Best Lavalier Microphone – Wired and Wireless
Lavalier Microphones first came into the picture in the early 1930s, where these new devices could be pinned on to the shirt, tie or collar of the speaker.
Lav's typically come in omnidirectional and cardioid configurations, and these are great for different applications.
In this article, I have suggested you with 15 Best Lavalier Microphone. Lets read the review of best wired and wireless lavalier microphone in the market.
15 BEST LAVALIER MICROPHONE REVIEW
SELECT YOUR FAVORITE TYPE
BEST WIRED LAVALIER MICROPHONE REVIEW
1. RODE SMARTLAV - BEST LAVALIER MIC FOR FILM
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you are looking for a microphone that offers a high-quality audio reproduction on your smartphone and tablet, then you can opt for Rode Smartlav. It is designed to be used in filming, television and broadcast scenarios, or in any situation where high-quality broadcast audio is required.
The omnidirectional condenser picks up sound equally from all around the discrete 4.5 mm microphone. It comes with a 45 – inch long cable, which is reinforced with Kevlar. It ensures that you won't stretch or snap your phone under normal using conditions. It is powered from a 3.5 mm TRRS socket, which is compatible with any device that has a 3.5 mm TRRS connection.
No matter where you are, you will always have your smartphone with you. The Rode smartlav+ is the best lavalier mics which is compatible with both iOS and android operating systems. Apart from this, it is compatible with any audio app that can accept audio from the headset input.
It is lightweight, portable and discreet. The user simply has to mount the microphone on himself/herself, connect it to the smartphone or tablet headset jack and record using the RODE Rec app (for iOS only), or any other audio app.
The microphone comes with a foam pop shield to minimize wind noise and vocal plosives. It also includes a durable mounting clip, that you can clip onto your tie or collar.
what i like about this lavalier MIc
2. SENNHEISER ME 2 - BEST WIRED LAVALIER MIC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Polar pattern: Omnidirectional.
- Frequency range: 50 Hz – 18000 Hz.
- Stand-alone operating voltage: 7.5 V.
- Equivalent noise level: 36 dB.
If choosing wired headphones is not a problem for you means then opt for ME 2-II by Sennheiser which is another best lavalier mic. It comes with omni-directional polarity engineered to accurately capture speech and vocals. It utilizes concepts found in the original ME-2 and expands them. It focuses on the frequency response and offers full compatibility with digital RF-transmission systems.
The frequency range is between 50Hz and 18000Hz, allowing the capsule to hone in more on appropriate tonalities. It also minimizes the capture of frequencies piercingly high and unnecessarily low in the context of vocal recording.
The 5.2 – feet long cable is adequate and provides enough slack for almost any situation. A locking 3.5 mm connector is moulded at the end of the wire and is compatible with systems like AVX, XS Wireless 1, XS Wireless 2 etc.
The package also includes a clip that you can use to clip onto your clothing, and a windscreen to reduce excessive wind noise.
what i like about this lavalier MIc
3. Shure MVL - BEST OMNIDIRECTIONAL LAVALIER MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Polar pattern: Omnidirectional.
- Frequency range: 50 Hz – 18000 Hz.
- Stand-alone operating voltage: 7.5 V.
- Equivalent noise level: 36 dB.
The Shure MVL omnidirectional lavalier mics offers a quick and easy solution for recording audio during close-mic digital vocal recordings.
Designed and manufactured by Shure technological standards, the Shure Motiv MVL microphone is particularly resistant. Its high-performance omnidirectional MEMS capsule produces mobile voice recordings whose quality greatly exceeds onboard microphones on mobile phones and tablets.
The Shure MVL microphone can connect to most smartphones and tablets capable of recording and having a 3.5mm mini-jack headphone jack.
what i like about this lavalier MIc
BEST WIRElESS LAVALIER MICROPHONE REVIEW
4. PYLE PDWM96 - BEST WIRELESS LAVALIER MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Next up in my list of best lavalier microphone is this wireless clip microphone from Pyle Pro which has a compact and light design for hands-free performance. It is engineered for low noise, distortion and colouration. Whether for on-stage performance or for personally recording videos at home, Pyle Pro is one of the best Lavalier Mic that will serve as an ideal fit.
It has a range of 20 feet in an open field without degradation of audio response, making it perfect for personal home use. The 176 MHz frequency range and 600-ohm output Impedance is ideal for capturing high-quality audio to the consumer video camera and audio recorder without interference.
