The Maono WM820 comes in two models; B2 for iPhones and the C2 for USB-C devices. They’re identical with two transmitters, save simply for the receiver that connects into your phone or tablet which comes as either a lightning plug option (B2) or USB-C (C2).

The box includes a USB-A to USB-C 1-to-2 splitter cable to charge both transmitters at once, as well as three fur windshields, two Lavalier microphones, and a carry pouch. Each transmitter weighs a tiny 26g. They use 2.4GHz wireless with a 30m range, sport an omnidirectional polar pattern, have up to six hours of battery life, and 20ms latency.

Using the devices is simple; plug the transmitter in, hold down TX1 and TX2 for two seconds, then hold down the pair button for two seconds on each. If things go awry, you can reset using a paperclip on the receivers for three seconds. Then simply clip TX1 and TX2 on you and your interview subject, and record with the receiver. Optionally plug in the fluffy windshields to block out wind.

iTWire has been using the Maono WM820 B2 for in-person interviews and found they provide excellent transmission reliability, have solid pairing capabilities, and work very well for interviewing, video shoots, and vlogging.

The carry case is excellent and allows you to easily and safely transport the items and all accessories in your carry-on or check-in luggage, as well as in your laptop bag. There's no risk of losing the pieces or mixing up the cords.

There are some small caveats we found during our use of the devices, however. It can be easy to get the pairing and power buttons mixed up so be careful to look at the buttons.

Also, the WM820 has no gain or volume controls. That's not really an issue, but without any means to adjust the levels, you must be mindful of your voice's loudness because overly amplified audio signals can result in unwanted popping and cracking.

Finally, you should also be careful of how you pin the transmitters to your clothing. Any rubbing against your clothes will create noises picked up by the receiver.

However, with those things in mind, it really is a tremendously simple, super transportable, and ultraportable recording solution for your smartphone to help you conduct professional interviews or audio recording for videos despite the distance between your phone and those whose voices you are recording.

Check it out for yourself here: