There are many options for getting audio into and out of an iOS device. We have listed them by category, showing the pros, cons, and applications for each. Choose the method that best suits your uses. Click on the images for more information about each.
| Built-in Mic | Headset Mics | Generic USB Audio / Dock Interfaces | iTestMic2 | iAudioInterface2 |
| Always available, no setup, fair accuracy | Slight improvement over built-in mic | No rolloff, connect external audio devices | Calibrated, flat response, convenient, low power, dual-range, 28-120dBA | Dual-input, 48V mic pre, line input, line output, battery, charges device. Optical digital output. Full support for all AudioTools modules |
| Rolloff, limiter, not flat, subject to elements | Rolloff, limiter, not flat, may be costly | May require power, tricky to calibrate, may not support 48k SR | No line input | Requires setup and calibration |
| Quick checks, basic SPL monitoring, feedback finder, polarity tests | Same as built-in | Studio work, home testing, secondary interface | Noise studies, home theater setup, room analysis | Type-certified tests, transfer function, line level tests, impedance tests, home theater 5.1 setup, use with Type 1 mics |