HyperX QuadCast 2 S vs Logitech G Yeti vs Elgato Wave:3 MK.2: condenser mics with a stand
Compare pickup patterns, stated digital formats, monitoring controls and supplied cables for three condenser packages that include a desk stand.
The decision in brief
How the options differ
All three selected packages supply a tabletop stand and use condenser capsules. QuadCast 2 S and Yeti offer four selectable pickup patterns from three capsules; Wave:3 MK.2 is a single-pattern cardioid design with onboard processing. None of the published formats establishes a sound-quality winner.
By CompareFoundry · Published · Editorial review · Manufacturer documentation, not hands-on testing.
The buying guide
Package and specification details
Choose a pickup pattern deliberately
QuadCast 2 S and Yeti each document three 14 mm condenser capsules with cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional and stereo patterns. Wave:3 MK.2 documents a 16 mm condenser and a cardioid pattern. Pattern names do not measure keyboard or room rejection; placement and the selected mode still matter.
Logitech's specification table gives 16-bit and 48 kHz for Yeti. Elgato gives 24-bit and 48 kHz for Wave:3 MK.2. HyperX states 32-bit/192 kHz in overview text, while its technical table lists no format. A larger figure does not establish better speech recordings; match the setting your recording application actually uses.
QuadCast 2 S uses tap-to-mute and one knob for gain, headphone volume, monitor mix and pattern. Yeti documents gain, instant mute and latency-free headphone monitoring, but no level or blend control. Wave:3 MK.2 has tap-to-mute and a dial for gain, headphone level and monitor mix. HyperX supplies USB-C to USB-C plus a USB-A adapter; Logitech names a USB cable without its connector ends.
No such conclusion follows from a stated format. HyperX gives the figure only in overview text, and voice, room, placement and recording settings require separate evaluation.
The checked Logitech G page lists an included USB cable but does not name the microphone's connector or the cable ends. Check the delivered package before planning around a specific cable or port.
These manufacturer specifications do not establish measured performance, noise, long-term reliability or running cost. We have not independently tested these products. Check current prices, stock and operating-space instructions with the seller and manufacturer.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)QuadCast 2 S USB Microphone; Color Black; SKU 9A273AA; standard microphone package without a boom arm or headphones.
The box list names the microphone, cable, adapter and Quick Start Guide; the stand is described as included and pre-attached rather than listed separately. Confirm the delivered contents.
Headphones, a boom arm and a pop filter are not listed in this package. Stock, promotions and price were not recorded.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)YETI Multi-Pattern USB Microphone; Color Blackout; part number 988-000100; standalone microphone, not the Yeti + C922 Pro Streamer Pack, an Aurora Collection color or Yeti 2.
Midnight Blue (988-000101) and Silver (988-000103) are different color selections with their own part numbers.
The box list names a USB cable without stating its connector ends. Headphones, a boom arm and a shock mount are not listed. Stock, promotions and price were not recorded.
The link may open several packages. Check current price and availability with the seller. Opens in a new tab.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)
Select: YETI Multi-Pattern USB Microphone; Color Blackout; part number 988-000100; standalone microphone, not the Yeti + C922 Pro Streamer Pack, an Aurora Collection color or Yeti 2.
The link may open several packages. Check current price and availability with the seller. Opens in a new tab.
Capsule type
The documented transducer design.
Dynamic or condenser describes the mechanism, not a sound-quality score or a guarantee about your room.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)Three 14 mm electret condenser capsulesSource · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)16 mm condenserSource · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Pickup pattern
The documented directional pickup pattern.
Pattern names do not measure isolation, keyboard rejection or subjective voice quality. Placement still matters.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)Selectable cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional or stereoSource · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)CardioidSource · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
USB connection
The microphone USB connector and documented power or interface scope.
USB-C identifies the connector. Confirm the host port, data cable and app rather than assuming every USB-C device is compatible.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)USB-C; a USB-C to USB-C cable and USB-C to USB-A adapter are supplied.The checked page does not state a USB audio class or power rating.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)USB with the included cable; 5 V, 150 mA; plug-and-play with no drivers required.The checked page does not name the microphone's USB connector type or the cable ends; none is inferred.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)USB-C audio; USB 2.0 High Speed.Source · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
XLR microphone output
Whether the microphone provides an analogue XLR audio output.
An XLR input accepts another source and does not satisfy this field. XLR output normally needs a separate mixer or interface for computer recording.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)NoThe connection-type specification lists only USB-C and a 3.5 mm headphone output.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Not verified
We have not verified this value. It is not a confirmed no or zero. Check the original source or ask the manufacturer if it affects your choice.
The checked page describes USB connection and a headphone output and lists no XLR output, but it has no connection-type specification that states the absence.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)NoSource · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Additional source input
Any documented input for a separate microphone or instrument.
Keep XLR microphone input, quarter-inch instrument input and headphone output distinct. Follow the connected microphone requirements for phantom power.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)No additional microphone or instrument input.The connection-type specification lists only USB-C and a 3.5 mm headphone output.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Not verified
We have not verified this value. It is not a confirmed no or zero. Check the original source or ask the manufacturer if it affects your choice.
No additional microphone or instrument input is described, but the checked page has no connection-type specification that states the absence.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)No additional microphone or instrument input.Source · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Recording paths and modes
How the microphone and any additional source reach the recorder.
