The Zoom iQ6 XY Stereo Microphone with a Lightning connector turns your iOS devices into a field r...The Zoom iQ6 XY Stereo Microphone with a Lightning connector turns your iOS devices into a field recorder, allowing you to capture the sound of lectures, meetings, interviews, concerts, and more. It showcases a compact and lightweight design, so you can keep it in your pocket and take it with you anywhere you want. This microphone features two premium-quality unidirectional condenser mics in an X/Y configuration, the same ones used in the popular H4n Handy Recorder. It allows your recordings to cover a wide area, while you capture sound sources in the centre with definition and clarity. The Zoom iQ6 XY Stereo Microphone can be set at two different angles—120° for a wide-angle stereo or 90° for a tightly focused image. You can download the free Zoom Handy Recorder app if you want to add more functionality to your mic.
XY STEREO MICROPHONE: For natural and spacious sound IOS COMPATIBLE: Works with iPhone and iPad via Lightning PERFECT FOR CREATORS: Ideal for podcasts, music and interviews EASY TO USE: Plug-and-play with no extra software COMPACT DESIGN: Lightweight and portable
Turn your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad into a portable recording device with the Zoom iQ6 stereo microphone and capture high-quality, 48kHz/16-bit audio wherever you go. Perfect for anything from lectures to gigs and interviews, this X/Y-configured microphone comes equipped with a headphone mini-jack that doubles as a line output. Simply download and install Zoom's Handy Recorder App for iOS and you're good to go.
The Zoom iQ6 XY Stereo Microphone is designed for iOS users who want to elevate their audio recording capabilities on their iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad. Its primary benefit is transforming your mobile device into a professional field recorder, capturing high-quality stereo sound for podcasts, interviews, music, and more. A key caveat is its compatibility, which is limited to devices with a Lightning connector.
All features
Model Part Number
ZOOM IQ6
Brand
Zoom
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What devices is the Zoom iQ6 compatible with?
The Zoom iQ6 is compatible with Apple devices featuring a Lightning connector, including iPhone models 5 through 6 Plus, iPod touch (5th generation and later), and iPad models (4th generation and later), iPad Air, and iPad mini. It requires iOS 7.0 or later.
Do I need to install any software to use the iQ6?
While the iQ6 functions as a plug-and-play microphone for any app supporting external audio input, Zoom recommends downloading the free Zoom Handy Recorder app from the App Store. This app unlocks additional features like advanced level control, editing tools, and direct sharing.
Can I use the iQ6 with my iPhone case?
Yes, the iQ6 comes with an extended Lightning connector and a removable spacer designed to accommodate most standard iPhone, iPad, and iPod cases.
What is the difference between the 90° and 120° stereo settings?
The 90° setting provides a tighter, more focused stereo image, ideal for capturing specific sound sources like dialogue or instruments. The 120° setting creates a wider stereo field, capturing more of the surrounding environment and creating a more immersive, spacious sound.
Can I monitor my recording live?
Yes, the iQ6 features a headphone jack that doubles as a line output. You can plug your headphones directly into the iQ6 to monitor your recording in real-time without any delay.
What audio quality can I expect?
The iQ6 records in up to 48kHz/16-bit resolution, offering high-quality audio capture suitable for professional applications like podcasting, interviews, and music recording.
Does the iQ6 have its own battery?
No, the Zoom iQ6 draws power directly from your connected iOS device via the Lightning port and does not require its own batteries.
Troubleshooting
Microphone not recognized by iOS device
Ensure the Lightning connector is fully inserted. Try removing and reinserting the microphone. Restart your iOS device. Check if the Handy Recorder app is updated to the latest version.
No sound or very low volume recorded
Check that the microphone is selected as the input device in your recording app. Verify that the MIC GAIN wheel is set to an appropriate level. Ensure the headphone jack is not acting as an unintended output source. Test with the Handy Recorder app to rule out app-specific issues.
Distorted or clipping audio
Lower the MIC GAIN wheel to reduce the input signal level. Ensure the three-segment LEDs are not constantly in the red. Consider using the app's auto-level or limiter functions if available.
Headphone output not working
Confirm that headphones are plugged securely into the headphone jack. Check the volume levels in both your iOS device and the Handy Recorder app. Ensure the app is correctly routing audio to the output.
App crashes or behaves unexpectedly
Close and reopen the recording app. Restart your iOS device. Reinstall the Zoom Handy Recorder app. Ensure your iOS device has sufficient free storage space.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Significantly improves audio quality for iOS devices.
Compact and highly portable for field recording.
Flexible X/Y stereo configuration with adjustable angles.
Provides direct headphone monitoring for accurate takes.
Free companion app adds valuable recording and editing features.
Cons
Limited to Apple devices with a Lightning connector.
May not offer the same ruggedness as dedicated professional recorders.
Relies on the free app for full functionality.
Microphone sensitivity of 130 dB might be too high for extremely loud environments without careful gain staging.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Ensure your iOS device is running a compatible operating system.
Plug the Zoom iQ6 directly into the Lightning port on your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad.
If using a case, ensure the included removable spacer allows for a secure connection.
Download and install the free Zoom Handy Recorder app from the App Store for full functionality.
Open the Handy Recorder app or any other app that supports external microphone input.
App Compatibility: Works with most iOS applications that allow selection of an external microphone input, including Voice Memos, GarageBand, and others.
Care:
Keep the microphone capsule clean and free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry brush if necessary.
Avoid exposing the microphone to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
Store the microphone in a protective case or its original packaging when not in use.
Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials for cleaning. A slightly damp cloth can be used for the body, but ensure the microphone capsules remain dry.