SabineTek SmartMike+ Review

In the ever-evolving world of content creation, audio quality remains a cornerstone of success. Whether you’re a vlogger capturing moments on the go, a podcaster weaving stories through sound, or a fitness instructor leading online classes, the right microphone can elevate your work from amateur to professional. Enter the SabineTek SmartMike+, a Bluetooth wireless lavalier microphone that promises to deliver high-quality audio in a tiny, portable package. Launched by SabineTek, a company founded in 2014 with a focus on mobile acoustics and audio processing, the SmartMike+ has garnered attention for its innovative features and compact design. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll explore its design, features, performance, pros, cons, and real-world applications to help you decide if it’s the right tool for your creative toolkit.

SabineTek SmartMike+ Review

The SabineTek SmartMike+ immediately stands out for its diminutive size. Measuring just 5.8 x 1 x 1.5 cm (2.3 x 0.4 x 0.6 inches) and weighing a mere 14 grams (0.49 ounces), it’s smaller than your pinky finger. This ultra-compact form factor makes it one of the smallest wireless lavalier microphones on the market, a feat that earned it recognition as a CES 2020 Innovation Award Honoree. Available in black/grey or white/silver color schemes, the SmartMike+ sports a sleek, minimalist design that blends seamlessly into most recording setups.

The microphone is shaped like a rectangular plastic slab with a clip on the back, allowing you to attach it to a shirt collar, pocket, or jacket. On one side, a single elongated button handles power and recording functions, while a micro-USB charging port sits at the bottom. The top features a 3.5mm jack for connecting an earphone or other accessories, and the microphone itself is positioned here, often covered by one of the included windshields. Accessories in the box include a foam windshield, a furry “dead-cat” windshield, a single-ear earphone, a USB charging cable, and a carrying pouch—everything you need to get started.

While the build feels lightweight and portable, some users have noted that the clip can feel narrow or flimsy when attached to thicker fabrics like coats. The use of a micro-USB port instead of the more modern USB-C might also disappoint tech enthusiasts in 2025, though it’s a minor quibble given the device’s overall functionality. Still, the SmartMike+’s design prioritizes convenience and portability, making it an appealing choice for creators who value a lightweight setup.

Features: Packed with Smart Capabilities

The SmartMike+ isn’t just a microphone—it’s a versatile audio solution packed with features tailored for modern content creators. At its core, it’s a Bluetooth 5.0 wireless lavalier microphone compatible with iOS and Android smartphones, as well as other devices like DSLRs, GoPros, and computers when paired appropriately. Here’s a breakdown of its standout features:

Audio Quality and Noise Cancellation

SabineTek touts the SmartMike+ as capable of recording full-band audio at 44.1–48kHz stereo CD quality, a significant upgrade over the 8–16kHz mono output of many traditional Bluetooth mics. Powered by a Qualcomm CSR8670 chipset, it promises clear, rich sound with a sampling rate of 48kHz and a recording bandwidth of 22.05kHz. This high-fidelity audio is a game-changer for smartphone filmmakers and podcasters who want professional-grade sound without bulky equipment.

The microphone also features multi-level noise cancellation via its companion SmartMike+ app. Using Qualcomm CVC technology, it offers four adjustable levels of noise reduction, allowing users to filter out background noise like wind or chatter. Accessories like the foam and furry windshields further enhance its performance in outdoor settings, making it a solid choice for recording in challenging environments.

Real-Time Monitoring and Mixing

One of the SmartMike+’s “smart” features is its real-time monitoring capability. By plugging the included earphone into the 3.5mm jack, you can listen to your audio as you record, ensuring everything sounds right on the spot. The app also supports real-time multi-channel mixing, letting you synchronize background music from your phone with your voice—a boon for vloggers or musicians looking to create polished content without extensive post-production.

Versatile Modes

The SmartMike+ app offers three primary modes: Vlog, Interview, and Audio. Vlog mode is designed for video recording with the phone’s camera, pairing the mic’s audio with visuals. Interview mode allows two SmartMike+ units to record simultaneously—one as a transmitter and the other as a receiver—perfect for capturing conversations or multi-host podcasts. Audio mode focuses solely on sound recording, ideal for voiceovers or standalone audio projects. Additionally, the app includes a teleprompter feature and real-time transcription in over 120 languages, adding value for creators who need scripts or subtitles.

Dual-Unit Functionality

When paired with a second SmartMike+, the device transforms into a transmitter/receiver system. One unit captures audio wirelessly, while the other connects to a device via the 3.5mm jack, enabling compatibility with cameras, computers, or third-party apps that don’t natively support a single Bluetooth mic. This flexibility broadens its use case beyond smartphones, though it requires an additional purchase.

Battery Life

The SmartMike+ houses a 110mAh battery, offering up to 5–6 hours of operation on a full charge, which takes about an hour via the micro-USB cable. SabineTek claims you can extend this with a power bank, a practical feature for long shoots. While not groundbreaking, the battery life is sufficient for most casual and semi-professional recording sessions.

