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Shure MV88+ Video Kit - Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone for Apple and Android, with Manfrotto PIXI Tripod, Phone Clamp, Mount, iOS and USB-C Cables for Next-Level Connectivity (MV88+ Video KIT)
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Purchase options and add-ons
Recommended Uses For Product | Streaming |
Brand | Shure |
Model Name | MV88+ |
Connectivity Technology | Lightning |
Connector Type | USB Type-C |
Special Feature | Phone clamp is compatible with other rigs for videographers – Eg 3rd party tripods. (Mic clip can be mounted onto any ¼" thread or shoe mount), Additional custom furry from Rycote available for added wind protection (AMV88-FUR), Live Stream Ready See more |
Compatible Devices | Samsung Galaxy s9 / s9+, iOS Devices, NOT compatible with iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy s8 / s8+, Samsung Galaxy s7 (required additional micro-B cable or OTG adapter), Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Galaxy Note 9 See more |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Windscreen – AMV-88WS, Phone Clamp, Shoe mount Mic Clip [Phone clamp/mic clip combo available as AMV-PC], Lightning cable 15 in/38cm – AMV-LTG15, USB-C Cable 15 in/38cm – AMV-USBC15, Manfrotto PIXI mini tripod [cannot be purchased separately from Shure), Roll-up bag (included)- [not available separately] See more |
Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
About this item
- iOS, ANDROID* & DESKTOP COMPATIBLE: Supplied Lightning and USB-C cables allow for connection to iOS, Android* and desktop devices
- HEADPHONE MONITORING: Built-in headphone output for real-time headphone monitoring
- APPLE MFi CERTIFIED: Made for iPhone/iPad/iPod certified for direct connection to Apple iOS devices
- LIVESTREAM READY: Perfect for livestreaming if 3rd party application recognises USB/Lightning audio
- TWO FREE APPS: ShurePlus MOTIV Audio & ShurePlus MOTIV Video allow you to customize the performance and set-up of the microphone for professional audio and video capture. iOS and Android versions available
- CHARGE ON THE MOVE: Allows for phone charging while the mic is in use (requires USB-A cable and Apple USB3 camera adapter)- iOS users only.
- FULL CONTROL: Multiple stereo width and Polar pattern options for ultimate flexibility.
- NO WIND NOISE: Includes a black foam windscreen (part number AMV88-WS); please note that the windscreen comes attached and can be removed if desired.
- IN THE BOX: 2-Year Warranty, MV88 microphone, foam windshield, Manfrotto Pixi Mini tripod, Lightning cable, USB-C cable, phone clamp, shoe-mount mic clip, and neoprene roll-up carry case.
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This Item Shure MV88+ Video Kit - Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone for Apple and Android, with Manfrotto PIXI Tripod, Phone Clamp, Mount, iOS and USB-C Cables for Next-Level Connectivity (MV88+ Video KIT) | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $249.00$249.00 | -57% $9.99$9.99 List: $22.98 | $25.99$25.99 | $269.00$269.00 | $299.00$299.00 | -20% $99.00$99.00 List: $124.00 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Value for money | 3.8 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.4 |
Easy to use | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.6 | — | 4.8 | — |
Noise cancellation | 4.5 | 4.1 | 4.4 | — | — | — |
Portability | 4.4 | — | — | 4.2 | — | 4.6 |
Sold By | AVLGEAR | ZHYKJUS | MAYBESTA | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
power source | PHANTOM POWER: All condenser microphones require phantom power to operate. Please refer to the User Manual for more details on power requirements. | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Usb Microphone,Usb-c | PHANTOM POWER: All condenser microphones require phantom power to operate. Please refer to the User Manual for more details on power requirements. | PHANTOM POWER: All condenser microphones require phantom power to operate. Please refer to the User Manual for more details on power requirements. |
connectivity tech | Lightning | 🏆Most Popular Microphone | Bluetooth | USB | USB | USB |
connector type | USB Type-C | USB | Lightning | Micro-B USB, XLR | USB | USB |
model number | MV88+ VIDEO KIT | K30 | WM350 | MV7-K-BNDL | MV88+ | MV5-DIG |
material | Neoprene | — | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | Metal | — | Aluminum |
battery quantity | 1 lithium ion | 1 lithium ion | 1 lithium ion, 1 lithium ion, 1 lithium ion | — | — | — |
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Product information
Item Weight | 1.03 pounds |
---|---|
Product Dimensions | 7.5 x 4.4 x 4.4 inches |
ASIN | B07M8JLFLK |
Item model number | MV88+ VIDEO KIT |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #25 in Professional Video Microphones |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | January 8, 2019 |
Color Name | Black |
Compatible Devices | Samsung Galaxy s9 / s9+, iOS Devices, NOT compatible with iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy s8 / s8+, Samsung Galaxy s7 (required additional micro-B cable or OTG adapter), Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Galaxy Note 9 |
Connector Type | USB Type-C |
Hardware Interface | USB |
Material Type | Neoprene |
Hardware Platform | iOS Lightning-equipped devices and select Android devices...visit Shure website for more info |
Power Source | PHANTOM POWER: All condenser microphones require phantom power to operate. Please refer to the User Manual for more details on power requirements. |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
What's in the box
Videos
Videos for this product
2:59
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Is This Mic WORTH IT?! Watch To Find Out Now!
