10 best lavalier microphones
There are many types of microphones. There is a separate device for almost every purpose. The essence of a lavalier microphone is to record one particular voice and filter out all others. They are often used on television, various training courses, presentations, or in the theater. In most cases, they are attached to clothing, so clips or similar clips are often included with the microphone.
Small and high quality buttonholes are almost invisible. The lavalier microphone looks simple: it has a head and a mount. The main part of the device is condenser, according to its technology it works like a professional studio microphone. But the quality of the recording will vary depending on the characteristics and the price. Buttonholes are divided into wired and radio transmitting. The latter are more expensive than the former, but they do not need to be at close range when recording. It is important to remember that the wider the frequency range, the better and deeper the sound.
In order not to be mistaken in choosing a lavalier microphone, we suggest that you check out our top of the best lavalier microphones. The rating was compiled on the basis of tests, reviews and model reviews. We have highlighted different types, from microphones for smartphones to professional loops.
TOP 10 best lavalier microphones
10 Panasonic RP-VC201E-S
The golden rule: when working with any buttonhole, you should have a few spare options with you. Because it often happens that the battery may run out or someone touches the microphone so that it breaks, or there is an urgent need to record more than one person. Experts recommend buying one expensive and good buttonhole and several cheaper middle quality ones. For this, we recommend the Panasonic RP-VC201E-S. In terms of characteristics, this is a quite average microphone, but its price cannot but rejoice. As a spare it will do, and you can also use it for recording on a voice recorder or mini-discs.
The way of fastening can be a little confusing, it resembles a tie clip system. Case material - plastic. Compared to most models, it can be called heavy - 14 grams. But it is worth noting that a person almost does not feel such weight. Wire length - 1 meter. Operates in the frequency range from 100 Hz to 20 kHz. Panasonic's lavalier microphone is bidirectional, connected via a wire. Therefore, if you need a spare lavalier microphone, or if you want to try how to work with it, but it's scary to buy an expensive one, the Panasonic RP-VC201E-S will be a profitable and practical solution.
9 Boya BY-GM10
Today you can shoot with almost anything: a phone, tablet, camera or camera. But for those who need to shoot something unusual or extreme, the GoPro is best suited. Working with this camera is not difficult, the only problem is the sound. In order not to bump into it, we recommend using the Boya BY-GM10 lavalier microphone. It is specially designed to work with action cameras. If you plan to shoot with something from the GoPro series, then you should not spend money on an expensive lapel, it is better to buy a specialized one. It is not so expensive, but it works no worse, as it is specially designed for this.
This particular microphone is a condenser, it operates in frequencies from 35 Hz to 20 kHz. Customers in the reviews note that they tried using it with a different technique, it worked, but the quality was average. Therefore, we recommend using it only for its intended purpose. Wire length - 2.8 meters. In the presence of a special nozzle that removes unnecessary interference from the wind. Also, the buttonhole is designed for recording weak sounds. Therefore, it is the best for GoPro at a reasonable price.
8 SARAMONIC SR-LMX1 +
Mobile networks are developing, and videos or photos from phones no longer seem like a bad joke. Many bloggers prefer to use smartphones instead of professional cameras for recording. It is quite simple to work with them and you can immediately do the processing.The only and often the main problem is the sound. Because there is background noise and built-in microphones can rarely allow high quality sound unless you speak directly into them. Therefore, for everyone who wants to make good recordings on mobile devices, we recommend this model.
It is a lavalier microphone for iOS and Android systems. It shouldn't be used with other equipment, but it will be the best addition for phones. Because it is made in such a way that on smartphones the sound is transmitted efficiently and clearly, almost at a professional level. The body is covered with a special polyurethane shell, which will make it more resistant to various damages. Therefore, in their reviews, many travel bloggers recommend this particular microphone. It is not only good for recording, but also sturdy and reliable. The device works in the range from 30 Hz to 18 kHz.
7 Rode SmartLav +
At first glance, it may seem odd that a good lavalier microphone is from Australia. The secret is that the company was originally from Sweden, but then it migrated to another part of the hemisphere. It was Rode that took one of the leading places in the production of microphones. The Rode SmartLav + is special because this model is designed specifically to work with phones and tablets. IOS even has a dedicated app for them to work together. This model has a junior version of Rode SmartLav, but when choosing one, remember that it works much worse than its counterpart. Therefore, you need to carefully look at which option you are purchasing. The buttonhole also works with cameras and camcorders, but you need to buy a special adapter.
Sound quality does not degrade when connected to any device. Rode SmartLav + allows you to record deeper and richer sound without unnecessary noise. This is an omni-directional condenser microphone. A 115 cm wire is connected to it. Weight - 6 grams, the model is attached to a clip. Working range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. In reviews, buyers consider it one of the best microphones.
6 MIPRO MU-53L
Chinese companies are gradually taking the lead. In terms of quality, they are slightly inferior to European brands. But their price looks a little nicer. MIPRO specializes in audio technology. This is a kind of analogue of Sennheiser in Asia. MIPRO MU-53L - combination of quality and good price. The Chinese lavalier microphone is well suited for performances such as courses or presentations. It can also be used in the theater to better hear the actors. The microphone itself is laconic, so it won't attract too much attention. Convenient fasteners will make the use even more convenient.
