Best Audio Interface for Streaming (2026)
The Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 is the best audio interface for streaming in 2026 on its listed features, with the GoXLR Mini and Scarlett Solo as alternatives.
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Elgato Wave XLR MK.2
The Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 is built for streamers: touch mute, onboard voice effects and Wave Link routing are all on its listing. The catch is a thin review history (176 ratings at 4.2 stars), so it is the pick on features, not on a long track record.
Check Price on AmazonAt a Glance
| Feature | Elgato Wave XLR MK.2 | TC Helicon GoXLR Mini | Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $169.99 | $189 | $159.99 |
| Streaming Features | Touch mute, onboard effects, Wave Link routing | Broadcast mixer, EQ, compression, gating | None listed |
| Platform | Check Elgato's page | Windows only | PC / Mac / iPad |
| Owner Ratings | 176 at 4.2 | 4,284 at 4.5 | 2,796 at 4.6 |
| Max Sample Rate | 24-bit / 48kHz (maker) | Not stated | 24-bit / 192kHz (maker) |
Quick Comparison
Our Top Picks
Elgato Wave XLR MK.2
Streamer-focused XLR interface with 80dB gain, touch mute and onboard effects, per Elgato.
- 80dB of gain for XLR mics, per the listing
- Touch mute with LED level feedback
- Onboard voice effects, compressor and EQ, per Elgato
- Works with Elgato Wave Link for routing; listing also mentions Stream Deck
- Only 176 ratings at 4.2 stars, a thin track record
- $169.99
- Built around Elgato's own software
- Studio-style mixer with EQ, compression and gating, per the listing
- Midas preamp, per the listing
- 4,284 ratings at 4.5 stars
- Windows only: the listing says no macOS support and no official Linux support
- The Windows app is required for functionality, per the listing
- $189
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
A plain studio interface with a single mic preamp. No streaming extras.
- One XLR mic preamp and one Hi-Z input, per the listing
- 2,796 ratings at 4.6 stars, the highest of the three
- USB-C; listing says PC, Mac and iPad
- Cheapest of the three at $159.99
- No streaming-specific features on the listing
- No loopback mentioned, so routing needs separate software
- No hardware mute button listed
How This Was Researched
I compared the Amazon.com listings for streaming-specific features (routing, mute, effects), platform support and owner ratings. Prices, ratings and stock were read from the Amazon.com listings on 5 October 2026 (US delivery). I have not tested these products myself. The original Elgato Wave XLR was "Currently unavailable" when I checked, so it is not linked; the MK.2 replaces it here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. An interface lets you use XLR microphones and gives you more choice of mic. If your USB mic already sounds fine to you, there is no rule that says you must switch.
Loopback sends your computer's audio back into the interface so streaming software can capture it as one source. Some listings name it: the Audient EVO 4 lists a loop back function, and the Universal Audio Volt 1 listing mentions a monitor mix/loopback function. Check any model you are considering.
Elgato Wave XLR MK.2
Streamer-focused XLR interface with 80dB gain, touch mute and onboard effects, per Elgato.
Check Price on Amazon