The Best Lavalier Microphones in 2021 | American Songwriter Reviews

2022-05-28 01:02:04 By : Mr. Caroline Mao

When it comes to audio recordings or live sound production, you want the best quality possible. And sometimes carrying a large handheld microphone is pretty impractical, so here's where lavaliers (also known as lapel microphones) come in. Thanks to their miniature size and lightweight construction, you can easily clip them to a shirt, collar, or tie. Another wonderful thing about lavalier microphones is that they let you record hands-free. It's a low-hassle solution, once you have the microphone properly set. Now, you can focus on the content you’re producing. We'll be detailing what we believe are the best lavalier microphones in 2021 available right now. Let's begin with the #1 spot and see how they stack up.

With literally no installation process required, the Slint 2 Clip-On Lavalier Microphones will provide you with high-grade quality audio in just a couple of seconds. Just connect the microphone to your smartphone, laptop, camera, or tablet and start using it – it’s that simple. The whole package features most of the accessories you would ever need, including 2 lavalier microphones, extension cords, y-connector & adaptor, wind muffs, and a leather bag.

Furthermore, the Slint 2 Clip-On Lavalier Microphones come equipped with the latest noise reduction technology, which will successfully block out all the echoes and unwanted audio sources from the recording. Lastly, the manufacturer of this product also offers each buyer a lifetime warranty. If you aren’t entirely pleased with your purchase or the product arrives broken, you will receive a complete refund. This is our top pick because it’s quality, convenient, and budget-friendly.

Whether you’re a professional vlogger or just a casual hobbyist, the Acacia LIZ Black Lavalier Microphone is precisely what you need to record excellent sound quality. Thanks to its compact design, you will be able to easily clip the microphone onto your shirt and keep it out of sight while you’re recording the video.

Also, the Acacia LIZ Black Lavalier Microphone highlights a strong and rugged construction, which will definitely provide you with a long-lasting experience. It’s compatible with any mixers that have an XLR-style connector. And, you will be capable of purchasing this lavalier microphone in 2 different colors: back and tan – the choice is yours.

If you’re on the search for a professional lavalier microphone, then you should undoubtedly take a look at the Sennheiser ME Premium Lavalier Microphone. With a high-speech intelligibility response from 50 Hz to 18 kHz, this lavalier microphone can filter all the muddying low and super high sounds to deliver a clear and sharp audio recording. It highlights a 5.2-inch cable that provides enough room for extra movements and connects to a Sennheiser transmitter. Furthermore, the overall build quality of the product is truly a masterpiece; just as you can expect from a well-known and international brand like Sennheiser. If you consider all of the info mentioned above, the ME-2 lavalier microphone is indeed a perfect option for broadcast reporters, presenters, and tutors.

Next up our top-tier listing, we have the Rode Premium Wearable Lavalier Microphone – a pro-grade microphone that is fitting for a number of purposes. The omnidirectional capsule will assist in carrying audio tapes with impressive clarity and deep sounds. Also, the super-rugged mounting clip and integrated cable management of this lavalier microphone will offer you a discreet placement.

This particular lavalier microphone features a 3.5mm TRS connector, making it compatible with a broad array of equipment. And, thanks to the included foam pop shield, you will be capable of recording without unwanted disturbance and wind noise.

On the last spot, we have the all-mighty Shure WL93 Black Lavalier Microphone. Apart from its size, there is nothing small about this lavalier microphone – with low distortion level, wide dynamic range, and low-frequency roll-off, this microphone will be able to record a rich and clear sound similar to one on the bigger microphones.

In order to get the Shure WL93 Black Lavalier Microphone working, you will need to carry a wireless preamplifier assembly, which can be easily strapped to the body or clipped to a belt. Plus, this lavalier microphone also comes with a convenient carry bag to place all of the equipment and take it with you on the go.

