The Best Equipment for Streamers
Hey there! If you’re a streamer, podcaster, content creator, or even a passionate gamer, you know the importance of having top-notch equipment to enhance your audio and visual experience. In this article, we’ll be reviewing and comparing a range of products from Elgato, a trusted brand known for their high-quality streaming and content creation gear.
Over the years, the demand for professional-grade audio and lighting equipment has skyrocketed as more and more individuals engage in activities such as streaming, podcasting, and game capture. These products have revolutionized the way we communicate, entertain, and share our passions with the world. Owning these tools enables you to elevate the production value of your content, providing a polished and immersive experience for your audience.
So, let’s take a closer look at some of the fantastic products Elgato has to offer. We’ll explore the Elgato Wave:3, a premium studio-quality USB condenser microphone designed specifically for streaming, podcasting, gaming, and home office use. This microphone boasts impressive features such as anti-distortion technology, plug ‘n play functionality, and it even comes with free mixer software and sound effect plugins. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Wave:3 delivers crisp and clear audio, making you sound like a pro.
Next up, we have the Elgato USB-C Stream Deck +, an audio mixer, production console, and studio controller all in one. This device is perfect for content creators and streamers who want to enhance their workflow and have full control at their fingertips. With customizable touch strip dials and LCD keys, the Stream Deck + allows you to personalize your commands and macros, making multitasking a breeze. Whether you need to switch between scenes, control your audio levels, or trigger sound effects, this versatile tool is compatible with both Mac and PC.
We’ll also be taking a closer look at the Elgato Key Light Air, a professional-grade desk light designed specifically for tasks like streaming, broadcasting, home office work, and video conferencing. With app-adjustable temperature and brightness options, you can create the perfect lighting setup to match your environment and achieve that ideal broadcast-quality illumination. Say goodbye to dark shadows, and let the Key Light Air enhance your on-camera appearance.
Additionally, we’ll be highlighting the Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone by YOUSHARES. This professional microphone foam cover serves as a pop filter to block out plosives, ensuring a clean and crisp sound when using the Elgato Wave:1 streaming microphone. This small accessory can make a big difference in the overall audio quality of your recordings.
Finally, although it is not produced anymore by Elgato, we’ll briefly touch upon the Elgato Stream Deck Classic. This classic version of the Stream Deck was an innovation in the field, serving as a customizable control center for streamers and content creators. While it may be harder to find nowadays, its features and functionality have laid the foundation for future iterations.
In the following sections, we’ll delve into each of these products, discussing their unique features, benefits, and overall performance. So, let’s get started and find the perfect Elgato gear to elevate your streaming, podcasting, and content creation game!
Elgato Wave:3 – High-Quality USB Microphone for Streaming, Podcasting, Gaming, and Home Office, Free Software, Sound Effects, Anti-Distortion, Easy Setup, for Mac and PC
The Elgato Wave:3 is a premium studio quality USB condenser microphone that is specifically designed for streamers, podcasters, gamers, and home office use. Whether you are a content creator, a professional streamer, or someone who simply wants to improve the audio quality for your online meetings and gaming sessions, the Elgato Wave:3 is an excellent choice.
We absolutely love the Elgato Wave:3 for many reasons. First and foremost, the audio quality it delivers is outstanding. The microphone captures your voice with exceptional clarity, providing a professional-level sound that will enhance the overall quality of your streams, podcasts, and recordings.
One of the standout features of the Wave:3 is the free mixer software that comes included with the microphone. This software allows you to fine-tune your audio settings, adjust the gain, add sound effects, and even apply voice modulation in real-time. It gives you complete control over your audio, allowing you to customize and personalize your streams and recordings according to your preferences.
Another great feature of the Wave:3 is its anti-distortion technology. This means that even when you raise your voice or get excited during intense gaming moments, the microphone will handle it without distorting the sound. This ensures that your audience will have a smooth and immersive listening experience, free from any unwanted audio artifacts.
The Elgato Wave:3 is designed to elevate your streaming and recording setup to the next level. It features a plug ‘n play design, making it incredibly easy to set up and start using. Simply connect it to your computer via USB, and you’re good to go. There’s no need for any additional drivers or complicated software installations.
The microphone itself has a sleek and professional-looking design, with a built-in headphone output for real-time monitoring. It also comes with capacitive mute and volume dials that can be easily adjusted on the fly, without the need to fiddle with software controls.
