Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.5 (4)
$69.00
Guitar Center
3.0 (6)
$89.00
Amazon
3.9 (37)
$99.00
Reverb
$51.17 New
$41.95 Used
Musician's Friend
1.0 (1)
$89.00
zZounds
$89.00 $69.00 $20.00 · All time low
B&H
4.4 (240)
$69.00 $52.99 $16.01 · All time low
Thomann
4.4 (234)
$41.00

Average Price: $67

Budget/Beginner

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Rode smartLav+". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Rode smartLav+ offers an effortless way to capture broadcast-quality audio directly from your smartphone, making it an indispensable tool for musicians, podcasters, and content creators on the move. This broadcast-grade lavalier microphone, designed with a professional-quality omnidirectional condenser capsule, ensures that your audio recordings pick up sound seamlessly from all directions. This versatility allows for easy placement and natural sound capture, whether you're filming interviews, recording vocals, or creating video content.

The smartLav+ is built not just for performance but also for durability. Its Kevlar-reinforced cable provides resilience against everyday wear and tear, ensuring you won’t be left without your mic in crucial moments. The included foam pop shield is a thoughtful addition, minimizing wind noise and reducing vocal plosives, while the durable mounting clip offers flexible placement options.

Seamlessly integrating with most audio and video recording apps, including the dedicated RØDE Rec app for iOS, the smartLav+ transforms your device into a high-powered recording studio. The app offers a suite of professional editing tools and the ability to publish your projects to platforms like SoundCloud and Dropbox. With the Rode smartLav+, professional audio quality is always within your reach, wherever your creativity takes you.

Key Features:

  • Broadcast-grade omnidirectional condenser capsule
  • Compatible with iOS and selected Android devices
  • Kevlar-reinforced cable for enhanced durability
  • Foam pop shield included to minimize noise and plosives
  • Seamless integration with RØDE Rec app for iOS
  • Comes with a durable mounting clip and a convenient carry pouch

Product specs

Microphone Type Condenser
Polar Pattern Omnidirectional
Diaphragm Size 2.54mm
Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz
Max SPL 110dB SPL (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1K ohm load)
Signal to Noise Ratio 67dB (A weighted)
Self Noise 27dB (A weighted)
Output Impedance 0 ohms
Connector 1/8" TRRS
Weight 0.01 lbs.
Included Accessories Microphone Mounting Clip, Pop Filter/Wind Shield

FAQs

Is the Rode smartLav+ compatible with all smartphones?

The Rode smartLav+ is designed to work with smartphones that have a TRRS input. For phones without a headphone jack, a compatible adapter is required.

What is the polar pattern of the Rode smartLav+ and how does it affect recording?

The Rode smartLav+ features an omnidirectional polar pattern, which captures sound equally from all directions, making it ideal for capturing clear audio regardless of the microphone's orientation.

Does the Rode smartLav+ require any additional power source?

No, the Rode smartLav+ does not require an external power source. It is powered directly through the connected smartphone's TRRS input.

What is included with the Rode smartLav+ microphone?

The Rode smartLav+ comes with a microphone mounting clip and a pop filter/wind shield to help reduce wind noise and plosive sounds during recording.

Can the Rode smartLav+ handle loud environments?

The Rode smartLav+ can handle sound pressure levels up to 110dB SPL, making it suitable for recording in moderately loud environments without distortion.

Surfaced Studio

Surfaced Studio

RODE SmartLav+ Review - Best SmartPhone Microphone?

Video thumbnail for RODE SmartLav+ Review - Best SmartPhone Microphone? by Surfaced Studio

RODE SmartLav+ Review - Best SmartPhone Microphone?

Surfaced Studio

Surfaced Studio

Video thumbnail for Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Mikrofon | REVIEW deutsch 🔴 by TechnikSaloon

Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Mikrofon | REVIEW deutsch 🔴

TechnikSaloon

TechnikSaloon

Video thumbnail for Ein Mikrofon fürs Handy?  Rode Smart Lav + Review Deutsch by APPgefilmt

Ein Mikrofon fürs Handy? Rode Smart Lav + Review Deutsch

APPgefilmt

APPgefilmt

Video thumbnail for GREAT AUDIO FOR $80 | Rode SmartLav Plus (Review & Test) by Zefi Tech

GREAT AUDIO FOR $80 | Rode SmartLav Plus (Review & Test)

Zefi Tech

Zefi Tech

Video thumbnail for Rode SmartLav+ Microphone Review by Consumer Tech Review (High-Speed)

Rode SmartLav+ Microphone Review

Consumer Tech Review (High-Speed)

Consumer Tech Review (High-Speed)

Video thumbnail for Rode smartLav+ im Test - Lavaliermikrofon, Ansteckmikrofon für Smartphones by Alexan Der

Rode smartLav+ im Test - Lavaliermikrofon, Ansteckmikrofon für Smartphones

Alexan Der

Alexan Der

Video thumbnail for Rode SmartLav+ im Test - Ansteckmikrofon by MEGA-Testberichte

