A lavalier lapel microphone, also known as a lav mic, is a small microphone that can be clipped onto clothing for hands-free operation. It is commonly used in television, theater, public speaking, and musical performances to capture clear audio without the need for holding a microphone. Lavalier microphones can transmit audio feeds via radio frequencies directly to a receiver that a sound mixer can control and adjust or through audio wire cables. When using a lavalier mic, it is important to consider proper placement on clothing and how to connect it to your recording device for optimal sound quality.
How it works
Small size and design
Lavalier lapel microphones are designed to be small and compact, making them easy to clip onto clothing for hands-free operation. Their small size and discreteness are obvious advantages, allowing them to be easily hidden underneath clothing. Despite their small size, lavalier microphones can deliver crisp, natural audio in a range of applications, including television, theater, public speaking, musical performances, interviews or for recording film audio.
Placement on clothing for hands-free operation
When wearing and using a lavalier microphone, proper placement on clothing is important for optimal sound quality. The ideal position for the mic is on the lapel of a jacket, tie, or shirt, close to the source of sound. It should be placed mid-chest and should not touch the clothing. Additionally, it should point straight up towards the speaker's mouth. To secure the lavalier in place, it is best to use clips, tape, pins or rubber bands at least three places: at the hairline, near the whorl (rear top of head), and at the hairline of the neck. Common mistakes include placing the mic near the throat instead of near the top of chest or above ear.
Types of lavalier microphones
Wired vs wireless
Wired and wireless lavalier microphones both have their pros and cons. Wired lavalier microphones are connected to a device via a cable, making them less expensive and more reliable than their wireless counterparts. However, the wiring may be clunky and make your work less dynamic.
Wireless lavalier microphones transmit their audio feeds via radio frequencies directly to a receiver that a sound mixer can control and adjust. While they are more portable than wired mics, they may be more prone to interference or signal loss.
Omnidirectional vs directional
Lavalier lapel microphones come in two pickup patterns: omnidirectional and directional (cardioid). Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound from all directions equally, while directional ones focus on one direction and reject other sounds. Cardioid lavaliers provide more separation from background noise than omnidirectional ones. The choice between omnidirectional and directional depends on the intended use of the microphone. Omnidirectional mics are better suited for capturing ambient sound or when the speaker is moving around, while directional mics are ideal for situations where there is a lot of background noise or when you want to isolate a specific sound source.
Cost and affordability
Options for different budgets
When choosing a lavalier microphone, there are options for different budgets. The Rode SmartLav+ is the best overall option and the SYNCO P1L Wireless is the best wireless option. For a high-end option, the Sony ECM77B is a great choice. The BOYA by M1 is a budget-friendly option.
Other budget-friendly options include the Rode RodeLink FM Digital Wireless Filmmaker System and the Rode smartLav+ Omni-directional Wired Lavalier Microphone for iPhone and Smartphones. The Sennheiser XS Lav USB-C is also relatively cheap and offers good sound quality. Additionally, Shure's MVL is another great budget lapel/lav microphone.
DIY options
There are several DIY options for lavalier lapel microphones. Instructables provides a step-by-step guide on how to build a lavalier microphone using parts that can be found online. Another Instructables guide shows how to make a DIY lavalier microphone by cutting off the earbuds of headphones and attaching them to a 3.5mm jack.
Additionally, there are YouTube tutorials on how to make a DIY lapel mic using a smartphone and an external microphone, or how to get a wireless lavalier microphone for under $20. Another YouTube tutorial shows how to assemble a premium-quality lav mic for just $5. These DIY options can be cost-effective and customizable for those who want to save money or customize their microphone setup.
Tips for wearing and using a lavalier mic
Proper placement on clothing
Proper placement of a lavalier lapel microphone on clothing is important for optimal sound quality. The typical placement of a lavalier microphone is attached to the speaker's clothing near the mouth, such as on the lapel of a jacket, tie, or shirt. Placing the mic capsule over the talent's sternum will give you a nice balance of close proximity and natural sound. Additionally, it is recommended to place the mic about six inches away from the mouth to avoid tugging down to the ground if you're wearing a button-up t-shirt. Another ideal placement is on the chest in line with the heart.
Avoiding rustling or rubbing sounds
To avoid rustling or rubbing sounds when using a lavalier lapel microphone, it is important to secure the cable in the tie clip and prevent the microphone cable from rubbing against clothing. The "broadcast loop" technique is a popular method for reducing cable noise. This method secures the cable in the tie clip and helps to stop the microphone cable from rubbing against clothing. Additionally, hiding the mic can help reduce noise. Lavalier clips, vampire clips, rubber mounts or other tape can be used to hide the mic. Moleskin can also be used to take out a lot of clothes rustle. Another option is to use a small U-shaped piece of foam between body and clothing to fix a lav between them and prevent movement.
Testing audio levels before recording
Before recording with a lavalier lapel microphone, it is important to test and set audio levels. To do this, the mic should be placed correctly and the user should talk as they will during filming. The input level of the camera, recorder, or mixer should then be raised until the meter consistently peaks at about -10dB to -12dB. Additionally, it is important to attach the microphone to the desired place and plug the cable into the camera or recording equipment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lavalier lapel microphones are small and lightweight microphones that can be clipped onto clothing for hands-free operation. They come in two primary types: wired and wireless, and two pickup patterns: omnidirectional and directional (cardioid). Omnidirectional versions can pick up sounds from all angles equally, while directional ones focus on one direction. Proper placement of the mic is important for optimal sound quality, typically attaching it to a tie or collar or lapel. To avoid rustling or rubbing sounds, use clips, tape, pins, or anything that can help your mic stay in place. Before recording, it is important to test audio levels and make sure the microphone is working properly. Lavalier microphones are commonly used in television, theater, public speaking, musical performances, interviews or for recording film audio.