12 best lavalier microphones

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Among the wide variety of form factors of microphones, regardless of the technological level and quality, there is a special one – lavalier microphones. These are the smallest models, which were originally conceived to be attached to the buttonhole of a jacket, and thus got their name. Now this form factor is especially relevant against the background of the explosive development of the industry of video blogging, streaming and the like.

The editors of the magazine present you with an overview of the best, according to our experts, clip-on microphones in 2019. The experts selected 12 models, guided by the test results and the reputation of each individual model in the video blogging environment, excluding the most expensive professional solutions.

How to choose a lavalier microphone

The general principles and criteria for selecting the optimal microphone for key technical characteristics are largely similar for any form factor, and they are described in detail in our past materials. Here we will emphasize only a couple of nuances concerning the buttonholes.

Focus

The microphone may have different directivity depending on the task being performed. This is mainly taken into account when choosing 'large' studio microphones. However, lapel models can also have different directions. And here the field of their application is significantly narrowed.

Due to the fact that the lavalier microphone is most often attached to clothing, turning the head of the interviewer or his interlocutor radically changes the direction of the sound source. For an omnidirectional microphone, such dynamic operating conditions are not critical, but if the directivity is strictly defined, significant fluctuations in perceived loudness and sound purity are inevitable.

With that said, for general tasks, experts recommend only omnidirectional models. It makes sense to buy more highly specialized solutions only with a very clear understanding of their purpose.

Nutrition

The miniature size of lavalier microphones makes it much more difficult to provide them with autonomous power supply. For the most part, the lapels are completely passive, but the microphone still needs at least insignificant power to work.

For the most part, the issue is solved by consuming phantom voltage directly from the connector to the receiving device. However, there are enough devices that do not even supply phantom currents to the connector. In this case, the microphone will simply not work without its own power supply. This point must be taken into account when choosing a specific model.

Of course, this nuance only applies to wired microphones, since wireless microphones must have their own power source in any case.

Rating of the best lavalier microphones

Nomination a place Name of product price
Best inexpensive lavalier microphones 1 SVEN MK-150 RUB 81
2 Ulanzi AriMic Lavalier Microphone RUB 900
3 PANASONIC RP-VC201E-S RUB 1,015
4 BOYA BY-GM10 RUB 929
Best wired lavalier microphones 1 BOYA BY-M1 1 355 RUB
2 SARAMONIC SR-LMX1 + RUB 2,989
3 SARAMONIC LavMic with audio mixer RUB 6 490
4 RODE SMARTLAV + RUB 4,598
5 SENNHEISER ME 4-N RUB 5,480
6 RODE LAVALIER RUB 15,020
Best wireless lavalier microphones 1 COMICA CVM-WS50 RUB 9 299
2 Sennheiser EW100 RUB 60,790

Best inexpensive lavalier microphones

In the first selection, experts suggest paying attention to the most inexpensive lavalier microphones of the most efficient available on the Russian market. It is the best choice for the first steps in video blogging, streaming, independent journalism and related fields.

SVEN MK-150

Rating: 4.6

SVEN MK-150

Let us first consider the unconditional market record holder in terms of affordability in combination with fairly good characteristics. This is an electret microphone of the well-known SVEN trademark. Immediately, we note that there is a newer model in the line – MK-170, but it is MK-150 that has earned massive popularity. The microphone body is made of black plastic. Cable length – 1.8 meters.

This and all subsequent models in the review are omnidirectional, are connected to the receiving device via a standard 3.5mm mini jack, use phantom currents of the connector for operation.

Microphone sensitivity is -58dB. He is able to perceive sound vibrations with a frequency of 50 to 16000 Hz. Impedance 2.2kOhm. Comparative characteristics of the quality of sound recording in comparison with other more or less comparable models show some deafness of sound. But taking into account the deliberately sparing expectations in this case, this cannot be considered an obvious drawback.

What is really noticeable in this model not in its favor is the size. Width 7mm and length 9mm – in absolute terms, it would seem a little, but in comparison with competitive models, the accessory is characterized by unwanted visibility on clothing. The problem disappears by itself if you attach the microphone to parts of the interior or to a computer monitor. You can fix it with a clip or standard disposable adhesive tape.