Another key feature of the Wave:3 is its compatibility. It works seamlessly with both Mac and PC, giving you the flexibility to use it with your preferred operating system. Additionally, it is compatible with popular streaming software such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit.
The overall quality of the Elgato Wave:3 is exceptional. From its premium construction to its studio-grade sound, this microphone certainly lives up to its reputation. Elgato is known for producing high-quality products, and the Wave:3 is no exception. It is built to last, providing durability and reliability for long-term use.
- Outstanding audio quality
- Free mixer software for customization
- Anti-distortion technology
- Easy plug ‘n play setup
- Sleek and professional design
- Compatibility with Mac and PC
- Compatible with popular streaming software
- May be slightly more expensive compared to other USB microphones in the market
- Lacks physical controls for adjusting sound levels (all adjustments are done through the software)
The Elgato Wave:3 is undoubtedly one of the best USB condenser microphones available for streamers, podcasters, gamers, and home office use. Its exceptional audio quality, customizable features, and ease of use make it a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their streaming and recording setup. Invest in the Elgato Wave:3 and take your content creation to the next level.
Elgato USB-C Stream Deck +: Content Creator Studio Controller
The Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + is a versatile and powerful tool designed specifically for streamers and content creators. Its primary use is to enhance your streaming experience by providing you with tactile control and visual feedback for various aspects of your stream, such as audio, video, lighting, and more.
We absolutely love the Elgato USB-C Stream Deck +, and here’s why. As a streamer, it’s crucial to have quick and easy access to all the necessary controls and commands during your live sessions. This product offers a customizable touch strip, LCD keys, and dials, allowing you to tailor your setup to fit your specific needs. With just a simple touch, you can execute commands and make adjustments seamlessly, without any interruptions.
The Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + serves as an all-in-one solution for streamers and content creators. It can be used as an audio mixer, a production console, and even a studio controller. This versatility allows you to streamline your workflow and simplify the process of managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
One of the standout features of this product is its ability to perform multi-actions and utilize smart profiles. With just a single command, you can trigger a series of actions or set up automatic interface configurations for different applications. This level of automation saves you valuable time and ensures a smooth and professional streaming experience.
Additionally, the Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + comes with powerful plugins that further enhance its capabilities. By integrating with Elgato Wave Link, Camera Hub, Control Center, OBS, Twitch, YouTube, Twitter, Discord, Spotify, Philips Hue, and many more, you can take full advantage of the features and functionalities offered by these platforms.
To top it all off, the Stream Deck App and Store provide you with drag and drop setup options, the ability to download plugins and icons, and access to a wide range of royalty-free tracks and sound effects. With regular updates and new plugins frequently added, this product ensures that you stay up to date with the latest advancements in streaming technology.
In terms of quality, the Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + excels in every aspect. From its durable construction to its intuitive interface, this product is designed to withstand the demands of professional streamers. The LCD keys and touch strip provide excellent tactile feedback, allowing you to make precise adjustments with ease. Furthermore, the customizable nature of the Stream Deck + ensures that it seamlessly integrates into your existing setup.
No product is perfect, and the Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + is no exception. Here are the pros and cons that we’ve identified:
- Tactile control and visual feedback for efficient streaming
- Versatile and customizable for various use cases
- Multi-actions and smart profiles save time and streamline workflow
- Powerful plugins for integration with popular streaming platforms
- Stream Deck App and Store offer additional functionality and resources
- Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest advancements in streaming technology
- The price point may be higher compared to other streaming accessories
- Learning curve for setting up and customizing the Stream Deck + to fit your specific needs
The Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + is an exceptional piece of equipment for streamers and content creators. Its versatility, intuitive interface, and powerful features make it a must-have tool for enhancing your streaming experience. With its tactile control, visual feedback, and seamless integration with popular streaming platforms, the Stream Deck + is a game-changer for anyone looking to take their streams to the next level.
Elgato Key Light Air – Streamer’s Desk Light with Adjustable Brightness and Temperature Control for Mac, PC, iOS, Android
The Elgato Key Light Air is primarily designed for streamers, broadcasters, and those who work from home and engage in video conferencing. This sleek and professional desk light is specifically created to provide optimum lighting conditions for your workspace, ensuring that you look clear and well-lit during live streams, video calls, or recordings.
There are several reasons why we highly recommend the Elgato Key Light Air for streamers. Firstly, its Wi-Fi enabled feature allows you to conveniently switch it on or off and fine-tune the light settings directly from your Mac, Windows, iPhone, or Android device using the dedicated app. This level of control allows you to easily customize the lighting according to your preferences, ensuring that you always look your best on camera.
