Elgato Wave:3 vs Heil PR40
A side-by-side look at Elgato Wave:3 and Heil PR40 for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Heil PR40
The dynamic mic that built the podcasting industry's standard
See site
Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Elgato Wave:3 | Heil PR40 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | - | Serious podcasters who want the mic that defines the classic American broadcast podcast sound |
Key features
Elgato Wave:3
Heil PR40
- Cardioid dynamic XLR, no phantom power required
- Frequency response 28 Hz to 18 kHz - widest range in Heil's PR series
- 40 dB rear rejection for superior noise isolation
- Large aluminum diaphragm with neodymium magnet structure
- Output impedance 600 ohms, output level -53.9 dB at 1 kHz
- Made in the USA
Pros and cons
Elgato Wave:3
Heil PR40
Pros
- 28 Hz low-end extension gives voice recordings genuine warmth and body
- 40 dB rear rejection - exceptional in shared or noisy spaces
- American manufacturing with robust build quality
- Reference-level podcast sound with decades of validation
Cons
- Significant preamp gain required - a Cloudlifter may be necessary
- Premium price for a dynamic microphone
- Heavy - requires a quality boom arm rated for its weight
The verdict
Choose Elgato Wave:3 if
Choose Heil PR40 if
Serious podcasters who want the mic that defines the classic American broadcast podcast sound.
The PR40 is where many serious podcasters land after trying cheaper alternatives. Its frequency extension to 28 Hz provides a natural low-end warmth that other dynamics cannot match, and the 18 kHz ceiling gives it a clarity that rivals some…