We live in a world where we can record just about anything, any time and in any place, thanks to our phones, tablets, and laptops. The problems come when we want to up the quality by adding a more professional microphone than what’s built into these devices. Yes, there are many small and portable audio interfaces that you could use, but you’d be hard pressed to find one as small and convenient as the new Shure MVX2U Gen 2 single channel digital audio interface.
Super Compact
The MVX2U Gen 2 provides up to +60 dB of ultraclean gain and 48V phantom power for everything from an SM7B to condenser microphones, all without the need for external preamps.
What makes this device a go-to for simple setups is the fact that it’s just an XLR connector that connects to a USB-C cable out the back. This makes it a snap to interface with your phone or tablet.
The second generation of this device lowers the noise floor considerably, uses a new DAC, and even provides a headphone output. A tri-color LED indicator shows the microphone-to-device connection status, with Green for ready, Amber for error, and Red for mute.
There’s Even Processing
The best part is that it also has onboard processing that runs with zero-latency, and has a few new and improved processing features. These include:
- Auto-Level Mode, which automatically sets gain for consistent recording.
- Real-Time Denoiser, which reduces background noise in any environment.
- Digital Popper Stopper™, which minimizes harsh plosive sounds.
The processing is controlled by Shure’s MOTIV apps, including the MOTIV Mix Desktop App, MOTIV Audio App, and MOTIV Video App. These applications offer in-app recording along with enabling users to customize EQ, compression, and limiting. After they’re configured, the DSP settings remain stored and active, so that the creator’s preferred sound profile maintains even when switching between devices.
Shure’s MOTIV apps also let users manage audio libraries, save recordings across mobile and desktop devices, and adjust monitor mix presets all in one convenient spot.
The MVX2U Gen 2 sells for $139. It’s compatible with Windows or Mac OS, iPhone or Android phones, and dynamic or condenser microphones.
You can find out more here, or watch the video below.
