For video production, live broadcasts, and public speaking events, lavalier microphones continue to be the go-to solution for providing high-quality sound. Lavalier (or lapel) mics date back to the 1930s, and, in their original form, they were hung like pendants around a speaker’s neck. In fact, the name “lavalier” refers to their similarity to a piece of dangling jewelry popularized by the Duchess Louise de la Vallière, a member of King Louis the XIV’s court.
Today, lavalier mics are far smaller, which is why they are often used in situations where they need to be placed unobtrusively. Lavalier mics come in numerous variations to accommodate a range of applications. If you’re in the market for a lavalier microphone, then this guide will help you find the right lavalier microphone to fit your needs.
Directional vs. Omnidirectional
Lavalier microphones are offered in two primary varieties: directional (cardioid) and omnidirectional. Cardioid lavaliers provide more separation from environmental sounds, so they are often chosen for outdoor interviews or for use in noisy environments like conference halls or houses of worship.
Omnidirectional lavalier microphones pick up sound from every angle, meaning they will capture a speaker’s voice as well as some of the ambience in a performance or recording environment. Omnidirectional lavalier microphones can sound more natural than directional lavalier microphones, making them a solid choice for work in studio-based video productions and broadcasts.
Choosing the Right Connector
Generally, lavalier microphones are available with a variety of connector types that correspond to different manufacturers of wireless transmitter packs. Some of the most common connector types are TA4F, used by Shure and Telex; TA3F, used by AKG, Samson, and Nady; Microdot, which can connect to various adapters; and standard 3.5mm, XLR, and mini-XLR connectors. When shopping for a lavalier mic, the most important thing is to ensure that you select a model that has the appropriate connector for your wireless system or other recording devices, such as a field recorder, DSLR camera, or mobile device.
Popular Lavalier Microphone Brands
Currently, lavalier microphones are produced by numerous manufacturers with models to suit varied applications and budgets. The most popular manufacturers of lavalier microphones carried at Sweetwater are Acacia, Countryman, DPA, Sennheiser, and Shure (in alphabetical order).
Acacia Audio Lavalier Microphones
Acacia Audio LIZ series lavalier microphones are designed to provide an ideal balance of price and performance for budget-minded audio professionals. They are offered in omnidirectional configurations only, but you can choose from several connector types compatible with Audio-Technica, Sennheiser, and Shure bodypacks as well as bodypacks with T3-style connectors from AKG, Audix, Airwave, and Samson. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile lavalier microphone, then check out Acacia Audio.
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Countryman Lavalier Microphones
Countryman specializes in headset microphones, lavalier microphones, and wireless-microphone-system accessories. Countryman’s lavalier mics are well regarded for their rugged construction and transparent sound. Like Acacia, Countryman primarily produces omnidirectional lavalier mics, and they offer them in standard- or low-sensitivity options for louder speakers or singers. Additionally, Countryman lavalier mics come with several connector options to work with any of today’s most popular bodypacks, and they range from affordable sub-$200 options to higher-priced waterproof models that protect against sweat and inclement weather.
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DPA Lavalier Microphones
DPA lavalier microphones rely on the same reference-grade technology as their award-winning modular microphone systems. DPA lavalier microphones exhibit exceptional clarity, low noise, and high SPL handling. What’s more, DPA lavalier microphones are resistant to high temperatures, impacts, and abrasions, and they’re water-resistant, making them an exemplary choice for location recording or sweaty Broadway stage performers. DPA lavalier microphones are available with 3.5mm locking connectors, TA4F connectors for Shure wireless systems, and DPA’s flexible adapter system that’s compatible with various wireless solutions from Lectrosonics, Sennheiser, Shure, Sony, Wisycom, Zaxcom, and more.
Sennheiser Lavalier Microphones
Sennheiser is one of the most respected manufacturers of wireless microphone systems, and they complement them with several options for high-quality lavalier microphones. Sennheiser’s omnidirectional lavalier microphones run the gamut from affordable models, such as the XS series, to ultra-high-performance models like the MKE 2-P-K, which features a gold-plated XLR connector. Unlike the previous manufacturers on this list, Sennheiser lavalier microphones are designed to work primarily with Sennheiser’s wireless systems, including the popular XS and Evolution wireless systems.
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Shure Lavalier Microphones
Shure is another popular producer of wireless systems, and — similar to Sennheiser — they offer a number of lavalier microphones that are directly compatible with their systems, using Microdot, LEMO 3, TA4F, or XLR connectors. Shure offers mostly omnidirectional lavalier microphones with a few cardioid and supercardioid options when a high degree of ambient-noise rejection is required. Lavalier microphones from Shure span from budget-friendly sub-$100 models to high-end models used for Broadway performances, large houses of worship, and other venues that demand the highest possible sound quality.
Lavalier Microphones FAQs
How do you attach a lavalier microphone?
Lavalier mics can be taped in place or attached with a lavalier microphone clip (like an alligator clip), which allows for more precise placement. There are also “vampire clips,” which have sharp pins that slip unobtrusively into clothing or ties. Sweetwater carries several lavalier microphone clips from a variety of manufacturers.
What lavalier mics are compatible with DSLRs?
You can use any number of lavalier mics with DSLR cameras. Just ensure that the lavalier mic is equipped with the right connector type. In most cases, you’ll want to choose a 3.5mm connector for direct connection to your DSLR. And you need to make sure that there’s a power source for the microphone.
Can I use a lavalier mic with my smartphone or mobile device?
Yes. There are several lavalier mics specifically designed to work with mobile devices, such as the Behringer BC LAV condenser for mobile devices with 3.5mm TRRS jacks and the Saramonic LavMicro U1B with a Lightning connector for iOS devices.
Conclusion
Whether you’re working in a video production studio, conducting field interviews, miking up speakers in a conference room, or running sound for a house of worship, lavalier microphones provide an easy, hands-free way to deliver clear sound without the need for stand-mounted mics, shotgun mics, or other obtrusive miking methods. For more information to help you find the right lavalier mic for you, please reach out to one of our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700.
