Microphones / Compare

Elgato Wave:3 MK.2 vs HyperX QuadCast S

A

Product A: Elgato

Wave:3 MK.2

40 of 61 known

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B

Product B: HyperX

QuadCast S

43 of 61 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AElgato Wave:3 MK.2

BHyperX QuadCast S

General

4 of 8 differ

Series

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

QuadCast1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The page and the store title name the QuadCast S, a model of 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

4P5P7AA, 519P0AA, HMIQ1S-XX-RG/G1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026SKU 4P5P7AA, Black. The store product data shows the same SKU.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Japanese spec table: product number black 4P5P7AA, white 519P0AA. Both colours are marked sold out on the page.11Reviewsoundguys.com/hyper-x-quadcast-s-review-41067Read 14 October 2026Spec box model number HMIQ1S-XX-RG/G.

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.

196188049488, 1961887360361Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Barcode 196188049488 in the product data of the HyperX US store for SKU 4P5P7AA.4Maker product pageau.hyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Store product data of the HyperX Australia store: White SKU 519P0AA barcode 196188736036, Black SKU 4P5P7AA barcode 196188049488.

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

Not available

28 September 20206Press articlegamerevolution.comRead 14 October 2026Article of 2020-09-28 reporting the HyperX QuadCast S announcement.7Press articleshacknews.com/article/120586/quadcast-s-is-hyperxs-latest-standalone-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Published 2020-09-28.

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.

Available1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The US store lists the QuadCast S in stock at 99.99 USD, with an MSRP of 119.99 USD.

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

Not available

Not available

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

HyperX QuadCast 2 S10Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The review names the QuadCast S as the predecessor of the QuadCast 2 S.

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.

$159.997Press articleshacknews.com/article/120586/quadcast-s-is-hyperxs-latest-standalone-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The QuadCast S will retail for 159.99 USD through the HyperX online store.8Reviewpcper.com/2021/02/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphone-review-rgb-infusionRead 14 October 2026Pricing: 159.99 USD in the spec box. The review calls the QuadCast S 159.99 USD against 119.99 USD for the standard QuadCast.11Reviewsoundguys.com/hyper-x-quadcast-s-review-41067Read 14 October 2026Spec box: original price 159 USD, rounded. The press coverage of 2020-09-28 gives 159.99 USD.

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.

€179.996Press articlegamerevolution.comRead 14 October 2026Available now for 179.99 EUR, 159.99 GBP and a US price to be confirmed. The HyperX EMEA release names no country and no VAT treatment.

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.

Black, White1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The US store offers Color: Black. The image alt text says Black-Grey. The white model is on the Australian store and in the 2022 announcement.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026The page lists a black and a white model.4Maker product pageau.hyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The store offers White and Black.5Press articlegamingtrend.com/news/hyperx-announces-new-duocast-microphone-white-colourways-for-quadcast-s-and-solocast-microphones-and-moreRead 14 October 2026August 2022 HyperX announcement: the QuadCast S is now available in a white colourway.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Element: three 14mm electret condenser capsules. An electret condenser is stored as condenser.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Element: electret condenser microphone.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Element: three 14mm electret condenser capsules.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Condenser type: three 14mm condensers.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Element: three 14mm electret condenser capsules.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Condenser type: three 14mm condensers.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Four selectable patterns: stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional. Page 5: a polar pattern knob selects one of the four.

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 address9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026The review puts the polar pattern dial at the back of the upright cylinder, with the gain dial at the base and the touch mute on top, so the front faces the speaker. No source names the address type in words.

Sound specs

5 of 10 differ

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Frequency response 20Hz - 20kHz, no tolerance given.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Frequency response 20Hz - 20kHz, under Microphone.

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.

Not available

Not available

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.

Not available

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.

Not available

Not available

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

-95dBFS1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Printed as Self-noise (RMS) of at most -95 dBFS, A-weighted, in the microphone specifications. The stored value is the printed bound. The weighting band is not stated.

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

Not available

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

Not available

Connectivity

2 of 7 differ

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C and a 3.5mm headphone output. The headphone output does not carry the microphone signal to a computer.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C. The manual calls the socket a USB-C port.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 3: E. USB-C port.

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-A3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Connection: USB-A on the device side, USB-C on the QuadCast side, 3 m cable included.6Press articlegamerevolution.comRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C to USB-A.

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

3m2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Cable length 3m.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Connection: 3 m cable included.

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

Not available

Digital audio

1 of 3 differ

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.

16bits2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Sample/bit rate 48kHz/16-bit.9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026The review says the microphone is limited to 48 kHz and 16-bit recording.

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

48kHz2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Sample/bit rate 48kHz/16-bit.9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026The review says the microphone is limited to 48 kHz and 16-bit recording.

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.

No2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026The only recording format the manual names is 48kHz/16-bit, so there is no 32-bit float mode.

Monitoring

0 of 2 differ

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Connection type: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone output.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 3: D. Headphone jack. Page 13: connect headphones for microphone monitoring and playback audio.