It weighs 19 grams, but it is almost invisible. The model works in the frequency range from 50 Hz to 18 kHz. It is important to note that it has a connector - either TA4F or mini XLR. Therefore, you need to choose carefully or buy an adapter. The cable length is 1.5 meters. In the reviews, buyers note that the sound is quite even, and the recording is as natural as possible. Recommended for those who do not have enough cheap loops and want to move to the next level, but do not want to spend extra money on optimal sound.
5 Sennheiser ME 4-N
Sennheiser have long proven themselves to be the foremost experts in crystal clear sound. The peculiarity of their products is that they work best with their own audio systems. But this is not a feature of all models: the Sennheiser ME 4-N plug is universal, which means it will fit any equipment. The only exception is for tablets and smartphones, an additional adapter is required there. Buyers in reviews often note that the Sennheiser ME 4-N is so small in size and weight that sometimes you can simply forget that it is. It is conveniently attached to clothes with a clip.
The quality of the Sennheiser ME 4-N lavalier microphone is so high that it can record vocals. It is best to match the model with the Evolution system. When there is still doubt, it is necessary to look at the characteristics. Condenser and cardioid microphone.This means that a certain direction is necessary for its high-quality work. At first glance, this is not very convenient and requires more time, but due to this feature, the sound is an order of magnitude better. Working range from 60 Hz to 18 kHz with good sensitivity and sound.
4 Rode LAVALIER
When talking about the king of professional lavalier microphones, we can safely remember Rode LAVALIER. Whichever side you look at him, you will not be able to find his flaws. It can rightfully be considered one of the best, but more successful and versatile competitors ousted it from the TOP-3. The only thing that can be confusing is the price. Compared to other models, it is high. But the microphone level is also different. There is nothing that he cannot do. With him, you can safely go out and perform at a concert, host a show, make films. This is a real professional buttonhole. There is no such nuance that was not taken into account in it.
The microphone has a low self-noise level, so the recording comes out cleaner and sharper. It has a detachable MiCon system and is equipped with a pop filter that protects against moisture and excess noise. The model works with a frequency from 60 Hz to 18 kHz. It is made of stainless steel and weighs only 1 gram, while others weigh from 5 grams. The type of microphone is condenser, omnidirectional. It combines compactness and great sound. For beginners, this option will not work. But if you need super-high quality audio equipment, then this is Rode LAVALIER.
3 Sennheiser ME 2-US
Sennheiser is a well-known German brand that can boast of the high quality of its products and their reliability. The only obvious negative is the price. In most cases, it can be twice as high as that of similar but less well-known models. On the other hand, for the money, you get a professional microphone that is considered one of the best in quality. It's hard to find a worthy competitor to the Sennheiser lapel on the market. It is important to know that it was originally created for Sennheiser's own system, therefore it has a non-standard plug. It may fall out of the socket if non-native equipment is used. But, if you want high-quality sound for normal money or work with the same German system, this option will do.
Records the model in a fairly wide range from 30 Hz to 20 kHz. The microphone is sensitive, circular directivity. Works at a voltage of 7.5 V. The set includes a 1.6 meter cord, but the main communication channel is wireless. Mounted on a clip. We must not forget that the Sennheiser ME 2-US is a professional buttonhole, therefore phantom power is required for its correct operation. Most reviews note that the model also works well with equipment of various brands, the main thing is to keep an eye on the plug.
2 Audio-Technica ATR3350
In terms of its skills and characteristics, the model is similar to the leader of the Boya BY-M1 rating. Some even call them twins. But, if you look closely, you will notice many differences that show that the lapel from Audio-Technica is worthy of attention. The price is average, it cannot be called either high or low. The ATR3350 is one of the best lavalier microphones in the mid-range. It records in such a way that you can hardly hear any extraneous sounds or noises. Therefore, in the future, only minimal processing may be required.
Condenser and omnidirectional microphone. This will allow you to spend less time setting up. It is primarily intended for camcorders and cameras. But, if you buy a special adapter, you can use it together with a tablet and a smartphone. There's even a lever to switch between modes. Working frequency - from 50 Hz to 18 kHz. The microphone weighs 6 grams without power. A 6 meter cord is available, so you can safely work with the camera from afar. The microphone is powered by an LR44 battery. Buyers in the reviews note that there is no special battery indicator, which interferes with use.
1 Boya BY-M1
Based on specialist tests, the Boya buttonhole is considered one of the best in terms of price and quality.It cannot be classified as professional equipment, but for those who are just starting out, this is the best option. First of all, the microphone is suitable for recording vlogs, various podcasts, presentations, and so on. Everything is focused on recording one person. The main advantage over all other lavalier microphones is the versatility of the Boya BY-M1. It is suitable for camcorders, special recording equipment, and smartphones. And at the same time, the model does not require additional adapters. Therefore, in order to switch to another mode, you only need to press a special lever.
By its type, the microphone is condenser, its directivity is circular. It operates in the frequency range from 65 Hz to 18 kHz. The microphone itself weighs only 2.5 grams, the power supply for working with the camera is 18 grams. Pleases the length of the wire - 6 meters. The device itself is attached thanks to a special clothespin. Many bloggers, as regular users, recommend it in their reviews.
