How to Choose Headset & Lavalier Microphones

Headset and lavalier microphones leave the performer's hands free while keeping the microphone close to the mouth. They are widely used in presentations, theatre, fitness classes, worship, film and television. This guide explains how to choose from our range of headset and lavalier microphones and match them to your system.

Headset or lavalier

A headset microphone sits on a boom that is held near the mouth by a band over the head or ears. It keeps a constant distance to the mouth, which gives a strong, consistent signal and good rejection of other sounds, so it suits active speakers and singers. A lavalier, or lapel, microphone is small and clips to clothing, so it is nearly invisible and ideal for presenters, interviewers and actors. Choose a headset for level and isolation, and a lavalier for discretion.

Capsule and polar pattern

Most are condenser capsules with an omnidirectional or cardioid pattern. Omnidirectional capsules are natural-sounding, less sensitive to wind and handling, and forgiving of position, so they are common on lavaliers. Cardioid capsules reject sound from the sides and rear, which gives more gain before feedback in loud places, and suit headset microphones for live use. Dynamic versions exist for rugged use in very loud situations.

Connector and wireless compatibility

Most of these microphones use a small connector to plug into a bodypack transmitter, and the connector type differs between wireless system makers. Check the connector and the bias or power voltage that your transmitter provides before buying. A microphone that is not matched may sound weak, noisy or not work at all. See our wireless microphones for systems that work with these microphones, and some models have XLR output for direct connection.

Cable, colour and comfort

For a headset, the cable should be thin, flexible and kink-resistant, and the fit should be secure, light and adjustable, because the user will wear it for hours. Skin-tone colours such as beige, tan and brown blend with the face on camera or stage. Black is common in theatre and on dark clothing. For lavaliers, check clips and mounting accessories that hide the microphone and hold it in place.

Placement matters

Lavalier placement affects sound more than price does. Clip the microphone at the centre of the chest, about 15 to 20 cm below the chin, for a balanced voice. Avoid rubbing against clothes, jewellery and rustling fabrics, and use mounting tape or clips to keep it still. Headset microphones should sit at the corner of the mouth, not directly in front, to avoid breath noises. Add a foam or wind cover when outdoors.

Sound quality and levels

Frequency response, sensitivity and maximum sound pressure level affect results. Voice microphones often have a gentle boost in the presence region to improve clarity. High sensitivity can suit quiet speech, while a higher maximum level suits shouting or singing. Set the transmitter gain so that loud speech does not clip, and quiet speech stays above the noise.

Choosing for your application

Presentations and worship

A discreet lavalier or light headset on a wireless bodypack frees the speaker to move.

Fitness and stage performance

A secure headset with cardioid pickup stays in place and keeps clarity when the performer is active.

Film and interviews

Omnidirectional lavaliers recorded to a recorder or camera give consistent speech; see portable field recorders.

Common mistakes to avoid

Most problems come from compatibility and placement.

• Buying a microphone with a connector that does not fit the transmitter
• Hiding the microphone under thick clothing, which muffles sound and adds rustle
• Placing a headset boom directly in front of the mouth
• Setting gain too high so that the system feeds back
• Using the wrong bias voltage for the capsule
• Pulling the cable tight without a loop, which creates handling noise

Buying headset and lavalier microphones at Shivansh Electronics

Shivansh Electronics, Kolkata, West Bengal, India supplies genuine products only, exactly as the manufacturers build and specify them. Every product page has its specifications, so you can compare models side by side before you decide. Our team can help you shortlist options for your studio, venue or project, explain how the specifications apply to your setup and suggest the accessories you will need. For advice, message us on WhatsApp or call us, and we will be glad to help.