10 Best Microphones For iPad & Their Reviews For 2021
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Getting that your microphone for iPad shouldn’t be so much of a task.
Since the launching of the iPad back in 2010, the iPad has evolved as a hybrid between laptops and smartphones.
Its application, based on its specifications ranges from not only checking emails, and other trivia but to much-advanced applications in business, video streaming, and content creation i.e., for YouTube videos, podcasts, etc.
If an entrepreneur or artist intends to use the built-in microphone of the iPad, it comes with its advantages and disadvantages.
The built-in mic, though great for chatting and other applications have limited scope for content creation (videos or podcasts), and it has serious limitations in the quality of audio (depth and range).
Thankfully, these limitations can be overcome by simply connecting the iPad with a microphone either wired or wireless depending on the end-user as per his/her requirements.
Table of Contents
IN A HURRY? HERE’S OUR FAVORITE PICKS…
Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone for iPhone/iPad/iPod via Lightning Connector,... | $186.00 $146.99 | View on Amazon | ||
Shure MV51 Digital Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with USB and Lightning Cables | 652 Reviews | $249.00 $149.00 | View on Amazon | |
Zoom iQ6 Stereo X/Y Microphone for iPhone/iPad for Recording Audio for Music, Interviews, and More | $124.99 $98.74 | View on Amazon |
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10 Best Microphones For iPad Reviewed
Now, let’s look at 10 of the best microphone for iPad while having a cursory glance at their pros and advantages.
1. Shure MV88 iOS Microphone for iPad
- iOS LIGHTNING CONNECTION: Apple MFi certified and compatible with all iOS devices with a Lightning connector
- POCKET-FRIENDLY: Capture powerful audio recordings on the move without the need for large and heavy audio equipment
- FULLY ADJUSTABLE: Flexibility to tilt, flip and rotate the microphone up to 90° to get stereo clarity, whatever...
- TWO FREE APPS: ShurePlus MOTIV Audio & ShurePlus MOTIV Video allow you to customize the performance and set-up of...
- NO WIND NOISE: Includes a black foam windscreen (part number AMV88-WS); please note that the windscreen comes...
Last update on 2021-06-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Shure MV88 iOS Microphone for iPad is on top of our list.
It’s one of the most amazing microphones we have seen for a long time.
This product is great for those looking to use the microphone for singing, recording a vlog, or recording an acoustic instrument.
One of its best applicability is its lightning-fast connection to iOS, it has a built-in lightning connector compatible with all iOS devices.
One of its best features is its fully adjustable sound source with the flexibility to tilt, flip and rotate the microphone up to 90 degrees, to get better sound clarity.
It has two free apps with the device ShurePlus MOTIV Audio & ShurePlus MOTIV Video to set up the microphone for professional audio capture.
The microphone also includes a windscreen to cancel out background noise on windy days.
The microphone device is built to last with quality metal construction that has stood the test of time for various professionals, ranging from singers to touring live artists.
Lastly, the microphone comes with 2 years warranty, which is boasted by few rivals in the industry and is indicative of its superior quality.
Overall, if professionals or general users are looking for an iPad microphone, there should not be second-guessing on purchasing this microphone.
Its applicability ranges from recording vlogs to songwriting and even recording lectures.
Pros & Benefits:
- It’s light on the pocket to purchase and portable to carry anywhere in the world
- Has 5 different recording presets including flat, acoustic, loud, singing, and speech to suit a variety of configuration and capture the best audio
- Two free apps ShurePlus MOTIV Audio & ShurePlus MOTIV Video to set up the microphone for professional audio capture
- Rotating the head of the microphone allows adjusting the audio source
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
2. Shure MV51
- Apple MFi (Made for iPhone/iPod/iPad) Certified for direct connection to any iOS device without the need for any...
