We all have moments when we want to throw our smart phone or tablet out the window. But when you’re in a more tech-appreciating mood, it’s fascinating to consider all the things these devices can do to make our lives easier. One such thing that continues to evolve is convenient and mobile recording for guitarists.
IK Multimedia’s new iRig Acoustic is a patent-pending, MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) mic pickup that easily clips to the lower rim of a soundhole. The iRig plugs into a device’s headphone/input jack, and there’s a female output jack on the in-line cable for headphones or routing to another monitor. Download IK Multimedia’s free AmpliTube Acoustic app and, voilà, you’re in business with a mobile acoustic-recording rig for under $50.
With a Larrivée parlor in hand and an iPad Air as my mobile device of choice, I tuned up through AmpliTube Acoustic’s tuner function and went through the app’s calibration check. In no time at all, I was dialing in the EQ and flavoring my tone with a bit of reverb. The sound I produced through the iRig Acoustic and its partner app was impressive for such a small and simple setup. No, this little rig isn’t going to replace a traditional mic setup for recording, but to get warm and surprisingly natural tone from a pick-shaped, clip-on device and my iPad? That’s pretty cool. Take note: Given the positioning and sensitivity of the iRig Acoustic, it picks up everything happening on the soundboard, so care should be taken if you shift around a lot while playing.
Test gear: Larrivée P-01, iPad Air
Ratings
Pros:
Super simple to use. Ultra-portable. Affordable.
Cons:
Sensitive mic can pick up unwanted soundboard noise. Cable a little flimsy.
Street:
$49
IK Multimedia iRig Acoustic
ikmultimedia.com
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