Spencer J
Videos for this product
3:00
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Does it Work? Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone Review
✴️ Professor Nez
Videos for this product
1:48
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Overview of app and microphone functionality
Kenzie Dalrymple
Videos for this product
1:44
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Comparing the iPhone Mic to This Shure Mic
Zach Daley
Product Description
The Motiv MV88+ Video Kit is a premium digital stereo condenser microphone. Your new mobile recording rig directly connects to any Apple device via a Lightning connector, or via USB-C to select additional devices. The mV88+ has all you need to capture great content right out of the box. The included phone mount is also compatible with your existing set-up, allowing to connect to any standard ¼” Tripod. The mV88+ is compatible with: iOS devices, Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Galaxy Note 9, Samsung Galaxy S7 (requires additional Micro-B cable or OTG Adapter), Samsung Galaxy S8/ S8+, Samsung Galaxy S9/ S9+. Note that not all Android devices provide enough power or support USB Audio. Note that the mV88+ is not compatible with iPad Pro.
From the manufacturer
A Creation For Creators
Just Add Phone
All the tools you need to create a professional recording kit, right out of the box. The kit includes a Manfrotto PIXI tripod, phone clamp, and mount, as well as iOS and USB-C cables for next-level compatibility and connectivity. Just add phone.
4 Creative Set-up Options
Videography
Capturing professional audio for your video production has never been easier.
Selfie & Vlogging
Point the mic directly towards yourself. Perfect audio on your next vlog adventure.
Bi-Directional & Interview
Get balanced audio levels from in front and behind the camera in your next interview or podcast.
Field Recording
If you’re all about the audio, here’s the set up you need to capture that perfect audio track.
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Vlogging & Videography
Take your production to the next level
Creating professional video content doesn’t need to be complicated. The MV88+ Video Kit is the perfect partner for your mobile device to level up your next video production or YouTube video. Go create. Just add phone.
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Music Making
Stereo recording directly to your mobile device
Configure the set up of your MV88+ using the ShurePlus MOTIV app(s) and record your next track in stereo, directly to your mobile device.
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Sampling & Field Recording
Capture the sound you’ve always wanted
Recording on the move has never sounded this good. The travel-friend MV88+ Video Kit is small enough to fit into your rucksack but doesn’t compromise on sound. Create a track with stereo samples from your next adventure.
Shure MV88 Comparison
| App Integration? | |
| iOS Compatible? | |
| Android Compatible? | |
| MFi Certified? | |
| Charge While In Use? | |
| Use With Phone Case? | |
| Livestream Ready? |
| App Integration? | |
| iOS Compatible? | |
| Android Compatible? | |
| MFi Certified? | |
| Charge While In Use? | |
| Use With Phone Case? | |
| Livestream Ready? | |
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Professional Sound
When it matters most to you, rely on Shure and the MV88+ to deliver amazing sound performance.
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Custom Configuration Via
Integrated App Control
Download our free ShurePlus MOTIV Audio and Video apps to configure your mic settings and record.
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Built in
Headphone Monitoring
To ensure real-time audio assessment, a headphone jack on the MV88+ lets you record with confidence.
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Just add phone
All Accessories Included
The kit includes a Manfrotto PIXI tripod, phone clamp, and mount, Lightning cable and USB-C cable.
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Fully Compatible
Check whether this microphone supports your device on the Shure website. Search MOTIV Compatibility.
Can I ‘plug and play’ with the MV88+?
Yes! Connect directly to compatible devices with a USB cable. Be sure to download the MOTIV desktop app to control gain and other mic settings
Can I charge my iPhone or iPad while using the Shure MV88+ microphone?
Yes but there are limitations. You will need the correct adaptor and will not be able to adjust any mic settings while charging.
Can the MV88+ be with a GoPro camera?
Unfortunately, no. As Sept 2021, devices such as GoPro and Osmo Mobile do not include the USB-C port as part of the digital audio circuit
Can I livestream with the MV88+?
