Omnidirectional lavalier microphone is a small microphone that can be clipped onto a tie or collar to pick up sounds equally from all directions. It is placed near the speaker's mouth, allowing the speaker to move freely and perform hands-freely. Such omnidirectional microphones often used in public speaking, newscasting, and interviewing, as an external mic for DSLRs and more.
Types
There are mainly two types of omnidirectional lavalier microphone.
One is the wired lavalier mic which is more budget-friendly and much easier to use compared to the wireless one. Just kindly attach it to the desired position on the speaker's shirt, jacket, etc. and plug the microphone cable into the camera or recording device to start recording.
The other is the wireless lavalier microphone. For a wireless lapel microphone, the cable is plugged into a small transmitter, and the transmitter can be hidden, inside the speaker's pocket or just attached to a belt. The transmitter sends the audio to a small receiver connected to the recording device.
Wired vs. Wireless lavaliers
1. Pros and cons of wired lav mics
Wired lavalier microphones are always cheaper than their wireless rivals. So if budget is considered, you are advised to have a look at the wired ones. This type of omnidirectional collar microphone is also expected to deliver slightly higher quality sound. Besides, you don’t need to worry about the battery power when using a lavalier wired microphone, because the wire will keep the electricity running to it all the time. That is why wired mics are more reliable.
However, it might cause trouble in the production process. When you are walking around, the cord which may be long enough will get in the way and you may find yourself tripped by the cord OR you may take the cord away from the power source and need to re-record.
2. Pros and cons of wireless collar mics
The most significant advantage of a wireless clip on microphone is the freedom to move around easily with the mic. In video projects where the subject is expected to walking around frequently, wireless is definitely the way as it will reduce the setback related to being tied to the mic. In addition, wireless omnidirectional mics may look more professional because no wires would hang down and follow the subject around. Without cables to run every time, its setup is much easier and quicker.
Nevertheless, the wireless lavalier microphone system has potential downsides. One is the probably lowered sound quality, though this problem does not occur frequently thanks to technological development. The other is the entire dependence on wireless technology to guarantee seamless production. Technical issues may be daunting and increase production time.
Reasons to choose omnidirectional lapel microphone
Lavalier microphones are cheaper on the whole and are easy to hide. In the case where you intend to capture a subject’s voice in public speaking (maybe secretly), you may need to resort to it for a crisp, clear sound collection. Then, just browse our collection of high-quality mics, both wired and wireless, and start your creative production.