- 5 DSP Preset Modes (Speech, Singing, Flat, Acoustic Instrument, Loud)
- Automatically adjusts Gain, EQ, Compression and Limiting for optimal results
- Front panel touch controls for mode selection, headphone volume, microphone gain, and mute
- Built-in headphone output for real-time monitoring
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Don’t be fooled by the retro-looking microphone that is Shure MV51.
It’s loaded with modern innovative technology, not to mention its ability to record directly into iOS devices.
This microphone, though representing a retro 1950s stage look, is a stylish USB microphone.
Just below the MV51 motif, you will find what you can call a panel with various modes for recording, a mute button, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
These modes are touch-sensitive and can be controlled by just tapping the panel.
It’s a cardioid condenser mic that can directly record to your iPad or any other iOS device via lightning cable.
It’s one innovative and state of art microphone, that offers both digital signal processing (DSP) and DSP-free modes.
Its four different DSP modes (Speech, Singing, Acoustic Instrument, and Loud) can be used multifariously by users to match their needs.
It can prove to be versatile equipment for podcasters, YouTubers, and musicians alike.
The Shure MV51 has a strong weight and is metal built with a built-in stand.
One of the drawbacks of this kickstand is that it lacks the ideal height for desktop recording.
Performance-wise, in flat mode MV51, offers a free DSP signal.
This may lack crispness and depth to sound but is great with its own compression recordings.
Speech mode turns the sound crisp and adds depth.
However, vocalists and singers need to experiment on how much closer to the microphone they need to be to maximize this mode.
Speech mode produces a strong signal and sing mode compresses the voice signal.
In conclusion, Shure MV51 gives its user a lot of flexibility with its four DSP modes.
That combined with its strong audio signal range makes it our top choice candidate in our pick of best microphones for iPad.
Pros & Benefits:
- It has 5 DSP modes that give it a lot of depth for users with diverse functionality and various recording scenarios
- Its touch screen panel is easy to use for the end-user
- It’s directly compatible with iOS devices
- It has compatibility with almost all PCs and smartphones
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
3. Zoom iQ6 Stereo X/Y Microphone
- The same condenser microphones as the world-famous H4n
- Adjustable microphone angles from 90 to 120 degrees
- Able to be used both on phones with cases and without
- Compatible Devices - iPhone (5, 5s, 5c, 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, SE, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus and X),iPod touch (5th and...
- Audio quality is 44.1 khz 16 bit. Maximum input sound pressure is 130 db spl
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Zoom IQ6 Stereo microphone packs new features and functionality as compared to its predecessor.
It has been developed and built primarily for audio recordings which are in contrast to IQ5 which served the dual purpose of audio and video recording.
IQ 6 holds a magnificent stereo microphone system.
IQ6 stands 2.11 inches in height by 2.3 inches in width, having two V-shaped armed microphone condensers.
Users can manually change the direction of these arms from 90 to 120 degrees depending on the source of the sound.
Below these condensers is a knob with a 0 to 10 set to adjust the microphone volume gain.
Recordings done with an IQ 6 are a lot clearer and have excellent depth quality.
One of its best features for iOS devices is its lightning connector.
It has its own handy recorder app, from which users can edit sound files and alter effects.
It adds a lot of functionality to this microphone and is suitable for providing effects such as compression, normalize, and divide.
It also packs an automatic recording feature that starts recording when a certain level of sound is reached, this is suitable for recording lectures and meetings.
The X/Y angled stereo microphones provide wide coverage and capture a sound that is crisp and immersive.
X/Y stereo recording is a great way to cover a wide area while still capturing sound sources in the center with clarity and definition.
Pros & Benefits:
- It has a compact package, which holds that good things come in small packages
- Although compact in size, Zoom IQ6 provides professional audio quality recordings
- It’s directly compatible with iOS devices
- X/Y recording of sound is made easy with this model of microphone
- Audio quality is 44 kHz
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
4. Movo MA 200
- Designed for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android Devices
- Omni-directional Pickup Pattern
- No Batteries Required
- Aluminum Construction
- 1 Year Warranty
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Don’t be fooled by the small size and cheap price of MOVO MA 200, it’s one of the most capable microphones you will find for iOS devices.
