The world of consumer lapel microphones has seen a dramatic rise in popularity in recent years, marking a significant trend in the realm of consumer electronics. Historically, lavalier microphones were largely utilized by professional film crews. However, with the emergence of plug-in solutions for smartphones, the ability to capture high-quality two-way conversations at an affordable price has become more accessible.
This surge in popularity has led to a competitive market, with around a dozen companies vying for the top spot. Amongst these contenders is the highly trusted audio brand, Shure. Unlike many of its competitors, such as Anker and DJI, Shure has a long-standing reputation in the audio industry, making it a force to be reckoned with in the market.
Shure’s newest addition to the lapel mic category, the MoveMic, is set to make waves as the company’s first foray into this space. While they may not be the first high-end microphone manufacturer to enter the market, with Rode being a direct competitor in multiple categories, Shure is determined to make a strong impact.
I will have the opportunity to put the MoveMic to the test at Modex in Atlanta next week. This convention is the perfect testing ground for lapel mics, as it is both noisy and filled with potential wireless interference. I am particularly interested in the MoveMic’s performance, as I have been searching for a solution that can deliver high-quality sound for both work interviews and in-person podcast recordings – a feat that was easily achieved before the COVID era.
While other options in the market have been hit or miss lately, I have high hopes for Shure’s offering. The system is priced at $249 for a single clip-on microphone, while a pair will cost $249 or $499 with the receiver. Alternatively, the receiver can be purchased separately for $499. One drawback to note is that the receiver cannot be slotted into the charging case, unlike some of its competitors.
The MoveMic can be paired with a phone without the need for a receiver. However, for other devices such as cameras, computers, or even non-Shure apps, the receiver is essential. At the moment, the system can only handle two mics at a time, which is the common standard among lapel mics. Perhaps in the future, a company that can accommodate a third mic will win my undying loyalty. It is also worth noting that the DJI unit has the advantage of allowing for a wired lav mic to be directly plugged into the clip-on, making it a more camera-ready option.