Advantages

  • sensitivity;
  • reliability and reliability;
  • super affordable price;
  • the results far exceed user expectations.

disadvantages

  • weak clip.

Ulanzi AriMic Lavalier Microphone

Rating: 4.6

Ulanzi AriMic Lavalier Microphone

Consider now a microphone made by a Chinese company, the name of which will not tell much to many, but this particular model turned out to be unexpectedly successful. She was especially liked by many YouTube video bloggers. Many travel bloggers, reviewers, streamers have found this microphone to be successfully used both in stationary conditions and in extreme conditions – in tandem with an action camera.

The microphone sensitivity is characterized by a range of -30dB to ± 2dB. The working range of perception of sound waves is from 20 to 20 thousand Hertz. The resistance is three times less than that of the previous model – 680Ω. Acoustic efficiency (SNR – noise absorption) – more than 58dB.

The microphone part of the accessory is much smaller than that of the previous model. The connecting cable is slightly shorter – 1.5 meters. The microphone needs 1-10V phantom power to operate.

In general, this model is an omnichannel lavalier microphone of sufficiently high quality and with a wide range of applications – for studio interview recording or dynamic filming on a smartphone or action camera.

The complete set deserves special kind words. Even the packaging itself is very respectable, as for such an inexpensive accessory. Inside, in addition to the microphone itself, you will find a set of spare windscreens – foam rubber and a hamster, adapter connectors, a case, and a spare clip. Adapters are the most important part of the kit, since it is with their help that the microphone can work both on a computer and on wearable gadgets.

Advantages

  • high-quality sound perception;
  • compatibility with devices thanks to adapters;
  • uninterrupted work;
  • rich equipment.

disadvantages

  • not marked.

PANASONIC RP-VC201E-S

Rating: 4.5

PANASONIC RP-VC201E-S

Another budget lavalier microphone, this time the well-known PANASONIC trademark. This is a dynamic bi-directional microphone, and its bi-directional performance is due to its ability to record stereo sound – this is the main feature of the model, which our experts noted as an important advantage.

The microphone sensitivity is estimated at -48dB. The recognition bandwidth of sound vibrations is from 100 to 20 thousand Hertz. Resistance in nominal – 1000 Ohm.

Microphone dimensions – 32x12x21mm, weight – 14g. The body is made of silver-gray plastic. Fastening – double-leaf clamp, and fixed without the possibility of turning the microphone unit. This is the only perceptible disadvantage – the microphone can be attached to clothing only in one position in the vertical fold of clothing so that the cylindrical head is placed horizontally (in the vertical position one channel will sound much quieter). Cable length – 1 meter.

The package bundle of this model is already much poorer than that of the previous one, and here this is not a drawback of the PANASONIC, but only a clear advantage of Ulanzi.

Advantages

  • records in stereo;
  • high-quality sound;
  • low noise level;
  • reliability and continuity.

disadvantages

  • do not rotate the microphone on the mount.

BOYA BY-GM10

Rating: 4.5

BOYA BY-GM10

The final item in the selection of the best lavalier microphones in 2019 according to the version is the model of the BOYA trademark, which attracted the video blogging community. Of all the budget solutions described, this microphone is the most adapted to work in tandem with action cameras.

In its pure form, the key technical characteristics of the microphone are as follows: capacitor principle of operation, sensitivity -38dB with an allowable error of 3dB (zero level is calculated as 1V / Pa at 1kHz frequency); perceived frequencies – from 32 to 18 thousand Hertz; signal-to-noise ratio – 74dB SPL.

The microphone is extremely miniature, so even the standard windscreen is many times larger. It is connected to the receiving device via a 1.5 meter cable (can be modified with a different length) with a standard plug. A special adapter is required to connect to GoPro HERO3 +, Hero4 and similar action models, and it is included in the package.

The test results and the experience of numerous users indicate that the best performance of this microphone is achieved precisely when shooting with an action camera. The model is specially designed taking into account the mass of nuances that are not obvious to the layman. Using a microphone to record through other devices noticeably sags in sound quality.

Advantages

  • the quality of perception and transmission of sound;
  • closely adapted for action cameras;
  • low noise level;
  • reliability and durability;
  • equipment.

disadvantages

  • noticeably lower quality on devices other than action cameras.

