Elgato Wave Go: convertible clip-on and handheld wireless mic
Elgato has entered wireless audio with the Wave Go, a microphone system that works either as a small clip-on transmitter or as a handheld interview mic. It is sold at elgato.com for $99.99, with other retailers following shortly after, and it is being released in more than 40 countries and regions. It connects to a phone through a USB-C receiver.
Two ways to record
In clip-on mode the coin-sized transmitter, weighing 7g, attaches magnetically to clothing. Elgato applies tuning intended to restore clarity and presence at chest distance. In handheld mode the same transmitter slides into a Smart Handle, turning it into a full-size interview microphone. The handle has its own controls and charging, and its sound is tuned warmer for use close to the mouth.
The mic switches settings automatically depending on how it is used. EQ Shift and Auto Gain apply different sound profiles and gain levels for each mode and position, and a limiter and low-cut filter are included. Noise cancellation can be turned on or off. These options can be changed in the free Wave Go app, available for iOS and Android.
Battery and charging
- Transmitter: up to 8 hours per charge
- Smart Handle: stores up to five full recharges, for a total of up to 48 hours
- The handle charges the transmitter while docked, even during recording
- The carrying case charges all components from a USB-C charger
- The USB-C receiver has pass-through charging, so the phone can charge while the mic is connected
Software and extras
Wave Go also works with Elgato's free Wave Link mixing software. There, users can route its audio, add effects, control settings from a Stream Deck and turn on Voice Focus, which removes reverb and background noise when recording indoors.
A second transmitter costs $29.99 on its own, or $14.99 when bought together with the Wave Go. For a limited time Elgato is also selling a Sky Blue version on its website.