Yes! MV88+ can be used for livestreaming with compatible apps on your devices. Please be sure to check the compatibility with your devices on Shure’s website.
Will I be able to attach a phone to the tripod?
Yes! The MV88+ Video Kit comes with a tripod that connects both a phone and the mic for easy use.
From the brand
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Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, sound quality and ease of use of the microphone. For example, they mention it's a very solid product, the overall construction is top notch and the sound of recordings is pretty amazing. Some appreciate the portability. That said, opinions are mixed on performance, value, size, and appearance.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the microphone. They say it is a very solid mic, the overall construction is top notch, and the sound quality is excellent. Some mention that the full range was evident from good solid, but not booming, bass to the upper harmonics. Overall, customers are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...I disagree completely. Superior performance, build quality and features are well worth $150 vs competition like the $100 Zoom iQ7...." Read more
"...not matter, and in this case I can say that the MV88 delivers such outstanding quality that even a 5*rating does not even come close to what this..." Read more
"...The overall construction of the microphone, and included accessories is top notch. The microphone appears to be all metal...." Read more
"...It works in both a vertical and horizontal position with a cover. It's sturdier, and accommodates the mic at the top; plus it's on Amazon." Read more
Customers like the sound quality of the microphone. They mention that it enhances the capture of the sound, and playback through quality speakers is proof positive that the plug and play microphone works. The quality of recordings is pretty amazing, and the noise level is noticeably different when using this microphone. That said, they say it's able to record in stereo, produce a superwide stereo image, and is perfect for Zoom streamed rehearsals.
"...of compression and limiting, to the point i’ve never heard distortion on live performances, other than traceable to overloaded mixer/monitor/amps in..." Read more
"...Wow, the MV88 is able to produce a superwide stereo image, I can hear the ping pong trails note by note, and there is no loss in low and high notes...." Read more
"...without a lot of background noise, this will absolutely enhance the capture of the sound." Read more
"...There was a lot of background noise on the Yeti which the MV88 sounded clear and sharp. My dad would often tell me that you get what you pay for...." Read more
Customers find the microphone easy to use. They mention that the apps are easy to understand, and the manual settings are easy. They appreciate the convenience of being able to slap the mic on their phone. They also appreciate the crisp audio and the accessibility like no other.
"...The MOTIV app is easy to use. Documentation is a joy—clear and detailed, often answering not just how, but why...." Read more
"...But for recording on the fly, this mic is priceless. The manual is worth to study, especially the settings part is a must to read...." Read more
"...It is very portable and easy to setup.The phone kit consists of a Manfrotto brand clamp and tripod...." Read more
"...Finally, there's the app, which is easy to use, allows for customizing the way the mic captures audio, and will allow you make high-quality audio-..." Read more
Customers find the microphone super portable, easy to carry, and compact. They say it's lightweight enough to attach to a gimbal and is perfect for an on the go studio. Customers also mention that the packaging is very handy and easy to store.
"...It is very portable and easy to setup.The phone kit consists of a Manfrotto brand clamp and tripod...." Read more
"...It's lightweight enough that if you attach it to a gimbal it will still hold it...." Read more
"...It comes with a storage case and cable that can easily fit into a backpack, large instrument case, or gig bag. The sound quality is amazing...." Read more
"...First thing I noticed is it's a lot smaller and lighter than my old microphone, no longer do I have to worry about my mic stand falling over from..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the performance of the microphone. Some mention that it works well if you don't have a case on your phone, and the results were terrific. It works well for vlogging and recording voices, and is 3 or 4 ft away from the phone. However, others say that it simply doesn't work 100% of the time, does not work at all on both iPads, and does not play well with most phone cases.
"...I disagree completely. Superior performance, build quality and features are well worth $150 vs competition like the $100 Zoom iQ7...." Read more
"...Video wise, the same app on the phone that works well, does not work at all on both iPads, and even makes the iPad act all wonky and funky if you..." Read more
"...The MV88 is that good that it records even the slightest pitch changing from each synth...." Read more
"...It also works well on laptops and desktops as a USB microphone. You do still have to connect it to a phone to alter any settings...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the microphone. Some mention it's value for money, worth the investment, and a great little microphone for the price, while others say that it'd be a waste of time and money.
