Elgato debuts webcam, updates stream deck and more for content creators

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The new Elgato Facecam, at $199, competes with the big boys.
The new Elgato Facecam, at $199, competes with the big boys.
Photo: Elgato

Elgato makes a variety of hardware and software for video streamers and content creators. It just launched its first webcam. At the same time, it rolled out a revamped stream deck and a few other products designed to help folks dress up and easily share content.

Alongside its first-ever 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 mic positioning.

Elgato Facecam

As a prolific maker of all things content creation, Elgato seemed destined to roll out its own webcam. It calls its new Facecam “professional grade.” At a price of $199, it ought to be.

Facecam takes high-def 1080p video at 60 frames per second through the all-glass f/2.4 24mm Elgato Prime Lens. That 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 pros. It’s likely to handle your Zoom calls well.

Facecam features fixed-focus functionality so you can move without blurring in the frame. Its adjustable field of view extends to 82 degrees, allowing for wide shots in addition to close-ups.

Facecam mounts to monitors or camera mounts via a choice of an expandable monitor clamp or a 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 of settings such as field of view, brightness and exposure. And your settings are saved directly to Facecam for recall on your computers. The Stream Deck plugin enables tactile 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, upgrading its audio capabilities. XLR also enables integration with the Elgato Wave Link app to mix your microphone audio with other independent audio sources, the company said.

You can easily control your microphone with Wave XLR thanks to its multifunctional control dial and silent capacitive mute button. Proprietary Clipguard technology prevents sound distortion when input levels peak. And up to 75dB of ultra-low-noise gain amplifies insensitive 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 also revamped its Stream Deck, an interface with 15 LCD keys that can be customized with icons and actions to control apps and tools.

Stream Deck now sports detachable components that allow users to personalize their setup. A new fixed-angle desktop stand firmly plants the device and can be removed to lay the unit flat or mount it. The USB-C cable can be disconnected and replaced by any USB-C cable.

Plus, the faceplate easily snaps off. That lets users easily snap on a different design from a growing range of custom faceplates with different colors and graphics. Seven faceplate choices keep things fresh.

With the recently updated Stream Deck 5.0 app and Store featuring 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 offer content creators – or anyone with a desktop audio setup – two microphone mounting options.

Wave Mic Arm, a traditional suspension boom arm, stands at 750mm / 29.5 inches. It comes with an extension riser that adds another 150mm / 5.9 inches of height to reach over bigger obstacles, like computer monitors.

Wave Mic Arm LP is a metal, low-profile 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 mount fits various desk designs and a ball head with a quarter-inch screw and several adapters adds flexibility.

Whether you’re just getting started creating content or looking to upgrade, Elgato’s new streaming gear and accessories can help turn your desktop into a content studio.

Prices: Facecam is $199.99; Wave XLR is $159.99; Stream Deck is $149.99; Wave Mic Arm and Mic Arm LP are $99.99.

Where to buy: Elgato

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