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How to Choose the Right Microphone for Your Event

ByEvent Leadership Institute
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READ TIME: 4 minutes

As an event professional, you know the importance of good audio at an event. If the audience can’t hear the presenters or are distracted by feedback, you’ll lose their attention very quickly. Good audio often starts with having the appropriate mics selected for your needs. While there is a wide variety of mics to choose from, here are a few of the most common mics you will encounter.

Wired Handheld Mics

Best Uses: Speeches; announcements; singers/bands; audience Q&A.

Pro: Provides a nice full sound. Feedback is generally minimal compared to other mics (unless the presenter goes close to a speaker). Typically the least expensive option.

Cons: Requires cables which can restrict movement and create a tripping hazard depending on how it’s used.

Wireless Handheld Mics

Best Uses: Speeches; announcements; singers/bands; audience Q&A where the presenter needs to move around the stage or into the audience without restriction; panel discussion where a mic needs to be passed around.

Pro: Provides a nice full sound. Feedback is generally minimal compared to other mics (unless the presenter goes close to a speaker). Allows presenters to wander around the stage without any cables.

Cons: Higher cost.

Lavalier Mics (Wireless)

AKA: LAV, Lapel Mic

Best Uses: Where presenters need to move around the stage and have their hands free.

Pro: Typically wireless so presenters can wander. Very small mic that clips to clothing and is less visually apparent to the audience.

Cons: Prone to feedback especially if the presenter walks close to a speaker. Higher cost.

Headset Mics (Wireless)

Best Uses:Where presenters need to move around the stage or have their hands free; cooking or product demonstrations; 

Pro: Typically wireless allowing presenters to move freely. Closer to the performer’s mouth than Lavalier mics and produce a slightly warmer sound.

Cons: Prone to feedback especially if the presenter walks close to a speaker. Higher cost.

Lectern Mics

AKA: Podium mic, gooseneck

Best Uses: Lecterns/Podiums where presenters are in one spot; speeches where the presenter requires a lectern to place notes.

Pro: Nice clean, slim look with less visual obstruction to the presenter than handheld mics.

Cons: Not moveable. Presenters must speak at stationary location.