- Lavalier Microphones
Lavaliers, also referred to as “lapel microphones” are used in cases that require a localized, portable and hands-free microphone. At Dartmouth lapel mics are used for organized events and for lectures.
Lavalier microphones are fairly easy to set up. This article breakdowns the important details necessary for smooth operation of lapel microphones.
- Types of Lavalier Microphones
The most commonly used lapels in Dartmouth classrooms are the Lectrosonics™ and Shure™ lavalier microphones. The differences between the two microphones are:
- Microphone directionality, Shure™ lavaliers are most sensitive in the front area of the mic and the sides are less sensitive. Lectrosonics® are omnidirectional and offer consistent capture even when the sound source moves–for example the subject turning their head. Careful though, as this makes them more susceptible to feedback.
- Battery types, Shure™ lapels use 2 AA alkaline batteries and Lectrosonics® use procell alkaline 9 V batteries
- Battery level indicators, Shure™ lavs battery levels are indicated on the transmitter and Lectrosonics® battery levels are indicated on the receiver (but it is always more reliable to test with a battery tester).
- Shure™ Lavalier Microphone
- Lectrosonics Lavalier Microphone
- Attaching
Attaching: the sternum/chest/collar are suitable locations for the lapel mic, as it strikes a good balance between proximity from the sound source and convenient clip-on locations.
Conversation: in most cases, customers mount the lapel mic on their own. It is important that you have a conversation with the customer on how to use and mount the lavalier mic. Let them know which way to point the microphone and give suggestions on where to clip it. ie: “The microphone will pick up your voice from this end (point to end). Can you try mounting it on your shirt above the third button from the top?”. Sometimes clothes with no pockets, such as dresses, make it inconvenient to use a lavalier mic because there is nowhere to put the transmitter. Discuss options with presenter on how they’d like to move forward. They could use a handhold mic or hold the lavalier transmitter in their hand while they present.