Separate mixed and individual tracks. Two connectors do not establish simultaneous output, and stereo playback does not make a mono capsule stereo.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)USB-C recording to a PC or Mac host; the stereo pattern is a capsule pickup mode, and no analogue microphone output is listed.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)USB recording to a computer or laptop with the included cable; the checked page documents no second recording output.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)USB microphone recording with onboard effects; Wave Link provides additional host mixing and routing.Sources · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Maximum documented USB bit depth
The highest published USB recording bit depth, with mode conditions retained in the note.
This is a supported digital format, not a listening-test result or a claim that every app records at that setting.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)32 bitStated only in HyperX overview text ('32-bit/192kHz advanced audio capability'). The technical specification table lists no format, and host or app settings that use it were not established.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)24 bitSource · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Maximum documented USB sample rate
The highest published USB recording sample rate.
Match the recording application and device settings. A larger advertised number does not establish better speech recordings.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)192 kHzStated only in HyperX overview text ('32-bit/192kHz advanced audio capability'). The technical specification table lists no format, and host or app settings that use it were not established.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)48 kHzSource · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Direct monitoring available
Whether the manufacturer documents local headphone monitoring of the microphone.
A manufacturer zero-latency description concerns the local path, not measured end-to-end software, wireless or streaming delay.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)YesHyperX documents a 3.5 mm headphone output, a monitor-mix adjustment and a direct monitoring output.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)YesLogitech describes latency-free monitoring through the headphone output; that wording concerns the local path.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)YesSource · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Monitoring controls
Documented headphone level and microphone/playback mixing controls.
Headphone volume is not recording gain. Listening to yourself does not prove that the intended application is recording.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)3.5 mm headphones; the multifunction knob adjusts headphone volume and monitor mix.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Headphone output with latency-free microphone monitoring; headphone amplifier rated 16 ohms and 130 mW RMS.A headphone-level control or microphone/playback blend control is not described on the checked page.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)3.5 mm headphones; dial controls headphone level and microphone/system monitor mix.Source · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Physical controls
Controls on the microphone and any software-dependent behavior.
Verify mute in the actual recording app. A monitoring toggle can silence the headphones while the microphone continues transmitting.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)Tap-to-mute sensor; multifunction knob for mic gain, headphone volume, monitor mix and polar pattern; LED VU meter and status indicators.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Gain control and instant mute button on the microphone.The checked page does not describe how the pickup pattern is selected.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)Tap-to-mute; dial for gain, Voice Tune, headphone level and monitor mix; hold for Auto Gain.Sources · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Processing and software scope
Documented audio processing and the signal path or app it affects.
Keep onboard processing separate from host effects. USB settings must not be assumed to alter an analogue XLR signal.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)HyperX NGENUITY software customizes the microphone and its aRGB lighting; specific onboard audio processing is not listed on the checked page.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Blue VO!CE EQ, limiter, de-popper and vocal effects require the free Logitech G HUB software.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)Wave FX onboard DSP and Clipguard 2.0; Wave Link configures effects and hosts VST integration.Sources · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Documented host compatibility
Manufacturer-listed computers, mobile devices and software conditions.
A platform listing is not a test of every device or app. Confirm current OS support and the needed cable or adapter before purchase.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)PC and Mac; software compatibility: HyperX NGENUITY. No operating-system versions, mobile devices or consoles are listed.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Computer or laptop over USB without drivers; Blue VO!CE needs Logitech G HUB. No operating-system versions, mobile devices or consoles are listed.The page's system-requirements section was empty when checked.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)Published Wave Link requirements: Windows 11+ or macOS 14.2+, USB-C port. Specific mobile-device/app compatibility was not established.Source · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Desk stand in this package
Whether the selected package supplies a tabletop stand.
A mounting yoke, clamp or thread adapter does not provide a freestanding base. Other bundles can have different equipment.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)YesThe overview says the shock mount/stand is included and the weight table lists a microphone stand; the separate box list does not name it.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)YesSources · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Supplied cables and mounting equipment
Documented accessories in the exact US package.
Check cable ends and mounting threads. Optional arms, headphones and interfaces in promotional photographs are not automatically included.
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)Microphone with pre-attached detachable shock mount and stand, 3 m USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-A adapter and Quick Start Guide.The shock-mount joint is described as compatible with 3/8-inch and 5/8-inch threads.Source · 2026-10-21HyperX: QuadCast 2 S US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)Yeti USB microphone including desktop stand, USB cable and user documentation.The cable's connector ends are not stated on the checked page.Source · 2026-10-21Logitech G: Yeti (Blackout, 988-000100) US product page, specifications and box contentsChecked 2026-10-21. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)Desk stand, 250 cm USB-C cable, 5/8-inch and 3/8-inch thread adapters.Sources · 2026-10-20Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 US specifications and packageChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.Elgato: Wave:3 MK.2 quick start guideChecked 2026-10-20. We reviewed the official page text on the check date. Checkout options were not verified.
Questions to check before buying
QuadCast 2 S Black, standard package (US)
This is QuadCast 2 S, SKU 9A273AA, not the original QuadCast S or QuadCast 2. Do not substitute their format, lighting or accessory specifications.
The 32-bit/192 kHz format appears only in overview text, and no USB audio class, power rating or operating-system versions were established.
Yeti Blackout 988-000100, standard package (US)
This is the original Logitech G Yeti, Blackout part number 988-000100, not Yeti 2, Yeti X, Yeti Nano, Yeti GX, Yeti Orb or the Aurora Collection colors.
The checked page does not state the USB connector type, operating-system versions, an XLR output or a headphone-level control; none is inferred from older Blue-branded documentation.
Wave:3 MK.2 standard package (US)
This is SKU 10MAO9901, Wave:3 MK.2. Do not substitute original Wave:3 format, accessory or software specifications.
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