The receiver has a 1/4 inch plug on both the ends so you can easily connect it to your camera, audio Tuner, desktop computer, laptop, and other devices. It also has a volume control that is easy to use.
The product is made to be compact and lightweight for hands-free performance. You can barely even notice that the mic is there. It also features a clip-on Lav mic so you can easily clip it to your collar, tie or pocket. 2 AAA batteries are used to power the receiver and transmitter.
The complete package includes a body-pack transmitter, a clip lavalier microphone that you can clip to your clothes quickly and a battery, and a receiver.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
5. MOVO WMIC50 - BEST LAPEL MIC FOR YOUTUBE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Frequency range: 2.4 GHz (wireless transmission).
- Internal boost antennas with a 164-foot range.
- Transmitter and receiver powered by 2 AAA batteries.
This wireless lapel mics system comes with a transmitter with belt clip, a receiver with camera shoe and a tripod mount, Lav microphone & 2 earphones. MOVO WMIC50 2.4GHZ is one of the best lav mics that is ideal for YouTube interviews, journalism, tutorials, presentations, film making, and recording podcasts.
This best lapel mic for youtube features a frequency range of 2.4 GHz and internal boost antennas with 164 – foot range. The unit is powered using 2 AAA batteries, that can provide 4 hours of runtime.
The receiver headphone features a second isolated microphone to communicate with the transmitter headphone. It means that you don't need to stop and replay the tester to make sure your audio is recording correctly.
The kit also includes a 3.5 mm TRS audio signal cable.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
6. RODE RODELINK FM - BEST LAVALIER MICROPHONE FOR VIDEO RECORDING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Frequency range: 60Hz – 18000 Hz.
RODELink is the next generation of digital wireless microphone systems. It uses a series II 2.4GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption. It constantly monitors and hops between frequencies to maintain the signal strength as high as possible at a range of up to 100 metres.
The kit includes a receiver, transmitter and broadcast-grade lav mic. The transmitter weighs as light as 190 g and can be fitted to your belt or your clothes. It has a small, internal antenna with a 100-meter range and 3.5 mm TRS socket with dual mono output.
The receiver can accept audio signals coming from up to 8 transmitter channels. It has an OLED display that shows battery status, level, mute and channel selection. The 3.5 mm TRS locking jack socket can send audio signals directly to the camera or recording device.
The microphone itself is pressure gradient, and the audio can be sent to the RX-CAM through the TX-BELT. It picks up frequencies from 60 Hz to 18 kHz, so you can be assured that your subject's voice will be recorded with broadcast quality. The unit is powered by 2 AA batteries or by USB. I will recommend this wireless lapel microphone for video camera!
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
7. SONY ECMAW4
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Polar pattern: cardioid.
Are you looking for a compact and lightweight lavalier microphone? If yes, then I recommend you the ECM-AW4 Bluetooth Wireless Microphone System which is an entirely battery-powered Bluetooth wireless microphone system. It is ideal in film making situations or for conducting interviews.
This system allows a subject and the device operator to communicate directly, eliminating the need for a separate intercom system. It comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack/audio output on both the transmitter and the receiver to facilitate this feature.
The receiver and transmitter are compatible with any video camera or audio recorder with a 3.5 mm mini-jack microphone input. It features 2-way communication up to 150 feet from the camcorder. It will provide a crisp and clear sound from approximately 50 meters away.
The package comes with a recording cable, a portable carrying pouch, armband, earphones and an earphone hanger. It also includes a windscreen to reduce wind noise.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
8. ALVOXCON WIRELESS LAPEL MIC - BEST BUDGET LAVALIER MIC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Wireless headset and Lavalier.
- Supports multiple live applications.
- Noise-cancelling technology.
- Interference reduction technology.
Alvoxcon is the best budget lavalier mic that renders crystal clear sound. This best wireless lapel microphone comes with a metal belt transmitter with a mini receiver. This provides noise-cancelling technology ranges up to 100 feet without any distortion.
This microphone comes with the Ultra High Frequency digital wireless technology to provide a strong signal to the user. Also, it reduces the possibility of interference from Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
You can plug the head-worn or clip on mics to the bodypack transmitter and plug the mini receiver into the smartphone or digital cameras. Additionally, this best lavalier microphone is a condenser headset that renders secure wear for its vocal performance. Alongside, the clip on microphone will be invisible if you fix it on your collar.
This avails the user hands-free to use the microphone when you are in the gym, meeting, classroom, church, and much more. The wireless receiver comes with the universal 1/4 plug, PA speaker, 1/4 mic jack can be adaptable to Cameras, Smartphone, and especially ideal for fitness instructors.