Best wired lavalier microphones

This category in our roundup includes mid-range and semi-pro lavalier microphones, versatile enough for a wide range of applications, and at a reasonable price. The presented models differ from each other, in places significantly, but all of them are united by the method of connection and, accordingly, transmission – by wire. For most tasks, this format is sufficient, and a decent level microphone can be purchased for quite affordable money.

BOYA BY-M1

Rating: 4.9

BOYA BY-M1

Let's start with the lavalier microphone, which, due to its cost, 'asks' into the budget category. However, at one time this model made a splash in the video blogging environment precisely due to the combination of technological level, capabilities and price. Until now, the microphone enjoys mass recognition.

It is not even a microphone in itself, but a whole set of functional parts and accessories that provide the famous versatility of the model and its wide applicability in creative professions and beyond. The system consists of two conventional parts – the microphone itself and the electronic control unit. A long wire (6 meters) with a standard plug at the end leads from the microphone to the unit.

The plug fits directly into the miniature cylindrical block. On its body there is a mechanical switch for two positions – off / smartphone or camera. The control unit allows one easy movement to make the microphone technically compatible with any receiving device. For iPhone, however, you will have to buy a separate special 'apple' adapter separately. The control unit is self-powered – mini-battery LR44. Its charge lasts for a long time, many have never had to change it for the entire life of the microphone.

Key technical indicators of this model: capacitor type converter; omnidirectional; resistance – 1000 Ohm; recognition range of sound vibrations – from 68 to 18000 Hertz; sensitivity – -30 dB; the signal level is related to the noise at the level of 74dB.

The switch on the control unit actually performs the only action – connects or disconnects the battery, depending on the type of receiving device. So, if the microphone is supposed to be used only with smartphones, then it will not need a battery at all. There is a slight complaint from users about the lack of a switch status indicator light. This little thing makes users confused, which is annoying.

Among other things, this model also has a good package. The kit includes a 6.3mm adapter, windscreen, 6m cable, case, battery and clip. A frequent wish of users is at least a primitive organizer for such a long cord or a tape measure, but, unfortunately, they are not provided.

Advantages

  • versatility;
  • high quality sound;
  • equipment;
  • reliability and durability;
  • long cable;
  • affordable price.

disadvantages

  • no power indicator light – a trifle, but annoying.

SARAMONIC SR-LMX1 +

Rating: 4.8

SARAMONIC SR-LMX1 +

A simpler specialized solution is also worth your attention – the lavalier microphone of the SR-LMX1 + series of a fairly well-known brand of this kind of technology – SARAMONIC. This model is optimized to work in tandem with a smartphone. It was introduced in September 2017 and has been in stable demand since then.

This is a dynamic omnidirectional microphone that picks up sound vibrations in the range from 30 to 18 thousand Hertz. It is characterized by a signal-to-noise ratio of 74 dB. Its sensitivity is about -30dB with an error within 3dB (if 0dB = 1V / Pa). Power – up to 120mV, resistance – 22 thousand ohms.

The active part of the microphone is made in the form of a miniature all-metal capsule. It is carefully calibrated at the factory. The device connects to a smartphone via a 1.8-meter cable with a standard 3.5mm TRRS plug at the end. The cable is made of an elastic yet durable material that resists tears and breaks due to 'fatigue'. In addition to the main cable, there is also a 4 meter extension cable.

The restriction on use with smartphones is, of course, conditional. If necessary, the microphone will work without problems on any other device through a suitable adapter. But even in such a narrow range of applications, this model finds a huge number of admirers, among whom there are even fairly well-known travel video bloggers.

Advantages

  • high quality sound;
  • low noise level;
  • long extension cable included;
  • all-metal calibrated head;
  • value for money.

disadvantages

  • not marked.

SARAMONIC LavMic with audio mixer

Rating: 4.7

SARAMONIC LavMic with audio mixer

In addition to the previous model, consider another interesting lavalier microphone from the same brand. Its peculiarity consists in additional functions – the possibility of online sound mixing through a special module.

The dimensions of the device are 8.3×2.7×3.5cm, the weight in the set is 107g. The key technical indicators concerning sound for this model are as follows: the range of vibration perception is from 20 to 20 thousand Hertz; signal-to-noise ratio SNR – 73dB; sensitivity – -30dB.

