Elgato makes a variety of hardware and software for video streamers and content creators. He has just launched his first webcam. At the same time, it rolled out a revamped feed platform and a few other products designed to help people dress up and easily share content.
Along with its very first webcam, named Facecam, Elgato launched Wave XLR, an XLR to USB Type-C microphone interface and digital audio mixer. It also updated its Stream Deck, adding interchangeable faceplates, a detachable USB Type-C cable and a new stand. And two new microphone arms let you adjust the positioning of the mic.
Elgato face camera
As a prolific creator of all things content creation, Elgato seemed destined to deploy its own webcam. He calls his new Facecam “pro-grade”. Priced at $199, it should be.
Facecam shoots high-definition 1080p video at 60 frames per second through the all-glass f/2.4 24mm Elgato Prime lens. This ensures smoothness and clarity, the company said.
The webcam runs on a Sony Starvis CMOS sensor, a sign of a high-end camera used by the pros. It is likely to handle your Zoom calls well.
Facecam has a fixed focus feature so you can move around without blurring the frame. Its adjustable field of view extends up to 82 degrees, allowing for wide shots in addition to close-ups.
Facecam mounts to monitors or camera stands via a choice of an extendable monitor clamp or quarter-inch thread. You can connect it to your Mac or PC with a detachable USB Type-C cable to transfer uncompressed image data with low latency.
Elgato said the accompanying Camera Hub app gives you DSLR-like control over settings like field of view, brightness and exposure. And your settings are saved directly to Facecam for recall on your computers. The Stream Deck plug-in allows touch control and integration with your entire setup.
Reviews of Elgato’s entry into high-end webcams are starting to come out. They’re a bit mixed so far.
Elgato Wave XLR
Wave XLR connects your XLR microphone to your computer, enhancing its audio capabilities. XLR also allows integration with the Elgato Wave Link app to mix audio from your microphone with other independent audio sources, the company said.
You can easily control your microphone with Wave XLR thanks to its multifunctional control wheel and silent capacitive mute button. Exclusive Clipguard technology prevents sound distortion when input levels peak. And up to 75 dB of ultra-low-noise gain amplifies unresponsive mics.
Wave XLR also provides up to 48 volts of phantom power to drive condenser microphones. Like Facecam, Wave XLR integrates with Stream Deck for advanced audio control.
Elgato Stream Deck
Elgato has also revamped its Stream Deck, an interface with 15 LCD keys that can be customized with icons and actions to control applications and tools.
Stream Deck now sports detachable components that allow users to customize their setup. A new fixed-angle desktop stand securely fixes the device and can be removed to lay the device flat or mount it. The USB-C cable can be disconnected and replaced with any USB-C cable.
In addition, the front is easily detached. This allows users to easily choose a different design from a growing range of custom faceplates with different colors and graphics. Seven faceplate choices keep things fresh.
Featuring the newly updated Stream Deck 5.0 app and store with plugins, royalty-free music tracks, sound effects and more, Stream Deck is a customizable control interface.
Two new mic arms
Elgato’s new Wave Mic Arm and Wave Mic Arm LP give content creators – or anyone with a desktop audio setup – two microphone mounting options.
Wave Mic Arm, a traditional suspension arm, measures 750 mm / 29.5 inches. It comes with an extension riser that adds an extra 150mm / 5.9 inches of height to reach taller obstacles, like computer screens.
The Wave Mic Arm LP is a low profile metal boom arm that sits below the shoulder line to ensure an unobstructed view.
Both mic arms feature hidden cable channels with removable covers for easy access. An adjustable clamp bracket accommodates different desk designs, and a ball joint with a quarter-inch screw and multiple adapters adds flexibility.
Whether you’re just getting started creating content or looking to upgrade, Elgato’s new streaming gear and accessories can help you turn your desktop into a content studio.
Prices: Facecam costs $199.99; Wave XLR costs $159.99; Stream Deck costs $149.99; Wave Mic Arm and Mic Arm LP are $99.99.
Or buy: Elgato
