Mikme Pocket - Mobile Audio for Podcasters & Creators

The market is filled with options for recording audio on the go, and recent innovations have significantly enhanced both the ease of use and sound fidelity of compact recording equipment – a trend largely driven by the ongoing advancements in smartphone video recording technology. A newly developed product from mikme, an Austrian company, called the mikme pocket (€369, which is approximately $450 USD), provides exceptional versatility and high-quality audio in a remarkably small form factor, potentially representing the ideal portable audio solution for journalists, podcast producers, videographers, and other content creators.

The basics

The mikme pocket is notably small – approximately half the dimensions of a typical smartphone, though with a squared shape and roughly double the thickness. While not as streamlined as devices like the Rode Wireless GO, it incorporates built-in storage and a Bluetooth antenna. This allows for both direct recording onto the device and wireless audio transmission to a linked smartphone, supporting up to three mikme pockets simultaneously.

This device utilizes a single button for operation, complemented by dedicated volume controls. It also includes a 3.5mm headphone socket for real-time audio monitoring, a micro-USB port for charging and file transfer via a direct connection, and buttons for Bluetooth connectivity and power management. A built-in belt clip is provided, alongside a 3/8″ threaded mount compatible with microphone stands; an adapter for standard 1/4″ camera tripod connections is also included.

mikme supplies a lavalier microphone with a mini XLR connector – the designated interface for the pocket – along with a clip and two foam windscreens. A higher-performance “pro” lavalier microphone is available separately (€149, or approximately $180 USD) and provides enhanced audio fidelity and a wider dynamic range compared to the included microphone.

The mikme pocket’s internal battery provides up to 3.5 hours of recording capability, and it can maintain a charge in standby mode for over six months between uses.

Design and performance

The mikme pocket presents a simple, black rectangular form, and this understated design contributes to its practicality. Its surface has a textured, matte finish that provides a secure grip, and its compact size allows for easy concealment within dark garments. The included belt clip functions reliably, ensuring the device can be firmly attached when used to connect someone for audio recording. A single, prominent button simplifies operation and clearly indicates its connection status through an LED indicator.

More detailed controls, such as those for Bluetooth pairing, and the micro-USB port for charging and data transfer, are positioned on the underside of the unit. This placement minimizes the risk of accidental activation during recording sessions. The mini XLR connector for microphones ensures a secure and stable connection, preventing accidental disconnections during use.

The mikme pocket can function independently, utilizing its 16GB of internal storage, but its capabilities are significantly enhanced when paired with the dedicated smartphone application. The app supports simultaneous connection to up to three mikme pocket devices and incorporates a video recording function, enabling users to leverage the features of contemporary smartphones like the iPhone 12 to capture synchronized audio and video with ease. Furthermore, the system includes a backup mechanism that utilizes the local storage to mitigate potential audio gaps caused by temporary connection interruptions.

Regarding audio performance, the sound quality is remarkably good even without any adjustments. As with all lavalier microphones, optimal results are achieved by positioning the microphone capsule as close as possible to the speaker’s mouth. However, the mikme pocket delivers exceptionally clear and high-fidelity audio immediately, even in environments with moderate levels of ambient noise or limited sound isolation.

The supplied mini XLR lavalier microphone is likely sufficient for the requirements of most casual and hobbyist users. For those seeking the highest possible recording quality, particularly when combined with post-production editing on a computer, the lavalier pro microphone represents a worthwhile upgrade. The mikme app provides integrated audio adjustment tools, presented with a user-friendly visual interface, allowing for real-time monitoring of processing effects. This feature is beneficial for optimizing sound quality before sharing content directly to social media or online publishing platforms.

Bottom line

Whether you're considering compact on-phone microphones, portable recorders, or a variety of other solutions for recording audio while mobile, the mikme pocket stands out as providing an optimal combination of exceptional audio fidelity – practically publication-ready right away – alongside remarkable portability, robust construction, and a design that caters to both beginners and seasoned professionals.