"...and a beeper in the MV88 would be nice, but almost certainly not cost effective. Source: wikipedia RFID.——..." Read more
"...A no-brainer . But for recording on the fly, this mic is priceless. The manual is worth to study, especially the settings part is a must to read...." Read more
"...Great all in one mic for home and on the go. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for." Read more
"...The quality of this mic is exceptional, especially at this price point, and is very easy to use...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the size of the microphone. Some mention that the small size makes it easy to carry, and it's plug and play design. The size of condenser is just right and it won't block the outlet for earphone. This item for being so small works great for voice-overs, and can be conveniently carried in a purse or pocket. However, others say that it also didn't fit into the phone with an Otterbox case on, so they had to risk their phone by. It is still quite small even with a Movo WS-G10 Furry windscreen added, and doesn't fits tightly into the port.
"...1/10: Add RFID—MV88 is so tiny, it’s easy to lose!..." Read more
"...Their feedback was positively overwhelming! It is true, size does not matter, and in this case I can say that the MV88 delivers such outstanding..." Read more
"...It is still quite small even with a Movo WS-G10 Furry windscreen added...." Read more
"...Well this mini mic fits the bill. I pop it into my phone, and it works...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the appearance of the microphone. Some mention it looks and sounds good, while others say it doesn't look like as advertised, has a poor design, and looks cheap.
"...The highly elegant pivot and twist system for the stereo mics gives correctly oriented stereo audio for landscape mode (“horizontal”) video...." Read more
"...I felt it was my duty to let everyone in on a major flaw in the design. The plug piece that goes into the lightning jack is very short...." Read more
"...Its pretty neat, but I am getting it for video.. just manually look it up, and you can download it free.. MOVIT TV..." Read more
"...I have the Shure MV5 also, ,and while it looks pretty cool, is a lot more flexible in terms of mic placement, and uses a lightning cable that works..." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I modified a 2021 Spigen Ultra Hybrid case with an X-acto knife to clear the MV88 (see photo). It was possible to leave intact the top edge over the Lightning connector--unlike some cases with an open area there
to I’ve used the MV88 for live music performance video recording in stereo, with a handheld iPhone 6s Plus since Dec2015. As of 04Jul2017 there is no competition for this application. As a musician and software engineer coding audio signal processing, I’ve found the sound quality to be excellent. Amazing lows and clear, extended natural highs vs. mics like the Zoom iQ7 and the old Tascam iM2. Amazon apparently doesn’t allow external links, but google “youtube electric eye lucky strike” should yield two videos of the same performance, with audio from the Zoom iQ7 vs. the MV88.
There are other great stereo mics from Shure and Rode, but they're significantly bulkier and heavier—impractical for handheld video. And there is no contest vs the mono, overload prone built-in iPhone mics—optimized for noise cancellation and monaural voice, rather than stereo live music. You may burst out laughing hearing recordings with the MV88 for the first time. Commenters saying there is little or no difference—maybe are listening on the iPhone speaker? Headphones, external speakers, are the real test.
The MOTIV app is easy to use. Documentation is a joy—clear and detailed, often answering not just how, but why. Its Band preset works amazingly well for rock concerts—just a touch of compression and limiting, to the point i’ve never heard distortion on live performances, other than traceable to overloaded mixer/monitor/amps in the original performance. Even on video of Motley Crue’s Final Tour 31Dec2015, the explosions weren’t distorted (google youtube motley crue antera77, at 27:42)
The highly elegant pivot and twist system for the stereo mics gives correctly oriented stereo audio for landscape mode (“horizontal”) video. Mics like the Rode iXYL and the apparently abandoned Blue Mikey Digital Lightning (Blue’s website as of 04Jul2017 touts iOS 7 compatibility—a version introduced Sep2013) require portrait mode for this—rendering them essentially useless for landscape mode video. The jewel-like, all metal construction screams quality, vs. plasticy, deformed Mickey Mouse ears looking mics like the Zoom iQ7.
Suggested improvements, 0-10 scale, 10 being highest priority/cost:
10/10: Recording level indication on the mic - add two or three green LED level meters to the single MV88 “Communication Established” LED.
My biggest disappointments have involved not knowing audio levels while recording video. Excellent workaround has been an iOS video app like Filmic Pro with on-screen audio level meters. Apple’s default Camera app has none—suggestion to Apple: Make audio level meters a Preferences-selectable option! Much less elegant workaround: carry earbuds or headphones to the live show to monitor the audio. Earbuds are hard to hear in a live music setting, and more bulk and kit to lose and fuss with—especially with iPhone 7 and newer needing an adapter for headphones.
The $100 Zoom iQ7 Lightning mic has three LED level meters, so they’re likely cost-effective.
4/10: “Turn Airplane Mode On When MV88 detected” option in the Shure MOTIV app
I’ve come home to interference-riddled audio several times, because I forgot to turn Airplane Mode on. No reliable way to tell if interference is occurring while taking video, even with an audio level meter-equipped video app like Filmic Pro.