Performance: How Does It Sound?

The true test of any microphone lies in its performance, and the SmartMike+ delivers impressive results for its size. In controlled indoor settings, the audio is crisp and clear, with a noticeable improvement over built-in smartphone microphones. Voices come through with good depth and presence, avoiding the flatness common in lower-end lavalier mics. The stereo recording capability adds a layer of richness, making it suitable for podcasts, interviews, and music recordings.

Outdoors, the noise cancellation shines when paired with the windshields. Testing in windy conditions shows reduced interference, though some users report a “robotic” effect if noise reduction is set too high—a trade-off for aggressive filtering. The 15-meter (50-foot) Bluetooth range holds up well in line-of-sight scenarios, but obstructions like walls or hidden placement (e.g., in a pocket) can weaken the signal. Latency is minimal thanks to the SWISS (Sabine Wireless Interactive Sound System) protocol, ensuring audio syncs tightly with video—a critical factor for vloggers.

However, the SmartMike+ isn’t flawless. Some reviewers note a slightly thin tone and occasional harmonic distortion, particularly with loud inputs like shouting. The automatic gain control can also struggle in noisy environments, requiring manual tweaking via the app for optimal results. For casual use, these quirks are minor, but audiophiles or filmmakers needing pristine sound might find them limiting.

Setup and Usability: Easy but App-Dependent

Setting up the SmartMike+ is straightforward. Press and hold the side button for three seconds until the LED blinks, then pair it with your smartphone via Bluetooth. For basic use with the SmartMike+ app, it’s plug-and-play—open the app, select your mode, and start recording. The interface is clean and intuitive, with options to adjust noise reduction, gain, and video settings. However, the app is mandatory for unlocking the mic’s full potential on smartphones, which can be a drawback if you prefer native camera apps or third-party software like Filmic Pro.

For non-app use (e.g., with a DSLR or Zoom), you’ll need two units and a TRRS cable, complicating the setup. This limitation stems from smartphone Bluetooth restrictions rather than a design flaw, but it’s worth noting if you’re buying a single unit expecting universal compatibility. Once configured, the mic is a breeze to use, clipping easily onto clothing and staying unobtrusive during shoots.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and Lightweight: At 14 grams, it’s incredibly portable and discreet.
• High-Quality Audio: 48kHz stereo recording outperforms most built-in mics.
• Effective Noise Cancellation: Four levels of reduction handle background noise well.
• Versatile Features: Real-time monitoring, mixing, and transcription add value.
• Flexible Use: Works with smartphones, cameras, and computers (with a second unit).
• Affordable: Priced at $139 for a single unit or $269 for a twin pack, it’s competitive for its feature set.

Cons

• App Dependency: Limited functionality without the SmartMike+ app on smartphones.
• Micro-USB Charging: Feels dated in 2025 compared to USB-C.
• Audio Quirks: Thin tone and potential distortion at high volumes.
• Clip Durability: May not hold securely on thick fabrics.
• Battery Life: 5–6 hours is decent but not exceptional for all-day shoots.

Real-World Applications

The SmartMike+ excels in several scenarios:

• Vlogging: Its small size and wireless design make it ideal for on-the-go video content.
• Podcasting: Stereo audio and noise cancellation suit solo or dual-host setups.
• Online Teaching: Fitness instructors or educators can use it for clear Zoom audio.
• Interviews: Pair two units for professional-grade dialogue recording.
• Music Recording: Decent for capturing vocals or instruments in a pinch.

However, it’s less suited for high-end film production or audiobook narration, where uncompressed audio and broader dynamic range are critical. For casual to semi-pro creators, though, it’s a powerful tool.

Comparison to Competitors

Against rivals like the Rode Wireless Go or Sennheiser XSW-D, the SmartMike+ holds its own in portability and price. The Rode offers superior sound and a dedicated receiver but is bulkier and pricier. The Sennheiser provides top-tier audio quality but lacks Bluetooth convenience and app features. The SmartMike+’s unique selling point is its smartphone-first design and compact form, though it sacrifices some audio fidelity and third-party app support in the trade-off.

The Bottom Line

The SabineTek SmartMike+ is a compelling choice for content creators who prioritize portability, ease of use, and solid audio quality in a wireless package. Its tiny size belies a robust feature set, making it a go-to for vloggers, podcasters, and online instructors working primarily with smartphones. While it’s not perfect—app dependency and minor audio flaws hold it back from greatness—it delivers where it counts for its price point.

If you’re a mobile creator seeking a lightweight, versatile mic that punches above its weight, the SmartMike+ is worth a serious look. For those needing uncompromising audio or broader app compatibility without extra hardware, alternatives might better suit your needs. In 2025, the SmartMike+ remains a standout in the crowded wireless mic market, proving that good things can indeed come in small packages.