It has a very compact structure that lets its user take it virtually everywhere.
It’s built of the highest quality aluminum which ensures it does not get any scratches from friction with other material.
One of its best features is that it can be directly mounted to your iOS devices especially the iPad and due to its compact size users don’t have to worry about appearing into the frame while video recording.
No batteries are required for this microphone which is a plus and has a plug-and-play functionality.
MOVO MA 200 has an omnidirectional audio recording condenser mic that is best for not only podcasts or YouTube videos but also records excellent recordings of interviews and acoustic sound.
It has a head that can be altered in any direction to best capture the sound for best and pristine quality, while an omnidirectional condenser ensures sound of equal quality reaches the microphone.
Pros & Benefits:
- It has a compact size that can be taken anywhere and this increases its portability
- No battery is required for this microphone and it draws its power from the device it’s connected to
- Its omnidirectional condensers allow for equal quality sound to reach the microphone
- One of its best features is its affordability
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
5. ZaxSound Professional Cardioid Condenser Microphone
- [HIGH RESOLUTION SAMPLING RATE ] Our condenser microphone has optimal sound quality with SAMPLING RATE:...
- [CARDIOID PICKUP PATTERN] The studio microphone design with a Cardioid pickup pattern gives you high flexibility...
- [PLUG & PLAY] The microphone kit has a USB 2.0 data interface that makes it easy to use with your all Operating...
- [COMPLETE MICROPHONE BOOM ARM KIT] This podcast microphone comes with a complete microphone kit that includes...
- [AFTER-SALES SERVICES]You will be provided with contacts of our customer service. Our dedicated personnel are...
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Zaxsound cardioid microphone is one of the best microphones for vocals, this is much suitable for less noisy and clearer sound recordings.
The cardioid condensers pick sound from the front while canceling any sound from the back and sides.
It has a sleek and good design with a perfect grip plug-and-play microphone condenser.
It has high compatibility with almost all devices especially iOS devices including the iPad.
The USB plug and play microphone are easy to use and the cardioid condenser makes the sound crisp and clearer.
It comes with a tripod stand that can be used for podcasts and YouTube videos.
It has a stylish and sleek design with the ability to record videos from a distance.
It’s highly compatible with all PCs, Notebooks, all iPhones, Android Smartphones, and iPad.
Pros & Benefits:
- Its cardioid condensers allow for clear and crisp quality sound to reach the microphone
- One of its best features is its affordability
- It has high compatibility with almost all devices especially iOS devices including iPad
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
6. RODE VideoMic Me
- Compact TRRS cardioid microphone designed for iOS devices and smartphones; Frequency Range 100Hz - 20kHz
- 3.5mm headphone output. Weight: 34gm; Dimensions: 38mmH x 21mmW x 80mmD
- Includes a deluxe furry windshield for shooting outdoors or in adverse weather
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
RODE VideoMic’s main purpose is recording audio outside.
The Rode VideoMic Me comes with fur that is synthetic in nature and open-cell foam.
These physical features exist to nullify the sounds produced by the wind and other sources, so you record minimum unwanted background noise/audio.
If we compare this product to our best-listed microphone, it may not have all the same bells and whistles, but it certainly punches above its weight class in terms of reliability and price point.
Next, you may be wondering what ports but does this microphone for iPad connect to?
Well, the answer is pretty simple.
It connects to the headphones/speaker’s audio port of the iPad which is known as the TRRS audio socket.
It also has a built-in 3.5mm headphone output so that you could listen in on your recorded audio via playback or while it’s recording live.
This microphone is unmatched in its compatibility support as it not only supports the iPad but the whole iOS ecosystem running on different software versions.
It also supports the Android operating system.
