When it comes to recording your podcast, there are so many different options out there that you can explore. You can go with the traditional table-mounted microphone, a wireless mic or you can opt for the lapel mic.
These types of microphones clip onto your lapel and you might not even notice they were there when you attach them. This is the perfect hands-free method for recording vocals (see also ‘Best Podcast Recorder‘), giving you greater freedom to move or handle your notes.
So where can you get one of these microphones? How does a lapel microphone differ from any other type of microphone? What other features can you get from a lapel mic?
Well, if you want to know the answers to these questions and a lot more, then we would recommend you keep reading.
#1 Rode Lavalier GO Professional Wearable Microphone
When it comes to having the right microphone for your needs, then you can’t go wrong with Rode. this is a company that has dedicated its existence to churning out top-quality microphones that pick up exceptional sound.
This microphone can be used with so many different types of sound recording devices including your smartphone or a tablet.
This microphone is very durable, with a cable that will attach securely to whatever recording device that you happen to be using.
This comes with a 3.5mm jack that will easily plug into the headphone jack of your phone or your computer. This is one of the easiest lapel mics that you can use.
This comes at a very decent price. Considering the build quality and the level of sound input that you’ll get, this one is simply amazing.
This comes with a solid clip that will easily support the head of the microphone itself.
You won’t have to worry about it breaking or snapping, which is very important if you are going to be quite active when you are recording.
Pros
- Simple to use – this is one of the easiest microphones that you can use. All you have to do is clip it on and stick it into the audio port in your phone and you’re ready to go.
- Versatile – you can use this for many types of recording devices, whether it is your tablet or your mobile phone.
- Great sound quality – if you are looking for a microphone that records audio to a professional standard, then this is the one for you.
- Price – this is a very reasonably-priced microphone, which is great if you are looking for a microphone that will record separate vocal tracks that you can then mix together.
Cons
- Too simple – if you are looking for a microphone that records through different channels and frequencies, then we would recommend looking for another model.
#2 Movo LV8-C Broadcast-Quality XLR Lavalier Wired Microphone
This microphone really is at a professional level, coming with a solid clip and a decent recording setup that will ensure that you have top-quality audio.
This comes with a cardioid style of microphone that eliminates all the sound from the surrounding area. If it is under a certain decibel level, then you can be sure that this microphone won’t pick it up.
This microphone is amazing as it does not require any additional batteries to power it. This will give you even more independence and freedom of movement when recording your podcast.
This is a great microphone to use for public speaking too. All you have to do is clip it onto your tie or the inside of your shirt and you’ll have a very discrete microphone.
Despite its size, you can be sure that this one will be able to capture some of the best quality audio on the market.
Pros
- Good gain – if you are looking for something far from the bass end of the audio spectrum, then this is a great microphone to have.
- Great for video podcasts – if you want a discrete microphone that does not obstruct the view through your camera, then this is a great model to have.
- Solid build and design – if you are looking for a decent microphone that will withstand knocks and wind turbulence, then you should take a chance on this one.
- Good warranty – this microphone comes with a 1-year warranty, so if it breaks or malfunctions during this time, you can always take it back.
Cons
- Expensive – this is at the pricier end of the podcast mic scale, although you will have to pay more for a better quality microphone.
#3 Rode Wireless GO II Single Channel Wireless Microphone System
Next up, we have another Rode model that is a much higher caliber, coming in two portable units – a transmitter and a receiver.
In addition to the fact that it is very portable, this is also a wireless unit. If you won’t want the hassle of having to trail wires everywhere, then this might be the option for you.
However, you can adapt this for a lavalier microphone. You can also put a dead cat microphone shield on the top to stop it from picking up too much wind.
This comes with a multitude of different cables, whether it is a 3.5mm jack, a mini-USB or a regular USB, this gives you plenty of options when it comes to connections.
This contains rechargeable batteries, which are perfect if you are out in the field and do not have access to replacement batteries.
