Microphones / Compare

Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 vs HyperX QuadCast 2 S

A

Product A: Elgato

Wave:3 MK.2

40 of 61 known

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B

Product B: HyperX

QuadCast 2 S

39 of 61 known

Change HyperX QuadCast 2 S

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All 61 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AElgato Wave:3 MK.2

BHyperX QuadCast 2 S

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

Wave1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

QuadCast1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The page text names the QuadCast line.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

10MAO9901, 10MAO9911, 20MAO99011Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026SKU 10MAO9901. The FAQ says the bottom of the microphone shows Wave:3 MK.2 and model number 20MAO9901. SKU 10MAO9911 is the white MK.2 in the page's Audio Bundle Builder data.7Retailer pageholdan.co.uk/products/details/ELG10MAO9901Read 14 October 2026

9A273AA1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026SKU 9A273AA, the only variant, Black.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

GTIN / EAN

8404404162277Retailer pageholdan.co.uk/products/details/ELG10MAO9901Read 14 October 2026EAN 840440416227 for manufacturer part 10MAO9901. Amazon US prints the same number as UPC for the black listing.

1979611867411Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Barcode 197961186741 in the product data of the HyperX US store for SKU 9A273AA. The Japanese retailer e-earphone prints the same code.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

20 August 20245Press articletomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-finally-updates-its-quadcast-gaming-mic-for-real-quadcast-2-and-2-s-get-boost-in-recording-qualityRead 14 October 2026Published 2024-08-20: the QuadCast 2 and QuadCast 2 S are announced today.

Status

Available1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Elgato US, DE and UK stores show the product in stock on 2026-10-14.

Available6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review says both mics are available now.7Reviewwindowscentral.com/accessories/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026On sale at $199.99 at Best Buy, Amazon and HP.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

HyperX QuadCast S6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026Tom's Hardware's review calls the QuadCast / QuadCast S the predecessor of the QuadCast 2 S.

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$169.995Press articleshacknews.com/article/148121/elgato-new-audio-products-2026Read 14 October 2026$169.99 on the Elgato website at launch, shown without a tax statement.

$199.991Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026US store price $199.99 MSRP. Tom's Hardware gave the same figure at the announcement.5Press articletomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-finally-updates-its-quadcast-gaming-mic-for-real-quadcast-2-and-2-s-get-boost-in-recording-qualityRead 14 October 2026The QuadCast 2 S is expected to be available in November for $199.99.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€169.996Press articlemuycomputer.comRead 14 October 2026169.99 euros including VAT, in a launch report dated 2026-03-03 for Spain.

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black, White1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Black is SKU 10MAO9901. The page data labels a Wave 3 MK2 White with SKU 10MAO9911, and Amazon US sells a white MK.2 sold by Corsair. No colour is named on the product page itself.9Retailer pageamazon.com/Elgato-Wave-Condenser-Microphone-Effects/dp/B0HJG21YLXRead 14 October 2026Listing titled Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 White USB Condenser Microphone. The black listing is B0GGYLFHPS.

Black1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026

Microphone typeiElectret condensers count as condenser.

Condenser1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Tech specs: 16 mm condenser (integrated JFET).

Condenser1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Three 14 mm electret condenser capsules. An electret condenser is stored as condenser.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 20265Press articletomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-finally-updates-its-quadcast-gaming-mic-for-real-quadcast-2-and-2-s-get-boost-in-recording-qualityRead 14 October 2026

Capsule and pickup

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Capsule sizeiDiaphragm diameter of one capsule as published. A 1-inch capsule is 25.4 mm.

16mm1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

14mm1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Element: three 14 mm electret condenser capsules.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 20265Press articletomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-finally-updates-its-quadcast-gaming-mic-for-real-quadcast-2-and-2-s-get-boost-in-recording-qualityRead 14 October 2026Three 14 mm electret condenser capsules, from the specs.

CapsulesiNumber of capsules. Multi-pattern USB microphones often use three.

11Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Tech specs name one capsule.

31Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Element: three 14 mm electret condenser capsules.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 20265Press articletomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-finally-updates-its-quadcast-gaming-mic-for-real-quadcast-2-and-2-s-get-boost-in-recording-qualityRead 14 October 2026

Polar patternsiEvery pattern the user can select. Unidirectional is used only when the maker names no exact pattern.

