What devices is the Rode SmartLav+ compatible with?

The SmartLav+ is designed for smartphones and tablets with a TRRS input. For newer devices without a 3.5mm jack, a Lightning or USB-C to 3.5mm adapter is required.

Does the SmartLav+ require a battery?

No, the microphone is powered by the mobile device it is plugged into. This makes it a convenient 'plug and play' solution without the need for external phantom power or batteries.

Can I use the SmartLav+ with a standard camera or audio recorder?

Most cameras use a TRS input rather than TRRS. To use the SmartLav+ with a standard camera or portable recorder, you will typically need a TRRS to TRS adapter, such as the Rode SC3.

What is the benefit of an omnidirectional polar pattern?

An omnidirectional pattern picks up sound from all directions. This makes the microphone very forgiving regarding placement, as it will capture the voice clearly even if the subject moves their head.

How do I reduce 'pop' sounds when recording?

The SmartLav+ comes with a foam windshield specifically designed to minimise plosives. Ensuring the microphone is clipped approximately a hand-span away from the mouth also helps.

Is there a specific app I should use with this microphone?

While it works with any app that accepts external audio, Rode recommends the Rode Reporter App. This app allows for firmware updates and specific recording adjustments.

Is the cable on the SmartLav+ reinforced?

Yes, the cable is Kevlar-reinforced. This provides extra durability and reduces the risk of the cable stretching or snapping during active use in the field.

Can I record two people at once using SmartLav+ units?

You can use an adapter like the Rode SC6 to plug two SmartLav+ microphones into a single smartphone. This allows for dual-channel recording, which is ideal for interviews.

What accessories are included in the box?

The microphone comes with a durable mounting clip, a foam pop shield, and a small drawstring pouch for storage and transport.

How does the SmartLav+ compare to a built-in phone microphone?

It offers significantly better clarity and noise rejection. Because it is placed closer to the source (the mouth), it captures more detail and less ambient room noise than a phone held at arm's length.

Can I monitor my audio while recording?

Monitoring depends on your device and software. Some apps allow real-time monitoring through the phone's remaining ports or via a splitter like the Rode SC6 which has a dedicated headphone jack.

What is the typical price for a Rode SmartLav+?

The typical price for this microphone is approximately GBP 42. This makes it an affordable entry point for professional-level mobile audio recording.

Gear article

Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone

The Rode SmartLav+ is a professional-grade wearable microphone designed for use with smartphones and mobile devices. It features an omnidirectional condenser capsule to provide clear audio capture for broadcast, film, and interview applications without the need for additional recording equipment.

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Overview

The Rode SmartLav+ is a compact, broadcast-grade lavalier microphone specifically engineered for mobile recording. It addresses the need for high-quality audio in field reporting, vlogging, and amateur filmmaking by utilising the mobile device already in the user's pocket. The device is designed for simplicity, operating on a plug-and-play basis that bypasses the requirement for complex wireless systems or external audio interfaces.

Design and Key Features

Built around an omnidirectional condenser element, the SmartLav+ is designed to pick up sound equally from all sides. This ensures consistent audio levels even if the speaker's head turns away from the microphone. Key features include:

TRRS Connectivity: The microphone uses a standard TRRS jack to connect directly to smartphone headphone ports (or Lightning/USB-C adapters).
Discreet Form Factor: The small size allows for easy concealment on clothing during video production.
Durable Mounting: It includes a reinforced clip for secure attachment to lapels or ties.
Software Integration: While it works with most audio apps, it is optimized for the Rode Reporter App for advanced recording control.

Performance and Sound Character

The SmartLav+ is characterized by its clarity and vocal presence, making it a significant upgrade over standard built-in smartphone microphones. The omnidirectional capsule provides a natural, open sound while the included foam windshield helps to minimise plosives and light wind noise. Its condenser design ensures high sensitivity, capturing nuances in speech that are often lost in noisy environments or when using dynamic microphones at a distance.

Suitability and Applications

This microphone is primarily suited for content creators, journalists, and students who require portable recording solutions. It is ideal for:

Interviews: Quick setup for face-to-face reporting in the field.
Vlogging: Improving audio quality for YouTube or social media content.
Presentations: Capturing clear speech for lectures or corporate videos.
Film and TV: Serving as a budget-friendly alternative to expensive wireless lavalier systems for secondary audio capture.

Comparison to Alternatives

Unlike standard live microphones such as the Shure SM58 or the Sennheiser e945, which are handheld dynamic microphones meant for stage performance, the SmartLav+ is a hands-free condenser designed for proximity. While the Shure SM57 or Sennheiser MD 441-U are preferred for instrument or high-fidelity studio capture, the SmartLav+ prioritises portability and direct smartphone integration. It offers a more specialised, discreet solution for speech compared to general-purpose dynamic microphones like the Electro-Voice RE20.

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Frequently asked questions

What devices is the Rode SmartLav+ compatible with?: The SmartLav+ is designed for smartphones and tablets with a TRRS input. For newer devices without a 3.5mm jack, a Lightning or USB-C to 3.5mm adapter is required.
Does the SmartLav+ require a battery?: No, the microphone is powered by the mobile device it is plugged into. This makes it a convenient 'plug and play' solution without the need for external phantom power or batteries.
Can I use the SmartLav+ with a standard camera or audio recorder?: Most cameras use a TRS input rather than TRRS. To use the SmartLav+ with a standard camera or portable recorder, you will typically need a TRRS to TRS adapter, such as the Rode SC3.
What is the benefit of an omnidirectional polar pattern?: An omnidirectional pattern picks up sound from all directions. This makes the microphone very forgiving regarding placement, as it will capture the voice clearly even if the subject moves their head.
How do I reduce 'pop' sounds when recording?: The SmartLav+ comes with a foam windshield specifically designed to minimise plosives. Ensuring the microphone is clipped approximately a hand-span away from the mouth also helps.
Is there a specific app I should use with this microphone?: While it works with any app that accepts external audio, Rode recommends the Rode Reporter App. This app allows for firmware updates and specific recording adjustments.
Is the cable on the SmartLav+ reinforced?: Yes, the cable is Kevlar-reinforced. This provides extra durability and reduces the risk of the cable stretching or snapping during active use in the field.
Can I record two people at once using SmartLav+ units?: You can use an adapter like the Rode SC6 to plug two SmartLav+ microphones into a single smartphone. This allows for dual-channel recording, which is ideal for interviews.
What accessories are included in the box?: The microphone comes with a durable mounting clip, a foam pop shield, and a small drawstring pouch for storage and transport.
How does the SmartLav+ compare to a built-in phone microphone?: It offers significantly better clarity and noise rejection. Because it is placed closer to the source (the mouth), it captures more detail and less ambient room noise than a phone held at arm's length.
Can I monitor my audio while recording?: Monitoring depends on your device and software. Some apps allow real-time monitoring through the phone's remaining ports or via a splitter like the Rode SC6 which has a dedicated headphone jack.
What is the typical price for a Rode SmartLav+?: The typical price for this microphone is approximately GBP 42. This makes it an affordable entry point for professional-level mobile audio recording.