I have two iPads - a 9/7" Pro and the latest standard 10.2" iPad. Both have the 8mm port, which I use to hear myself with the monitor in GarageBand. I use the lightning port for a portable, compact Shure microphone that was launched with the 9.7" Pro many years ago. I've not updated to the more powerful iPad models because they don't have the 8mm port. So I have two iPads, neither are what I want, one too old, the other not powerful enough for some other editing work I do. If I can find an adapter that allows audio output and sound input at the same time, I could trade in both iPads for a new Pro and use the adapter. Does anyone know of an adapter to plug into the lightning port of an iPad that supports audio input through lightning and audio output through an 8mm port?

Hi - I can't be specific since I don't have an iPad, but AFAICT Apple makes both lightning-to-headphone adaptors and lightning-to-USB adaptors -- the latter should let you use an iPad-compatible USB audio interface that could provide both audio input & output. Searches for 'iPad audio interface' and 'iPad audio adaptor' turned up a number of options.. I didn't come across anything that would specifically include both lightning and audio connections, but I would think a proper audio interface would probably be the best bet anyway.. Btw, don't the latest iPad Pros have a USB-C port? You'd have to look into it, but maybe that'd make it easier to connect to compatible audio interfaces..?

Thanks! Btw, I wrote 8mm but meant 3.5mm.

UPDATE: I ordered a small adapter from Amazon that had a 3.5mm and Lightning port. I plugged the cable in and then my Shure MV88 microphone. I opened GarageBand. The microphone wasn't recognized at all. I unplugged and plugged in again. Same result. Even though the item description stated it wasn't just for charging. But it appears that it is only for charging. So upgrading to any iPad without a 3.5mm port won't work, unless I want to change my whole setup. After some more research, I'd basically need to get a new kit, an audio interface and a new microphone. Thanks for all your suggestions!