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Best Lapel Microphones 2024

A good microphone can make the difference between a polished production and one that sounds amateurish when capturing audio for videos or more general applications like podcasts or audiobooks. Because of their sensitivity and wide frequency response, big studio or USB-powered microphones are frequently the finest options for capturing high-quality audio at home or in the studio. They are, however, frequently large, cumbersome, and expensive.

Instead, some people prefer lapel (also known as lavalier) microphones, which are commonly hooked into the lapels of jackets. They’re small, unobtrusive microphones that attach to the subject and record sound directly into a wireless transmitter or audio recorder as any sound engineer will tell you. They’re excellent for interviews if the team wants to close-mike a subject and eliminate background noise.

Most lapel mics are condenser, which means they’re extremely sensitive to sound, although they’re available in a variety of pickup patterns. Omnidirectional microphones gather up sound from all directions. This is useful when subjects are moving and may move or knock the microphone out of place, resulting in audio drop-out when a subject isn’t speaking straight into the mic, but it also allows for more easily recording of extraneous noises. Cardioid pickup patterns work like a concentrated beam that may quickly reduce unnecessary background noise when targeted towards the audio source.

Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone

Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone for...
  • Broadcast quality, professional-grade Lavalier Mic with TRRS Jack
  • High-quality omnidirectional condenser capsule; discrete 4.5 millimeter...
  • Kevlar reinforced cable ensures that you never stretch or snap your...

One of the best lavalier microphones for smartphones is the Rode smartLav +. It can be used with a DSLR or audio recorder, however a TRRS to TRS adaptor, such as the Rode SC3, may be required. The smartLav + has great sound and build quality, which is uncommon for such a little device. It’s an omni-directional condenser microphone, meaning it picks up sound from all directions. A windscreen is included to prevent wind noise and explosions. You won’t have to worry about it falling off because the wire is Kevlar reinforced and the clip is sturdy. The Rode Smart Lav + is a lavalier microphone designed for use in interviews and other audio jobs when a close proximity to the subject is required. It’s advertised as a broadcast-grade microphone, and after using it, I have to say that the audio quality is quite nice.

With a strong signal-to-noise ratio, the sound quality is crisp and well defined. It has a foam protection to keep bombs out and a strong metal clip to keep it on your shirt. Because it lacks a gain control, you won’t be able to modify the volume when using the smartphone. This isn’t an issue with programs that let you to alter the gain, but it could be while using Facebook Live. If the sound is too loud, the remedy is to put the microphone slightly lower on the subject. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done.

The Rode smartLav Plus is a smartphone-specific omni-directional lavalier microphone. It may not be the best microphone on the market, but for the price, it provides amazing value. You don’t need a high-end microphone for a smartphone anyway. The ease of use is far more important: this device does not require any extra software or adapters; simply plug it in and go. This mic provides substantially superior sound quality than any built-in mic, without a doubt. With or without video, it’s best for recording a single person’s speech. This is the Best Lapel Microphone in 2023.

Shure MVL Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone

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Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone for Smartphone or...
  • Omnidirectional condenser microphone connects to portable devices for...
  • Features include RF interference protection, high signal to noise ratio,...
  • Compatibility with the ShurePlus MOTIV Mobile Recording App and other iOS...

The Shure MVL is a new lavalier microphone for mobile devices featuring a TRRS connector. It’s part of the Shure Motiv range and comes with a useful mobile app for iOS users. Other platform users will have to rely on third-party applications, but you should have no problems with compatibility. This mic is also the weakest of the company’s new lineup, with subpar sound quality at best. It has its own advantages, such as a high SPL before clipping and the ability to record indoors during loud pubs and parties. The sound is sharp and clear as well. However, the disadvantages outnumber the benefits, thus it’s not worth the money.

It connects to any phone or tablet with a microphone port and features a 3.5mm TRRS connector. Although it was built primarily for phones and tablets, it may also be used with cameras or directly with a laptop. Shure’s RF / GSM technology cancels out external interference and undesired noise, leaving a clear signal. The microphone also has a sturdy and stable clip for attaching it to garments. Because this clip is rather large, it may be tough to conceal.

Shure MVL has a razor-sharp response; it sounds beautiful and is incredible. It does, however, bring a lot of air on the road, which I don’t find very comfortable, especially because it’s digital. When the individual starts talking, it tastes like someone is showering behind the scenes. The tone is balanced generally because of the frequency response, but it sounds harsh and distorted at the same time. Although the bass end is slightly rolled up, it is fairly accurate and does not sound small. One of the reasons to adore him could be because of this. However, the capacity to work in a high sound pressure setting would be the only reason to purchase it. When you yell or even clap, most lavs these days cut you off. Even so, the Shure MVL can withstand significantly louder sounds. This is the Best Lapel Microphones in 2023.