Furthermore, this lapel microphone comes with a single channel which delivers multiple frequencies and volume control to the user. Just hold the transmitter’s button to choose your desired frequency and volume level for better performance without any distortion.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
9. AUDIO-TECHNICA PRO 70 - BEST CONDENSER LAVALIER MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Powered using either a single AA battery or phantom power.
The Audio Technica Pro 70 is a miniature condenser microphone that is ideal for both vocal and acoustic guitar applications. It is one of the best lavalier microphone available in market and is known for its outstanding consistency and dependable performance. It comes with an instrument adapter, so if you are looking for a mic for recording your music, this one is ideal for you.
The cardioid polar pattern reduces the noise from the sides and rear, improving the isolation of the desired sound source. The voice production is natural and articulate when used a clip-on.
It is engineered to record music and speech comfortably, yet audibly. It comes with a low-frequency roll-off switch that allows reduced pickup of room noise. It can be powered using a battery as well as phantom power.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
10. TTSTAR YM-2 - BEST LAPEL MIC FOR PREACHING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Extraordinary audio performance.
- Wide compatible via 1/4 plug and 1/8 jack.
If you are looking for the best lavalier microphone on budget, then the UHF wireless microphone system will be a perfect choice for you. This wireless Lavalier avails you of high-quality sound transmission and clear voice via its noise reduction technology.
This microphone system comes with an in-built condenser mic and anti-jamming chip. The anti-jamming chip of the microphone provides improved sound quality to the users. The UHF wireless Mic offers a wide compatibility feature with its MPH-05 receiver with a ¼” plug, amplifier, and PA speaker. Even, you can connect this microphone system to any devices via its ⅛” jack.
Additionally, this best lavalier microphone system renders 32 UHF frequencies for the selectable channel. Also, there will be a frequency interface with a press button on its transmitter to choose the frequency range.
Further, this wireless microphone system will be ideal for multiple performances like teaching, wedding, presentations, training, preaching in church, public speeches, AV recording, interviews, and much more.
Aside from these, it offers complete accessories for the users. It comes with three adapters, 3 microphones: handheld mic, headset, and lavalier lapel mic. With these microphones, you will get a multi-functional Tripod, a charging cable, and a Windproof Fur Shield.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
11. FIFINE K037B
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Easy-to-read LCD-display to monitor battery condition.
FIFINE K037B is the top best budget wireless lavalier mic that comes with the wireless lapel microphone. This microphone system offers you 20 frequency selection options for seamless and interference-free operation.
The UHF of this microphone system ranges from 45 to 60 feet. Besides, this mic system features an easy to read transmitter LCD. This LCD-display will showcase the current frequency channel and battery life to the user.
The FIFINE microphone system has a receiver indicator to provide the info of power and wireless connection. Further, this wireless microphone system comes with a light-weight head-worn microphone that makes everything flexible with great sound quality to the users.
Also, it has in-born high sensitivity to provide clear clarity. Furthermore, the microphone system’s cardioid pattern plays an excellent role in reducing noise, specifically the background noise.
When it comes to durability, this mic system’s battery comes with the generic AA battery for the transmitter and an AAA battery for the receiver. Hence, it may last for up to 4 hours from the time of its usage. Along with these, this lapel mic is a pre-paired one.
So, you can remove the mic from the box and can be connected to any camera or AV recorders via its PA speaker, mixer, and amplifier.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
12. HOTEC UHF - BEST LAPEL MIC FOR WEDDINGS
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Hotec UHF - the best lavalier microphone which comes with the body-pack and mini-rechargeable receiver.
The microphone system’s rechargeable receiver comes with a 1/4 output that supports live performance and smartphone compatibility. Further, this receiver offers great sound quality while recording via an operational range of 100 feet without any disruption.
Besides, the plug and play feature of the mic is quite easy to set up. Just choose the lapel lavalier headset, connect it inside the mic socket of your transmitter, you are done with it. The mic system is also equipped with rechargeable batteries that are durable for up to 10 hours when it is fully charged.
It offers 64 selectable frequency channels to provide less interference from the electrical appliances. Also, it renders stable transmission and multiple applications for users without any interference.
Aside from these, this microphone system can be ideal for applications like presentations, public speeches, training, plays, weddings, and much more.
