Best lavalier microphones for 2020

The microphone is used much more often in 2020 than it was a decade ago. If earlier they were used only by singers and journalists, now many Instagram and YouTube bloggers use them in their work. It is inconvenient to use a large device for video recording, so lavalier microphones come to the rescue.

What is a lavalier microphone? This question is asked by the user when he is just starting to study this issue. Today we'll figure it out.

This is a miniature device that is necessary in order to perceive and convert sound waves into a digital signal. For convenience, it can be looped onto a shirt, tie, or other clothing. Such a device is not noticeable to others, but the sound becomes much better than without it.

Who uses a lavalier microphone?

Today, the scope of this device is extensive. Since the price of the microphone is very budgetary, everyone can afford such a purchase. But it is worth noting that more professional models can cost from 20,000 rubles and more. It all depends on why the user decided to buy such a device.

Where is the lavalier microphone used:

• When recording interviews by journalists;
• During professional studio shooting;
• Safety net for the actors involved in the shooting;
• Vocal performance;
• Large-scale trainings or courses;
• Recording a video course or broadcast;
• Video recording on YouTube;
• Creation of videos on Instagram.

This list can be continued for a very long time. Everyone can find their own scope of application of this device.

Kinds

Wireless or wired

2020 is the year of wireless devices. More and more people began to switch to such gadgets. The absence of wires is very convenient. There is no need to worry that the cable may break or become unusable. The reception radius is large - this is a plus. You can attach the "buttonhole" using a special clothespin. The disadvantage of wireless devices is their price.

If you need a budget model, then you should pay attention to the non-wired "lapel". Many manufacturers are trying to improve sound quality and add new features. That is why you should explore additional options when buying.

The wired accessory offers high quality sound for recording. The downside is the cable connection to the base. In this case, there is no freedom of movement. This option is convenient for people who record video in one place, as well as television channels. So the presenters can tell the news and broadcast without any problems.

Many bloggers who are just trying themselves in this area buy wired devices. For the first time, this is a good option.

Appearance

The most common device is black. But not all users are happy with this design. If necessary, you can match the device to the color of your clothes. This will make it less noticeable during shooting. If it is closer to the neck, then the color should be close to the skin tone.

Connection type

Such a device is compatible with both a camera, camcorder, and a phone or tablet. When buying, you need to pay attention to the type of connection - USB or "mini-jack".

Benefits

Lavalier microphones are becoming more and more popular every year because of their advantages:

1. The first feature, which is very difficult not to notice, is its compactness and low weight. Often the audience does not even see the microphone on the clothes of the announcer.
2. Ease of use and ease of use. Even a child can figure out how the device works. Everything is very simple and straightforward. Often you don't even need an instruction.
3. Long work. Such equipment is enough for a long time if used strictly according to the instructions.
4. Improved sound quality. Often the voice on the video after recording without a microphone is too quiet, which is inconvenient.
5. Function - noise reduction. If you record on the phone outside, there will definitely be a lot of noise and the voice can be very quiet. Almost any model can handle this task.

How to choose a lavalier microphone

Very often, a store consultant does not have the necessary knowledge to advise the right equipment. That is why you need to independently study this issue and pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Manufacturer. It is better to opt for proven brands that are not the first year on the market. You shouldn't choose unknown companies. The store must issue a guarantee for the purchased product.
• Weight and size. When buying through an online store, it is difficult to estimate the real size of the device, so it is better to see it in reality. Pay attention not only to the microphone itself, but also to the transmitter. All elements should be small, then they will not cause inconvenience.
• Build quality. You can evaluate it only after opening the box with the device. Parts must be made of high-quality material that can last for more than one year.
• Fastening mechanism. If the fastening is poor, the device may fall and be damaged from this.
• Battery autonomy without recharging. If the device will need to be used for a long time, then this plays an important role.
• Sound quality and recording without delay. For cheaper models, the sound may not match the picture. It will be impossible to use it.
• Frequency range - from 14 kHz.

In an online store, the price of the device may be lower, but it is better to see it in reality before buying. Especially if this is your first device.

Which company is better to choose

When buying any device, you need to study companies that differ in the length of work on the market and good reviews. You should not buy models from those firms that are completely unknown. So you can buy a low-quality device, which can be quite expensive. The main criterion for rating firms is reliability. Any of these manufacturers are responsible for the product they produce.

It is not enough that the microphone just works. Even a phone or tablet can handle this task. It is necessary to choose an assistant who will clearly reproduce sound in noisy places or in gusts of wind.

