IK Multimedia says its US$39.99 iRig Pre (www.irigpre.com) universal XLR microphone interface for iOS devices is available from retailers worldwide and from the IK Multimedia online store.

The iRig Pre boasts an adjustable gain control, 48-volt phantom power and an audio/headphone output jack for real-time monitoring. It comes with two free apps for download from the Apple App Store: iRig Recorder Free, an audio field recorder, and VocaLive Free, a real-time vocal-effects processor for stage or studio use.

The iRig Pre is designed for capturing live performances on-the-go with professional stage or studio microphones. Songwriters can use it to capture demos of their compositions at the moment of inspiration.