Shure MVi Gen 1 USB Audio Interface for PC / Mac / Android / iPad - Lightning Compatible (Discontinued)

89
GEARANK

89 out of 100. Incorporating 150+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$99
Shure MVi

Gearank High Notes

Gearank Recommendation

The MVi Gen 1 appeared on our recommended list for iPad Audio Interfaces from when we first published the list in February 2016 and remained there until September 2021 when it was no longer available new in stores.

It also appeared on our Cheap Audio Interface recommended list from June 2018 until December 2019.

Overview

Note that this has been superseded by a newer model.

Mobile users will appreciate the portability and plug and play compatibility of Shure MVi with the iPad and other iOS devices.

It's also compatible with Android, Mac & PC.

It owes its versatility to its switchable recording mode, which lets you fine-tune its Class A preamp for use with singing, acoustic instruments, speech, and loud instruments.

The 5th mode tunes the MVi to a basic flat setting, in case you want to go with the "warts and all" approach. This interesting ability makes it easier for beginners to get good sounding recordings.

Being a compact audio interface, it comes with a single XLR combo jack, but it does offer phantom power (12V powered by an iPad and 48V when USB Bus powered) via its class A preamp.

Other features include DSP preset editing via software and quick loading via built-in controls, and it comes bundled with a lightning compatible cable for convenient connectivity with your favorite iOS device.

Note that the bundled Mini-USB to Lightning cable is not the same as standard USB to Lightning cables. This means that replacing the cable can be a bit of a hassle, thankfully there are specialized mini-USB to lightning cables available online which you can find with a bit of searching. Just make sure that you don't lose the cable and you won't have to deal with this issue.

The Shure MVi is a great interface for those who need good sound right away. The preset DSP per instrument helps you focus on your content rather than your settings.

Get it if you need something you can grab and go. If you need more flexibility, there are other items on our recommended list worth considering.

Specifications

  • A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
  • Preamp: 1 x Class A Shure Preamp
  • Channels: 1
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" Combo (Line/Hi-Z Level)
  • Outputs: 1 x 1/8" Headphones
  • MIDI: USB
  • Power: Bus Powered (by IOS or USB)
  • Can charge IOS unit: No
  • Phantom Power: 12V (when using iPad power), 48V when using standard USB power

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
YouTube Podcastage 92/100
Music Radar Jon Musgrave 90/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.
Unfortunately this is no longer available new in stores but you can see highly rated alternatives in our guides to The Best iPad Audio Interfaces and The Best Cheap Audio Interfaces .

About the Author

Raphael PulgarRaphael Pulgar

I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.