With the release of the MOTIV product line, Shure jumps in head first to the mobile recording device market, offering mobile products that connect via a lightning connector for iPhones and iPads, via USB for use with a computer and via Tip ring ring sleeve 1/8 ‘’ input in the case of the MVL. We got our hands on all five models in the MOTIV line: the MVi digital input device, the MVL lavalier mic, the MV88 digital stereo mic, the MV51 large-diaphragm condenser mic and lastly the MV5 digital condenser mic. All five products work with the MOTIV ShurePlus app, which allows for gain control, compression/limiting, and with the MV88, control over the degrees of pickup.
MVi
MVL
We were quite impressed by the MVL; it sounds good and for a little under $70, you really can’t go wrong. If you already have an iOS device, the MVL will give you a lav on the go without the big price tag. You’ll need to sync the audio if you’re shooting with a camera other than your iPhone, but that’s a small task in exchange for a simple and affordable lavalier.
MV88
We tested the MV88 in a live performance situation, picking up an acoustic rock group. The clarity was wonderful; the recording was clear and offered clarity for all the instruments being played. One large flaw that we encountered is that the lightning connection to the device, while convenient, didn’t inspire confidence. Because of the imperfect connection, we did experience pops in the recording due to the connection point. This can be easily eliminated with some extra care placing and supporting the MV88. We would have liked to see something designed into the unit to do this for the user, because not all recording situations are ideal for perfect support.
This is great for the shooter who wants some expanded audio, but doesn’t want to lug around an external recorder on top of the iOS device they might already carrying. The price is acceptable considering the iOS integration, but for $50 more (MSRP $200), the Zoom H4 does the same thing without iOS and is a standalone device with two more inputs.
MV51
MV5
Priced in line with the Snowball at $100, just like the rest of the MOTIV line, it’s a simple solution to the needs of the mobile recordist. Just like with its big brother, plosives are an issue. Its sensitivity requires off axis input, but if used with a pop filter, it's not a problem. That's just one more thing to lug around. Is it a good value? Yes, but it’s not revolutionary or innovative. We like it, but unless a buyer's biggest selling point is the iOS connectivity, it's an easy product to overlook.
Let’s sum it up.
Purchasing the entire MOTIV line would set you back $650, and you would have a few duplicates. Our recommendation would be to buy them one at a time and for specific purpose. For us, the stand out product for the money is the MVL; it’s just too convenient, and is a good mic for the cost. The ShurePlus app gives more strength to simple products, and every product in the line is easily used and doesn’t lack in build or sound quality. None of the products are revolutionary, but they do what they were designed for and do it well. If Shure is your brand, if iOS connectivity is big for you or if you’re looking for a simple and easy recording solution, most definitely the MOTIV line from Shure is for you.
Shure
www.shure.com
PRICE:
MVi – $130
MVL – $70
MV88 – $150
MV51 – $200
MV5 – $100
Strengths
- Simple, easy-to-use design
- Good sound quality
- iOS connectivity and helpful app
Weaknesses
- MV51 is overpriced vs comparable solutions
- Weak connection point on the MV88
TECH SPECS:
MVI
- Mic Type: N/A
- Polar Pattern: N/A
- Frequency Response: N/A
- Connection Type: Lightning & USB
- Form Factor: Digital Input Device
- Input: XLR or Instrument Cable
MVL
- Mic Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
- Frequency Response: 45 Hz to 20,000 Hz
- Connection Type: TRRS â ’’
- Form Factor: Lavalier
MV88
- Mic Type: Bidirectional Condenser
- Polar Pattern:
- Adjustable width stereo
- Mono bidirectional
- Mono cardioid
- Mid-side
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Connection Type: Lightning
- Form Factor: Stereo Microphone
MV51
- Mic Type: Large-Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
- Connection Type: Lightning & USB
- Form Factor: Electret Condenser
MV5
- Mic Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
- Connection Type: Lightning & USB
- Form Factor: Digital Microphone
Summary
The Shure MOTIV line of mics and input devices offers iOS connectivity through a lightning connector or can be connected to a computer via USB. The MOTIV line offers a wide array of solutions for any producer; their simple design and operation are met with good build quality and great sound.
Chris Monlux is the Multimedia Editor at Videomaker