YouTube member blkphoto sends in this video test using the Rode SmartLAV while shooting with a Panasonic GH3 [Thanks Larry]. If you jump over to 1:43 in the video you can hear the immediate difference between the recording and the sound from the GH3 internal microphone.
The Rode SmartLav is a microphone that connects directly to an iPod touch, iPhone, or iPad. You can download a free version of the Rode Rec app to adjust sound levels and with the paid version of the app you can immediately share your recordings to the cloud.
Rode SmartLAV via GearAddix.com
It may not replace your other high end mics and digital recorders, but as you will often hear stories about Lav mics breaking in the middle of a project, it might be handy to keep a Rode SmartLAV around in the kit. Available at the DVEStore.com (found here)
Rode smartLav iOS Lavalier Microphone.
The Rode SmartLAV can also be found via eBay
Rode iPhone iPod iPad SmartLAV - via eBay
Emm
Post author@Ron Baselice - As far as I know, the mic is detected by any iOS app, and you can even use the voice memo app.
Ron Baselice
Can you use thismic with FilMic Pro, now that's a combination.......
Rob
Do you know if Rode make a Micron adapter so this mic can also be used with a Zoom H1 and another adapter for Sennheiser G3 ?
Emm
Post author@Peter - The smartLav uses a TRRS connection. The GH3 uses a TRS.
Peter
Why not just connect the smartLAV directly to the GH3? Is it a power isssue?
bkpr100
Any info on expected phone battery life while using it at the various recording formats?
Gabb3r
Nice mic, might get one. It would kick serious butt if it was possible to sync and record the sound via Lumix Link wifi directly into the GH3 ; you'd get a viable wireless lav for 60 bucks AND a sound backup on your phone!
Emm
Post author@Ajapopfilms - I have used it several times on an iPhone 5 and have not had issues of it crashing. They were about 15 minute recordings. It will continue to run when you jump to another app so you have to remember to end the app.
Ajapopfilms
Hey MrCheesy, have you had any issues with the SmartLAV crashing the whole iphone when using the app?