Microphones are used in a variety of areas, from ordinary home karaoke to journalism, serious performances, and concerts. One of the varieties of such products is a lavalier microphone. With it, you can record one specific voice and prevent others from getting on the record. Most often, such a product is used during a television interview, when conducting virtual seminars, training courses, theatrical performances or presentations. As the name implies, the product is simply attached to clothing, so they are often completed with clips or clips of a similar type.
The choice of such products in specialized stores and on the Internet is quite decent. However, choosing the right products for certain purposes is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. So that you do not make a mistake and buy the best unit, we decided to rank the best lavalier microphones. As part of this review, we will tell you in detail about the performance characteristics of the most popular models on the market, as well as provide some useful tips that will definitely come in handy when buying.
How to choose the right lavalier microphone in 2022?
If the microphone with a lavalier is of high quality, then on clothes they will not be conspicuous, and ideally they will simply not be visible. The device looks quite simple — it is easy to distinguish the head and mount in the design. The receiving part of the device, as a rule, is condenser, that is, according to the principle of operation, the product is very similar to a professional-type studio microphone. The quality of the recording is also affected by the cost of the device. You should not expect that a model for a couple of thousand rubles in its functionality will not differ from more expensive devices.
It should be said that such microphones can be wired and radio transmitting. Unsurprisingly, the latter will cost significantly more, but in this case, you do not have to be in close proximity during the recording process.
Be sure to take into account the breadth of the frequency range — this is one of the key indicators of each recording device. The larger it is, the better the sound quality will ultimately be on the recording. It is best to give preference to products of well-known companies that already have some experience in the manufacture of similar devices. You need to hold the microphone in your hands to determine its weight and overall dimensions — the smaller and lighter it is, the more comfortable it will be to use.
When we selected products to include in our ranking of the best lavalier microphones, we took into account all of the above factors. However, not only they were taken into account. In particular, we also looked at the value for money, and also carefully studied user reviews. We tried to include not the most expensive products in the review, so that each of our readers can choose a device for their goals and objectives.
The Ten Best Lavalier Microphones in 2022
10. AKG C417PP
It has very compact overall dimensions and low weight. The unit is a versatile instrument that can be used to record both sound and voice in a wide variety of noise conditions. There is an active noise reduction system, so no extraneous sound will be heard on the recording. The microphone has an omnidirectional pattern and a fairly decent frequency range. Thanks to such opportunities, it is possible to capture a very open sound on the recording, which will be as close to natural as possible.
The microphone has a linear frequency directivity, due to which it can be used in conjunction with several similar devices at once. Included with the device is a universal mount, a mechanism for attaching to a tie, a storage case and a windscreen that allows you to use the device outdoors. The cable is long enough — it will not interfere with movements. It is worth mentioning right away that this microphone has phantom power, so it will not work to power it through the USB connector.
Advantages:
- The presence of an active noise reduction system;
- Long period of operation;
- Minimum weight;
- The wire does not restrict movement at all;
- Extended equipment.
Disadvantages:
- Great value;
- Available only in black — it will not work to match the color of the clothes.
Microphone AKG C417PP
9. BOYA BY-LM20
Pretty cheap Chinese version. The kit comes with a special adapter through which the device can be connected to the action camera. The device is characterized by low cost, but it has a decent sensitivity. It is often used for podcasting, it is well suited for journalistic reporting, it is used during broadcasting, streaming, video recording. According to users, the products are very convenient to use. The dimensions of the device are very compact.
The recording quality is quite decent for such an inexpensive device — the voice can be clearly heard even from a distance of several meters. A similar effect was achieved largely due to the circular pattern. Connects to a recording device via a 3.5mm mini jack or USB. The length of the cord is not too long — only 1.2 m. The mount is made of metal, which gives the product additional protection. The windshield can also be used indoors, so noises such as rustling clothes will not be heard on the recording.
Advantages:
- Universal products;
- Acceptable cost;
- Circular dynamics of directivity is provided;
- Perfect for beginner streamers.
Disadvantages:
- The cord could be made longer;
- The wind protection is weak.
Microphone BOYA BY-LM20
8. SARAMONIC SR-LMX1+
According to the developers of this gadget, it is perfect for people who travel a lot, while for recording or broadcasting they prefer not to use a video camera and a hand-held microphone, but the most ordinary smartphone. Thanks to the capabilities of modern gadgets, it will be possible to immediately process the video, but the sound often leaves much to be desired if you record it through the microphone of the device. This model is designed for smartphones based on iOS and Android platforms.
For other equipment, the microphone is not very well suited, but for mobile devices it will be a real salvation. It was originally developed to work with digital gadgets. As a result, it will be possible to obtain high-quality and clear sound, which will practically not differ from a professional one. The case is covered with special polyurethane, which gives it additional strength and resistance to a variety of damage.
Advantages:
- The original model for working with smartphones;
- Increased body strength;
- The sound is clear and high quality;
- There are all the necessary opportunities for working on the street.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for other audio and video recording equipment.
Microphone SARAMONIC SR-LMX1+
7. Rode SmartLav+
An Australian-made product, and the company that produces it specializes in the manufacture of microphones for professional purposes — journalism, speeches, and so on. This model is special, as it was developed specifically for tablets and smartphones. Apple gadgets even have an original application for this device. The previous version, simply called Rode SmartLav, functions much worse, so you need to be very careful when buying.
This lavalier microphone is even compatible with camcorders and cameras, but you will need to purchase an original adapter to connect to them. The sound quality is good regardless of which device the microphone itself is connected to. The sound is deep and rich. The product is an omnidirectional condenser microphone. The wire is not very long — only 115 cm, the weight of the device is 6 grams, the microphone operates in the range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Advantages:
- Decent sound quality;
- Long period of operation;
- Large sound range.
