Elgato has unveiled Wave Next, a redesigned audio ecosystem that combines updated software, new microphone hardware, and expanded control surfaces under a single platform. The announcement introduces Wave Link 3.0, four new Wave-powered devices, and Stream Deck + XL, positioning the lineup as a scalable system for creators, streamers, and production professionals.
Wave Next represents the most significant update to Elgato’s Wave platform since its 2020 debut. Rather than launching a single product, the company is restructuring its audio offering around integrated components that handle capture, processing, routing, and physical control within one ecosystem.
Elgato Wave Link 3.0 Becomes Free and Expands Hardware Compatibility
At the center of the update is Wave Link 3.0, a redesigned version of Elgato’s audio mixing software that is now free on Windows and macOS. Unlike earlier iterations that centered primarily around Wave-branded hardware, the new version supports virtually any microphone, mixer, or audio interface.
Wave Link 3.0 allows users to create up to five independent submixes, enabling separate routing for voice, music, chat, game audio, and monitoring outputs. Per-channel VST plugin support enables individualized processing, while a redesigned horizontal routing interface replaces traditional vertical channel-strip layouts. Applications can be assigned or stacked within channels with single-click controls, and native integration with Stream Deck devices allows automatic profile generation based on a user’s setup.
When paired with Elgato hardware, Wave Link unlocks additional features such as guided setup, device-level control panels, Auto Gain Wizard, monitoring mode selection, and LED customization. A marketplace for curated effects from Elgato and third-party developers expands the ecosystem further.
Wave FX Processor Moves Audio Processing to Hardware
All new Wave devices are powered by the Wave FX Processor, a custom chip developed in partnership with Lewitt Audio. The processor shifts portions of the signal path from software to hardware, reducing reliance on virtual audio routing and minimizing CPU load.
The signal chain begins with Clipguard 2.0, which combines multiple analog-to-digital converters, 32-bit floating-point processing, and intelligent limiting to prevent clipping. Five onboard DSP effects—Low Cut Filter, Expander, Voice Tune, Compressor, and EQ—operate in real time with zero latency. VST Insert technology then allows studio-grade effects to be processed on the computer and reinjected directly into the hardware signal chain, delivering a fully processed microphone signal to applications without additional routing tools.
Wave:3 MK.2 Updates the USB Microphone Line
Wave:3 MK.2 updates Elgato’s USB condenser microphone with integrated Wave FX processing. Built around a supercardioid capsule tuned with Lewitt, the microphone includes a multifunction dial with an LED ring, capacitive mute, Auto Gain Wizard, and dual monitoring modes. Settings are stored directly on the device, allowing consistent performance across systems.
The MK.2 is aimed at users seeking a streamlined setup with hardware-level processing but without requiring external interfaces.
Wave XLR MK.2 Brings Integrated Processing to XLR Microphones
Wave XLR MK.2 is designed for creators using external XLR microphones. It delivers 80 dB of clean gain, 48V phantom power, and 135 dB of dynamic range. Auto Gain Wizard simplifies level configuration, while selectable monitoring modes and a high-power headphone output provide flexible feedback.
Linear Mic Mix and Mic/PC Mix controls allow users to adjust the balance between microphone and system audio during streaming, recording, or calls.
XLR Dock MK.2 Integrates Audio Into Stream Deck +
XLR Dock MK.2 is designed exclusively for Stream Deck +. The dock adds professional XLR input directly into the modular control surface, including 80 dB of gain, phantom power, onboard DSP, and VST Insert support. It does not function as a standalone device and requires Stream Deck +.
Audio and control are consolidated into a single footprint, with monitoring managed through integrated dials and LCD keys.
Wave XLR Pro Targets Dual-Microphone Setups (Q2 2026)
Wave XLR Pro, scheduled to ship in Q2 2026, expands the platform further with two independent XLR inputs, each delivering 80 dB of clean gain. The unit supports five hardware-based mixes for zero-latency monitoring and includes a built-in Maximizer and per-channel Ducking.
Front and rear headphone outputs support both 3.5 mm and 6.3 mm connections and can drive headphones up to 600 ohms. USB Aux enables connection to a second PC, console, or mobile device, while stereo line I/O supports integration with external mixers or monitors. Standalone Mode preserves routing and DSP settings even without a connected computer.
Stream Deck + XL Expands Physical Control
Stream Deck + XL introduces 36 LCD keys, six multifunction dials, and an ultra-wide touch strip for real-time control of audio levels, mixes, and effects. When paired with Wave XLR Pro or other Wave devices, it provides physical mixing capabilities without traditional hardware desks.
Beyond audio, the device retains full Stream Deck functionality for workflow automation across applications.
Wave Next as a Scalable Platform
Rather than positioning Wave Next as a single hardware refresh, Elgato frames it as a modular ecosystem. Users can begin with a USB microphone and expand into multi-microphone, multi-device, or dual-PC configurations without rebuilding routing structures. Wave Link 3.0 manages the software layer, Wave FX Processor advances hardware-level signal control, and Stream Deck surfaces provide tactile management.
Wave:3 MK.2, Wave XLR MK.2, XLR Dock MK.2, and Stream Deck + XL are available to order starting today via elgato.com and authorized retailers. Wave XLR Pro ships in Q2 2026, and Wave Link 3.0 is available as a free download. Additional details about the new product line is available through the official website.
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What are your thoughts on the new Elgato Wave Next series of products, and would you be interested in adding any of them to your gaming or streaming setup? Let us know in the comments section below.
