Have you ever wondered how news anchors record their voice without having a microphone in front of them? Well, they do, it’s just that the mic is hidden in their clothes, otherwise it would interfere with the clean aesthetics they need.
In this post we’ll look at these devices: lavalier microphones and which ones are the best to use.
What is a Lavalier Microphone?
A lavalier microphone is a miniature microphone you can clip onto your clothes.
Used by news anchors, actors, orators, etc, these are hands-free microphones that can be placed near your mouth for clear recordings of your voice. No need for a big microphone getting in the way, cramping your style or restricting your movements.
The mic is worn clipped around your upper chest area, visible, while the cord is usually hidden beneath your clothes for a cleaner look. This cord can be connected to one of these 3 options:
- A device (like an iPhone, a mac, a mixer)
- A camera
- A wireless transmitter
In this post we’ll look at which one of this is the best option for you.
Which is the Best Lavalier Mic to use?
1. Device Option: Rode SmartLav+
This is the option recommended if you’re gonna record videos using a smartphone or a laptop, since it has a universal headphone jack that plugs directly into your device.
Specially recommended for content creators of video-based social media platforms like TikTok.
Pros:
- Plug directly to a smartphone or laptop.
- Professional grade microphone.
- Extendable reach with extra cable.
Cons:
- The included cable can be considered short.
2. Camera Option: Rode Lavalier GO
If you’re gonna record your videos using a DSLR camera or a Zoom, this is the recommended option. Its cable is wired for TRS so you don’t need to get a SC3 adapter which may cramp the audio quality.
The audio quality is very similar to the Rode Smartlav+ and its cable can also be extended. Consider it the camera version of the Smartlav+.
Pros:
- Most affordable price in this list.
- Excellent wind noise blocker.
- The included cable is 1.2 meters long.
Cons:
- Some people consider it too sensitive to voice audio.
3. Wireless Transmitter Option: Rode Wireless Go
If you need to move around while talking and recording, and being wired to your laptop or camera won’t do, consider going wireless with the Rode Wireless Go.
With this option you get a receiver that you plug in to your camera/laptop/smartphone and a transmitter that you’ll wear so it picks up your voice. The bad part is that while the transmitter has a mic, many users prefer having an external mic, if that is your case, you should get the Rode Lavalier GO too since it’s compatible with the transmitter’s connector.
If you get the Rode Smartlav+ you’ll have to get a separate adapter.
Pros:
- Wireless usage.
- Compatibility with everything the Rode Lavalier GO is compatible.
Cons:
- Most expensive option in this list.
Conclusion
As with anything, the best lavalier microphone for you depends on what you’re gonna use it for. I hope this guide helped you decide which one works best for your situation.