It is worth paying attention to the following manufacturers:

1. Rode is a brand that was created in Australia in 1967. In this country, this company ranks first in the rating for the quality of audio electronics. A large number of people prefer it.
2. Boya is a well-known Chinese brand that was only founded in 2007. Although many users prefer to choose manufacturers from other countries, this company is a pleasant exception. Despite the budgetary cost of the equipment, it pleases its users with good quality and durability. For six months, more than 250 thousand products are produced - from budget to luxury.
3. Commlite. Year of foundation - 2007. But three years later the manufacturer entered the rating of leaders in the production of equipment and accessories for photo and video filming. In a short time, the company was able to win the trust of millions of users.
4. Audio-Technica. The Japanese company entered the market in 1962. Initially, the manufacturer only produced pickups, and only after a dozen years began to specialize in accessories as well.
5. Saramonic is a manufacturer from China. The quality of all products is excellent. A distinctive feature is the budget cost.Not many companies can boast of these two indicators at the same time.
6. JJC is a popular Chinese manufacturer that supplies equipment and accessories to many European countries.

This is not a complete list of companies that are known for their high quality recording accessories.

Best lavalier microphones for 2020

Maono AU-410

Our rating opens with a lavalier microphone, which is designed for professional sound recording in absolutely any area. It can be a recording in the studio, as well as performances, interviews and much more. Its main feature is noise cancellation, so this option is ideal for people who do not record indoors. No wind can interfere with the work. Conveniently, the clip is metal, and it is convenient to attach it to clothes.

The device is small in weight and size, therefore it does not cause discomfort when moving and moving.

Thanks to the ability to work with USB, the user can connect the device to a laptop or personal computer. You do not need to install any additional drivers.

The disadvantage of the model is that the microphone should be close enough to the lips. If it is attached to the middle of the tie, the sound will be too quiet.

The set includes a case for storage and transportation.

The average price is 1200 rubles. Sensitivity - 30 dB.

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Sennheiser ME 2-II

The second place in the rating is presented by the Sennheiser ME 2-II model, which in a short time was able to win the love of many users. The device is budgetary, but it boasts a small size. Thanks to this property, many do not even notice it on their clothes. You can attach the lavalier microphone using a small clothespin. This option is ideal for recording speech or vocals.

Thanks to the long cable (1.6 meters), the equipment is very convenient to use.

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Boya BY-M1

Nice model that can be used with a phone or tablet as well as a professional camera. She got into the rating due to the value for money. The device is easy to use, therefore it is popular.

It weighs only 20 grams, so it is very convenient to use. The user simply does not feel the device, so it does not constrain movement and does not distract from the recording. Fastens like a pin to a tie.

Many bloggers opt for the Chinese model Boya BY-M1. It is convenient to use in the studio and at home.

The frequency range is 65 Hz - 18 kHz. The weight of the microphone alone is 2.5 grams.

The average price is 1300 rubles.

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Sony ECM-44B

Sony is a company that is known to buyers for its high quality headphones that last for more than one year.

The expensive Sony model has excellent sound quality. This microphone is preferred by users who conduct business trainings and presentations. This way everyone in the audience can clearly hear the speaker. At the same time, the sound quality in the recording does not suffer from this. The coach may not be distracted. Hands at the time of speech are absolutely free. It is very convenient. Also, this device is purchased to work on TV.

It can work both from power supply and from batteries. Moreover, there is enough charge for a long time.

The average cost is 16,000 rubles.

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RODE Smartlav +

RODE Smartlav + is the latest development of a well-known Australian manufacturer. The microphone is compatible with the IOS operating system, so it works with both iphone and ipad. The connection is made using the 3.5 connector.For newer iPhone models, you need to use the adapter that comes with the phone. Also can be used with Android phones.

This model has a high signal-to-noise ratio, so it can be used both in the office or at home, and in the hall for a presentation.

The frequency range is from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Weight - 6 grams.

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JJC SGM-38 II

The JJC SGM-38 II is a versatile model that is ideal for the beginner and advanced user. It can be used for lectures, concert halls, or other events where quality sound is important.

If necessary, it can be connected to a personal computer or telephone. Distinctive features are 360-degree acoustic coverage and wide frequency range.

Detachable clip for easy handling and comfort. It is made of high quality plastic.

The cord is 7 meters long, so the device can be used in a remote location. There is wind and noise protection.

Connected with mini jack. The frequency range is 50-18000 Hz.

The average price is 1800 rubles.

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SHURE MOTIV MVL

SHURE MOTIV MVL is the perfect solution when you need quality sound. Through the 3.5 jack, the device can be connected to a phone or tablet. This procedure takes only a few seconds, but first you need to download the developer's application. It's completely free for any device and has no ads. It is easy to understand the application - you just need to select the model, volume and sensitivity.

Comes with a carrying case that makes it easy to move and store the microphone. There is a clip-on clip that is needed to attach to clothes. It is made of metal, and the latch itself is made of plastic. There is a high-quality windscreen and a rubber base that can be easily put on the microphone.

The microphone itself differs in that the inlet is not made in the middle or in one place. It is cut along the edges, which has a positive effect on the sound quality.

The model was created in order to facilitate the work.

Price - 3890 rubles.

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Today there is a large selection of microphones and recording devices. A properly sized lavalier microphone is a great companion for sound recording. In order not to make a mistake in the choice, it is important to first study the criteria that are worth paying attention to. This rating will help you to choose the model that suits the user. It is compiled on the basis of feedback from users who purchased this device and professionals who understand this issue.