The Hotec UHF microphone system comes with the LCD-display and volume controller on the bodypack of the transmitter. This will display the battery warning and current frequency to the users. Overall, this microphone system provides a clear voice without any distortion.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
13. BIETRUN WXM10 - BEST LAVALIER MIC FOR IPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Bluetooth connectivity technology.
- Conversion cables.
- UHF wireless lavalier microphone.
- In-built rechargeable batteries.
If you are looking for the best budget wireless lavalier mic, then this rechargeable lapel mic will be the best fit for you. This microphone system is easy to use. All you need to do is turn on the receiver and transmitter power switches.
Now wait for 2 seconds until the TX and RX Blue lights stop flashing. If you wish to connect the Macbook to this lavalier microphone, you need to purchase a 3.5mm UBB transmission converter.
The transmitter and receiver of this lapel mic are in-built with the 400mah rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These rechargeable batteries last for about 6 hours. The wireless usb lapel microphone cable comes with two micro USB ports for charging the transmitter and receiver simultaneously.
The mic’s receiver is designed with a 1/8 TRRS plug which worlds well with iPhone, Android, and DSLR cameras. The selectable UHF wireless channel uses high sensitivity condenser mic, wireless 65 feet signal stability with no delay, and no radiation anti-howling and anti-jamming.
Furthermore, it offers 25 UHF adjustable channels to reduce noise and interference. Also, it comes with a one-year warranty and free replacement services. On the whole, this best lapel mics will offer you an amazing performance.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
14. SENNHEISER AVX - MKE2 - BEST PROFESSIONAL LAVALIER MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- DECT 1.9 GHz transmission.
If you want to step up to another notch microphone, then I suggest you the Sennheiser AVX Digital Wireless microphone which virtually guarantees the stress-free capturing of perfect sound. It is ideal for use in any situation- professional videos and documentaries, street interviews and almost any other scenario that you can think of.
This is one of the favourite and best lavalier microphone for videographers which allows them to concentrate on their true passion: capturing and creating a fantastic film.
This professional lavalier microphone system fully self configures and is ready to film in a matter of seconds. The receiver is ultra-compact and fits directly into the XLR audio input of the camera or recording device. The body-pack transmitter is ideal for hands-free interview and documentary recording.
The dynamic range provides a perfectly levelled sound, whether the surrounding is quiet or extremely loud. You don't have to adjust the audio level on the microphone; the system will do it by itself. The battery life lasts for at least 3 hours.
The AVX selects the best operating frequency and switches to a clean channel before any interference becomes audible. It operates in the license-free 1.9 GHz frequency range, which you can use in many countries worldwide without registration.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
15. HEY MIC! BLUETOOTH MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- RF Frequency range: 2.4 GHz - 2.48 GHz.
The last one in my list is a Bluetooth microphone that comes with an app for your smartphone to get great audio on your videos whenever you're on the go.
Whether you're a business owner relying on video marketing to boost your revenue, or a teacher recording presentations and lectures, or a YouTube blogger who is trying to grow your following this mic is ideal for you.
The pocket-sized Bluetooth microphone is compact, lightweight and portable. It guarantees a crystal clear audio recording.
It is compatible with both iOS as well as Android since it interacts with the phone via an exclusive app called Hey Mic! Hey Mic! is specially designed for iOS systems. If you are an android user, you will have to use some other app like Cinema FV5.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS LAVALIER MIC
WHO USES LAVALIER MICROPHONES?
If you prefer for close-ups and medium-angle shots, then you should better served with some good shotgun mics. Boom-mounted shotgun mics, will help you pick up a focused area, with very little off-axis noise, and their tight polar pattern provides better.
These microphones provide the person carrying it with freedom of movement, and their lightweight makes them unnoticeable. These Lavalier Microphones are well suited with DSLR cameras, Phones, and modern-day gadgets.
Since lavalier microphones are used during presentations, video or film making, teaching, etc., they are widely utilized by:
- Sports anchors.
- News reporters.
- Conference presenters.
- Youtubers and Vloggers.
- Teachers.
- Instructors.
- Interviewers.
So in general, these are used in scenarios where you need to move around a lot or need to keep the mic discreet so that it is not visible in the video or film. Because in such scenarios, using a cabled mic or a boom mic is not a viable option.
WIRED OR WIRELESS LAVALIER MICROPHONE - WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
There are wired and wireless lavalier microphones on the market today. In both categories, you can find excellent models with different prices. Therefore, it is essential to understand this feature to decide which is suitable for you.
The most common and most easily found models on the market are the wired models. They are often several times cheaper than wireless ones and have a few points that make them difficult to use.
