Pros
Awesome sound quality for PS5.
Perfectly compatible with PlayStation 5 and other devices.
Effective clip guard for avoiding audio clipping.
Simple and intuitive software with VST support.
Powerful preamp with 75dB gain, suitable for microphones like Shure SM7B.
Compact design, suitable for neat setups.
Separate tracks for monitor and stream audio.
Phantom power support for XLR mics.
Plug-and-play on Linux with good USB protocol integration.
Good cable management with all ports at the back.
Long USB-C cable included.
Wide compatibility with different types of microphones.
No need for an external preamp for most dynamic mics.
Very low latency monitoring.
Excellent build quality and well-designed interface.
Cheaper alternative to GoXLR Mini with more features.
Cons
No gain level indicators on device LEDs.
Only one mic input, may require XLR splitter for multiple mics.
Sensitive touch mute/unmute button.
Main Product Advantages
10 Clipguard Functionality
Has an effective clipguard that minimizes distortion and maintains usable levels from whispering to shouting without requiring a PC.
10 Preamp Capability
75 dB preamp is strong enough to power demanding microphones such as the Shure SM7B, delivering excellent sound quality without additional amplifiers.
9 Compatibility with PlayStation 5
The Elgato Wave XLR is perfectly compatible with PlayStation 5, both for audio input and output.
9 Software Integration
Wave Link software allows for intuitive audio management, including VSTs for sound customization and independent audio tracks for monitoring and streaming.
9 Built-in 48V Phantom Power
Provides 48V phantom power suitable for all types of microphones, eliminating the need for external gain boosters.
8 Compact Design
Its compact size and back-facing ports make it easy to manage cables and maintain a tidy setup.
8 Linux and Windows Compatibility
It is plug-and-play compatible on Linux and has stable performance on Windows with software support, despite some minor setup inconveniences.
7 Sensitive Touch Mute Button
A touch-sensitive mute button can be overly sensitive, making accidental mutes more likely.
6 Single Knob Control
A single knob controls multiple functions such as gain, headphone level, and mix settings, which some might find inconvenient due to the lack of separate dials for different functions.
5 Single Mic Input
This device supports only one XLR microphone, limiting its use to single-person setups.
Overview
The Elgato Wave XLR is a compact USB interface designed to enhance your microphone‘s capabilities, providing professional-level features for streaming, recording, and podcasting. With a sleek design and user-friendly functionality, it is an attractive option for both beginners and experienced users.
Key Features
One of the standout features of the Elgato Wave XLR is its proprietary Clipguard anti-distortion technology. This ensures that your audio remains clear and distortion-free, even when facing unexpected volume spikes. Additionally, the device offers a 75 dB preamp and 48V phantom power, which are ideal for XLR microphones.
The capacitive mute button allows you to quickly and silently mute your mic, a feature that can be incredibly useful during live streams or recording sessions. Moreover, the Elgato Wave XLR integrates seamlessly with the custom Wave Link mixing software, allowing for precise audio control and customization.
Customization is another strong point of the Elgato Wave XLR. Users can swap out the faceplate and control dial to match their setup or personal preference, adding a touch of personalization to their audio interface.
Conclusion
The Elgato Wave XLR is a powerful and versatile audio mixer that offers a range of advanced features not typically found in conventional audio interfaces. Its proprietary Clipguard technology, capacitive mute button, and direct integration with Wave Link software make it a compelling choice for streamers, podcasters, and recording artists. Additionally, its customizable design adds a personal touch to its functional superiority. Overall, the Elgato Wave XLR provides excellent value for anyone looking to elevate their audio quality.
