On the store, there are many questions regarding what microphone one should get for starting their podcast, YouTube channels, and other video projects. In fact, the answer is so complicated as different situations have different requirements.
You cannot simply plug any microphone into your computers nor can you use any microphone in every situation. But for hobbists or someone who want to start out in the field, there are two budget-friendly options to get your project start: the Lavalier Microphone and the Boom Microphone. In this article, we’ll introduce and compare them and help you to make a right decision.
What is the Lavalier Microphone?
A lavalier microphone, also known as a lav mic, lapel mic, or clip-on mic, is a small, portable, and budget-friendly microphone commonly used in broadcasting, filmmaking, theater, and public speaking. It offers convenience and mobility, allowing users to be hands-free during presentations or performances. Lavalier microphones are available in two types: wired and wireless. Wired lavalier microphones require a physical connection to the recording device, while wireless lavalier microphones offer freedom of movement without restrictive cables. If you have a lavalier microphone and have no idea how to use it, this article will help you.
Pros and Cons of the Lavalier Microphone
Pros:
- Follows your subject
- Hands-free operation and easily attached to your clothing
- Close-up sound for recording sound to the source
Cons
- Rub against fabric if not applied properly
- Could not pick up distant sound
- Omnidirectional and very sensitive for picking up signals from every direction, including background noise
- Hard to conceal without compromising the sound quality
What is the Boom Microphone?
A boom microphone, also referred to as a boom mic or shotgun mic, is a type of microphone that is mounted on an extendable boom pole. It is commonly used in film and video production, as well as broadcast and journalism settings. The boom microphone features directional flexibility, more sensitive and easily adjustment.
Pros and Cons of the Boom Microphone
Pros
- Could be minimize the ambient noise
- Directional audio capture and easy to pick up sound only users point
- Easily adjust its position to capture the desired audio source
Cons
- Complicated and need some a skilled operator to use effectively
- Limited range and could capture sound with a certain distance
- Can be intrusive
Lavalier Mics
Lavalier microphones are indeed ideal for users who frequently move around during activities. They are particularly well-suited for various situations, including broadcast studio environments, panel discussions, loud surroundings, outdoor settings, and noisy offices. The clip-on design of lavalier microphones allows for freedom of movement while effectively minimizing background noise.
Boom Mics
Boom microphones are highly effective for capturing targeted sound in specific locations, such as conversations between actors in a movie. Their directional nature allows them to focus on the desired audio source while minimizing background noise, resulting in clear and high-quality recordings. This makes boom microphones indispensable tools for capturing dialogue and other important audio elements during film production.
Additionally, boom microphones are valuable in noisy environments as they can help isolate the desired sounds while reducing unwanted ambient noise. This is particularly useful when recording music or other audio in crowded or acoustically challenging settings, allowing for cleaner and more focused recordings.
Different Situations for Boom Mics and Lavalier Mics
We are aware that different situations require different microphones, each with its own unique sound effects. Now, let's examine the pros and cons of boom microphones and lavalier microphones in various scenarios.
Interview
Lavalier Microphone
Pros:
- Easy to attach the clothing
- Could capture clear, professional and natural sound
- Offer the interviewee freedom of movement and allow for a more natural and relaxed conversation
- Ensure a consistent audio level
- Could be concealed
Cons:
- Could pick up rustling sounds or rubbing against clothing
- Lavalier microphones might not capture audio from specific directions or multiple speakers as effectively as boom microphones
Boom Microphones
Pros
- Offer high-quality sound capture, providing clear and detailed audio
- Can be precisely aimed and positioned to capture audio from specific directions, ensuring focused and targeted sound capture
- Help minimize background noise interference with shock mounts and windshields
Cons
- Limited Mobility
- Setup Complexity
Outdoor Settings
Lavalier Microphones
Pros:
- On-the-go microphone and easy to pick up sound anywhere
- Allow for a more natural and unobtrusive appearance in outdoor settings
Cons
- Could pick up background sounds such as wind, traffic, or other environmental noise if not properly shielded or positioned
- Cannot offer the same level of audio quality and richness as boom microphones
- Limited Range
Boom Microphones
Pros:
- Can be positioned to focus on specific sound sources, helping to isolate the desired audio while reducing unwanted background noise
- Offer the ability to capture audio from a distance
Cons:
- Hard to transport and more expensive than lavalier mics
- Require a skilled operator who can follow the action and adjust the microphone's position accordingly
Broadcast Studio Environments
Lavalier Microphones
Pros
- Convenience and mobility
- Offer a consistent and reliable audio capture for individual speakers
Cons
- Potential for clothing noise
- Run out of battery if not fully charged
- Limited directional control
- Boom Microphones
Boom Microphones
Pros
- Their high-quality audio capture
- Can be aimed and adjusted by a boom operator to capture audio from specific speakers or locations within the studio
- Well-suited for capturing multiple speakers in panel discussions
Cons
- Requires a skilled boom operator
- Setup Complexity
Loud Environment
Lavalier Microphones
Pros
- Can capture audio directly from the source if properly positioned
- Could help minimize background noise with noise reduction or filtering capabilities
Cons
- Still pick up significant amounts of background noise
- With very high sound levels, lavalier microphones may be more susceptible to feedback or unwanted audio artifacts
Boom Microphones
Pros
- Can be positioned to capture sound from specific sources while minimizing unwanted background noise, making them useful in isolating the desired audio in a loud environment
- Designed with excellent off-axis rejection, allowing them to focus on the desired sound source and reject surrounding noise
Cons
Less portable and more challenging to operate
Final Thoughts
The choice between lavalier microphones and boom microphones is intriguing, as they offer different options for various situations. If you're a beginner on a tight budget, lavalier microphones are an excellent choice. They are user-friendly and provide clear sound without requiring professional audio setup skills. Lavalier mics can be a convenient and accessible option, especially when complex setups might seem overwhelming.
On the other hand, if you have a more flexible budget and prioritize high-quality sound capture, boom microphones are worth considering. Boom mics offer the potential for exceptional audio quality and control, particularly in professional settings. They require more expertise in setup and operation, but they can deliver superior results when used correctly. Consider factors such as budget, ease of use, desired audio quality, and the level of control you require. By assessing these factors, you can make an informed decision.
