How to Use MV7i and MOTIV Mix for Podcasters
The best podcasts are the ones that feel the most natural. That’s because when you’re relaxed and at ease, your ideas – and those of your guest or co-host – can really start to flow. Since the MV7i Smart Microphone & Interface only takes a matter of seconds to set up, and includes some clever DSP, you can be recording in no time.
So, what is the MV7i exactly?
The MV7i combines the power of the world’s best podcasting mics with an inbuilt interface, meaning you can set up your studio or recording space for you and a guest with just a single mic cable.
Here’s how it works.
First, you set up your MV7i as you would any other podcasting mic. Position it so that it’s about 6”-12” (15-30 cm) from your mouth. If you want more low end, move in closer.
Next, connect your headphones to the back of the MV7i (we’d recommend a pair of Shure’s studio-quality SRH440A, as they’ll pick up the details of you and your guest’s voice, while isolating you from the room…but other options are available). This will allow you to monitor both yours and your guest’s audio.
Next, connect the MV7i to another mic. Now, you can use absolutely any mic for your guest, from the iconic SM7B to an entry level vocal mic like the PG58. The preamp inside the MV7i has enough to handle even low-output mics, and also has phantom power for condenser mics like the SM4.
The MV7i also has a new trick up its sleeve: SmartGate™, which will automatically switch off a mic when you or your guest stops talking. This cuts out background noise and crosstalk, making it easier for your listeners to follow the conversation.
In addition, users can benefit from Auto-Level Mode. It is like working with a virtual sound engineer, and can really elevate the quality of your podcast. If you or your guest move too far from the mic, laugh loudly, or do anything else that changes the dynamics, Auto-Level will ensure appropriate gain is maintained for consistency .
The MV7i also has a built-in Digital Pop Filter, plus a Real-time Denoiser. These great DSP features are switched on out of the box, and apply to both the MV7imic AND the input. (You have the ability to disable them if needed in MOTIV Mix Desktop App or MOTIV Audio App).
The Real-time Denoiser does exactly what the name suggests: it cuts out persistent unwanted noise. It does this by scanning for unwanted frequencies – like computer fans or traffic rumbles – and then scooping them out of your audio signal. This means that even noisy rooms like offices and kitchens can end up sounding like professional studios – perfect for podcasting.
Since we’re talking about podcasting, most likely you’ll be connecting to the second mic with an XLR cable. That said, the MV7i can also handle jack leads – ideal for if you ever want to record an instrument like a guitar (see our musicians’ guide to the MV7i for more info).
Now for the final step: plug your mic into your laptop, tablet or phone using a USB-C connector.
And that’s it. No, really – you don’t need to do anything else to set up your system.
The end result? Podcast recordings that are consistent throughout, so your listeners don’t have to turn up the volume to understand a quiet guest, and they’re not suddenly surprised by an ear-splitting cough.
TIP:
The audio output of the MV7i can be configured to suit your production needs. You have some further useful options for exporting the audio: Mixdown, Multi-Track, and Stereo Mode.
Mixdown Mode
Combines microphone and mono input audio into one mono audio output. Perfect for occasions when you want to use the audio quickly with no additional post production.
Multi-Track Mode
Renders 2 separate mono audio tracks, one for the microphone and one for the input. Ideal when you want to keep the two tracks separate for further editing.
Stereo Mode
Combines microphone and stereo 1/4” TRS audio into one stereo audio track. Preserves the stereo audio from the input and places mic in both left and right channels. Great for voiceovers with stereo audio in the background.
