The iRig Pre 2 continues the line of pocket preamps designed to simplify the use of XLR microphones outside the studio. Whereas an XLR mic often requires an audio interface, a computer, and external phantom power, this "all-in-one" format allows quick recording with a clean level and connectivity adapted to current uses.
Compared to older mobile solutions, the iRig Pre 2 emphasizes two very concrete creator needs: real-time take security thanks to direct monitoring, and smartphone/camera versatility thanks to wiring designed for easy switching between contexts. The result: a single small preamp can follow a podcast, interview, music capture, vlog, or field shoot without weighing down the setup.
The iRig Pre 2 is aimed at musicians, podcasters, journalists, YouTubers, streamers, and videographers who want to keep the "XLR mic" sound (dynamic or condenser) while maintaining a lightweight setup. It is also well suited for voice recording on the move, impromptu interviews, dubbing on set, or recording an acoustic instrument with a condenser mic, whenever mobility is a priority.
Its approach is simple: you plug in the mic via XLR, adjust the gain, activate (or not) the +48V phantom power, then send the signal to a smartphone/tablet or camera. With the headphone output, you can immediately check the level, avoid clipping, control noise, and validate intelligibility before starting a long take or going live.
At the heart of the iRig Pre 2 is an XLR input designed to accommodate all types of microphones. The gain control allows adapting the level both to a low-sensitivity dynamic mic (interview, podcast, spoken voice) and to a more generous condenser mic. This level control at the source is essential to limit noise, avoid distortion, and obtain a signal immediately usable for recording or broadcasting.
Many condenser microphones require stable phantom power to deliver their best detail and dynamic range. The iRig Pre 2 provides +48V phantom power via 2 AA batteries, an important value to preserve the behavior intended by the microphone manufacturer. And if you use a dynamic or ribbon mic, you can disable phantom power to extend battery life.
The 3.5 mm headphone output offers a decisive advantage on the go: direct monitoring. You listen to your signal without waiting for the app's return, which helps you work faster and more confidently, especially during shoots (wind, handling noise, mic distance, plosives) or live (too high level, clipping, background noise). The headphone level control allows adjusting listening comfort without disturbing your gain setting.
The integrated 40 cm TRRS cable is designed to easily connect the iRig Pre 2 to a smartphone or tablet without multiplying devices. For digital and DSLR cameras, the automatic switching circuit facilitates adaptation to video contexts, making it a practical solution to improve camera audio quality when you want to keep things light.
Compatibility Note: For certain iPhones and iPads lacking a mini-jack, using a Lightning to 3.5 mm mini-jack adapter compatible with TRRS is required.