You wouldn’t want Airplane Mode automatic:
* not clear that iOS would allow this
* some would like to do live streaming, and/or to take calls while recording even if it interrupts the video app
3/10: Improve software system reliability in establishing MV88 communication
I don’t know if this is practical. But I’ve had big disappointments from not paying attention to the MV88 green LED. Not noticing the serial data connection wasn’t established meant the horrible, built in mono iPhone mic took over, or worse, no audio. Even using an audio level meter equipped app like Filmic Pro, sometimes I haven’t noticed if the on-screen audio meters were showing stereo vs. mono, or no audio. Apparently it’s fairly common even with the MV88 plugged into the Lightning connector, that a serial data connection is not established. Understandable given several systems have to interact perfectly:
* mechanical Lightning connection
* three software systems—iOS, video app, Shure MOTIV app
The ideal live music recorder would be a dedicated video camera and permanently attached stereo mic and integrated software. It may be that Shure has already maximized communication reliability, given the constraints of integrating with the iPhone hardware and software.
1/10: Add RFID—MV88 is so tiny, it’s easy to lose!
A passive 916MHz RFID tag would add an insignificant $0.15 (in volume as of 2006) to the $150 cost. You’ve got the radio hardware to sent out RFID signals right there on the iPhone. Most practical would be just a response—tells you the MV88 is in the room somewhere at least, vs. lost at the gig. GPS chips and a beeper in the MV88 would be nice, but almost certainly not cost effective. Source: wikipedia RFID.
——
I’d like to address the remainder of this review to errors in the review “Not $150 worth of mic, just ok.
By Amazon Customer #99 on March 7, 2017”, as these are common misunderstandings that could dissuade many from making an excellent choice in the MV88:
“Bottom line: It's good but, frustratingly, not $150 good…Zoom makes one…at least as good for…less.”
I disagree completely. Superior performance, build quality and features are well worth $150 vs competition like the $100 Zoom iQ7. This is generally echoed by the majority of other reviews here.
“ “It's fine for speech and podcasts and YouTube videos, but not really good enough for a musician. It is noticeably noisy (hissy)…”
For conversations, and live music performances at least, avoiding distortion and overload, is far more important than background hiss—a comparative non-issue. As a musician and audio engineer, I’ve found the MV88 audio excellent—extended bass and highs, and if there’s any distortion, it’s been from overdriven mixers/monitors/amps in the original performance. On quiet passages, audience noise has been more an issue than background hiss.
From Shure:
“The MV88 was designed primarily to record loud sounds, like a rock concert, or medium sounds, such as conversation. As the sounds gets softer and/or the MV88 is placed farther away from the sound source, at some point the self-noise (hiss level) of the MV88 might become noticeable or objectionable…The MV88 does not have an exceptionally low noise floor like a Shure KSM44A (4 dB SPL-A), however the KSM44A is nearly seven times the price. If the requirement is to record very soft bird sounds in a forest, or the barely audible whispers of wind in the trees, the MV88 may not be appropriate.” (google Shure Customer Help MV88 recording soft sounds)
Further, the biggest source of background hiss is presets with Compression on, rather than quiescent mic capsule noise. Turning it off or using Flat preset in the MOTIV app will help. Just be careful to set recording levels low enough to prevent overload.
“…even when the phone is in airplane mode.”
Airplane mode being off, and microphone signal-to-noise performance are two different noise sources. Airplane mode turns off the iPhone cellular/Bluetooth/wifi radio frequency transmit and receive, which can cause static and other intermittent noise at audio frequencies. This has nothing to do with steady background hiss from the MV88 ADC and mic capsules’ combined signal to noise ratio.
“ It has weak midrange and bass response…“
Compared to what? I’ve found the MV88 to have excellent bass response vs other Lightning connector mics like the iQ7. Shure’s User Guide lists response as 20-20kHz. Its frequency response graph shows a gentle rolloff below 300Hz but no dip in the midrange:
(From Shure MV88 User Guide - Specifications)
You may be comparing the MV88 to a mic with artificially boosted midrange and bass.
“… although it's tweakable in the MOTIV app up to a point.”
Indeed it is, with the MOTIV 5-band graphic EQ:
(From Shure MV88 User Guide - The ShurePlus MOTIV App - Mic setup)
“It is heavy and cumbersome unless you hold the phone…on a tripod.”
Maybe if you’re a leprechaun. The MV88 mass is 40.5g vs. your favored Zoom iQ7 at 30.5g. Using the MV88 handheld for shooting live music performances with my 192g iPhone 6s Plus and approx 24g Incase Halo Snap case increases the mass as a unit by about 20%. Or the mass vs. using the iQ7 by about 4.1%.
