Elgato Wave Go: a microphone that changes recording formats

Wave Go works as a lavalier or handheld microphone, while Smart Handle provides up to 48 hours of battery life. The system connects to smartphones and computers via USB-C, but is not compatible with digital cameras; the introductory price is $99.99.

Elgato Wave Go: a wireless microphone with two ways to use it

Elgato has introduced Wave Go, a wireless microphone system the company calls a “transformable” microphone. The transmitter can be clipped to clothing, like many compact wireless models, or mounted in a handle that turns it into a handheld microphone.

The Smart Handle is what sets Wave Go apart from typical lavalier systems, including DJI Mic. It has buttons for power, recording, and muting. Elgato describes the concept this way: “The microphone works in both configurations. The way you record changes—and the microphone should change with it. Wave Go combines two modes, so you don’t have to choose one or carry extra equipment.”

The Smart Handle’s built-in battery charges the transmitter while it is in use. According to Elgato, the system offers up to 48 hours of total battery life. When used on its own in clip-on mode, the transmitter lasts up to eight hours. A quick 10-minute charge provides another hour of use.

In either configuration, Wave Go is designed to make it easy to record high-quality audio. The system detects the selected configuration and automatically adjusts the recording to deliver rich sound, as the manufacturer promises.

Which devices is Wave Go designed for?

Unlike some competing wireless microphones, Wave Go is not designed to connect to all kinds of equipment. Elgato developed it for USB-C devices, such as smartphones and computers. The system cannot be connected directly to a professional digital camera.

The microphone works only through a USB-C receiver. Bluetooth is used exclusively to connect to the companion app. The stated wireless range is up to 100 feet, or about 30 meters.

Wave Go has no built-in recording capability. You also can’t connect an additional external microphone to the system, although the USB-C receiver supports using two Wave Go microphones at once. Recording is supported at up to 24-bit depth.

So this model isn’t suitable for filming with a digital camera. But for those recording audio on a smartphone or computer, Wave Go offers an unusual feature for a compact wireless system: the ability to switch quickly between lavalier and handheld formats.

Price and package contents

Elgato Wave Go is now available. The bundle with a USB-C receiver, Smart Handle, and one microphone costs $99.99. At the time of the announcement, an additional microphone was offered for $14.99, while its regular price is $29.99. The system is available in black and sky blue.