Most professional microphones rely on the tried-and-trusted XLR connector for hitching up to PAs, audio interfaces and other audio equipment. XLR connectors are robust and are balanced connections which means they can be used over long runs of cable, which is essential for use during live performances or in recording studios.
However, not everyone wants to use XLR, especially if they are on the move and want to record or stream directly to a laptop with a USB port. Now classic audio brand Shure has unveiled a solution that enables XLR microphones to be used with a USB port. The new MVX2U Digital Audio Interface is a single-channel, XLR-to-USB device that makes it possible to connect a classic XLR microphone, like the Shure SM7B, with a laptop.
With a compact and discrete design, the MVX2U has integrated software that enables it to be used with the ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop app so that any XLR microphone can be used via a USB port with little to no setup. The interface provides up to +60dB of gain, which is ideal for the classic Shure SM7B. The interface also has 48V phantom power for driving condenser microphones.
The new MVX2U will appeal to streamers, podcasters and content creators. In a press release issued today, Shure claims it puts “extraordinary audio” within reach of everyone thanks to the interface’s robust Digital Signal Processing (DSP). The onboard DSP of the ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop app works with any condenser or dynamic XLR microphone, turning them into a USB mic and adding all the tools necessary for high-quality audio.
The MVX2U ships in Auto Level Mode, which sets the microphone gain in real-time by adjusting the gain on the fly, creating a more consistent listening experience. The Auto Level Mode enables users to focus on producing their content rather than their microphone technique. More consistent levels should result in less time spent editing and more time creating. Auto Level Mode also has settings, presets and additional parameters that can be controlled using Shure’s MOTIV Desktop App.
The MOTIV Desktop app has advanced features when used in the Manual Mode for anyone who wants a more hands-on approach to their sound. These features include EQ, limiter, and compressor presets. Shure says that future firmware updates will be available for the MVX2U, ensuring the interface will stay up to date.
The MVX2U is compatible with any XLR microphone. It can be plugged directly into the XLR output of a mic or at the end of an XLR cable, offering users more flexibility in setting up their microphone. Without enough microphone gain, getting a clean sound is almost impossible. Shure claims the MVX2U can provide +60 dB of gain; that’s enough to drive even the most gain-hungry microphones, such as the Shure SM7B, probably the most popular podcasting microphone currently in use.
The MVX2U Digital Audio Interface ships with a 1m USB-C to USB-C cable and a printed quick-start guide to explain the interface’s features.
Pricing & Availability: The new Shure MVX2U is available now and costs $129 / £135 / €149.
More info: Shure.com
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