It's compatible out of the box with iOS devices via lightning cable, so after downloading its companion recording app, all you have to do is plug the mic straight into your device and hit record. You can even set the levels just by choosing one of its onboard presets—podcasting, voiceover, or instrument tracking.

Great for beginners and/or podcasters running mobile shows with on-the-ground reporting or interview elements, the MOTIV also comes in at under $100 USD—less if you buy used—which is a reasonable price for a beginner's package that's about as full-featured as you can get.