Shure, while a popular name in professional audio for decades, is a newcomer in the space of new-gen wireless lavaliers with the MoveMic 2. It’s competing with the likes of lavaliers from DJI and Hollyland, which are aimed squarely at creators who demand good audio on the go. The aim is a combination of compactness, durability, and professional-grade sound in a pocket-friendly design. One of their features is two-channel recording, so that you can record with 2 mics on the go and edit them separately!
Design and Audio Performance
The MoveMic is quite possibly the smallest portable mic out there. At just 8.2 grams per microphone, it’s almost weightless, and its dimensions (46mm x 22mm) make it nearly invisible in recordings unlike the bulkier DJI. The MoveMic comes in either a single mic (MoveMic) or two mic (MoveMic 2) package, both with their own charging case.
The IPX4 splash-proof rating means it can handle the occasional mishap, from unexpected rain to accidental spills. The mics are stored in a charging case that supports up to 24 hours of recording—a full day’s worth of creative output without reaching for the USB-C cable.
How to Use
The mics are charged in their charging cases similar to AirPods: simply plug it to a power source with the USB-C cable included in the box.
In order to connect it to your phone wirelessly, you’ll first have to download Shure’s MOTIV Audio app (iOS and Android). The first time you use the MOTIV application, you’ll need to allow access to the device microphone. To pair the mic with the app, press and hold the mic button – there’s only one, and it’s for power, Bluetooth pairing, and mute – for about 6 seconds until you see lights flashing.
Step 1: For first-time pairing, you may need to go to the ‘Device’ icon (it looks like a spanner on the top right) to initiate the pairing. At the bottom of the app are 4 options: Device, Record, Library, and Settings – pretty easy. The Device relates to the mics, so here’s where you pair the devices as well as adjust all the audio presets.
Step 2: Once paired, the app actually has nifty functions where you can adjust gain levels, create a custom EQ, adjust file compression, configure output (AAC, FLAC and WAV) and – our favourite – reduce background noise. There are also speech, music, and flat presets ready to go in the app. The up side is that once you’ve paired it, you don’t have to re-pair it mid-shoot or for the next time you use the app.
Step 3: Go to Record to record audio – you’ll be able to see the audio waves as sound is recorded. While recording, it’s advisable to use a wired headphone plugged into your phone so that you can hear the audio being recorded. Once you’ve ended recording, hit the ‘Save’ on the top and you’ll be prompted to save your recording.
Step 4: Head over to the Library section, where your file will be. There’s a playback button for you to listen to your recording – and even a handy edit tool where you can trim it. You can then share the file via numerous ways, including Airdrop, and then drop it into your video editing tool.
Overall feedback
The plus: The Shure MoveMic offers broadcast-quality sound, rivalling larger, more cumbersome systems in a form designed for today’s fast-paced creators. Its ability to isolate vocals from ambient noise is particularly impressive. The mic has an incredible sound sensitivity: voice recordings work best at 22-28dB, and if you crank it up to 60dB, the mic is like a forensic hearing device that catches the rumbling of machinery half a kilometre away.
For those who like audio customisation during recording, the Shure MOTIV app offers robust options for EQ, noise suppression, and compression. Live-streamers will appreciate direct integration with platforms like Facebook and YouTube.
For those who film a lot of interviews, the two-channel recording is handy in cases where two speakers need equal representation.
The downs: You need to use the app in order to use the MoveMic, and the files are recorded onto your phone library. The 30m range might feel limiting for larger productions, but it’s ideal for the TikTok generation and independent filmmakers.
One annoying point is the firmware upgrade: in order to do so, you’ll need to download another app, this time on a desktop/laptop since you have to plug the charging case to your desktop.
Verdict: While the system may not replace studio-grade setups for demanding professionals, it’s an upgrade for mobile creators who need high-quality audio wherever they go. For the functions it affords and the sound quality, it’s well worth the investment.
Shure MoveMic 2 – which comes with 2 mics – retails for S$559. Get a 10% discount storewide for Shure products using the code CAMPUS10!