It works the same way on android as it would on iOS, so you don’t have to purchase a new microphone if you switch devices or decide to upgrade to a different operating system.
So, to summarize, you can plug it in and use it on a variety of operating systems and devices ranging from smartphones to tablets.
You shouldn’t think that just because this microphone isn’t in the flagship range that it would have poor recording capabilities as it comes with a cardioid, highly directional microphone that minimizes and eliminates audio coming from outside the recording area.
This microphone is very versatile and durable in nature and is well suited for people that want to record audio while moving.
Pros & Benefits:
- It’s compatible with both iOS and Android operating systems
- It’s great for recording outside and best for vloggers
- Highly affordable
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
7. TASCAM iM2W Channel Portable Digital Recorder
- High-quality unidirectional stereo condenser microphones with variable X/Y or A/B configuration perfect for...
- Revamped user interface allows easy access recording, level adjustment, added markers, deleted takes, and smooth...
- Overwrite mode allows users to select a precise record drop-in time for replacement recordings with one level of...
- Studio-quality 2-in/2-out USB audio interface for great use in podcasting and digital audio workstations, Interface...
- Bright white backlit display offers menus in multiple language options and a dictation mode, which enables the user...
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
TASCAM iM2W supports recording not just on the iPad but also on other Apple devices like the iPod touch and iPhone.
It transforms your Apple device into an on-the-go high-end stereo recorder.
It comes with the same two condenser microphones which are included in the higher tier TASCAM series recorders labeled DR which is one of their best-selling products.
To ensure that the audio recorded in the pickup area is clear and crisp, these condenser microphones can be moved up to 180 degrees.
The atmosphere of your room can be captured with detailed stereo imaging using unit-directional features in an AB pattern.
This device comes with a pre-installed analog to digital audio converter and microphone preamp to record low-frequency sounds in superb crystal-clear quality.
Most recorders use the iPhone’s prebuilt preamp, this results in distorted audio at higher decibel levels but iM2W uses its very own preamp, and this can record sound without distortion up to 125 decibels.
Hence, this recorder is perfect for concerts and musical instruments.
It also comes with a prebuilt stereo limiter to normalize volume levels.
The microphone levels can be easily changed by using a side knob.
This offers a seamless recording experience as you don’t even have to look at the recorder to turn the knob.
No battery is needed to use the iM2W as it runs by plugging it into the dock connector.
It’s recommended that you change your apple device before lengthy recordings.
You can also download TASCAM’s proprietary PCM recorder app on its website, this turns your device into a high-end stereo recorder enabling you to record both mono and stereo audio for up to 12 hours in CD quality.
The recorded files can be accessed via iTunes or uploaded directly to SoundCloud for convenience.
This free app also includes a low and high-end equalizer and a low-cut filter.
This is a dream device for aspiring musicians that comes at an unmatched price without sacrificing quality.
Pros & Benefits:
- It has a stereo condenser microphone
- It’s very affordable
- Compatibility with older iOS devices and iPad
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
8. Apogee Hype Mica Professional Quality Microphone
- Studio-quality analog compressor
- Pure digital connection for pristine sound quality up to 24-bit/96kHz
- Premium cardioid condenser microphone capsule
- Headphone output with blend feature offers zero latency recording
- Premium accessories kit includes tripod, pop filter and carrying case
Last update on 2021-05-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Apogee hype microphone was introduced in 2019 and is among one of the best professional quality microphones.
It has an improved microphone capsule to capture a dynamic range of sound with up to 24 bit and 96 Hz recording capability.
One of its best features is it comes with built-in head output to adjust to control between microphone and playback signal.
Apogee Hype Mic like all other elite microphones has an input gain control for the audio gain setting.
It has compatibility with all iOS devices including the iPad.
It features studio-quality analog compression that enhances voice signal to optimum quality, and it brings magic to your vocals whether it be in a podcast, YouTube video, or acoustic instruments.
