The Best Microphones for iPhone Video Recording: Rode VideoMic Me vs Shure MV88
It's no secret that audio quality is crucial when it comes to video recording. And if you're a budding videographer or just someone who enjoys taking videos with your iPhone, then investing in a good microphone is a must. In this article, we compare two of the top microphones for iPhone video recording - the Rode VideoMic Me and the Shure MV88 - to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.
Rode VideoMic Me
The Rode VideoMic Me is a directional microphone that attaches directly to your iPhone. It uses a cardioid polar pattern to capture sound from in front of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides and rear.
Pros
- High-quality directional microphone
- Eliminates background noise
- Very affordable
Cons
- Requires an adapter for newer iPhones without a headphone jack
- May not pick up distant sound as well
- No gain control
Shure MV88
The Shure MV88 is a stereo condenser microphone that connects to your iPhone via a lightning connector. It features a five preset DSP modes and fully customizable options, making it versatile and suitable for a range of recording situations.
Pros
- High-quality stereo condenser microphone
- Offers five preset DSP modes
- Fully customizable options
- Includes a headphone jack for monitoring audio
Cons
- More expensive than the Rode VideoMic Me
- Requires an iPhone with a lightning connector
- Some users have reported issues with the app
Comparison
| Rode VideoMic Me | Shure MV88 | |
|---|---|---|
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Adjustable Stereo |
| Frequency Range | 100Hz-20kHz | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Signal to Noise | 74dB | 65-67 db SPL/A |
| Maximum SPL | 140dB | 120dB |
| Output Level | -30dB | -37dBV/Pa |
| Compatible Devices | iPhone 5 and newer models with a headphone jack | iPhone 5 and newer models with a lightning connector |
| Price | Around $60 | Around $150 |
Conclusion
Choosing between the Rode VideoMic Me and the Shure MV88 really comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you're on a tight budget, the Rode VideoMic Me is an excellent choice. It's affordable, produces high-quality directional sound and is perfect for vloggers and other solo videographers. But if you're looking for something more versatile, the Shure MV88 is the way to go. It's more expensive, but it offers more features like adjustable stereo and DSP modes, making it suitable for a range of recording situations.
No matter which microphone you choose, just remember that the key to great audio is a high-quality mic that captures the sound accurately and effectively. So, get out there and start recording great videos with excellent audio!