There are so many options for wireless microphones available today. You have high-quality wireless microphone systems and configurations available specifically for vocals, dancers, keyboard players, drummers, fitness instructors, dance instructors, stage actors, presenters, worship leaders, and more.
If you are trying to choose a wireless microphone system, we’re here to help you with that. Let us explain more in-depth the difference in quality you can get from all the types of wireless microphone transmitters.
Wireless microphone systems usually come with a receiver and a transmitter. Basically, the receiver hooks into your audio system video XLR or ¼” connection. For transmitter options, you normally choose between a wireless handheld microphone, wireless lavalier or lapel microphone with a bodypack, or different types of headset microphone systems that usually also come with a bodypack.
These three different wireless microphone types all have their own pros and cons. We’re going to walk you through each to help you determine how to choose a wireless microphone that will be best for your application and needs.
Tried and True: Wireless Handheld Microphones with a Built-in Transmitter
These will usually have a transmitter built into the body, making them quick and easy to set up and move around with.
- Most versatile and generally high-quality
- Takes less time to set up
- You can expect less feedback because there will usually be less distance between the source (the mouth) and the microphone
- You’ll get the best quality sound from a handheld microphone
This is the best quality wireless microphone choice for most lead vocalists or stage events in which the microphone will be passed from person to person like for churches or conferences.
2nd Most Popular: Wireless Lavalier Microphone Systems with a Bodypack Transmitter
Also known as ‘lav‘ or ‘lapel’ mics, lavalier microphones are small and unobtrusive, designed to be clipped onto clothing
- The close proximity to the mouth gives them a good signal-to-noise ratio
- Lapel microphones connect to a transmitter bodypack, usually worn on the belt of the subject
- Second most popular good quality wireless microphone
- Takes some time to set up (making sure they are positioned correctly and look neat, or in some cases, “invisible”)
- Rather delicate (they aren’t always suitable for run-and-gun situations)
- Can sit a little further away from the source (the mouth) than a handheld which can sometimes cause problems with feedback
- Depending on what the presenter is wearing, there can be issues with rubbing creating a static sound. For example, if they are wearing a necklace, or have long hair it may be difficult to place the mic where it won’t get rubbed
- Works well for public speaking or spoken word in quiet venues making lapels the best wireless microphone system for church pastors, lecture halls, and broadcasts
- Not a great option for noisier environments such as a school’s gym
When you want to be discreet, or in a scenario where the subject needs a hands-free wireless microphone system, lavalier microphones are a number one choice. There’s a reason why public speakers and presenters, worship leaders, and stage actors use them almost exclusively.
Last But Not Least: Wireless Headset Microphone Systems with a Bodypack Transmitter
As the name suggests, these are worn on the head, often over the ear, while a discrete arm positions the capsule very close to the mouth. If you move around a lot or use your hands for gesturing during a performance a wireless microphone headset is a good solution.
- Especially useful when subjects are in noisy environments or on the move
- The microphone stays the same distance from the mouth
- Completely wireless handsfree microphone system
- Headsets usually use the same belt-pack systems as lavs or lapels
- Will sound better than a lavalier because it’s closer to the mouth (source)
- Tend to be very delicate but there are sturdier options
- Takes longer to set up than a handheld and aren’t as easily shared
When comparing wireless microphone systems, head-worn mics are tailor-made for singing dancers, singing drummers, dance and fitness instructors, or basically anyone who is active on stage.
If you have questions about choosing the best wireless microphone for sound quality, give us a call at (888)-256-4112, or email us at [email protected]. Our sound system experts are always here to help!
