Want to get better sound with your phone camera?

Just did a first test of the Mikme BlackSilver microphone and was impressed. An easy to use, palm-sized mic that will wirelessly (via bluetooth) deliver fairly high-quality sound to your phone camera.

Just place the mic on a surface near the subject(s) or have somebody in the frame hold it, then record video and audio to your phone with the free app (compatible with iPhone and Android).  I won't bore you with the specs, which make sense only to audio geeks. Suffice to say, in the twisted, confusing world of microphones the Mikme has a surprisingly good quality packed into a small, stand-alone unit at a reasonable price. Barb's first reaction was, it looks cute, too.

Should note, however, I am referring to the Mikme BlackSilver model, not the BlackGold which is a different and more expensive beast. In the US the BlackSilver with 4GB memory model (good enough for 98% of uses) is available through B&H Photo/Video in New York City for $219. An 8GB version is $249. I have ordered from B&H for years. Good product availability, reliable delivery, and their after-sale service has always been top-notch.

Below is a sample of what the BlackSiver version sounds like. Took the mic out of the box, charged it, turned it on, then pushed one button to begin recording - as Barb was getting ready for bed. No, I didn't shoot a video of Barb undressing for bed. Did you really expect me to do that? Get real.

Instead you'll hear a 7 minute recording in the manner as I plan to use the mic, which will also let you hear what your videos can sound like instead of using your built-in phone mic. The Mikme eliminates the problem of recording sounds - voice or whatever at a distance. In the real world, that would be any sound you want to record that is more than 2 feet from your phone. In those situations a remote mike should always make your video sound better. Unfortunately, available equipment needed to get that good quality sound into your phone has either been of negligible benefit, or a hassle to drag around, set up, and use (expensive, too). Not convenient for vacation or family gatherings where you don't give a shit about making a Hollywood-style production. The Mikme looks to be the easiest to use and most versatile mic I have yet seen for getting high quality sound into videos.

Hear more sound samples on the Mikme site.