The Shure Motiv MVX2U is probably one of the smallest USB audio interfaces in the world, and one that not only provides a straightforward means of connecting an XLR microphone to a computer via USB to enable recording on a DAW, but also features automatic gain control for even faster recording. The Shure Motiv MVX2U also has a 48V phantom power facility for users of condenser microphones as well as a 3.5mm headphone output jack. The ShurePlus MOTIV app, which is available free of charge from the manufacturer, enables the Auto Level Mode to be set, the firmware to be updated, and the sound optimised through the addition of effects courtesy of the integrated DSP facility. Together, these functions make the ultra-compact Shure Motiv MVX2U the perfect tool for spontaneous recording sessions.
A female XLR socket is built into the left side of the Shure Motiv MVX2U for connecting a microphone. For an extra secure connection, the socket is equipped with a metal safety catch, which must be pressed down when establishing the connection. Up to 60dB of input gain is available for connected microphones, and the right side of the device is fitted with a USB-C port for connecting a computer. A corresponding 1m cable is included in the scope of delivery, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for direct monitoring of the microphone signal with zero latency can additionally be found on the right side. In the middle of the device is an LED, which provides information on the recording status of the Shure Motiv MVX2U: Green indicates that recording can start, while red means that the audio interface is muted and yellow LED indicates an error.
This ultra-compact audio interface is aimed at content creators and musicians who are looking for a user-friendly solution for their recording and streaming activities that renders a microphone ready to use in seconds. All they need to do is connect up the microphone and computer, and they can start recording! The Auto Gain Level function enables automatic adjustment of the microphone, while the ShurePlus MOTIV app can be used in parallel to optimise the sound during use. The Shure Motiv MVX2U is both streamlined and robust, making it the ideal fit for every bag, and is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
The American company Shure began developing microphones during the early 1930s and is one of the pioneers of the audio engineering sector. Models such as the 55 Unidyne - known to many as the "Elvis microphone" - and the SM57 and SM58 which appeared in the mid-1960s are still ubiquitous in live sound production today. They enjoy cult status among musicians and technicians alike. In the 1990s, Shure introduced the first wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring systems and became a market leader in this field. In addition to microphones, Shure offers a wide range of earphones and headphones for studio and live use, as well as various accessories.
In addition to any microphone, an optionally available XLR cable is needed for recording or streaming the microphone signal, in order to transfer the signal to the audio interface. A wireless connection can also be achieved by using an optionally available transmitter, for greater freedom of movement during recording sessions and streaming. Users will also benefit from delay-free playback courtesy of the Shure Motiv MVX2U’s ability to monitor the microphone signal with zero latency, plus there is the option to connect wireless headphones so that greater freedom of movement can again be achieved. In addition to streaming content on platforms such as YouTube or Twitch, this ultra-compact audio interface is also ideal for musicians looking to record song ideas on the fly using a readily available microphone, which can subsequently be edited in a DAW.
ShurePlus MOTIV app
The ShurePlus MOTIV app is available for iOS and Android devices such as smartphones and tablets, as well as for desktop computers, and it can be used to control the Shure MV7 and Shure MV88+ microphones and the Shure Motiv MVX2U compact audio interface, to name just a few devices. Functions enabled via the app include microphone gain regulation and the activation of 48V phantom power to allow condenser microphones to be used. The app can also be used to optimise the sound for the microphone position, define the tonal characteristics, and adjust the monitor mix between the microphone signal and DAW playback. A five-band equaliser, a high pass filter, a limiter complete with activation facility, and a compressor with three setting options are also accessible towards the bottom of the screen.