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

Yes11Reviewsoundguys.com/hyper-x-quadcast-s-review-41067Read 14 October 2026The review says the 3.5mm headphone jack above the USB-C input lets you directly monitor your recording or livestream. The maker calls it live mic monitoring and the PC Perspective review says the jack mixes system audio and live monitoring. No source prints the words zero latency.

Controls and processing

2 of 2 differ

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, Mute, Polar pattern1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Gain dial at the bottom of the microphone and a tap-to-mute sensor. The polar pattern is set with a knob, shown in the manual.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 3: tap-to-mute sensor, gain control knob and polar pattern knob. Page 6: tap the top to mute.9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026Everything but the lighting can be set with physical dials on the unit, including muting and the polar pattern. Gain is a dial at the base.

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.

Not available

Mounting and accessories

2 of 4 differ

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The included mount adapter fits 3/8 and 5/8 inch thread sizes.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 3 and page 16: the mount adapter supports 3/8 and 5/8 inch thread sizes.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Arm connection: 3/8 inch and 5/8 inch.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Built-in anti-vibration shock mount with elastic rope suspension. The manual lists the shock mount and stand together as 360 g, apart from the 254 g microphone, so it is a separate part in the box.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Shock mount: yes.

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.

Internal1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The internal pop filter helps block plosive sounds.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Pop filter: built in.

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.

Yes8Reviewpcper.com/2021/02/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphone-review-rgb-infusionRead 14 October 2026The QuadCast S arrives with a shock mount, a metal stand and a mount adapter to use it with a boom.9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026Spec table extras: removable stand, shock mount, RGB lighting, headphone monitoring.

Design and build

3 of 3 differ

Housing material

Not available

All-metal11Reviewsoundguys.com/hyper-x-quadcast-s-review-41067Read 14 October 2026The review says the microphone is long and cylindrical with a durable all-metal casing.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026RGB lighting with dynamic effects, customizable with NGENUITY. A separate LED status indicator exists, but the RGB lighting is decorative.

Lighting zonesiIndependently controllable lighting areas.

Not available

21Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Footnote 1: 2 zone RGB lighting customizable with HyperX NGENUITY software.6Press articlegamerevolution.comRead 14 October 2026Light effects: 2 zones, customizable using NGENUITY software.8Reviewpcper.com/2021/02/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphone-review-rgb-infusionRead 14 October 2026Spec box: light effects 2 zones.9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026Two lighting zones, top and bottom, customized in NGENUITY.

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Customizable via HyperX NGENUITY Software.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 17: download the HyperX NGENUITY software to customize lighting.

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

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

1 of 2 differ

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Mac. The manual gives setup steps for Windows and macOS. No other operating system is listed.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Pages 7 to 11: setup steps for Windows and macOS.

ConsolesiConsoles the maker lists for USB audio.

Not available

PlayStation1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Mac. No Xbox or Switch is listed.2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 12: setup steps for PS4. The maker page adds PS5.

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)10Reviewtomshardware.com/peripherals/microphones/hyperx-quadcast-2-s-reviewRead 14 October 2026The QuadCast 2 S review says the 2 S is the same size as its predecessor, the QuadCast / QuadCast S, measuring 8.375 in (212.73 mm) tall by 2.125 in (53.98 mm) in diameter. The microphone stands upright and is spoken into from its side, so the length is the height and the diameter is used for width and depth. The size is for the microphone without the stand. The ratio of body width to height and to the stand base in the HyperX product photo fits these numbers. No QuadCast S document prints a microphone-only size.

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

254g(9 oz)2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026Page 4: Microphone 254g, shock mount and stand 360g, total with USB cable 710g. The HyperX US page prints 0.55 lb for the microphone, which is about 249 g. The manual is used. The 360 g and 710 g figures are not a printed weight with the stand and without the cable, so weight_with_stand_g is left out.9Reviewtomshardware.com/reviews/hyperx-quadcast-s-review-blinded-by-the-lightRead 14 October 2026Spec table: weight, microphone only, 0.6 lb (254 g). The table dimensions of 4 x 4 x 9.5 inches are the microphone extended in its stand and are not used.11Reviewsoundguys.com/hyper-x-quadcast-s-review-41067Read 14 October 2026Spec box: 254 g for the microphone and 360 g for the shock mount and stand. The review says the microphone cannot be removed from its shock mount.

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

Not available

Certifications

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Other certifications

Not available

Discord certified, TeamSpeak certified1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Certified by Discord and TeamSpeak.

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

Gaming Microphone, USB Cable, Mount Adapter, Quick Start Guide1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Box list as printed: Gaming Microphone, USB Cable, Mount 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-s-usb-microphone1Maker product pagehyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

Not available

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

elmir.ua/response/product-instruction.php2Owner's manualelmir.ua/response/product-instruction.phpRead 14 October 2026HyperX QuadCast S installation guide, document 480HX-HMIQ1S.A01, part number HMIQ1S-XX-RG/G. The PDF is hosted by the retailer elmir.ua. The HyperX support site was not reachable for a direct link.

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.

Not available

Not available

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-s-usb-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Warranty tab: 2 year, on the US store.3Maker product pagejp.ext.hp.com/accessories/personal/quadcast_sRead 14 October 2026Product warranty: 2 years in Japan. The US page says the same.

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