Cardioid1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Tech specs and compare table say Cardioid. The Amazon US listing and one Polish review say supercardioid. The maker's value is stored.

Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Bidirectional, Stereo1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Four selectable patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, bi-directional, stereo.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Address typeiEnd address means you speak into the top of the microphone. Side address means you speak into its side.

Side address1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026FAQ: speak into the front, the side with the multifunction dial. The mic captures sound from the side, not the top.4Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 2026Wave:3 is a side-address mic. Speak into the front, not the top.

Side address6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The multifunction knob is on the front of the cylindrical microphone and tap-to-mute is on the top, so the microphone is spoken into from its side. The HyperX quick start guide of the QuadCast 2 says to place the front of the microphone toward the sound source. No source names the address type in words for the 2 S.

Sound specs

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Frequency responseiPublished acoustic range of the microphone. A sample rate does not establish it.

Min70 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

Min20 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Frequency response 20Hz - 20kHz, no tolerance given.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Frequency response (microphone): 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

Sensitivity (analog)iAnalog output level for 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz, as published in dBV. For a microphone with a switchable preamp, the bypass value is used. A value published only in mV/Pa is converted as 20 x log10(mV/Pa / 1000) and rounded to one decimal, so 1.6 mV/Pa is -55.9 dBV/Pa. The printed value goes in the source note. A sensitivity in plain dB with no reference, as many low-cost USB microphones print it, is left out.

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Sensitivity (digital)iDigital output level over USB for 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz. The minimum gain value is used when several are given. The gain setting goes in the source note. On a USB-only microphone use this field only when the maker prints dBFS or ties a dBV value to the USB output, as Shure does for the MV7i. A dBV, dB re 1 V/Pa or mV/Pa value that names no USB output is left out. The printed unit and the gain go in the source note. A value printed for another reference level is converted by the level difference, so -40 dBFS at 80 dB SPL is -26 dBFS at 94 dB SPL. The printed value goes in the source note.

-20dBFS1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026-20 dBFS typical at 1 kHz. The reference sound level and the gain setting are not stated.

-8dBFS1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Printed as -8 dBFS +-4 dB at 94 dB SPL, 1 kHz, default volume. No minimum gain value is given. The output is digital over USB.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Sensitivity (microphone): -8 dBFS +-4 dB, 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz, default volume.

Max SPLiHighest sound pressure level at the source's distortion limit. The THD level and output path go in the source note. The value without a clipping protection mode such as Clipguard is used when both are given. The value with the pad off is used. When the maker lists several preamp loads, the highest load is used. The load goes in the source note. On a USB microphone that prints values per gain setting, the minimum gain value is used, as for sensitivity.

130dB SPL1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026130 dBSPL typical at 1 kHz. THD level is not stated. Elgato does not say whether Clipguard 2.0 is engaged.

Not available

Max SPL distortion limitiThe distortion level at which the maker states the max SPL, e.g. 1, 3 or 10 % THD. Left out when the maker names none. Max SPL figures compare only at the same limit.

Not available

Not available

Self-noiseiEquivalent noise level, A-weighted, in dB SPL. Lower is quieter. The analog value is used when analog and digital values are both given. A value in dBV or dBFS is left out. On a USB microphone that prints values per gain setting, the minimum gain value is used, as for max SPL.

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Digital noise flooriDigital noise floor of a USB microphone as printed, usually A-weighted over 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Lower is quieter. Processing that was on during the test goes in the source note. It is not self-noise.

Not available

Not available

Signal-to-noise ratioiAs published. Reference level and weighting go in the source note. The microphone's own figure, not the SNR of a built-in headphone amplifier.

Not available

90dB1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Printed as at least 90 dB at 1 kHz and 0 dBFS, A-weighted. The stored value is the stated minimum.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Signal-to-noise ratio at least 90 dB, 1 kHz and 0 dBFS, A-weighted. The sheet also prints THD+N of at most 0.05 % at 1 kHz and 0 dBFS, which is not a max SPL limit and is not stored.

Dynamic rangeiAs published. The distortion level goes in the source note. The value without a clipping protection mode is used when both are given. Use the same pad setting, preamp load and gain as for max SPL.

110dB1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026110 dB as published. Distortion level and Clipguard state are not stated.

