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Shure

Shure MV51 Digital Condenser Microphone with USB/Lightning

★★★★★4.5 (962 reviews)
Condenser

Shure MV51: a large-diaphragm USB/Lightning condenser mic with touch controls for studio-quality recording on any device.

$249.00*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Shure MV51 is a large-diaphragm digital condenser microphone built around a 1-inch capsule that captures detailed, full-range audio suitable for podcasting, voiceover, music recording, and streaming. It connects directly to Mac, PC, and iOS devices via the included USB and Lightning cables, removing the need for a dedicated audio interface or adapter. Five onboard DSP preset modes — accessible through a capacitive touch panel on the front of the microphone — let you quickly switch between optimized settings for speech, singing, flat recording, acoustic instruments, and loud sources, streamlining your workflow without requiring separate software adjustments.

Built entirely from metal with a retro-inspired grille, the MV51 feels substantial and studio-grade. Its integrated rear kickstand tilts the microphone to a comfortable angle on any desk, and the end cap unscrews to reveal a standard 5/8-inch thread for boom arm or mic stand mounting. A 3.5mm headphone jack on the back provides zero-latency monitoring so you can hear exactly what the microphone captures in real time. For iOS users, the free ShurePlus MOTIV app offers additional gain, EQ, and compression controls along with basic recording and editing tools, making the MV51 a self-contained recording solution from capture to export.

Key Features

Large-diaphragm condenser capsule for full-bodied sound recording

iOS and USB connectivity offers quick setup without an audio interface or need for additional adapters or connection kits (Apple MFi certified)

Integrated rear kickstand for tabletop use. Or, unscrew the end cap and mount to standard 5/8” mic stand

Front panel touch control for 5 DSP preset modes, headphone volume, and more

Record, edit, and share recordings from the free ShurePlus MOTIV iOS app

Compatible with popular iOS audio and video apps

Zero-latency headphone output for real-time monitoring

Iconic grille inspired by vintage Shure products and all-metal construction

Lightning connector and USB cables included

Specifications

Capsule Type
1-inch Large-Diaphragm Condenser
Connectivity
USB, Lightning (Apple MFi Certified)
DSP Preset Modes
5 (Speech, Singing, Flat, Acoustic, Loud)
Headphone Output
1/8" (3.5mm) with Zero-Latency Monitoring
Mounting
Integrated Kickstand / 5/8" Mic Stand Thread
Construction
All-Metal
Compatibility
Mac, PC, iPhone, iPod, iPad, Android
Included Cables
Lightning Cable, USB Cable
App Support
ShurePlus MOTIV (iOS)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Plug-and-play USB and Lightning connectivity eliminates the need for a separate audio interface
  • Five onboard DSP presets let you quickly optimize for different recording scenarios without software
  • All-metal construction and iconic retro grille give it a durable, professional build quality
  • Integrated kickstand works on a desk and converts to a standard 5/8-inch mic stand mount
  • Zero-latency headphone output allows real-time monitoring without audible delay

👎 Cons

  • Large-diaphragm capsule and metal body make it heavier and bulkier than many portable USB microphones
  • Touch panel controls on the front can be accidentally triggered during recording
  • Cardioid-only polar pattern limits flexibility for multi-person or room-recording setups
  • No built-in pop filter, so plosive sounds may require an aftermarket screen

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The MV51 connects directly via USB or Lightning, so you can plug it into a Mac, PC, iPhone, or iPad and start recording immediately without any additional hardware.
The five onboard presets are optimized for speech, singing, flat/neutral recording, acoustic instruments, and loud sources like drums or amplifiers. Each adjusts gain, EQ, and compression automatically.
Yes. The MV51 has a 1/8-inch (3.5mm) headphone jack with zero-latency monitoring, so you hear yourself without any delay while recording.
Unscrew the end cap on the integrated kickstand to reveal a standard 5/8-inch thread. This fits directly onto most microphone stands or boom arms.
Yes. The MV51 works with Android devices that support USB audio, using the included USB cable.

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