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How to Select Your Lavalier Microphone
Introduction
Lav mics are the most common type of microphone used in video and film production, and they're an essential tool for capturing high-quality audio. Lav mics come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have the same basic function: to pick up sound from your subject so that you can hear them clearly on camera. In this guide, we'll go over everything you need to know about choosing a lav mic for your next project!
What Is a Lavalier Microphone?
A lavalier microphone is a small, clip-on microphone that can be worn by the talent in front of the camera. It's named after the French term "lavallière," which means "necklace."
The lavalier functions by picking up sound and transmitting it to an audio recorder or other device through either a cable or wireless connection. The advantage of using a lav mic over any other type of microphone is that it's inconspicuous and doesn't distract from what's happening on screen or stage during filming or performance time!
The Benefits of Using a Lavalier Microphone
Lavalier microphones are small and unobtrusive, making them easy to use. They're also affordable, durable and reliable--and they can be concealed easily in the clothing of an actor or presenter.
Lavalier microphones are usually attached to a lapel or shirt collar with a clip or cable tie. This means that you can use them for any situation where you need to record speech without having an actor wear headphones or holding large directional microphones up in front of their faces (which can get awkward).
How to Select the Right Lavalier Mic
If you're looking for a lavalier microphone, it's important to consider your needs and how the mic will be used. Do you need a mic that is wireless? If so, which kind of wireless technology should it use? What about features like noise canceling or wind protection? The answers to these questions will help narrow down your selection choices and make it easier for you to find the perfect match for your situation.
Wireless vs. Wired Lav Mics
Wireless lav mics are typically the most expensive option, but they also offer the most flexibility. They allow you to move freely and avoid tripping over cords while filming, which can be a lifesaver if your scene takes place outdoors or in a large space.
Wired lav mics are less expensive than their wireless counterparts because they don't require batteries or charging stations; however, they have less range and mobility than wireless systems do--you'll need to keep track of any cables that run from your camera to where you're filming (or else use some sort of wireless transmitter).
On-Camera vs. Clip-on Lav Mics
When you're shopping for a lav mic, it's helpful to understand the difference between on-camera mics and clip-on lavs.
On-camera mics are usually more expensive than their clip-on counterparts, but they have some advantages over the latter:
They can be used in a studio. That is, if you have an external recorder or mixer that supports XLR inputs (which most do), then you can connect your lav to it and record high quality audio directly into your computer or digital recorder without any additional equipment or software necessary! Clip-ons don't offer this feature as they don't connect directly with anything other than themselves--no cables required! However...
When to buy new vs. used Lav Mics.
If you're buying a lav mic for the first time, you may be wondering if it's better to buy new or used. The answer depends on your needs and budget.
If price is not an issue, then buying new will give you access to the latest technology with no risk of failure from old age or wear and tear. But if cost is an issue, buying used can save money while still providing quality equipment that will last for years in most cases. In fact, purchasing used products helps keep our planet greener by reducing waste and overproduction.
When to rent instead of buying.
If you're a one-time user or only need the mic for a short period of time, renting is an excellent option. Rental rates are generally less expensive than buying new and will save you money in the long run if you plan on using it again in the future.
If on the other hand, you're renting multiple lav mics over an extended period of time (more than six months), then purchasing may be better suited for your needs. This is because when buying something like this, there aren't any major maintenance costs associated with owning it like there would be if renting multiple times over an extended period of time (which could get pricey!).
Buy or Rent Lavalier Microphones from Wedio.
Renting or buying Mics from Wedio is a great way to ensure you get the right equipment for your needs.
When you rent from Wedio, our global coverage is included with all rentals ensuring you if an accident happens with your audio equipment. If you choose to buy gear from Wedio, we offer Secure Escrow Payment and a third-party check of the camera equipment before delivery so that there are no surprises when it arrives!
Conclusion
We hope that this guide has helped you to better understand how best to select your lavalier microphones. If you're looking for high-quality equipment at a reasonable price, look no further than Wedio! We have everything from wireless lav mics to clip-on models and more. Our experts will be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns regarding our products or services.
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