Sennheiser MKE 40 Clip-On Cardioid Lavalier Microphone

Sennheiser MKE 40 Clip-On Cardioid Lavalier...
  • Sennheiser MKE 40 Clip-On Cardioid Lavalier Microphone with Hardwired 1/8 "...
  • High gain before feedback
  • Very good speech intelligibility

Sennheiser’s MKE 40 is one of the most popular lapel mics on the market, and it’s used by professional producers all over the world. It has a wide frequency response, making it suitable for a variety of applications, but it distinguishes out from the pack by excelling at speaking at low frequencies.

It can record high gain before hitting feedback levels, making it an excellent choice for those micing up in noisy surroundings or during live performances. It contains a three-pin flexible connector and a 3.5mm socket for connecting to wireless transmitters or directly to a mobile recorder. This is the Best Lavalier Mics in 2023.

Movo WMIC50 2.4GHz Wireless Lavalier Microphone System with Integrated 164-foot Range Antenna

Movo WMIC50 2.4GHz Wireless Lavalier Microphone...
  • CORDLESS RECORDING: Wireless lapel microphone system includes transmitter...
  • GREAT WIRELESS SOUND: The 2.4GHz Wireless system features internal boost...
  • 1-YEAR WARRANTY: We’ve got your back. Our products are designed to ease...

This is a wireless lavalier microphone. This means the lapel mic has a radio transmitter that you may clip or hang on your subject’s belt or around their waist, as well as a radio receiver that connects to the camcorder polar pattern. Wireless lavalier mics allow you to clearly record your subject’s words even if they move around.

The Movo WMIC50 uses a 2.4 GHz wireless technology. It includes an inbuilt antenna and can pick up sound from up to 164 feet away. It can be used in two ways: by belt-clipping a transmitter to the subject or by attaching a receiver on your camera or a tripod.

The condenser capsule also comes with a foam windscreen and two headphone ports, allowing it to catch voices with minimal background noise. The Movo WMCI50 runs on batteries. Both the transmitter and the receiver require two AAA batteries. You can obtain roughly 3.5-4 hours of recording duration with fully charged batteries. This is a reasonably priced alternative. This is the Best Lavalier Microphone in 2023.

Sony ECM-LV1

Sony Compact Stereo Lavalier Microphone...
  • Omni-directional for high-qualitiy stereo sound pick up
  • Included wind-screen to reduce wind noise
  • 360-degree rotation Clip for freedom of attacment angle

While directional pickup patterns are useful for isolating a subject in a noisy environment, they frequently cause audio drop-out when the microphone or subject moves. The Sony ECM-LV1 addresses this problem by employing two mic capsules for stereo picture recording, resulting in high gain input regardless of how much the subject moves.

The self noise may not appeal to everyone because it is a little broader than most other single capsule lapel mics, but it is still compact and discreet enough to be fastened to clothing easily enough with the 360 degree rotating clip. When recording outside, there’s also a custom windshield to limit wind noise.

Sanken COS-11D Lavalier Microphone

Sanken COS-11D is a professional broadcasting omnidirectional lavalier. It’s small (just 4mm in diameter) and may be readily concealed beneath garments. The size, the most natural open sound, and the fact that it generates the least handling noise when touching clothes are the top three advantages. Sanken is a well-known Japanese microphone manufacturer, and the COS-11D is one of their most popular models. There are many pricey ties that sound good in professional broadcasting, but when it comes to convenience of use and form aspect, this mic is unparalleled.

Sanken COS-11D features an omni-directional pattern, so it doesn’t matter if you turn it 90 degrees off-axis, and it doesn’t matter if a talent turns their head while speaking. Despite the fact that many microphones are labeled as omnidirectional, they tend to become directional at higher frequencies. When the axis is off at 180 kHz to 20 kHz on the COS-11D, the difference is only approximately 2 dB, which is fine. When washing machines scrape against clothes, the Omni design also helps to reduce handling noise. It also features a unique coating that reduces creaking, making it one of the most tolerant.