Not available

Output impedanceiRated impedance of the XLR output. For a microphone with a switchable preamp, the bypass value is used. A USB-only microphone has no value here, even when the maker prints an impedance for the capsule. When the maker prints a rated and an actual impedance, as Shure does for the SM58, the rated value is stored and the actual one goes in the source note.

Not available

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Connectivity

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OutputsiOutputs that carry the microphone signal to a computer, interface or mixer. A headphone jack does not count. Wireless is a radio link to a receiver, such as 2.4 GHz.

USB1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026USB-C (USB 2.0 HS) and a 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack. USB is the only output.

USB1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C and a 3.5 mm headphone output. The headphone output does not carry the microphone signal to a computer.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Inputs for other sourcesiInputs on the microphone for another microphone or instrument, which it sends to the computer with its own signal.

Not available

Not available

USB and XLR at onceiBoth outputs carry audio at the same time.

Not available

Not available

USB portiUSB socket on the microphone. USB-B is the full-size square socket. A Micro-B socket is Micro-USB, even when the maker writes USB-B.

USB-C1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 20264Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 2026

USB-C1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Cable host plugiPlug on the computer end of the included USB cable. An included adapter is listed in In the box.

USB-C4Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 2026Plug one end into the back of the microphone and the other into a USB-C port on the computer.

USB-C1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Box list: 3m USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-C to USB-A adapter. The cable has a USB-C plug on the computer end. The adapter is for USB-A computers.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Cable type: USB-C to USB-C with USB-A adapter.

Cable lengthiLength of the included USB cable.

2.5m1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026USB-C cable 250 cm. Videoguys and Amazon print 150 cm next to 98 in, so the maker value is used.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 20267Retailer pageholdan.co.uk/products/details/ELG10MAO9901Read 14 October 2026

3m1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Box list: 3m USB-C to USB-C cable.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Phantom poweriPhantom power for the XLR output. Optional means some XLR modes work without it, for example a built-in preamp in bypass. Supplies means the microphone gives 48 V phantom power to a microphone on its XLR input.

Not available

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Digital audio

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Max bit depthiHighest recording bit depth over USB.

24bits1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Resolution 24 bit, sample rate 48 kHz. The 32-bit float processing is internal to Clipguard 2.0 and is not the USB format.

32bits1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 202632-bit/192kHz recording. The HP datasheet lists bit depths 16, 24 and 32 bit. Whether 32 bit is float or integer is not stated, so float_32_bit is left out.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Bit-depth: 16-bit, 24-bit, 32-bit. Sampling rates: 44.1, 48, 96 and 192 kHz.

Max sample rateiHighest recording sample rate over USB. This is not the frequency response.

48kHz1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

192kHz1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 202632-bit/192kHz recording. The HP datasheet lists 44.1, 48, 96 and 192 kHz.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

32-bit float recordingiRecords over USB in 32-bit floating point. A 32-bit integer format does not count.

No1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Resolution is listed as 24 bit only.

Not available

Monitoring

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Headphone outputiA headphone jack on the microphone.

Yes1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

Yes1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C and a 3.5mm headphone output.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026

Zero-latency monitoringiThe headphone output plays the microphone signal directly, before it reaches the computer.

Yes1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Compare table: real-time monitoring of system audio and voice with onboard DSP. Quick start guide: zero-latency monitoring of mic and system audio.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026Effects and Clipguard are applied before the headphone output with zero latency.4Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 2026

Yes3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_2_sRead 14 October 2026The text says the new multifunction knob sets gain, volume, latency-free monitoring and the polar pattern without software.6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The 3.5 mm jack is a direct monitoring jack.7Reviewwindowscentral.com/accessories/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026Lists a 3.5mm audio jack for zero-latency monitoring.

Controls and processing

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Onboard controlsiFunctions you can change on the microphone itself, by knob, button, switch or touch. Settings that exist only in the app do not count. A switch that sets preamp gain steps, such as +18 or +28 dB, counts as gain. Echo is a knob or button for an echo or reverb effect.

Gain, Headphone volume, Monitor mix, Mute1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Multifunction dial: gain, Voice Tune, headphone volume, monitor mix. Tap the top of the microphone to mute.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026Press the dial to cycle input gain, Voice Tune, headphone volume and monitor mix. Turn to adjust. Tap the top to mute.4Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 2026

Gain, Headphone volume, Monitor mix, Mute, Polar pattern1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The multifunction knob selects and adjusts microphone gain, headphone volume, monitor mix and the polar pattern. A tap-to-mute sensor mutes the microphone.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_2_sRead 14 October 2026Gain, volume, monitoring and polar pattern are set with the knob and its button, no software needed. Tap-to-mute switches the microphone off.6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026Knob on the front adjusts gain, monitor volume and monitor/playback mix. Press and hold the button to switch polar patterns. Tap-to-mute on top.