(192+24+41)/(192+24).
(192+24+41)/(192+24+31)
Claiming a 4% increase in mass would push an iPhone-plus-mic into tripod territory is baffling.
“It won't work with many cases…”
It fits Apple, and some Incase cases. Making sure your case provides clearance around the Lightning connector is a reasonable tradeoff to get the excellent MV88 features. Shure also addresses this:
(google Shure Customer Help MV88 use with a phone case)
“Alesis and Rode make better ones.”
As of Jul2017:
* The RODE iXY-L orients its stereo mics incorrectly for landscape mode video. This can outweigh possibly better sound
* Alesis lists no mics on its website
“It’s an improvement over built in DAC/mic but not a huge improvement.”
DAC (digital to analog conversion) is irrelevant to an analog audio source like a microphone. You might be thinking of analog to digital conversion (ADC).
“An iPhone really needs a full outboard DAC to record decently. This seems to share…”
You seem to be suggesting the MV88 relies on an iPhone internal digital to analog converter (DAC). If so, this is false.
Again, digital to analog conversion—outboard or otherwise—is irrelevant to an analog audio source like a microphone. You might be thinking of analog to digital conversion (ADC). This is necessarily done by the MV88, since the iPhone Lightning connector has no analog data signals. It only has pins for a serial digital data stream. That is, the MV88 indeed has an ADC “outboard” from the iPhone.
(Wikipedia Lightning Connector)
Reviewed in the United States on July 28, 2017
I modified a 2021 Spigen Ultra Hybrid case with an X-acto knife to clear the MV88 (see photo). It was possible to leave intact the top edge over the Lightning connector--unlike some cases with an open area there
to I’ve used the MV88 for live music performance video recording in stereo, with a handheld iPhone 6s Plus since Dec2015. As of 04Jul2017 there is no competition for this application. As a musician and software engineer coding audio signal processing, I’ve found the sound quality to be excellent. Amazing lows and clear, extended natural highs vs. mics like the Zoom iQ7 and the old Tascam iM2. Amazon apparently doesn’t allow external links, but google “youtube electric eye lucky strike” should yield two videos of the same performance, with audio from the Zoom iQ7 vs. the MV88.
There are other great stereo mics from Shure and Rode, but they're significantly bulkier and heavier—impractical for handheld video. And there is no contest vs the mono, overload prone built-in iPhone mics—optimized for noise cancellation and monaural voice, rather than stereo live music. You may burst out laughing hearing recordings with the MV88 for the first time. Commenters saying there is little or no difference—maybe are listening on the iPhone speaker? Headphones, external speakers, are the real test.
The MOTIV app is easy to use. Documentation is a joy—clear and detailed, often answering not just how, but why. Its Band preset works amazingly well for rock concerts—just a touch of compression and limiting, to the point i’ve never heard distortion on live performances, other than traceable to overloaded mixer/monitor/amps in the original performance. Even on video of Motley Crue’s Final Tour 31Dec2015, the explosions weren’t distorted (google youtube motley crue antera77, at 27:42)
The highly elegant pivot and twist system for the stereo mics gives correctly oriented stereo audio for landscape mode (“horizontal”) video. Mics like the Rode iXYL and the apparently abandoned Blue Mikey Digital Lightning (Blue’s website as of 04Jul2017 touts iOS 7 compatibility—a version introduced Sep2013) require portrait mode for this—rendering them essentially useless for landscape mode video. The jewel-like, all metal construction screams quality, vs. plasticy, deformed Mickey Mouse ears looking mics like the Zoom iQ7.
Suggested improvements, 0-10 scale, 10 being highest priority/cost:
10/10: Recording level indication on the mic - add two or three green LED level meters to the single MV88 “Communication Established” LED.
My biggest disappointments have involved not knowing audio levels while recording video. Excellent workaround has been an iOS video app like Filmic Pro with on-screen audio level meters. Apple’s default Camera app has none—suggestion to Apple: Make audio level meters a Preferences-selectable option! Much less elegant workaround: carry earbuds or headphones to the live show to monitor the audio. Earbuds are hard to hear in a live music setting, and more bulk and kit to lose and fuss with—especially with iPhone 7 and newer needing an adapter for headphones.
The $100 Zoom iQ7 Lightning mic has three LED level meters, so they’re likely cost-effective.
4/10: “Turn Airplane Mode On When MV88 detected” option in the Shure MOTIV app
I’ve come home to interference-riddled audio several times, because I forgot to turn Airplane Mode on. No reliable way to tell if interference is occurring while taking video, even with an audio level meter-equipped video app like Filmic Pro.