Now let's pay attention to the additional functionality. Microphone LavMic is a mini-system consisting of a microphone and a control unit. Its capabilities are much wider than, say, a similar solution in the BOYA BY-M1 microphone. Here you can already adjust the level on the fly during recording and switch from stereo to mono and vice versa. To track the results of such online mixing in real time, you can use ordinary headphones – they will need to be connected via a standard jack to the same control unit. The mixing unit is powered by a regular AAA battery.

The microphone has a good complement. The set contains several separate cables specifically for GoPro, for smartphones and for cameras. Many descriptions on the Web emphasize that this microphone works well on gadgets Apple – iPhone, iPad, iPod. Here you need to understand that we mean only those models that have a standard 3.5mm jack. For the same iPhone next generations, it will already be necessary to purchase a separate special adapter for Lightning.

Advantages

  • high quality sound;
  • reliability and continuity;
  • versatility;
  • additional functionality for mixing and monitoring;
  • powered by AAA battery.

disadvantages

  • not marked.

RODE SMARTLAV +

Rating: 4.6

RODE SMARTLAV +

The ranking of the best lavalier microphones in 2019 continues by the interesting model of the prominent Australian brand RODE. This microphone brings us very close to professional technology.

This is an omnidirectional condenser microphone. Dimensions of the device – 12×4.5×4.5mm, weight – only 6g. Connects to the receiving device via a cable with a standard 3.5mm mini-jack plug.

The main technical indicators of the microphone in terms of sound: the range of perceived vibrations – from 20 to 20 thousand Hertz; sensitivity – -35dB; sound pressure limit – 110dB SPL; self-noise suppression – 27dBA.

The delivery set includes the microphone itself, a foam-rubber windscreen cap, a clip for fastening, a pouch-case.

The model was designed to provide the highest quality voice recording. The engineers coped with the task completely. Independent testing and daily user feedback speaks of effective noise cancellation and clear voice recognition against the background of sounds of the city, nature, public spaces, both outdoors and indoors. At the same time, the scope of SMARTLAV +, of course, is not limited to voice interviews and monologues.

The manufacturer's warranty for this model is 12 months.

Advantages

  • quality of materials;
  • almost professional level;
  • high-quality sound, especially voice recording;
  • equipment.

disadvantages

  • not marked.

SENNHEISER ME 4-N

Rating: 4.6

SENNHEISER ME 4-N

Finally, let's look at a lavalier microphone with a different directivity than almost all of the above. Here is a unidirectional approach with a cardiac diagram. This is exactly the case when, when buying such a microphone, you need to clearly understand for what purposes it will serve and whether it will be able to cope with the tasks set.

The idea behind the ME 4-N was to create a lavalier microphone that would be able to accurately recognize speech in the presence of expressive background noise. That is why it was decided to make it unidirectional and with a cardioid diagram, plus the ability to control and suppress feedback.

The device itself is extremely miniature – only 12.5 mm long, weighs almost nothing, attaches to clothes with the usual clothespin-clip, connects to the receiving device via a 1.6 meter cable. Connector – standard mini-Jack TRS for 3.5mm jack. The quality of the materials commands respect and is quite noticeable even on such small details of the accessory.

Technical characteristics of the device by sound: the range of recognizable frequencies – from 50 to 18 thousand Hertz; sensitivity in alternative terms – 40 mV / Pa; maximum sound pressure – 120 dB; equivalent noise – 31 dB.

This model is often used in wireless transmission systems such as the Sennheiser Wireless SK radio systems. The general scope of its application is much wider.

Advantages

  • quality of materials;
  • high-quality voice recognition in noisy conditions;
  • suppression of feedback;
  • reliability and continuity;
  • ease of use.

disadvantages

  • no systematic user complaints were found.

RODE LAVALIER

Rating: 4.6

RODE LAVALIER

Rounding out this large selection of the best lavalier microphones in 2019 is another model from the RODE brand. And this is a really professional microphone without any conventions. As expected, it is much more expensive than any of the above.

The company has developed this condenser microphone as a versatile solution for a wide variety of applications. LAVALIER is designed to handle dynamic reporting in noisy environments, studio recordings, conferences, and even performances in front of thousands of stadiums. This model has such a high resource and margin of safety in every sense.