Another reason we love this product is its exceptional brightness. With 1400 lumens, the Key Light Air effectively illuminates your workspace, providing ample lighting that can be adjusted from a subtle glow to a bright light. Whether you prefer a dimly lit ambiance or a well-lit area, this desk light has got you covered.
The adjustable color temperature is also a standout feature of this product. Ranging from 2900 to 7000 Kelvin, you have the flexibility to adjust the color temperature from a warm, sunset amber to a cool, arctic blue. This enables you to set the perfect lighting ambiance to match your stream or video conference, enhancing the overall visual experience for your viewers or colleagues.
The Elgato Key Light Air aims to provide streamers, broadcasters, and remote workers with a professional, high-quality lighting solution. Its key features include Wi-Fi compatibility for easy control via the dedicated app, 1400 lumens of brightness for optimal illuminating power, and adjustable color temperature ranging from 2900 to 7000 Kelvin.
Additionally, the Key Light Air boasts 80 premium OSRAM LEDs that deliver constant intensity while keeping cool. The desk light is designed with an edge-lit illumination feature, ensuring that the lighting is indirect and gentle on the eyes even during long streaming or work sessions.
When it comes to quality, the Elgato Key Light Air does not disappoint. Its sleek design and premium build make it a durable and attractive addition to your streaming setup or home office. The high-grade materials used in its construction ensure its longevity and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for streamers and professionals alike.
- Wi-Fi enabled, allowing for convenient control via the app from Mac, Windows, iOS, or Android devices.
- Exceptional brightness with 1400 lumens for the perfect lighting conditions.
- Adjustable color temperature ranging from 2900 to 7000 Kelvin for a customizable ambiance.
- Premium OSRAM LEDs deliver constant intensity while remaining cool.
- Edge-lit design provides comfortable illumination for long streaming or work sessions.
- The price may be higher compared to other desk lights on the market.
- The Wi-Fi feature may require some initial setup and configuration.
The Elgato Key Light Air is an excellent choice for streamers, broadcasters, and remote workers who want to elevate their lighting setup. With its Wi-Fi compatibility, brightness, adjustable color temperature, and overall quality, this desk light ensures that your workspace is well-lit and visually appealing. Say goodbye to poorly lit streams or video conferences and hello to a professional lighting solution that will make you shine in every video.
Elgato Wave 1 Microphone Windscreen – Foam Pop Filter for Blocking Plosives
The primary use of the Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone is to enhance the audio quality of your livestreams. This windscreen acts as a pop filter, effectively blocking out plosives and reducing unwanted noise. It is specifically designed for the Elgato Wave:1 Streaming Microphone, providing a perfect fit and easy installation.
We highly recommend the Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone for streamers who want to improve the clarity of their audio. One of the standout features is its compatibility with the Elgato Wave:1 microphone, ensuring a seamless integration. The windscreen effectively reduces plosives, such as “p” and “b” sounds, which can cause distortion in the audio. This means your viewers will be able to enjoy a more professional and pleasant streaming experience.
The Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone serves the crucial purpose of blocking out plosives and other unwanted noises during streaming sessions. It features a high-quality foam material that effectively filters out these sounds without affecting the overall audio quality. This windscreen is designed to fit accurately on the Elgato Wave:1 Streaming Microphone, ensuring a secure and tight fit that won’t easily slip off during use.
The key features of this windscreen include:
- Professional Pop Filter: The windscreen effectively covers the microphone and reduces plosives, preventing distortion in the audio.
- Compatible Design: Designed specifically for the Elgato Wave:1 microphone, ensuring a perfect fit and easy installation.
- High-Quality Materials: Made from durable foam that maintains its shape over time, providing reliable and long-lasting performance.
- Effortless Installation: Simply slide the windscreen onto the microphone, and it will securely stay in place during your streaming sessions.
- Enhanced Audio Clarity: By blocking out plosives, the windscreen helps produce clearer and more professional sound quality for your streams.
The Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone by YOUSHARES exhibits excellent overall quality. The foam material used is high-quality and maintains its shape even after extended use. The windscreen is specifically designed to fit the Elgato Wave:1 microphone, ensuring a secure and snug fit that won’t compromise your audio setup. Its ability to effectively block out plosives and reduce unwanted noise greatly improves the audio clarity of your live streams.
