The ins and outs of the Shure MOTIV line for content creators
As content creation, streaming, and podcasting are becoming ever more prevalent, the need for accessible media tools and equipment for creators arises. The Shure MOTIV range of microphones aims to streamline the technical side of audio management with an array of USB and smartphone-compatible mics.
The latest in the updated MOTIV line draws inspiration from legacy products in the Shure range, as well as improving upon previous MOTIV designs, and provides a simple-to-use app for extended tone control.
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Shure MOTIV app
The power of the Shure MOTIV range comes from the accompanying application that is used to control the microphone’s parameters when powered over USB. All aspects of the signal are able to be dialled in and adjusted, and for those not as experienced in audio production and processing techniques, there are a range of presets to fit any situation. The app handles all signal processing, eliminating the need for an interface to handle the analog to digital signal conversion.
The app has two modes in which it operates, auto-level and manual. Auto-level is ideal for those who aren’t as knowledgeable about things like compression, EQ, and limiters and instead, the app breaks down the signal into small and easier-to-understand segments. Controllable parameters in the auto mode include preset selection, mic muting, mix/monitor balance of mic and computer audio, microphone position, three basic EQ presets, as well as automatic gain adjustment. The auto mode allows for quick ‘set and forget’ preparation which allows you to focus more on the content itself rather than fumbling around with technical settings.
The manual mode offers many of the same adjustable parameters, but gives the user more control over the setting and removes some of the automation. Gain is now manually adjusted, as well as compression and limiting. More options for EQ are also found in the manual mode, which include four presets (flat, highpass, mid boost, and highpass/mid boost). More control over adjustable parameters allows you to dial in a more specific tone to suit whatever situation comes up. The app is available as a free download on both desktop computers and smartphones.
MV7 & MV7X
New additions to the MOTIV line include the MV7, which takes its inspiration directly from the Shure SM7B, a legendary high-end microphone that has been an industry standard in music, radio, and podcasting for over 20 years since its release in 2001. Although the gold standard for vocal capture, the SM7B is not the most accessible device for new and intermediate creators. The mic itself has a hefty asking price, as well as needing extra equipment such as interfaces and mixing desks to even get a signal. This is where the MV7 steps up to the plate.
The MV7 is the USB-powered little brother of the SM7B, offering a far more accessible microphone at half the price that doesn’t require a range of other equipment. The MV7 receives its power and sends its signal over USB, meaning that the microphone itself and the accompanying MOTIV app is all you need to get professional-sounding vocal recordings. The mic has a sturdy metal build, with a headphone output and a couple of controllable parameters for quick and immediate adjustments. This includes mute, headphone gain, and mic gain, all of which are touch-controlled to eliminate sounds from internal moving parts within the mic itself.
The MV7X is the same microphone except it can only send signals over XLR, much like any other standard mic. The exceptional sound quality is still there, however parameter controls over the MOTIV app are not available, and the mic will require an audio interface to accept the signal and to power the mic. If the MOTIV app isn’t a necessity in your setup, then the MV7X is an excellent alternative at a reduced price. The MV7 is an excellent choice for musicians and content creators looking to get high quality, professional-sounding recordings without investing in an entire studio.
MV88+ Video Kit
If the MV7 is for the home computer, then the MV88 is for the smartphone. The MV88+ video kit is a bundle aimed at smartphone users looking to record audio and video outside of the studio. The MV88 itself is a small condenser microphone designed to be used with a smartphone, for both power and signal capture. The video kit addition is a tripod with mounts for your phone as well as the mic, creating a high quality, very portable camera and field recorder.
The mic itself has three modes of functionality. Firstly is that it can be used as a shotgun mic, recording signals directly in front. This is great for capturing directly what the camera would be looking at, ideal for recording a single audio source, such as a speaker or a presentation. Secondly is the bi-directional setting, capturing signals coming from the sides of the mic. This is perfect for situations such as interviews, where you need to capture two sources at one time in opposite directions.
Thirdly is the field recording mode, which records through all sides in a cardioid pattern. Ideal for capturing rooms, field recording, and larger spaces. These polar patterns can be selected through the MOTIV app, as well as a range of other presets and parameters. There’s also a MOTIV video app for recording video, that offers all the same audio adjustments, as well as a video option so that your audio and video are conveniently in one place.
The MV88+ takes your smartphone and considerably improves audio quality to a professional standard. By allowing smartphone microphone technology to catch up to the advancements in picture quality, the MV88+ video kit turns any smartphone into a high-end, extremely portable and convenient professional video camera and field recorder.
Head to Shure for more information. For local enquiries, reach out to Jands.