Onboard processingiProcessing inside the microphone, analog or digital, that works without the maker's app running. A maker statement that settings are saved in the microphone counts. Effects that run only in the app on the computer do not count. An expander counts as noise gate. Clip protection such as Clipguard is clip protection. Limiter is only for a limiter the maker lists as its own effect, never both for one feature. Brand names such as APHEX or Clipguard go in the source note. Attenuation pad is a switch that lowers the capsule output, such as -15 dB. Echo is an echo or reverb effect in the microphone. Exciter or bass enhancer covers effects that add harmonics or bass, such as APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom.

Compressor, Noise gate, EQ, High-pass filter, Clip protection1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Wave FX Processor with built-in DSP and Clipguard 2.0. Effects run on the microphone and the FAQ says DSP works independent of the computer. The expander is stored as noise gate. Clipguard 2.0 is stored as clip protection, not also as a limiter. Voice Tune has no matching option and is not stored.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026Five onboard effects run together: low-cut filter, expander, Voice Tune, compressor and 4-band equalizer. Clipguard 2.0 uses digital limiters (what's-the-difference article).3Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-vs-wave3-mk2-whats-the-differenceRead 14 October 2026Five onboard DSP effects with no CPU load. Clipguard 2.0 has stacked ADC converters, 32-bit floating-point internal processing and digital limiters. Settings are stored on the microphone.

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Mounting and accessories

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Mount threadsiStand threads the microphone or its included mount accepts, also with an included adapter.

5/8 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/4 inch1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 20261/4-inch thread under the mic. 5/8-inch and 3/8-inch adapters are in the box.4Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 20261/4-inch thread underneath the mic, 3/8 and 5/8 inch adapters included.

5/8 inch, 3/8 inch1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The shock mount joint is compatible with 3/8 in and 5/8 in threading.6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The shock mount has a boom arm attachment for 3/8 in and 5/8 in threading.

Shock mountiInternal is suspension inside the body. Included is a separate shock mount in the box. A cradle or ring mount that comes fitted to the microphone or its stand is included, even when the maker calls it built-in. A microphone with internal suspension and a separate shock mount in the box is included.

Not available

Included1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Pre-attached, detachable vibration-dampening shock mount. Included shock mount and stand.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_2_sRead 14 October 2026Shock mount included and detachable, with elastic rope suspension and spring pins.6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026A built-in but removable shock mount, attached with two spring-loaded pins.

Pop filteriPop protection built in or in the box.

Internal1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Compare table: pop filter Internal.

Internal6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026An internal mesh pop filter behind a metal honeycomb grille.

Desk stand includediA desk stand or base in the box. A yoke alone does not count. A boom arm does not count either. In the box names it.

Yes1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Box list names a desk stand. Wave Shock Mount is sold separately.

Yes1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The overview names an included shock mount and stand, and the weight line lists a microphone stand.6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026In the box: a built-in shock mount and a desktop microphone stand.

Design and build

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Housing material

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Not available

RGB lightingiDecorative lighting. Status and mute lights alone do not count. RGB lighting is lighting with no function. A level meter or mute indicator is not RGB lighting, even when its colour can be chosen. Lighting that changes colour on its own counts, even when it also turns off on mute.

No1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026The LED ring shows the level and the status, with colours the user can set. A level meter is not decorative lighting.

Yes1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Over 100 individually customizable aRGB LEDs. A separate LED VU meter and status LEDs exist, but the aRGB lighting is decorative.

Lighting zonesiIndependently controllable lighting areas.

Not available

1083Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_2_sRead 14 October 2026Japanese spec table: lighting zones (microphone body) 108. The text says 108 ARGB LEDs. The US page says over 100 individually customizable aRGB LEDs.

Software

1 of 2 differ

SoftwareiThe maker's app for the microphone.

Wave Link1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

HyperX NGENUITY1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Customizable in HyperX NGENUITY Software.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Software compatibility: HyperX NGENUITY.

User firmware updatesiA public updater or a documented firmware update procedure exists for this exact model.