- Perfectly compatible with the Elgato Wave:1 microphone
- Easy to install and stays securely in place
- Reduces plosives and other unwanted noise for improved audio quality
- Durable foam material maintains shape over time
- Provides a professional and clean look to your microphone setup
- Designed specifically for the Elgato Wave:1 microphone, limiting compatibility with other microphones
If you’re a streamer using the Elgato Wave:1 microphone, the Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone by YOUSHARES is an excellent accessory to invest in. Its ability to effectively reduce plosives and improve audio clarity will enhance the overall quality of your livestreams. The windscreen’s compatibility, durability, and ease of installation make it a valuable addition to any streamer’s equipment arsenal.
Elgato Stream Deck Classic (discontinued by Elgato)
The Elgato Stream Deck Classic, although not being produced anymore by Elgato, was designed with one purpose in mind – to revolutionize the streaming experience for content creators like you. This compact device serves as a customizable control hub, giving you instant access to a multitude of actions and tools that can enhance your live streams.
We absolutely love the Elgato Stream Deck Classic for several reasons. First and foremost, it is incredibly user-friendly. Even if you’re new to streaming or not tech-savvy, this device is a breeze to set up and navigate. Its intuitive software and straightforward interface make it accessible to everyone, regardless of their level of expertise.
Secondly, the level of customization offered by the Stream Deck Classic is unmatched. With 15 LCD keys at your disposal, you have the power to program each button to perform specific tasks, such as launching applications, activating scenes, playing sound effects, or even controlling your chat. You can create custom profiles for various streaming platforms or different games, maximizing your efficiency and streamlining your workflow.
The Elgato Stream Deck Classic serves as a companion device for streamers, allowing them to control their streaming software and interact with their audience more effectively. It seamlessly integrates with popular broadcasting software, such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit, among others, ensuring compatibility with your preferred streaming setup.
The key features of the Stream Deck Classic include its 15 customizable LCD keys, each capable of displaying custom icons and providing instant visual feedback. These keys are tactile and responsive, ensuring a satisfying user experience. Additionally, the device offers folder functionality, enabling you to create nested actions and access even more functions, making it a truly versatile tool.
Furthermore, the Stream Deck Classic supports a variety of integrations, allowing you to connect it with other software and services. From controlling your Philips Hue lights to triggering actions in popular chatbots, the possibilities are vast. The Stream Deck Classic truly empowers streamers by providing them with a centralized control solution to enhance their streams and engage with their audience seamlessly.
Despite no longer being produced by Elgato, the Stream Deck Classic maintains its reputation for exceptional quality. The device itself has a solid build, with durable key switches that have a satisfying clickiness to them. It feels robust and can withstand regular use, ensuring longevity.
The software that accompanies the Stream Deck Classic is also well-designed and receives regular updates, further enhancing its functionality and compatibility. Elgato’s commitment to streamers is evident in the level of support they provide, ensuring a smooth experience for users of their products.
Pros:
- Customizable and versatile device
- User-friendly interface and software
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- Regular software updates and support
Cons:
- No longer in production by Elgato, may be difficult to find new
- Limited to 15 keys, may not be sufficient for some advanced setups
While the Elgato Stream Deck Classic might not be in production anymore, it remains a favorite among many streamers due to its high-quality construction, user-friendly interface, endless customization options, and compatibility with popular streaming software. Its intuitive design and versatility make it an invaluable tool for elevating your streaming experience and interacting with your audience seamlessly.
Elgato Wave:3 – Premium Studio Quality USB Condenser Microphone for Streaming, Podcast, Gaming and Home Office
The Elgato Wave:3 is a premium studio-quality USB condenser microphone designed for streaming, podcasting, gaming, and home office use. It offers exceptional sound quality and comes with a range of features to enhance your audio experience. The microphone is plug ‘n play, making it easy to set up and use.
Specifications:
- Premium studio-quality USB condenser microphone
- Plug ‘n play compatibility with Mac and PC
- Anti-distortion technology for clear and crisp audio
- Free mixer software for customizable audio settings
- Sound Effect plugins for added creativity
- Compatible with streaming platforms like OBS, Twitch, and YouTube
Elgato USB-C Stream Deck +
The Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + is an audio mixer, production console, and studio controller aimed at content creators, gamers, and streamers. It offers tactile control and visual feedback through LCD keys, touch strips, and dials. The Stream Deck + is fully customizable, allowing you to use it for a variety of purposes like audio control, video editing, and lighting adjustment.