Disadvantages:
- Short wire;
- When buying, you need to be careful — there is a chance to purchase a model of the previous generation.
Microphone Rode SmartLav+
6.MIPRO MU-53L
And this is a device made in China. It is produced by an enterprise specializing in the manufacture of audio equipment. In terms of functionality, the product is at the level of more expensive models, and users in their reviews talk about the optimal ratio of price and quality. The microphone is perfect for public speaking, in particular, it is often used during presentations or courses. In addition, it is often purchased by theaters.
The device itself has a laconic design, almost invisible on clothes. Fasteners are convenient and reliable — you don’t have to worry that the microphone will unhook at the most inopportune moment. The mass of the product is only 19 grams, the microphone can operate in the frequency range from 50 Hz to 18 kHz. It is equipped with a TA4F or mini XLR connector and has a cable length of 1.5 m. The sound is transmitted smoothly and naturally.
Advantages:
- A very handy thing to use;
- Suitable for a variety of purposes;
- Reliable fastening;
- The optimum ratio of price and quality.
Disadvantages:
- The connectors are not quite familiar — you have to purchase adapters.
Microphone MIPRO MU-53L
5. Sennheiser ME 4-N
The device can easily replace a full-size studio microphone, experienced users recommend using it for recording vocals, as the sound is crystal clear. The plug here is universal, so the microphone is suitable for any equipment. The only exceptions are mobile gadgets — to work with them, you will need to purchase an additional adapter. The product is characterized by small overall dimensions and weight, it is attached to clothing with a special clip.
The microphone is condenser and cardioid. This means that a certain direction is required for the full disclosure of all the capabilities of the device. This may not seem very convenient to some, since the setup will take more time, but thanks to this feature, it is possible to achieve the highest quality sound. The microphone operates in the frequency range from 60 Hz to 18 kHz.
Advantages:
- Compact overall dimensions and low weight;
- The sensitivity is such that vocals can be recorded through the microphone;
- Wide frequency range.
Disadvantages:
- For high quality recording, you need to select the right direction.
Microphone Sennheiser ME 4-N
4. Rode LAVALIER
One of the most expensive devices in our roundup of the best lavalier microphones, but it has few downsides. Nevertheless, with this microphone you can do absolutely everything — organize performances, host various shows, even shoot films. The buttonhole here is very reliable and almost invisible.
The self-noise level of this microphone is minimal. It is equipped with the original MiCon detachable system, which no other similar device has, and there is also a special pop filter that protects the product from the negative effects of moisture and extraneous noise. The design works in the range from 60 Hz to 18 kHz. The body of the microphone is made of steel and weighs only 1 gram. This is an omnidirectional capacitor type model.
Advantages:
- The highest recording quality;
- Very light production;
- There are practically no own noises;
- The body is made of stainless steel.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive products, the possibilities of which can only be assessed by professionals.
Microphone Rode LAVALIER
3. Sennheiser ME2US
In third place is another model of the world-famous German brand. This is also a professional microphone of the highest quality. It has practically no competitors in the market. However, this product was originally designed to be compatible with other Sennheiser appliances, so it was equipped with a non-standard plug. When working with non-native equipment, it sometimes falls out of the socket.
The microphone is capable of recording sound in the frequency range from 30 Hz to 20 kHz, it also has a high level of sensitivity, it is omnidirectional. Powered by a 7.5 V power supply. The kit includes a cable that is 1.6 meters long, but it is capable of transmitting data wirelessly.
Advantages:
- Real German quality;
- A wireless data transmission channel is provided;
- Provides excellent recording quality.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive;,
- Not compatible with other brands.
Microphone Sennheiser ME 2US
2. Audio-Technica ATR3350
Although this model was developed by Japanese engineers, it is made in China, and it is not at all expensive on the Russian market. In the middle price segment, the device is one of the best. The recording quality is high — no extraneous sounds and noises can be heard, so you either don’t have to adjust the sound at all, or the processing will be minimal.
This is an omnidirectional condenser microphone, so you don’t have to spend a lot of time on setup. It can be used in conjunction with cameras and camcorders. However, there is also a special adapter on sale that allows you to work with tablets and smartphones. On the case there is a lever for switching between operating modes. The cable length is as much as 6 meters, the microphone is powered by one small LR44 battery.
Advantages:
- Acceptable cost;
- A minimum of time is spent on setting up the microphone;
- Compatible with cameras, cameras, tablets and smartphones;
- Pretty clear sound.
Disadvantages:
- There is no remaining battery indicator.
Microphone Audio-Technica ATR3350
1. Boya BY-M1
It is difficult to classify this microphone as a professional recording and sound transmission equipment, but for beginners it will be an excellent option. First of all, this device is suitable for bloggers, people leading various kinds of podcasts, it can also be used for presentations. The microphone is universal — it can be quickly synchronized with any equipment, and no additional adapters will have to be purchased, since everything you need is included in the kit.
Naturally, this is an omnidirectional condenser microphone operating from 65 Hz to 18 kHz. The design is light — its weight is only 2.5 g, the power supply unit weighs 18 grams. The length of the cable is as much as 6 meters. The clip securely secures the microphone to clothing.
Advantages:
- There is everything you need to work with a variety of equipment;
- Quickly set up;
- Easy to enjoy;
- Long cable;
- Small mass.
Disadvantages:
- Not detected.
Microphone Boya BY-M1
In conclusion, a useful video
The ranking of the best lavalier microphones has come to an end. We have tried to give our readers comprehensive information on each model in 2022. If certain questions remain, then you can always ask them in the comments to this article. The answer will be given in the shortest time.