grade preamp with up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain for amplifying insensitive mics. It also has 48V phantom power to drive condenser microphones.

The Elgato Wave XLR also has easy-to-use controls such as a large button to switch between mic, headset, and mixer mode, as well as a volume knob to adjust the gain for the microphone. It also comes with the Wave Link software, which is incredibly intuitive and allows users to separate audio into two independent mixes, adjust sound levels, and add limiters, equalizers, and noise gates to their microphone and other sound sources.

A Comprehensive User Experience with the Elgato Wave XLR

The Elgato Wave XLR is a great audio mixing and preamp interface for XLR mics to USB-C. It features a 48V phantom power, proprietary Clipguard technology to prevent microphone distortion, a studio-grade preamp with up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain, and a Wave Link app to mix multiple audio sources. The knob on the front of the device helps you adjust the gain for the microphone you have plugged in.

The Elgato Wave XLR has a comprehensive user experience, with an intuitive software interface that makes it easy to adjust sound levels and VSTs for all audio sources. Its tap-to-mute button and volume control knob make it easy to control sound levels. Additionally, the Wave XLR has enough gain to power power-hungry microphones like the Shure SM7B, so there is no need to worry about the microphone being too quiet.


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Pros and Cons of the Elgato Wave XLR

The Elgato Wave XLR is a great audio mixer and preamp for XLR mic to USB-C connection. It has a studio-grade preamp with up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain, a proprietary Clipguard Technology to prevent microphone distortion, and 48V phantom power to drive condenser microphones. It also has a Wave Link app to mix multiple audio sources and create two independent mixes.

However, the Elgato Wave XLR does have some drawbacks. Its multiple channel system is completely based on the software, which can be unreliable and crash unexpectedly. Additionally, the 3.5 mm output has a constant hiss that can be annoying. It also does not support VSTs on all audio sources and it is not easy to set up on Mac M1 PCs.

Comparing the Elgato Wave XLR to Other Audio Mixers

The Elgato Wave XLR is an audio mixer that offers many features and benefits compared to other mixers. It has a compact design, allowing it to fit easily on top of your computer. It also has VSTs for all audio sources, allowing you to add limiters, equalizers, noise gates, etc. to your microphone or any other sound. In addition, it has a 48V phantom power and up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain amplifies insensitive mics.

The Wave XLR also has a proprietary Clipguard Technology which prevents microphone distortion. It also has a Tap-to-Mute button on the top to easily mute the audio. The Wave Link software is also incredibly intuitive, allowing you to mix multiple audio sources and create two independent mixes. It also has enough gain to power power-hungry microphones such as the Shure SM7B, so there is no need to worry about whether your microphone will ever be too quiet. All in all, the Elgato Wave XLR is an excellent choice for streaming, recording, podcasting, and more.


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Does the Elgato Wave XLR Have What it Takes to Power Power-Hungry Mics?

The Elgato Wave XLR has a gain knob on the front of the device that lets you adjust the gain for the microphone you have plugged in. Fortunately, the Wave XLR has enough gain to power power-hungry microphones such as the Shure SM7B, so there is no need to worry about whether your microphone will ever be too quiet.

Additionally, the Wave Link software allows you to use your microphone with VSTs on any program, so you can speak to your friends through Discord for example with your VSTs. This makes the Elgato Wave XLR an excellent choice for streamers, podcasters, and anyone looking for great audio without the need to purchase an additional Cloudlifter.

Audio Quality and Latency Issues with the Elgato Wave XLR

The Elgato Wave XLR is a great device for streamers and content creators, however there are some audio quality and latency issues that should be taken into account. The Wave XLR has a 3.5mm output which can produce a hissing sound when using earbuds or headphones, and the Wave Link software can cause audio latency problems if it crashes or has driver issues.

While the Wave XLR does have multiple channels that can be used with recording programs like OBS, the software can randomly stop working, causing recordings to be ruined. Furthermore, the VST plugins that can be used with the Wave XLR may not be supported, causing further problems. These audio quality and latency issues should be taken into consideration when using the Elgato Wave XLR.

Pros

1. Compact design, fits on top of computer

2. Easy to use Wave Link software

3. Tap-to-Mute button

Cons

1. Lack of physical faders

2. Poor audio output quality

3. Unstable software when using VSTs

Final Conclusion: The Elgato Wave XLR is a Solid Choice for Streamers

The Elgato Wave XLR is a great choice for streamers, podcasters, and gamers who are looking for an audio interface that is both compact and powerful. The Wave Link software provides an intuitive interface for mixing multiple audio sources, and the Wave XLR has enough gain to power power-hungry microphones like the Shure SM7B. While the lack of physical faders may be a dealbreaker for some, and there are some minor issues with the audio output and software stability, the Elgato Wave XLR is still a great option for anyone looking for a reliable audio interface.

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Questions & Answers:

Question: Does the Wave XLR have enough gain to power power-hungry microphones?

Answer: Yes, the Wave XLR has enough gain to power power-hungry microphones such as the Shure SM7B, so there is no need to worry about whether your microphone will ever be too quiet.

Question: Does the Wave XLR support VSTs?

Answer: Yes, the Wave XLR has VSTs for all audio sources, so you can add limiters, equalizers, noise gates, etc. to your microphone or any other sound. It also allows you to use your microphone with the VSTs on any program, so you can speak to your friends through Discord for example with your VSTs.

Question: Does the Wave XLR provide zero latency monitoring?

Answer: No, there is a tiny delay on the zero latency monitoring making it have an ever so slight echo effect, so if you need zero latency monitoring then this is not the product for you.