The microphone is also made to last, with a tough exterior shell. The diaphragm is kept dry and protected by the water-resistant mesh from moisture, sweat, makeup, and harsh weather. This toughness is the key to this well-known micro sink’s long life and consistent high-end performance. The Sanken COS-11D offers a continuous omni-directional pattern for sound capture, which substantially aids in capturing consistent audio quality from the intended person / sound source. Its frequency response cuts frequencies below 50Hz naturally, thus removing low-end noise and rumble from the microphone signal. The frequency contains a lovely peak about 6 kHz that can aid with vocal presence and speech intelligibility. Because the great majority of lav microphone applications involve collecting human voice, this is a welcome feature.

Audio-Technica ATR3350iS Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Mic with Smartphone Adapter

Audio-Technica ATR-3350IS Omnidirectional...
  • Engineered for intelligible, accurate voice reproduction. Omni pickup...
  • Ideal for video use, and is a great choice for aerobics/dance/sports...
  • Low-profile design assures minimum visibility. Dual-mono 1/8" output plug...

Lav mic built for cellphones is the Audio-Technica ATR3350iS, which may also be used with a DSLR or an audio recorder. It comes with a headphone jack adapter for usage with cellphones. The wire is about 20 feet long, which is significantly longer than the built-in phone mic, which costs roughly $30. The battery lasts about a month when used often, and it comes with a windscreen.

Sony ECM77B Electret Condenser Lavalier Microphone

Sony ECM77B Electret Condenser Lavalier...
  • Omni-directional lavalier condenser microphone with AA battery power supply...
  • Omni-directional lavalier condenser microphone with AA battery power supply...
  • Omni-directional lavalier condenser microphone with AA battery power supply...

When compared to earlier wired lavalier mics, the Sony ECM-44 is a step up. It uses an XLR connector, so you’ll need a mixer, USB interface, or another device with an XLR input (like a Zoom recorder). These may be used on stage or with a portable Zoom recorder with ease.

It includes two metal clips: one for a single lav mic and the other for twin lav mics. The wire is thick and durable, and it can be powered by batteries. Although this is a cross between the previous “entry-level” mics and more professional models, the sound quality is accurate and natural.

Sennheiser ME 2 Microphone

Sennheiser ME 2 omni-directional lavalier EW...
  • Operating voltage (stand alone) : 7.5 V
  • Equivalent noise level: 36 dB

The Sennheiser ME 2 is a high-quality, ultra-compact omnidirectional microphone by Sennheiser. It has a 30-20000Hz frequency range. This mic’s omnidirectional recording pattern completely reduces background noise and feedback noise, resulting in improved audio clarity.

It is easy to conceal and use because to its compact size and lightweight. This mic is ideal for interviews and is a TV industry staple, appearing on news and chat shows. It’s suitable for both in-studio and outside recording. This is one of the the best lavalier microphones.

Shure SM93 Lavalier Microphone

Shure SM93 Lavalier Microphone
  • Subminiature lavalier design; ideal size for theater, television...
  • Full, clear sound comparable to larger microphones
  • Smooth extended frequency response with presence rise specially tailored...

I’ve had the pleasure of working with the Shure SM93 lavalier microphone on a number of occasions. I always suggest it to friends who require microphones for speeches or seminars. The 80Hz to 20kHz extended frequency response of the Shure SM93 is smooth. Background muttering, garment noise, and room noise will all be diminished by this low-frequency roll-off.

An attached tie bar on a dual mounting block that supplies this lapel microphone. It works well outside because of the acoustic windscreen that reduces wind noise. I personally attach the preamplifier setup to my belt because it is portable and easy to wear. The Shure SM93, despite its diminutive size, is the greatest lavalier microphone in this price range overall. It is simple to understand why it has received such great praise given the quality, use, and cost.

Giant Squid Audio Lab Omnidirectional Microphone

Giant Squid Omnidirectional Mono Microphone
  • 20 - 20,000 Hz frequency response
  • Sensitivity rated at -35 decibels +4 decibels.
  • Low sound to noise ratio > 62dB

I realize this is a strange name. For a mic that costs less than $50, the Giant Squid Audio Lab Omnidirectional Mic is highly regarded and offers excellent sound quality. Because the clip is made of sturdy metal, it will not move. Although it doesn’t always stay in place, it has a windscreen. This microphone works well with laptops, DSLRs, and digital recorders but is not advised for smartphones because it uses a conventional 3.5 mm microphone port.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Lavalier Mics?

Lavalier microphones are small clip-on microphones that are worn on a shirt or tie. They’re commonly used for video interviews since they provide good sound while being unobtrusive. Lavalier microphones are usually worn on the chest or back of clothing near the larynx (voice box), which is where the voices come from.