Specifications:
- Tactile control with LCD keys, touch strips, and dials
- Customizable touch strip dials and LCD keys
- Multi Actions and Smart Profiles for executing multiple commands
- Powerful plugins and compatibility with various apps like OBS, Twitch, and Spotify
- Stream Deck App and Store for easy setup and access to plugins and resources
Elgato Key Light Air – Professional 1400 lumens Desk Light
The Elgato Key Light Air is a professional desk light designed for streaming, broadcasting, video conferencing, and home office use. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity and can be controlled via the app on Mac, Windows, iPhone, and Android devices. With its 1400 lumens output, the Key Light Air effectively illuminates your workspace, and its adjustable color temperature allows you to create the perfect lighting conditions.
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi enabled for remote control via app
- 1400 lumens output for effective illumination
- Adjustable color temperature from sunset amber to arctic blue
- 80 Premium OSRAM LEDs for constant intensity and cool operation
- Edge-Lit design for indirect and comfortable illumination
Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone
The Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone is a foam cover that acts as a pop filter, compatible with the Elgato Wave:1 Streaming Microphone. It blocks out plosive sounds and helps to improve the clarity of your recordings. The windscreen is made by YOUSHARES, a trusted brand known for their high-quality microphone accessories.
Specifications:
- Professional foam cover windscreen
- Compatible with Elgato Wave:1 Streaming Microphone
- Blocks out plosive sounds for clearer recordings
Elgato Stream Deck Classic (not produced anymore by Elgato)
The Elgato Stream Deck Classic is a previous version of the Stream Deck, no longer produced by Elgato. While it may not have the latest features and capabilities of the newer models, it still offers a range of functions for content creators and streamers. It provides tactile control and customizable buttons for executing commands, and it works with both Mac and PC.
Specifications:
- Tactile control with customizable buttons
- Ideal for content creators and streamers
- Works with Mac and PC
Conclusion
Overall, the Elgato products offer a range of high-quality solutions for content creators, streamers, podcasters, gamers, and those who work from home. Whether you need a professional-grade microphone, an audio mixer, a desk light, or a windscreen, Elgato has you covered.
Elgato Wave:3
The Elgato Wave:3 is a premium studio-quality USB condenser microphone that delivers exceptional sound for streaming, podcasting, gaming, and home office use. It offers plug-and-play functionality, anti-distortion technology, and comes with free mixer software and sound effect plugins. The Wave:3 is compatible with both Mac and PC, making it a versatile choice for any content creator.
Elgato USB-C Stream Deck +
The Elgato USB-C Stream Deck + is an audio mixer, production console, and studio controller designed for content creators, streamers, and gamers. With customizable touch strip dials and LCD keys, it provides convenient control over your streaming setup. Compatible with both Mac and PC, this device is a valuable addition to any content creator’s toolkit.
Elgato Key Light Air
The Elgato Key Light Air is a professional desk light that provides 1400 lumens of brightness for streaming, broadcasting, home office work, and video conferencing. What sets it apart is the ability to adjust the temperature and brightness using the app on Mac, PC, iOS, or Android. Whether you need warm or cool lighting for your setup, the Key Light Air has you covered.
Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone
The Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone by YOUSHARES is a must-have accessory for owners of the Elgato Wave:1 streaming microphone. This professional mic foam cover acts as a pop filter, effectively blocking out plosives to enhance audio quality. It is a necessary addition for anyone looking to improve their streaming or podcasting setup.
Elgato Stream Deck Classic
While the Elgato Stream Deck Classic is no longer produced by Elgato, it deserves a mention. This device was a popular choice for streamers and content creators, providing customizable buttons that could be programmed for various functions. However, if you’re in the market for a stream deck, it’s recommended to consider the newer Elgato models, such as the USB-C Stream Deck +, which offer more advanced features.
Recommendations
If you are a content creator, streamer, podcaster, or gamer looking to enhance your setup, Elgato products are worth considering. The Elgato Wave:3 microphone offers studio-quality sound, while the USB-C Stream Deck + provides convenient control over your streaming setup. The Key Light Air is an excellent choice for improving lighting conditions, and the Windscreen for Elgato Wave 1 Microphone enhances audio quality. Although the discontinued Stream Deck Classic is still popular, it’s recommended to explore newer options from Elgato for more advanced features.
Overall, Elgato products offer reliable and high-performance solutions for a wide range of content creation needs. Invest in any of these products to take your streaming, podcasting, gaming, or home office setup to the next level.
You can see thy we recommend Elgato Streaming products as per reviews and amount of users, why this is considered some of the best equipment for streamers.
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