You wouldn’t want Airplane Mode automatic:
* not clear that iOS would allow this
* some would like to do live streaming, and/or to take calls while recording even if it interrupts the video app
3/10: Improve software system reliability in establishing MV88 communication
I don’t know if this is practical. But I’ve had big disappointments from not paying attention to the MV88 green LED. Not noticing the serial data connection wasn’t established meant the horrible, built in mono iPhone mic took over, or worse, no audio. Even using an audio level meter equipped app like Filmic Pro, sometimes I haven’t noticed if the on-screen audio meters were showing stereo vs. mono, or no audio. Apparently it’s fairly common even with the MV88 plugged into the Lightning connector, that a serial data connection is not established. Understandable given several systems have to interact perfectly:
* mechanical Lightning connection
* three software systems—iOS, video app, Shure MOTIV app
The ideal live music recorder would be a dedicated video camera and permanently attached stereo mic and integrated software. It may be that Shure has already maximized communication reliability, given the constraints of integrating with the iPhone hardware and software.
1/10: Add RFID—MV88 is so tiny, it’s easy to lose!
A passive 916MHz RFID tag would add an insignificant $0.15 (in volume as of 2006) to the $150 cost. You’ve got the radio hardware to sent out RFID signals right there on the iPhone. Most practical would be just a response—tells you the MV88 is in the room somewhere at least, vs. lost at the gig. GPS chips and a beeper in the MV88 would be nice, but almost certainly not cost effective. Source: wikipedia RFID.
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I’d like to address the remainder of this review to errors in the review “Not $150 worth of mic, just ok.
By Amazon Customer #99 on March 7, 2017”, as these are common misunderstandings that could dissuade many from making an excellent choice in the MV88:
“Bottom line: It's good but, frustratingly, not $150 good…Zoom makes one…at least as good for…less.”
I disagree completely. Superior performance, build quality and features are well worth $150 vs competition like the $100 Zoom iQ7. This is generally echoed by the majority of other reviews here.
“ “It's fine for speech and podcasts and YouTube videos, but not really good enough for a musician. It is noticeably noisy (hissy)…”
For conversations, and live music performances at least, avoiding distortion and overload, is far more important than background hiss—a comparative non-issue. As a musician and audio engineer, I’ve found the MV88 audio excellent—extended bass and highs, and if there’s any distortion, it’s been from overdriven mixers/monitors/amps in the original performance. On quiet passages, audience noise has been more an issue than background hiss.
From Shure:
“The MV88 was designed primarily to record loud sounds, like a rock concert, or medium sounds, such as conversation. As the sounds gets softer and/or the MV88 is placed farther away from the sound source, at some point the self-noise (hiss level) of the MV88 might become noticeable or objectionable…The MV88 does not have an exceptionally low noise floor like a Shure KSM44A (4 dB SPL-A), however the KSM44A is nearly seven times the price. If the requirement is to record very soft bird sounds in a forest, or the barely audible whispers of wind in the trees, the MV88 may not be appropriate.” (google Shure Customer Help MV88 recording soft sounds)
Further, the biggest source of background hiss is presets with Compression on, rather than quiescent mic capsule noise. Turning it off or using Flat preset in the MOTIV app will help. Just be careful to set recording levels low enough to prevent overload.
“…even when the phone is in airplane mode.”
Airplane mode being off, and microphone signal-to-noise performance are two different noise sources. Airplane mode turns off the iPhone cellular/Bluetooth/wifi radio frequency transmit and receive, which can cause static and other intermittent noise at audio frequencies. This has nothing to do with steady background hiss from the MV88 ADC and mic capsules’ combined signal to noise ratio.
“ It has weak midrange and bass response…“
Compared to what? I’ve found the MV88 to have excellent bass response vs other Lightning connector mics like the iQ7. Shure’s User Guide lists response as 20-20kHz. Its frequency response graph shows a gentle rolloff below 300Hz but no dip in the midrange:
(From Shure MV88 User Guide - Specifications)
You may be comparing the MV88 to a mic with artificially boosted midrange and bass.
“… although it's tweakable in the MOTIV app up to a point.”
Indeed it is, with the MOTIV 5-band graphic EQ:
(From Shure MV88 User Guide - The ShurePlus MOTIV App - Mic setup)
“It is heavy and cumbersome unless you hold the phone…on a tripod.”
Maybe if you’re a leprechaun. The MV88 mass is 40.5g vs. your favored Zoom iQ7 at 30.5g. Using the MV88 handheld for shooting live music performances with my 192g iPhone 6s Plus and approx 24g Incase Halo Snap case increases the mass as a unit by about 20%. Or the mass vs. using the iQ7 by about 4.1%.