Pros
- Wireless – this comes without wires, so you won’t have to worry about getting tangled or getting pulled out when you are recording a crucial part of your podcast.
- Compact – these units can be sued with lapel mics, all you have to do is put them in your pocket and you’ll be able to operate them without a wire.
- Comes with accessories – if you are looking for jacks, a carry case and other accessories, then you’ve come to the right place.
- Dead cat options – if you are going to be recording outdoors, then this is great for muffling the wind and making sure your recording is still crystal clear.
Cons
- Very expensive – this is probably one of the more expensive options on this list, you should only get it if you are a dedicated podcast recorder.
#4 Boya By-M1S Lavalier Microphone
Next up, we have a very professional microphone that you can use for many different functions, including podcasts, interviews and video recordings.
This comes with a very long 6 m meter cable, which will give you freedom of movement, although it might be annoying when you get tangled in it.
You won’t have to install any additional drivers with this lapel mic, which makes it great for anyone who is podcasting for the first time and might find excessive software a little bit overwhelming.
This comes with a slider that will help you to switch it between a smartphone or a video camera (see also ‘Best Webcams For Podcasts‘) (see also ‘Best Webcams For Podcasts‘). This is great if you are recording your vocals on multiple devices at once.
This is very compatible with a lot of different devices. For ease of use, we would recommend that you just slip it up your shirt, plug it into your smartphone and slip it into your pocket.
This is also a very cheap microphone, you could get a few for group use for just under $50. We would certainly recommend this lapel mic for your first podcast.
Pros
- Great for video tutorials – if you want clear audio to match your high-definition video, then we would recommend using this lapel microphone.
- Easy one-click system – if you are using this to record video and audio, then we would recommend using this handy switch.
- Durable – this is one of the more durable microphones on this list. You won’t have to worry about it getting caught on corners or yanking out of your phone jack during a crucial moment.
- Long lead – this comes with a very long connecting lead, which is perfect if you want to move around your podcast space.
Cons
- Not reliable – there have been some users that have claimed that the connections in this lapel mic start to wear out after a few months of continuous use.
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to picking up the right lapel mics for your podcast, you’ll need to make sure that you are getting something that is very durable and provides you with a reliable connection.
You’ll also want something with decent charging abilities, as the last thing you’ll want is for your lapel mic to drop out during a crucial recording moment.
Here are a few other features that you’ll be wanting to look for:
How Much Will It Cost?
You’ll need to think about the price when you are buying this sort of expensive equipment.
The more that you spend, then the more reliable your microphone will be. However, if you have a budget, then you might only want something that has a few basic features.
How Can You Charge It?
Recharging your microphone will be very important for ensuring that you are getting the sound that you need. You’ll need to get a lapel mic with its own box that will warn you of when it is going to run out of juice.
You’ll either want something that you can plug into the wall or something that comes with its own separate battery pack. We would certainly recommend that you get something with rechargeable batteries.
Is It Omnidirectional?
This is very important if you are using your lapel microphone for group recordings. You’ll want something that can pick up many different sounds from many different places.
Some of these microphones have technology that will automatically cut out sounds that lie below a certain frequency. This will help you to cut down on any background noise that might obscure your targeted vocal.
How Easy Is It To Set Up?
Setting up a new microphone can be one of the hardest things to do. With a lot of heavy-duty mics, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right software, which could take hours of installation.
However, with a lot of these lapel mics, you should be able to plug them in and start recording straight away. This will definitely appeal to anyone who is clueless about podcast recording in their initial stages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Lapel Mics The Best For My Podcast?
We would personally recommend getting a table-mounted microphone, as these are usually the sturdiest and come with reliable connectors.
However, if you are going to be recording with video or outdoors, then a lapel microphone might be a decent option.
Should I Spend A Lot Of Money On A Lapel Mic?
The more money that you spend on any microphone, then the better it will be. Expensive mics tend to be more durable and have more features.
Conclusion
We hope that our list of lapel mics has helped you to decide which will be the best type for use in your podcast.
