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.

Perfect for Mobile Video and More

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.

Broadcast Quality

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.

Versatile 3.5mm Jack

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