iRig for Voice Actors: How I Record Studio-Quality Audio with My Smartphone

The first time I used the iRig, I thought: why didn’t I try this sooner? It’s such a small device, but it makes a massive difference. Especially if, like me, you record videos with your phone but still want studio-level sound.

What is the iRig Pro I/O, exactly?

The iRig is a compact audio interface that lets you connect a professional microphone to your smartphone. In my setup, I connect my Sennheiser MKH416 to my iPhone 14 Pro. The iRig bridges the gap between my full studio setup and my phone. The result? That rich, clear studio sound in my videos—and yes, you can hear it.

Why the iRig is ideal for voice actors

Most phones don’t have an XLR input. And even if you have a USB mic, it often doesn’t play nicely with your phone. The iRig solves that. You plug your XLR mic into it, and you can even monitor the output with headphones. It’s perfect for voice actors on the go or anyone who wants to make smart use of their booth.

One thing I really appreciate: almost no latency. What I hear in my headphones matches what’s being recorded. No annoying delay.

What’s in the box?

The iRig Pro I/O comes with multiple cables: one for the lightning port (like older iPhones) and one for USB-C (for Android devices or the iPhone 15). That makes it truly plug-and-play, no matter what phone you use.

How I use the iRig in my setup

My mic connects to my UA Apollo Twin, which sends the signal to the iRig. The iRig then connects to my phone. Why the extra step through the Apollo? Because I like having all my tone controls and settings ready to go. But you can absolutely use the iRig on its own without any extra gear—your sound will still be excellent.

Not just for video content

I mainly use the iRig to record myself with great sound—for social media posts or during live client sessions. But you can just as easily use it to record voice-over content on the road, livestreams, or even podcasts. As long as your mic and cables are solid, the result will be pro-quality.

Conclusion: The iRig is a small investment with big impact

If you’re a voice actor, your sound always needs to be on point—even when you’re filming with your phone. The iRig for voice actors is one of the best tools I know for that. Compact, reliable, and compatible with pretty much everything. In my book? It’s essential.