Not available

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Compatibility

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Works withiOperating systems the maker lists for USB audio. App support can be narrower.

Windows, macOS1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Windows 11 or newer and macOS 14.2 or newer. The FAQ says phones and tablets with USB Audio Class 2.0 also work. No OS list is given for them.

Windows, macOS1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Compatibility: PC, Mac. Software compatibility: HyperX NGENUITY. The page lists no other operating system.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Compatibility statement: PC, Mac. Software compatibility: HyperX NGENUITY.

ConsolesiConsoles the maker lists for USB audio.

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Dimensions and weight

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Microphone dimensionsiMicrophone body without a stand or a detachable shock mount. A fixed yoke is included. Width is left to right as seen by the speaker, height is bottom to top in normal use and depth is front to back. Orient the microphone as in use on its yoke or stand. Depth is the direction it points at the speaker, height is up and width is across. An upright side-address microphone has its length as height. An end-address microphone has its length as depth, also when it is held in the hand. A round microphone with only a length and a diameter uses the diameter for the other two sides. The source note states the mapping.

Width85Height167Depth46mm(3.3 × 6.6 × 1.8 in)1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Without stand: D 46 x W 85 x H 167 mm.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026

Width53.98Height212.73Depth53.98mm(2.1 × 8.4 × 2.1 in)6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review prints 8.375 in (212.73 mm) tall by 2.125 in (53.98 mm) in diameter, without the stand. The microphone stands upright and is spoken into from its side, so the length is the height. The diameter is used for width and depth. The same review weighs the microphone at 344.7 g, which matches the maker. Retailer sizes such as Alza 134 x 256 x 102 mm describe the assembled unit with the stand and are not used.

Microphone weightiWithout stand, detachable shock mount and cable. A fixed yoke is included.

250g(8.8 oz)1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026250 g without desk stand.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026

345g(12.2 oz)1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The HyperX store product data and the HP datasheet give the microphone as 345 g. The page text prints .76 lb.2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026Metric weight lines: Microphone 345 g. Shock mount and stand 142 g. Microphone stand 272 g. Total 836 g with USB cable. No weight with the stand attached and without the cable is printed, so weight_with_stand_g is left out.6Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026Review weighs the microphone alone at 344.7 g, 488 g with the shock mount and 275 g for the stand.7Reviewwindowscentral.com/accessories/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026Prints 345 g (0.76 lb) for the microphone only and 835 g assembled.

Weight with standiWith the included stand or mount attached, without the cable. An included shock mount between the microphone and the stand counts.

570g(1.3 lb)1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026570 g with desk stand. Videoguys prints 560 g.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026

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Certifications

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Other certifications

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In the box

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In the box

Wave:3 MK.2, Desk stand, USB-C cable (250 cm / 98 in), 1/4" to 5/8" and 3/8" adapters1Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026Page spells the adapters as 5/8" and 3/8" adapter. The launch article words it as 1/4" to 5/8" and 3/8" adapters.2Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/wave3-mk2-a-new-era-of-digital-audioRead 14 October 2026

HyperX QuadCast 2 S USB Microphone, 3m USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-A adapter, Quick Start Guide1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Box list as printed: HyperX QuadCast 2 S USB Microphone, 3m USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-A adapter, Quick Start Guide. The shock mount and the stand are part of the product and are not named in the list.

Links

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Product page

www.elgato.com/us/en/p/wave-31Maker product pageelgato.com/us/en/p/wave-3Read 14 October 2026

hyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphone1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdf2Maker spec sheet (PDF)tdbaltic.ee/leaflets/HYPERX/9A273AA.pdfRead 14 October 2026HyperX datasheet for product number 9A273AA, hosted by the distributor TD Baltic.

Manual

www.elgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guide4Owner's manualelgato.com/us/en/explorer/products/wave/elgato-wave3-mk2-quick-start-guideRead 14 October 2026

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EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

2years8Retailer pagevideoguys.com/products/elgato-wave-3-mk-2-usb-audio-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty on a US retailer page. The Amazon US listing also says 2 Year Manufacturer warranty. Scan UK prints 36 months return to base, which is a retailer term.

2years1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Warranty tab: 2 years, on the US store.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_2_sRead 14 October 2026Standard warranty 2 years in Japan. The US page says the same.

Both are also in the API. Back to all microphones.