Shure MOTIV MV5 Digital Microphones for IOS devices Review

Shure Introduction:

Engineered for quick and easy portable use, the MOTIV MV5 Digital condenser microphone delivers convenient, high-quality plug and play audio capture for Mac, PC, iPhone, iPod, iPad and Android devices. Featuring three onboard DSP presets (Vocals, Flat, Instrument) that ensure optimal settings for capturing virtually any sound source. Ideal for everything from music to podcasting to audio for desktop video chats. The MV5 also includes an integrated headphone output for real time monitoring. Tested to the same rigorous quality standards as all Shure products, a low-profile, retro-inspired industrial design is optimized for portable applications and comes in a choice of colors. Ships complete with a detachable desktop stand to easily integrate into any creative space.

Introduction:

Shure has just launched these new Motiv series of microphones that promises to deliver the best performance in terms of recording vocals and other acoustic instruments. Unarguably one of the leaders in audio technology, Shure definitely impresses with the MV5, one of their portable microphone that’s compatible with computers and even iOS devices.

Manufacturer’s Specification:

• MFi Certified: Yes
• DSP Modes (Presets): Voice/Instrument/Flat
• Cartridge Type: Electret Condenser (16 mm)
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional (Cardioid)
• Bit Depth: 16-bit/24-bit
• Sampling Rate: 44.1/48 kHz
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Adjustable Gain Range: 0 to +36 dB
• Sensitivity: -40 dBFS/Pa at 1 kHz
• Maximum SPL: 130 dB SPL
• Headphone Output: 3.5 mm (1/8″)
• Power Requirements: Powered through USB or Lightning connector
• Mute Switch Attenuation: Yes
• Mounting Stand: Included
• Stand Adapter: 1/4 inch 20 thread (standard tri-pod mount)
• Housing: PC/ABS
• Weight: Without Mounting Stand: 0.09 kg (3.17oz.); With Mounting Stand 0.16 kg (5.64oz.)
• Dimensions: 66 x 67 x 65 mm H x W x D
• Dimensions with Stand: 89 x 142 x 97 mm H x W x D
• Cable: 1 m USB cable/1 m Lightning cable (LTG models only)

Design:

Shaped like a small ball, the Shure Motiv MV5 is portable and easy to carry. It comes with a steel stand that you can optionally, since the microphone itself can function without the stand.

Aside from compatibility with computers using the USB port, there is also an included Lightning cable so you can plug in the Shure Motiv MV5 directly to any compatible iOS device like an iPhone and an iPad where you can directly use it for recording.

At the back of the Shure Motiv MV5 you will find a button that work as the switches for the three DSP modes. These functions include flat, acoustic and vocal. Below that you will find a 3.5 mm headphone jack so you can hear yourself speak when doing your recording sessions.

For its price, the Shure Motiv MV5 definitely feels premium – especially with the build quality and the materials used on the design. It won’t be as advanced as other professional condensers, but it is still one of the best performers for its price – a good choice when you are on a budget.

Performance:

I’ve primarily tested the Shure Motiv MV5 using by hooking it up to my MacBook Pro and my iPhone. On an iOS device, you would need to download the ShurePlus Motiv App to save and organize your recordings. The app is simple to use and you can easily share your recording to other devices and online storage services. You can even adjust the EQ settings to your liking.

The Shure Motiv MV5 comes with maximum sample rate of 24 bit/48 kHz, which is good enough to capture decent sound, though not at a professional level. Still, my voice sounded warm and clear without any distortions.

Supplied Accessories:

• Shure NV5
• Stand
• Micro USB cable
• Lightning cable

Pros& Cons:

Pros

• Great portable design
• Compatible with iOS devices
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Voices not as warm as we’d expect

Conclusion

The Shure Motiv MV5 isn’t the best performing microphone we’ve tested, but that’s the thing – it doesn’t need to be. It’s selection of features and decent performance make it an ideal choice for microphones under $100.