Elgato has announced a brand-new version of its free digital audio mixer took, dubbed Wave Link 2.0. Like the original software, the 2.0 version is designed to give content creators a flexible suite of options for managing their audio feeds while also adding in several quality-of-life upgrades designed to address the challenges that streamers and podcasters regularly run into.
One of the big new features is Voice Focus, which Elgato says was developed in collaboration with audio company AI-Coustics and can be used to remove unwanted noise, room reverb, and echo. At the same time, Elgato claims that a user’s voice can be isolated and elevated to “professional” quality standards and this toolset is designed to deliver high-quality results in seconds. Essentially, if you’re in a rush to get started on on your project and you don’t want to tweak audio settings, this can potentially make you sound like a pro with minimal input needed from you.
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Managing multiple audio channels should also be easier with the new simplified layout in Wave Link 2.0. The overhaul includes one-click audio-routing allows users to instantly assign apps to channels, app-grouping for better organization, and input channel-renaming to streamline your layout. Additionally, digital tools like a compressor, de-esser, equalizer, and reverb adjuster have been retained and you’ll still be able to use third-party audio plug-ins.
Naturally, Wave Link 2.0 is designed to work best with Elgato hardware–the current version can be used with other microphones if you prefer–and the company says it is aiming to introduce meaningful user experience improvements with the new software. If you’re looking to get into livestreaming or podcasting, Elgato’s gear is recommended as it has a very user-friendly design and offers high-quality results at a reasonable price.
The Elgato Wave 3 condenser microphone is a favorite amongst streamers for its plug-and-play design, while the Stream Deck is pretty great for livestreams as this is a 15-button customizable panel that you can assign specific functions to. Other neat Elgato tech includes the Elgato Wave XLR Audio Mixer in case you want to fine-tune your sound and the Elgato Stream Deck pedal for when you need something that offers hands-free functions.