iKlip A/V smart mount makes you a mobile broadcaster.
Grabbing mobile video is pretty easy these days, but to really capture both high quality video and audio quickly and easily on the go, can be a little more cumbersome. This is where the new IK Multimedia iKlip A/V comes in. It's the first all-in-one broadcast smart mount designed to do both by integrating an ergonomic handle, a mic pre-amp and wireless support into one handheld gadget.
Designed in Italy with guidance from mobile broadcasters and field reporting professionals, iKlip A/V features a mounting platform consisting of a slightly curved metal bar. In the middle is a standard UNC ¼" threaded camera mount with thumb wheel. There's also a removable rubber reinforced double spring-loaded expandable clamp that allows you to securely attach any 3.5"-6″ iPhone, iPod touch or Android smartphone to it.
Pre-Amp in the Handle
The platform is connected to an oversized ergonomic plastic handgrip that can accommodate most hand sizes. And this is where the true magic happens. Inside the handle is an integrated microphone preamp that runs off 2 x AA batteries. It has a full-sized XLR input on the top and it can deliver, if necessary, 48v phantom power to allow you to use high-end condenser mics simply by switching it on. On the handle there's an input gain control, a headphone jack so you can monitor what's passing through the mic, as well as unit power and phantom power status indicators.
The mic output jack is cleverly positioned on the far left side of the bar, so it can easily be connected to your smartphones' input using the supplied TRRS cable. For cameras that have an AUX mic input that supports TRS only, there's an optional iLine Camera Adapter cable available for that.
With a set-up like this, you'll likely want to use a wireless configuration. For that, all you need to do is clip on the support bracket that comes in the box and you should be able to attach most of the popular wireless mic receivers giving you a truly portable rig.
Uses IK Technologies
While the iKlip A/V is new, some of the technology used is tried and true. The smartphone and camera mount both take a page from the iKlip Grip, IK's multifunction selfie-stick and iKlip Xpand mini. The preamp's functionality, while integrated into the handle is somewhat reminiscent of some the technologies found in IK's iRig Mic HD and iRig PRO interface all which we reviewed previously here at Canoe Tech Blog.
Makes Sense
The iKlip A/V is a great little creation and makes sense. It holds your smartphone, allows you to use any mic even ones that need a preamp and has a place for a wireless receiver.
Even with a camera mounted with other attachments it feels well balanced. It's easy to stabilize which is a must, particularly when shooting 4K video. The gain control wheel is well placed and within quick reach of your thumb. The phantom power switch, depending on the length of your fingers, may require you to use your other hand, but still quickly accessible as is the access to battery door for quick AA replacement.
No Lefties
While this cool gadget blew me away, there are a couple of things I would like to have seen. Because of the platform's curve and handle orientation, it's not totally suitable for use with your left hand. Now I'm not typically a leftie, but I do operate my phone with my left hand – so that option would have been a nice touch.
Also, while the handle does have a roughed grip patch to keep your hand from sliding, I would have preferred a rubberized material for an even better grip, particularly over the handle's side seam.
And finally, to use iKlip A/V in wired mode with non-XLR mics – for example with iRig Mic Lav or other mics with 3.5 mm connectors, it would have been nice to have an option to plug directly into the handle instead of plugging directly into your smartphone or camera.
Now I do realize that these mics do not necessitate a pre-amp, there are a couple of reasons for a handle connection. First, it would be great to be able to use the headphone jack monitoring function. Secondly, plugging into the handle might alleviate any cable stress on the phone, which may cause the phone to move and create blurred video, or even accidentally yank the phone out from the mount.
Ideal for Mobile Reporters & Hobbyists
Regardless, the iKlip A/V along with your smartphone and wireless mic can make you feel like the Camera Guy! It makes for a great little set-up for field reporters, event attendees, hobbyists and just about anyone who wants to conveniently get stable mobile video and great sound to capture those moments.
One more thing, the iKlip A/V is designed to be handheld. However, the screw mount also has a standard tripod mount on the underside, so you can set it up nicely on a tripod and then just grab and go when needed.
iKlip A/V retails for US $179.99 and available from IK's Store. In Canada it sells for about $229 and can be found at AVShop.ca.
Rating: 4.5 / 5
Photos courtesy IK Multimedia.
============================================================
Greg Gazin is the Real Canadian Gadget Guy, Columnist, Speaker, Podcaster & Author
Technology – Entrepreneurship – Communications
Follow me on Twitter @gadgetgreg or Empire KRED (e)GADGET1.
============================================================
Source: www.bing.com
Images credited to www.bing.com and cdns3.gear4music.com