Another point to think about is that, depending on the cable size, the wired microphone will limit the user's movements and the distance from the camera, for example. Many lavalier microphones have a cable of only 1.5 meters, which is very little for those looking to make video recordings.
When comparing to wired, the price of wireless lavalier microphones is high. They are much more comfortable to use, and it gives the user more freedom of movement. However, there is a radius of distance in which the microphone works, and it is necessary to be careful not to run away from it.
OMNIDIRECTIONAL VS DIRECTIONAL LAVALIER MICROPHONES
Are you confused about omnidirectional and directional mics? Omni-directional microphones pick up the sound from all the directions equally, whereas directional pick the sound in one direction than others.
Omni-directional mics are easy to mount when comparing to directional microphones. Omni-directional is helpful for the one who is doing filming and video recording.
And directional is suitable for closed studio places like newsroom and recording room.
BUYER'S GUIDE FOR CHOOSING BEST LAVALIER MICROPHONE
Choosing an excellent wireless lavalier microphone is completely linked to the user's budget. In reality, the lavalier microphones on the market look the same, but the only difference is their price, and extremely it varies from one model to another.
Always the sound quality significantly influences the price of a wireless lavalier microphone.
Before any purchase, do not hesitate to check the waterproof quality of your wireless lavalier microphone and check whether it has anti-noise protection. You have to choose between the wired and wireless lavalier microphones which are explained above.
Some models still are specially designed for smartphones. Easy to use, they nevertheless require the download of an application to be used. Before buying a lavalier microphone, you need to consider few criteria, which I am going to explain below:
Audio Quality
Check the audio quality of a lavalier microphone; it is advisable to perform a test before deciding whether you want to buy it or not. You should check the sound quality of a lavalier microphone by considering the quality of emission of your voice, the abstraction of ambient sounds, sound pressure.
If you are satisfied with these factors, you can conclude that a particular microphone will have the best sound quality.
Range
When choosing a wireless lavalier microphone, you need to consider the range. The operating transmission range varies between the systems. But, most of the wireless lavalier systems have an operating range up to 30 ft.
It would be helpful if you consider how far you are from the recording device. If you're recording significant format events such as weddings and stage performances, you have to look for a 150 ft range microphone or more excellent connectivity.
Otherwise, if you're recording small controlled environments, the operating range may not be as important.
Size
The size of the lavalier microphone is a point that should not be overlooked when choosing among many models on the market as the main advantage of this type of microphone is its discretion.
The audience shouldn't even notice that you are wearing a mic and vice versa; you shouldn't even feel the presence of a mic attached to your clothing. Thus, in addition to being small, the model must be light. Also, consider the receiver's size to be attached to the belt so that it is neither bulky nor too heavy.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF LAVALIER MICROPHONES
As Lavalier Microphones have been in use for more than nine decades, the users over the years have pointed out good as well as bad qualities in these microphones.
ADVANTAGES OF LAVALIER MICROPHONES:
DISADVANTAGES OF LAVALIER MICROPHONES:
TYPES OF LAVALIER MICROPHONES BASED ON SOUND SOURCE
There are two groups in which Lavalier microphones can be divided, they are:
- Proximity Lavalier Microphones.
- Transparent Lavaliers Microphones.
Proximity Lavalier
transparent Lavalier
So whether you're a teacher who's looking to record lectures for the students, or a conference presenter, or a vlogger who's looking to record videos can read on and find out the best Lavalier microphone that suits your work!
CONCLUSION
These are some of the best lavalier mic available in the market. They are suited for almost all situations, and you can choose according to your priorities- whether you are an iOS user or an Android user, whether you need a cabled system or a wireless system etc.
In general, the products that I have listed are all lightweight and compact, so you wouldn't need to worry about lugging them around all the time. According to your needs, they can be compatible with iOS or Android operating systems, and some of them are versatile enough to be connected to your PC or Mac as well.
You may be in the management department of a company and have to make presentations regularly. Or you may be a yoga or a dance instructor. Or you may be a teacher who has to record lectures. Regardless of the scenario, these Best Lavalier microphone listed above is guaranteed to give the best performance.
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FAQ:
1. Are cheap lavalier mics any good?
Cheap lavalier mics are also good. But high expensive lavalier microphone will have extraordinary features and sound quality.
2. which is better omnidirectional or directional lavalier microphones
Omnidirectional or directional lavalier microphones have specific quality and features. Both are best, but you need to choose the type which is suitable for you.
