Crappy audio can ruin your film. You’ve been there. You get back, import your footage. It looks amazing. But your interview audio sounds AWFUL. There’s all this background noise and feedback. That’s why finding the best lavalier mic is so important.
On my quest, I’ve taken a look at the top 5 lavalier microphones for filmmakers. I’ve picked lav microphones with a variety of price points and uses.
This is an industry standard and could be the best cavalier mic out there. It’s a little on the expensive side. But you are paying for quality. It’s a great mic that’s excellent for capturing interview audio on any subject.
It’s an omni-directional microphone which means it doesn’t pick up background noise or feedback. It’s small, light, and easy to use!
This is a wireless system that comes in at a great price. These allow you to capture audio straight into your camera or your recorder at a distance.
This lav mic set uses a 2.4GHz wireless system to transmit the audio. The mic can capture audio up to 164 feet, which gives you plenty of room with your subject and a camera. It runs off AAA batteries which last quiet a while (4 hours). If you’re on a long shoot you’ll have to pack a few extra!
This is definitely a cheaper option. The sound quality is still decent for the price.
The Sony ECM 77B is another industry standard mic that really packs a punch with it’s size. It’s one of the smallest lavalier microphones on the market. Like the Sennheiser ME 2 above, it also is omnidirectional and extremely lightweight. It captures excellent audio recording without picking up the background noise and feedback. It runs on AA batteries, but it also has the ability to run on phantom power.
This is an excellent option if you want one the best lavalier mic for the price. And if you want something that will last you awhile!
The best lavalier mic is up for grabs and this is a non-traditional lavalier mic compared to the rest on the list. This is a perfect microphone for you if you do not own an audio recorder. This mic is designed to be used with smartphones and tablets.
You plug this lav microphone into you smartphone (or tablet) and you can use the Rode app to record audio straight into your device. The 3.5mm jack can also be plugged straight into camera making this lavalier mic extremely convenient for a run and gun shoot.
This mic is definitely on the pricier side, but it’s one of the most hidden lavalier mic’s you can purchase. Most cameras won’t even pick up the microphone, meaning it can be hidden on clothing, jewelry, or anywhere you want on an actor. The sound quality for how small this thing is really makes it shine amongst the other microphones. If you want something that’s discrete but still picks up excellent audio, this is the best lavalier mic for you.
These are some of the best in the business, and it’s hard to choose the best lavalier mic out of this list because each one has a different practical use. If I’m running and gunning, I’d go with the Rode. If I’m looking for quality without breaking the bank, I’d stick with the Sennheiser.
What is the best lavalier mic is your opinion? Leave a comment below.