Zoom iQ6 Lightning Stereo Microphone for iPhone & iPad

The Zoom iQ6 is a compact stereo condenser microphone that connects directly to compatible Lightning-equipped iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices. It provides a more purposeful recording setup for music, interviews, lectures, meetings, and location sound than a device's built-in microphone alone. Its pocket-friendly format makes it suited to creators who want to capture stereo audio without carrying a separate recorder.

Two unidirectional condenser capsules are arranged in an X/Y stereo configuration to record a defined stereo image with focused center detail. The microphone angle can be set to 90 degrees for a narrower pickup field or 120 degrees for a wider stereo perspective. This makes the iQ6 useful for adapting to the source, whether recording a single performer, an interview setting, or a broader ambience.

The iQ6 records at up to 48 kHz/16-bit and handles sound-pressure levels up to 130 dB SPL. A physical MIC GAIN wheel allows recording sensitivity to be adjusted at the microphone instead of relying only on app controls. A three-segment LED level indicator helps the user monitor input level while setting up a recording.

Its rotating capsule design maintains correct left-right stereo orientation when switching between audio-focused and video-positioned use. The microphone uses the same capsule elements as the Zoom H4n Handy Recorder, pairing a familiar X/Y recording approach with direct Lightning connectivity. A 1/8-inch stereo mini jack provides headphone monitoring and can also serve as a line-level output.

The iQ6 is powered by the connected iOS device, so no separate battery or external power supply is required. It can be used with compatible applications that accept an external microphone input, and Zoom's Handy Recorder app adds recording and monitoring controls. For users building a mobile recording kit, it pairs naturally with a compatible Lightning iOS device and headphones for direct monitoring.

Key Features

• X/Y Stereo Condensers: Two unidirectional capsules capture a focused stereo image.
• Adjustable Stereo Width: Select 90-degree or 120-degree microphone angles for the source.
• Rotating Capsule: Preserves proper stereo orientation in different device positions.
• Manual Gain Wheel: Adjust recording sensitivity directly on the microphone.
• Headphone/Line Output: Monitor directly or send audio through the stereo mini jack.
• Case-Friendly Connector: Removable spacer accommodates many compatible device cases.

Design & Installation

The iQ6 uses a compact, lightweight 30.5 g design with a built-in Lightning connector, rotating X/Y microphone section, gain wheel, LED meter, and stereo mini output. Zoom does not publish a housing-material specification. Its removable case adjuster is designed to help the connector reach compatible devices used with many cases.

Connect the iQ6 directly to the Lightning port of a supported iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, then select an application that supports external microphone input. Remove the case adjuster if a device case prevents full Lightning-connector insertion, and use headphones through the 1/8-inch jack when monitoring is needed. Set the mic angle and gain before recording, keeping the device and microphone supported together while making adjustments.