The microphone itself is extremely miniature – only 12 mm in height. Connects via MicroDot cable with standard plug. The complete set of this model deserves a separate mention. The set includes foam and fur windscreen nozzles, an adapter, an additional cable and additional accessories depending on the batch. All of this is packed in a durable waterproof case with a transparent lid.

Key characteristics of the microphone: range of recognized frequencies of sound vibrations – from 60 to 18 thousand Hertz; sensitivity – -33.5dB; impedance – 3 thousand ohms; signal to noise ratio – 69dB; dynamic range – 85dB.

An important feature of this model, if we consider the entire set, is the implementation of the MiCon connector system, through which you can replace the connector with another one you need with minimal effort and cost, depending on the receiving system. This makes the microphone compatible with Sennheiser, AKG, Audi oTechnica radios and others.

Official manufacturer's warranty – 12 months.

Advantages

  • professional level;
  • versatility of use, including under heavy loads;
  • quality of materials;
  • recording quality;
  • richest equipment;
  • exceptional compatibility with other systems (MiCon).

disadvantages

  • high price.

Best wireless lavalier microphones

The final topic in our roundup of the best lavalier microphones in 2019 is about wireless models. This type of device has an obvious scope of application – from the usual maintenance of a personal video blog to equipping the leading programs of classic television channels. Here we will look at two sets of lavalier microphones with the accompanying necessary equipment. Such kits are already frankly expensive for the most part, and the task of our experts was to find on the market not only optimal solutions in quality, but also in price.

COMICA CVM-WS50

Rating: 4.9

COMICA CVM-WS50

The first is the COMICA lavalier microphone system. This lavalier system has proven itself well with the vast majority of active users leaving comments and reviews.

So, the system consists of separate modules interacting with each other – a transmitter and a receiver. Each of them is equipped with an antenna and an LCD screen, which displays the current modes and other useful information – battery charge, signal level, audio status.

CVM-WS50 operates on six channels within the operating range from 520 to 526 MHz. In open areas, the range of high-quality radio transmission reaches 60 meters, indoors – up to 40 meters.

Its own lithium-ion battery provides the communication module with up to 4 hours of continuous operation. It can be charged via the Micro USB connector.

The package includes the microphone itself; cables; universal mount made of aluminum for smartphones with a 6-inch screen; handle for attaching to a tripod with a 1/4 “hole; foam and fur windshield caps. Alternatively, you can attach different accessories to the handle. To use a microphone connected directly to new iPhone, you need an adapter to Lightning, which will have to be purchased separately.

Advantages

  • professional level;
  • exceptional quality materials and workmanship;
  • recording quality;
  • range of action;
  • autonomy;
  • equipment.

disadvantages

  • no pronounced disadvantages were found.

Sennheiser EW100

Rating: 4.8

Sennheiser EW100

And it concludes our roundup of the best lavalier microphones in 2019, according to the product of the well-known Sennheiser brand in professional circles. This is no longer just a professional model, but high-class equipment. The price, of course, is 'barrage', but you should at least know about the existence of such lavalier microphones to complete your horizons. Due to the specifics, this model is also sold not in every store, even on the Internet.

The EW100 is also a complete radio system like the one described above. The set includes the transmitting and receiving modules, the microphone itself, and also a separate digital unit – on-camera receiver. The powerful 4th Generation SKP100 transmitter turns any dynamic wired microphone into a wireless one. The system operates in the frequency range from 470 to 1800 MHz.

Key characteristics regarding sound: perceived frequency range of sound – from 25 to 18 thousand Hertz; signal to noise ratio – 110dB (A); suppression of adjacent channels – up to 65dB; blocking – 79 dB; the number of receiving frequencies – 1680, preset – 12; bandwidth – 42 MHz.

All functional modules of the system are powered by conventional AAA batteries. In total, six batteries are needed for the operation of all battery modules.

This system is designed and optimized specifically for the dynamic field of journalism. Working modules are reliable and unpretentious both in operation and storage. The threshold for mastering the system is also low – the devices are easy enough to connect, configure and use.

Advantages

  • professional level;
  • exceptional quality materials and workmanship;
  • high quality voice recording in different acoustic conditions;
  • equipment;
  • AAA batteries for power supply;
  • two years warranty.

disadvantages

  • prohibitive price.


Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

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