Rode Smartlav Plus Lavalier Microphone
Best mobile lavalier for vloggers and content creators on the go.
Capture crisp, clear audio effortlessly with the Rode Smartlav Plus Lavalier Microphone. This broadcast-grade microphone features an omnidirectional condenser capsule, making talent placement forgiving while delivering high-quality sound for content creation and vlogging. It connects directly to smartphones via a TRRS connector and includes a pop filter to minimize plosives. Built for durability, it boasts a 1.2m (4') Kevlar-reinforced shielded cable, ensuring reliability on any shoot. The Smartlav+ is compatible with all audio apps and pairs perfectly with the RODE Reporter app for streamlined recording workflows.
$89.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1120
/ 3337
#1120 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-82%
Below average
Microphone Type
Condenser Lavalier
/ Condenser Lavalier
Who it's for
- Beginners looking for a complete, ready-to-use audio kit
- Content creators needing professional sound on a tight budget
- Mobile journalists wanting quick, plug-and-play smartphone recording
Who should skip it
- Videographers requiring long cables or dedicated camera compatibility
- Active presenters prone to rustling fabric or movement
- Producers needing real-time audio monitoring during recording
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Broadcast-grade condenser capsule delivers crisp, professional sound for mobile content.
Ease of Setup
Plug-and-play TRRS connectivity makes mobile recording seamless for any user.
Build Durability
Kevlar-reinforced cabling ensures long-term reliability for frequent on-the-go shoots.
Placement Forgiveness
Omnidirectional pattern captures clear audio even with imperfect mic positioning.
Plosive Control
Included pop filter effectively minimizes harsh breath sounds during speech.
App Compatibility
Universal design works flawlessly with virtually any mobile audio recording software.
Key Specs
Microphone Type
Condenser Lavalier
Polar Pattern
Omni-Directional
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity
-35 dB
Maximum SPL
110 dB
Impedance
3 kOhms
Connectivity
3.5 mm TRRS connector
Cable Length
1.2m (4')
Features
- Broadcast-quality audio for clear recordings
- Direct smartphone connection via TRRS
- Forgiving omnidirectional microphone capsule
- Durable, Kevlar-reinforced cable
- Pop filter reduces unwanted plosives
- Works with any audio application
- Ideal for content creators and vloggers
What customers say
Customers view the Rode Smartlav Plus as the benchmark for mobile audio, consistently praising its significant leap in audio clarity for vlogging and podcasts. It captures professional sounding, crisp vocals with minimal background noise, making high quality recording accessible through simple plug and play use with smartphones. Users strongly affirm the robust build quality and reliability justify the investment. While initial setup for computers or cameras requires an adapter, the overall consensus is that this microphone delivers exceptional value and reliable performance for creators prioritizing clear vocal capture.
Know before you buy
The Smartlav+ uses a 3.5mm TRRS connector designed for smartphones with a headphone jack. If your phone lacks a headphone port, you will need a certified Lightning or USB-C to 3.5mm adapter to connect it.
No, the microphone is plug-and-play and works with any audio or video recording app on your device. While it is optimized for the RODE Reporter app, you can use it with your phone's native camera app or any third-party voice memo software.
Because it is omnidirectional, the microphone captures sound from all directions, which makes it very forgiving for placement but also means it will pick up ambient background noise. It is best suited for controlled indoor environments or quiet outdoor settings.
No, the Smartlav+ is powered by 'plug-in power' provided directly by your smartphone through the 3.5mm connection. You never need to worry about charging it or replacing batteries.
The Smartlav+ is specifically wired for smartphones. To use it with a DSLR camera or a computer with a standard TRS microphone input, you will need a TRRS to TRS adapter, which is sold separately.
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