If you're shooting mobile iOS video and want better audio than what your phone provides—or if you need to record VO or ADR on the go—the Rode VideoMic Me-L is worth your consideration. This is a shotgun mic that plugs right into iOS devices via a lightning port, using the connection point as a mount as well.

The mic focuses the audio capture on what's directly in front of the capsule thanks to the directional polar pattern. It's primarily intended for use with iOS devices, though it does offer a 3.5mm TRS jack, which can be used for monitoring or for backup analog recording, provided you've plugged in the mic to a lightning port. Even though the mic can mount directly on top of your iOS lightning port, it comes with a dedicated mic clip should you rather use it as well as a furry windscreen for achieving a better sound in windy conditions.

For Mobile Video or Mobile VO    Shotgun-Style Mic with iOS Connector    Included Mic Clip & Furry Windscreen    3.5mm & Lightning Connections    Compatible with Built-In Audio Apps    Cardioid Pattern Tamps Down Room Tone    Monitor/Record with 3.5mm Headphone Jack    Broadcast-Quality Capture up to 48 kHz

With its simple plug-and-play form factor, the mic is perfectly suited for mobile iOS video recording. However, the quality of the mic itself is good enough to be used for VO or ADR when studios are not available; the mic has been used this way in a few television shows.

When connected over the Lightning port, the mic captures audio in a broadcast-quality 48 kHz sample-rate, making it suitable for use in pro circumstances. The highly directional cardioid polar pattern will help tamp down unwanted room noise and ambience.

The built-in 3.5mm jack works with headphones, or it can also be utilized for backup recording.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Does this work with new iPhone 15s?

A: Yes, the RODE VideoMic Me-C Directional Microphone is compatible for use with the new iPhone 15 models. The RODE Reporter App and the RODE Capture App can be used to control the parameters.

Q: 2. does this work with an iPhone with the case on? Does plugging this mic in disable the speakers for playback?

A: The RODE VideoMic Me-C Directional Microphone for Android Devices will work with some phone cases, but as these are not a standard size it is impossible to guarantee. You will not be able to use your iPhone speakers while the microphone is in use.

Q: 3. Will this mic work with Facebook live?

A: Yes, when connected, this mic replaces the built in mic on your phone, and is perfectly compatible with Facebook Live.

Q: 4. Since this plugs into the lighting port you can't charge and record audio at the same time which is a flaw. If a lighting splitter was used on the phone with this going to one port and the charger going to the other will it work? Will still need to rig it so the mic is not just dangling from the dongle.

A: It might, but neither Rode or Apple would approve. We have not tested this work-flow as this mic has not begun shipping.

Q: 5. Will this work with the Moment Photo Case?

A: Hello Jeremy, most cases are difficult to use with any external microphone as they vary widely. I recommend using a third party device to hold the phone (minus the case) without hindering the external microphone. Look into Joby and Beast Grip.

Q: 6. how do you attache to an iphone 7 plus?

A: The plug goes into the headphone jack and the little plastic clip secures to the edge of the phone.

Q: 7. Rode VideoMic Me-L: is it better than the current Rode Shotgun mic.. they look the same..(I use it with my iPhone 7+..looking for better quality for sound? (interviewing people)

A: This mic is designed specifically for iOS devices. Iit should work very well but we have not yet had an opportunity to record with it.

Q: 8. I would like this by Friday, for an event. Given its out of stock, can you offer an alternative.

A: Ampridge MightyMic S iPhone Shotgun Video Microphone B&H # AMMIGHTYMICS :

Q: 9. Does VideoMic Me-L work with an iPhone 5s?

A: Yes

Q: 10. Will this work with a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra?

A: Yes, the Rode VideoMic Me-C Directional Microphone for Android Devices is compatible for use with a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra Smartphone.