Rode SmartLav+ im Test - Ansteckmikrofon

MEGA-Testberichte

MEGA-Testberichte

Reviews

PROS

  • Interfaces well with smartphones, enhancing mobile recording flexibility

  • Comes with a durable, well-constructed design

  • Offers high audio quality, comparable to more expensive models

  • Easy to use for beginners, perfect for various recording scenarios

  • Includes handy accessories like a pouch, cable strap, and foam pop shield

  • Provides a cost-effective solution for quality audio recording

  • Compatible with various recording apps for iOS and Android

CONS

  • Some units may have quality control issues, like damaged pop filters

  • Short cable length can limit mobility or setup options

  • Audio may exhibit a boxy sound or require significant EQ in post-production

  • Sensitive to fabric noise, making it less ideal for movement-intensive recordings

  • Clip design can be fiddly and incompatible with non-Rode system clips

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Rode smartLav+.

Features and functionality

  • The Rode smartLav+ requires a 3.5mm TRRS-to-TRS adapter, like the Rode SC-3, to connect with the Rode Wireless GO II system.

    Source
  • The SmartLav+ utilizes a 3.5mm TRRS connection, while the Wireless GO II uses a 3.5mm TRS, impacting compatibility with different devices.

    Source
  • The Rode VXLR+ and VXLR Pro adapters convert phantom power to the 5v plug-in power required by the SmartLav+.

    Source
  • The VXLR Pro adapter also converts to balanced audio, which is beneficial for extending cable length without signal degradation.

    Source
  • The regular VXLR adapter is not suitable for the SmartLav+, as it lacks the capability to convert phantom power to the necessary 5v bias voltage.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The smartLav+ performs better than the Deity lavalier in user experience.

    Source
  • Professional sound users suggest Sanken, DPA, and Countryman lavaliers over Rode for superior quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The smartLav+ is considered for unique recording scenarios, such as placing one mic on a car exhaust and another in the engine bay.

    Source
  • Using the VXLR Pro allows for longer cable runs by connecting an XLR cable between it and the interface.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • It's crucial to understand microphone placement for optimal sound, regardless of the mic's brand.

    Source
  • SmartLav+ requires plug-in power, which many PC mic-in ports don't provide; users found success using the Rode SC3 adapter or Rode AI-Micro interface.

    Source
  • The SmartLav+ needs both the SC3 adapter and a phantom power converter like the VXLR+ for use with XLR inputs.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • When connected to a computer, the SmartLav+ may produce a strong hiss if gain is maxed without proper power, indicating setup adjustments or additional equipment might be needed.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Rode smartLav+ Lavalier Mic for Smartphones Review | Microphone Geeks

microphonegeeks.com

The Rode smartLav+ delivers solid sound quality that surpasses built-in mics, making it a reliable choice for smartphone users. Its plug-and-play simplicity is a major plus, allowing users to record speeches and vlogs with impressive clarity. However, the short cable length may necessitate a costly extension, and its omnidirectional nature can struggle in noisy environments or multi-speaker scenarios. While it excels in controlled settings, users seeking versatility may find limitations. Overall, this microphone shines for solo recordings but may not be the best fit for all situations—still, it’s a great value for those who understand its strengths and weaknesses.

positive

RØDE SmartLav+ Review - DustinAbbott.net

dustinabbott.net

The Rode SmartLav+ is a lightweight and portable solution that excels in delivering clean audio for video recordings, especially in noisy environments. Its clever design allows direct recording to smartphones, enhancing flexibility for on-the-go filming. While the sound quality is commendable for its price, users must bear in mind the additional cost of the RØDE Rec app and the need for post-syncing audio with video. Furthermore, the mic's mono output may not satisfy those seeking richer soundscapes. Overall, it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious creators looking for decent audio quality without the complexity of more expensive systems.

positive

Rode SmartLav+ Microphone Review • Points in Focus Photography

pointsinfocus.com

For entry-level audio needs, the Rode SmartLav+ delivers commendable performance, especially for smartphone recording. Its design is user-friendly, and the sound quality shines when the mic is close to the source. However, it struggles in noisier environments and can sound tinny compared to higher-end mics. The requirement for plug-in power and the need for additional adapters in complex setups may deter some users. Still, at its price point, the SmartLav+ is a solid choice for budding videographers and podcasters, providing a practical blend of performance and versatility.

positive

RØDE SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone Review | Castos

castos.com

The RØDE SmartLav+ stands out for its portability and solid sound quality, making it a favorite among content creators. Its compact design and affordability are major selling points, ensuring it’s accessible to both amateurs and professionals. However, it does come with limitations: the TRRS connector can cause compatibility issues, especially for non-smartphone users, and its omnidirectional pickup may capture unwanted background noise. Additionally, the short cable length and lack of an on/off switch can be frustrating. While it excels in delivering decent audio for podcasts and videos, it doesn't quite match the performance of higher-end microphones. Overall, it’s a reliable choice but be aware of its constraints before committing.

Review of SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone - Long-Term

varuzzo.com

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Artist usage

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Christopher Frost

Photographer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the description of his YouTube video titled "Focus up at Christmas! | Message for 2025," Christopher Frost confirms that he uses the Rode Smartlav+ microphone.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Rode smartLav+, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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