(192+24+41)/(192+24).
(192+24+41)/(192+24+31)
Claiming a 4% increase in mass would push an iPhone-plus-mic into tripod territory is baffling.
“It won't work with many cases…”
It fits Apple, and some Incase cases. Making sure your case provides clearance around the Lightning connector is a reasonable tradeoff to get the excellent MV88 features. Shure also addresses this:
(google Shure Customer Help MV88 use with a phone case)
“Alesis and Rode make better ones.”
As of Jul2017:
* The RODE iXY-L orients its stereo mics incorrectly for landscape mode video. This can outweigh possibly better sound
* Alesis lists no mics on its website
“It’s an improvement over built in DAC/mic but not a huge improvement.”
DAC (digital to analog conversion) is irrelevant to an analog audio source like a microphone. You might be thinking of analog to digital conversion (ADC).
“An iPhone really needs a full outboard DAC to record decently. This seems to share…”
You seem to be suggesting the MV88 relies on an iPhone internal digital to analog converter (DAC). If so, this is false.
Again, digital to analog conversion—outboard or otherwise—is irrelevant to an analog audio source like a microphone. You might be thinking of analog to digital conversion (ADC). This is necessarily done by the MV88, since the iPhone Lightning connector has no analog data signals. It only has pins for a serial digital data stream. That is, the MV88 indeed has an ADC “outboard” from the iPhone.
(Wikipedia Lightning Connector)
MV88 delivers excellent quality and by far more than what I expected from such a mini-looking device. I bought this to record some of my synth and keyboard tunes without having to use the periphery of a mixer setup. Well, with this simple mic connected to my iPad recordings work out pretty well. The output quality is not too mushy and one can clearly hear and distinguish between the synth pads, the synth keys and the sequencer and arpeggiator sounds. Awesome! And of course, if my playing is recorded with a software like Ableton and connected thru a mixer, the quality is like when you make a studio recording. This is what the MV88 cannot deliver, because it is placed in front of my studio monitors which means the audio signals it receives and transforms into wav.files are different as if one records his playing with a complete software/mixer setup. A no-brainer . But for recording on the fly, this mic is priceless. The manual is worth to study, especially the settings part is a must to read. Try every knob and turn on/off every feature, you will be surprised what a difference it makes e.g. when it comes to using the compressor and limiter functions. Use ALL of the setting functions in different setups and you will be rewarded by a superb recording quality! Today I recorded for the first time some tunes I played on my electric guitar thru a stereo setup by using two ampheads and cabinets and various delay/echo pedal settings In my home studio. Wow, the MV88 is able to produce a superwide stereo image, I can hear the ping pong trails note by note, and there is no loss in low and high notes. Chords sound clear too! I converted each song into 256 bps mp4a files and emailed it to friends. Their feedback was positively overwhelming! It is true, size does not matter, and in this case I can say that the MV88 delivers such outstanding quality that even a 5*rating does not even come close to what this mic is able to handle when it comes to recording songs on the fly. I use it now every day for each and every recording as it is also a most valuable tool to improve on my playing quality, it is the perfect trainer for anybody who seriously likes to improve his playing abilities! A top notch mic at an affordable price! Superb!! EDIT 04-17-21: I recorded all my studio synth tracks via my iPad by connecting the MV88 to my iPad nd by positioning the MV 88 on a stand between both monitors (Edifier series). The recording quality comes close to recording with a DAW. I played the saved recordings through my amp system by connecting the iPad to my Onkyo system. You can’t tell the difference between playing a CD and playing these recordings. It is that clear in sounding. This mic captures every noise, so don’t cough, sneeze or shuffle your feet during recording. It even captured the chirping of birds in our backyard when I left the window open during my studio sessions. One needs to balance out the input impedance to prevent any distortion. However, this mic is the BEST in terms of recording quality. The Ahure engineers did a truly great job on this one.
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The small tripod is a nice way to carry the phone and mic although it only films horizontal, not good for instagram lives. However i bought a seperate tripod and it’s able to hold the mic while having the phone vertical.
I’d recommend this mic if you’re planning to use this mic with your iPhone and are into filmography or music.
Sus variantes de tipos de micrófonos lo hacen excelente para acceder a un sonido con estilo profesional desde el teléfono.
Tienen un espectro amplio del campo stereo.
La app es muy útil para configurar el tipo de micrófono que se quiere usar.
Es como un kit de 3 micrófonos en 1.
Sirve para grabar conciertos sin distorsión o sonido ambiental si eres diseñador de audio.