When you start looking for a new lavalier microphone, you will immediately notice that the market is absolutely full of them. So, how exactly can you find the most appropriate option for your demands and preferences? To help you make the most rational decision possible, we will be looking at some essential factors you need to write down in your check-list. Read on!

The first thing to consider when shopping for your brand-new lavalier microphone is whether you want a wireless or wired model. Both of the options have their personal advantages and drawbacks. The final decision will truly depend on the way you plan on using it and the device you’re connecting it to. 

a) Wired - Since they are connected through a cable, you won't need to think about taking an extra pair of batteries or remembering to put the batteries in the first place. Wired lavalier microphones will provide you with a much better sound recording quality, and you will be capable of getting them at a pretty reasonable rate. However, most of the wired lavaliers on the market come with a limited range, so you must be extremely careful not to disconnect the cable and terminate the entire recording. b) Wireless - On the flip side, wireless lavalier microphones are connected through radio transmitters and will offer you plenty of movement range. Apart from the additional flexibility, these types of microphones will also give a neat and professional appearance. For instance, if you're a public speaker or news reporter that is constantly on the go, this is unquestionably the most suitable option for you. The main drawbacks of the wireless lavalier microphones are the device battery life and higher price.

Whether you need a wired or wireless microphone, the range is a pretty critical consideration. Normally, the operating range can vary from one model to another. However, most wireless lavalier devices will have a range of 30-feet, while the wired models have a cable that's 2m long. 

Even if you don't intend on using the microphone on the go, you will still need to estimate the distance from the place you're recording and the device you're connected with.

Moving forward to wireless lavalier microphones, a 30-feet range is quite enough for most people. However, if you're recording for big events like performances or weddings, you should look for 150-feet or even better connectivity ranges.

Finally, the next thing you should pay close attention to is the output connection. Generally, you can see 2 types of connection types - 3.5mm jacks and XLR connections. For example, if you want to connect the microphone lavalier to a computer or smartphone, then get one that features a 3.5mm jack. On the other hand, if you're going to connect it to a professional amplifier, search for a model highlighting an XLR connection. Most of the time, you will be able to find the accessible output connections somewhere down in the product description.

The price range of the lavalier microphones can heavily vary depending on several vital things, including the overall quality, the manufacturer, and the number of additional features it has. Usually, if you're seeking basic-quality lavalier microphones with decent recording quality, then you should expect to pay from $15 up to $50. On the flip side, some professional microphones that have modern noise-cancellation features and are capable of delivering a sharp sound can cost you at least $90 and even more for some popular brands.

As we stated earlier, there are literally hundreds and hundreds of lavalier microphones available that you can select from; but most of the devices include a heavy price tag without giving a lot in return. So that is why we conducted extensive research and victoriously managed to locate the best headphones for gaming.

By performing in-depth analysis, we could pick lavalier microphones that were capable of delivering and recording crystal-clear sounds.

When deciding the overall reliability of the lavalier microphones, the manufacturer is maybe the most apparent indication. The top-notch brands will always aim to make the best products for their everyday buyers.

While listing the market, you will be able to see different kinds of lavalier microphones; but the most common ones are omnidirectional and cardioid models. 

These types of lavalier microphones will be capable of capturing sound from any direction but in a close range. So, as long as you position them close to your mouth, the sound outcome will be excellent.

On the opposite side, the cardioid lavalier microphones can only capture the sound in the direction they face. These kinds of microphones are usually used for studio and narration purposes.

If audio quality is essential for you, then getting a quality lavalier microphone can be a wise investment. Hopefully, thanks to our top picks and buying guide, you will be capable of finding the perfect one for you. Good Luck!

A: First, see the type of output connection that the lavalier microphone has. Some of them can connect straight to your devices, while others may require an additional transmitter. Once you have it connected, attach the microphone on the subject with the help of the built-in mounting clip. Position the wires and see if everything is working perfectly!

A: This will greatly depend on the particular model you're looking at. To ensure whether the microphone is waterproof or not, carefully review the product specifications from the manufacturer.