TEDxFargo – Photo by Emerging Prairie / Studio Freshly
At Livewire, we know that the success of any presentation, performance, or meeting can hinge on crystal-clear audio. Choosing the right microphone for the job is not one-size-fits-all, as it heavily depends on your needs, your on-stage talent, and the event environment. When working with our team, we help you find the perfect match for your unique event with our technicians, years of expertise, and equipment.
Microphones for Presenter Mobility and Appearance
For presenters who need to move freely or require an unobtrusive mic, we’ve got you covered. The lavalier mic (or lapel mic) is the ultimate choice for discretion. Clipped to clothing, a lavalier is perfect for keynote speakers, interviews, or panelists who need to be hands-free. It’s a popular option when visuals and speaker appearance are a priority
For high-movement events like fitness demonstrations, long keynotes, or theatre, the headset mic is your best bet. Worn over the ear, the capsule stays consistently positioned near the mouth. This ensures maximum clarity and uniform volume, even when the speaker turns their head.
Finally, the handheld mic is the versatile workhorse. These microphones are excellent for Q&A sessions, announcements, short speeches, and live musicians’ vocals. Their reliability and ease of use make them ideal for passing between multiple people and managing audience interaction.
Microphones For Specific Audio Capture
When the environment or sound source dictates the choice, we turn to specialized equipment.
Boundary mics are low-profile, tabletop microphones designed to use the flat surface they rest on to enhance sound pickup. They are ideal for conference tables, boardrooms, and panel discussions where speakers are seated and stationary. However, one disadvantage is that they are prone to feedback due to their pickup pattern creating feedback, and should usually only be used for audio reproduction, rather than reinforcement.
The podium mic is designed specifically for lecterns and fixed speaking points. These feature a thin, flexible neck for precise positioning, offering stable, hands-free operation. They are the standard choice for press conferences, formal speeches, and panel openings.
The Underlying Technology: Dynamic Vs. Condenser
Beyond the physical shape, all microphones use one of two main technologies.
Dynamic mics are rugged, durable, and built to handle high sound pressure levels (loud volumes). They are less sensitive to subtle room noise, making them the standard for live music, stage vocals, loud instruments, and outdoor events.
In contrast, the condenser mic is more sensitive and fragile. These microphones capture a wider frequency range and finer sonic details, providing a very clear, accurate sound. They require additional power, and are typically used in controlled environments for acoustic instruments, overhead mic’ing, and detailed presentations where audio nuance is key