Its product dimensions are quite compact with 4.88 inches in height to 1.5 inches in length.
It’s compatible with IOS 9 or later, Mac OS 10.9 or later, Windows 10 or later operating software.
Its premium cardioid condenser microphone picks sound from the front, while it cancels any sound from the back and sides and makes the sound quality crisp and clearer.
It comes with premium quality accessories that include a tripod, pop filter, and case.
Pros & Benefits:
- Its cardioid condensers allow for clear and crisp quality sound to reach the microphone
- It has high compatibility with almost all devices especially iOS devices including iPad
- Includes high-quality accessories which include a tripod, pop filter, and case
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
9. Line 6 Sonic Port VX Audio and Stereo Microphone
- Create pro-quality multi-track recordings-anywhere, anytime
- Stereo and mono condenser mics with high-quality mic preamps
- 24--bit/48 kHz audio, 120 dB guitar input, zero-latency monitoring
- Seamless compatibility with iOS, Mac and PC
- With Mobile POD app provides legendary POD guitar tones
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Line 6 Sonic Port VX Audio I/O and Stereo Microphone are some of the best microphones to be built for a variety of consumers.
It has plug-and-play compatibility with any iOS device, including iPad, and gives end-users high-quality recordings with crisp and clear sound.
Its 24-bit/48 kHz audio, 120 dB guitar input, zero-latency monitoring makes it best for audio and acoustic equipment.
It has a 2 in 2 audio interfaces for better capturing audio signals.
You can include a tabletop stand for better recording and audio capture from the source.
It’s great for musicians and voice recording artists.
It has product dimensions of 7.8 x 2.2 x 7.91 inches.
It’s built-in mono condenser mics with high-quality preamps to record vocals, instruments, drums, and live performances with stunning clarity.
Pros & Benefits:
- Its stereo condensers are great for musicians to record seamless audio from a wide variety of signals
- Plug and play compatibility with iOS devices
- Has a 2 x 2 audio interface for better-capturing audio
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
10. IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio digital studio microphone
- Professional studio microphone with large-diaphragm capsule
- Ultra-compact size that’s easy to carry around
- High-quality 1” back electret condenser capsule
- Includes iOS Lightning, Android Micro-USB and a USB cable for Mac and PC
- Includes portable tripod tabletop stand
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio digital studio microphone is a large-diaphragm microphone for iPhone, iPad, and iPod.
It comes with a 1-inch diameter capsule to capture quality level sound recordings anywhere and anytime.
It’s great for a wide variety of users and can accommodate their needs whether it be podcasters, musicians, or voice-over artists.
IK Mic Studio digital studio microphone comes with flexible controls, which include a control gain knob and a LED level indicator and comes with a portable tabletop tripod stand.
It’s perfect for vocals and tough enough even for drums which makes it a diverse recording microphone and best for vocal musicians.
It’s roughly the same size as an iPhone with a diameter of just 45 mm diaphragm.
Pros & Benefits:
- Its cardioid condensers allow for clear and crisp quality sound to reach the microphone
- Comes with flexible controls, which include a control gain knob and a LED level indicator
- It has high compatibility with almost all devices especially iOS devices including iPad
Check Price and Reviews on Amazon
Final Thoughts
These are some of the flagship and best microphones available for iPad.
If someone is serious enough to want to capture quality audio, he/she might browse through the list to purchase one according to his/her needs.
To summarize, important features to consider, while searching for iPad microphones are DSP presets and microphone type.
One of the major differences between PC and iPad microphones is that microphones for PC are used in indoor environments.
On the other hand, microphones for iPad are used in a variety of environments for which microphones with different preset modes are necessary to capture optimum quality audio.
One need(s) will determine the microphone type to go for, i.e cardioid, omnidirectional, or shotgun type condensers.
Thus, depending on one need, the user can determine to buy the best microphone or iPad for himself from the above exhaustive list.