Getting the Best Sound from Your Lavalier Microphone

Getting the right microphone is only the first step in recording great dialogue for your videos and film. The bigger piece of the puzzle is learning the skills to capture great sound. In this episode we take a look at some of the techniques for optimizing the sound you capture with a lavaliere microphone.
This episode produced with the following gear:
Nikon D600
Nikkor 80-200mm f/2.8D Lens
Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D Lens
Zoom H1 Handy Recorder geni.us/LQoJ
HMNSound Lavalier Microphone
Music by Curtis Judd

[@michaelpoczynek]

Thanks, Curtis from 2013. You are my number one source for audio and I greatly appreciate you making this video. Have a great day!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Michael. Wow - this is an old video. 😀

[@CZsWorld]

Do you have an episode on mic placement? I'd like to hear your opinion on a lot of things. Tape vs clip? Tape to the clothes, or tape to the body? Male vs female ideal mic position? Best way to run the wire down into their pockets? Add gain in the transmitter or the receiver? Best placement for multiple layers of clothing, (ie: suit and tie)?

[@curtisjudd]

+CZsWorld Wow, that's a lot to answer but here are some thoughts: Tape if you need to hide it, clip if you don't. I usually tape to the clothes, but it depends. Just have to find what works for the particular situation. Male, under the first layer of clothing in the mid chest area. Female, if they're wearing a bra that has room behind the strap between the cups, the underside of that is a perfect place to keep the mic from rubbing against clothes. Running the wire to pockets is only a problem if the talent is wearing tight clothing. In that case, I might look for alternative places to hide the mike like under a collar. Depends on the wireless system. I use RODELink currently and you can only add gain on the TX. But I would probably try the TX first anyway if you have the option of both. Better to amplify at the mic source than send a weak signal and then amplify. Under the tie, sandwiched between two pieces of triangle tape like in this review of the Countryman B6 lavalier microphone: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpmUoomld86YjKs I hope that helps! Thanks for asking!

[@CZsWorld]

Awesome! Thank you so much!! This one of the best KZbin comments I've ever received. Thanks so much!!

[@vvinvardhan]

I saw your channel on VidIQ's Channel!

[@MatthiasBehrends]

Finally someone who knows what he is talking about. Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Matthias!

[@Seanonyoutube]

Every time I open youtube I see another great Curtis Judd video suggestion with excellent advice...you’ve really filled the internet with wisdom over the years. I have like 20 videos of yours on my “watch later” just trying to keep up and make sure I don’t miss any of them haha

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks so much, Sean! This particular one is an oldie!

[@InsipidMedia]

Curtis, you are well and truly the absolute king! You never leave me with any questions. Thanks so much for all these incredibly thorough lessons. It's pure inspiration and highly appreciated. You've taught me things far beyond anything I learnt in my formal/academic filmmaking education. Keep it up, you're a powerhouse!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@IIIlIIIllIl]

I have watched over 50% of your videos and I plan on watching the rest of them too. THANK YOU for taking the time to make them and putting them on KZbin for other people to learn from. If you're ever in Houston, TX I'm buying you a beer!

[@curtisjudd]

+Michael D Weinstein thanks Michael, very much appreciated!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Eric, My preference would be to use two field recorders (e.g., Zoom H1) each with a lav mic. And then sync all of it back together in post. That sounds daunting but with Final Cut Pro X or Premiere, it is pretty simple and quick. I generally stay away from using the camera to capture anything more than reference audio. If that isn't an option, you could invest into a different wireless system with multi TX and one RX. Shure and Sennheiser both have systems like this.

[@usernamehandle]

I can’t believe that you make your own music Curtis! It’s pretty catchy and pleasing!

[@curtisjudd]

Just fooling around in Garageband. :)

[@usernamehandle]

Curtis Judd it’s better than most stock music folks throw on their stuff: I’m impressed!

[@djnaydee]

Thanks for the tips Curtis. I did just recently purchase the Sennheiser lav kit and will keep these in mind

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Kirwin, yes, I believe that the Zoom H6, like the H4n, has a 3.5mm input that provides plugin power (1.5 - 10 volts). The only think you'll want to avoid is adapting the Giant Squid from 3.5mm to 1/4 inch and plug it into the xlr inputs with 48v phanton power.

[@ssam7384]

H6 has with the xy module

[@curtisjudd]

They're a great option as well in terms of sound. They're a little more imposing in terms of appearance but they do an awesome job because they're so close to the mouth.

[@tombuck]

Yes, this video is 6 years old, but I still got exactly the info I needed 👍

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@mariocomeq1961]

Always good information with Curtis Judd. Best regards and congratulations.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Mario!

[@PauloNideck]

Best tips from the best one! :D

[@curtisjudd]

+Paulo Nideck thanks!

[@Olleetheowl]

Just shows. Avoid getting too technical. Refrain from “Spectacular “ actions. And you remain pertinent. Great vid 😊

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks DJ! Good luck with the Sennheiser kit--I've heard great things about them.

[@lehiboo]

Nice. I use between 4 and 8 zoom H1 + Sennheiser ME-2 to record audio only outside ... and my real lack was the problem between mic and clothes ... thanks to hear here "HUSH LAV". You made my day :)

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Scott, great video, definitely helpful. I especially liked your BTS episode on interview lighting for the pastor. Great look.

[@arkadifomintsev3679]

Curtis.. thumbs up at all times

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Arkadi! 👍

[@curtisjudd]

The main thing is to be sure to turn OFF the iOS Processing setting in the RODERec app. Your mics will sound at least 50% better that way.

[@ColGadarby]

Excellent - lots of info delivered without pissing about.

[@JohnnyGuitarRocks]

Very informative video, thank you Curtis!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@stevenpam]

Woah! It's Curtis Judd from the past!

[@curtisjudd]

Wow - me from 7 years ago. Cringeworthy.

[@stevenpam]

Curtis Judd haha, it’s all good. Still useful content, too.

[@curtisjudd]

Sure, but first I'll need to get a white backdrop! :) I think lighting instruments and audio gear are the most important things. If you have great lighting, almost any HD camera is good enough. And no camera has a good enough mic (because it is too far from your relent).

[@ScottysDetailing]

What about microphones that connect over your ear and have a boom to your mouth. Like what modvational speaker Anthony Robbins wares.

[@P.EnglishLiterature]

Very helpful. Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@anjasagan1654]

That was incredibly helpful. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Anja.

[@TerryMcGearyScotland]

Great yes I am glad you approve of the Zoom H1. I mentioned it in my comment on your other video. I like its small size and capability. I tried using it for recording river noises but got wind noise and then had to shelter under an umbrella where I picked up raindrop noise too! I resrted to buying a petstore squirrel and cutting its tail off for a 'dead cat' to go over the Zoom H1. A tight fit and it molts some hair occasionally but it works not to badly! :-) Using the microphone separately with a video camera of course you have to pretend you have a clapper board and clap your hands loudly to produce spikes on both in order to line up the audios. But if the ambience noise (including wind) is quite loud I found the 3 spikes can easily get lost in there. :-) Thanks again for a good video.

[@curtisjudd]

Terry, that is a clever solution for wind noise! 🙂

[@darshandev1754]

You cut the tail of a squirell!!!

[@TerryMcGearyScotland]

DarshanDev 😂Haha! Yes a cat toy. 😀

[@gabaktech]

thxs for the reply. what about those cameras that has optional mic on top where they flash use to be in the old cameras? have you tried those? will you buy the white backdrop?

[@pranjalmishra8239]

What about them ? Inbuilt microphones are no good.

[@linnyunt]

@@pranjalmishra8239 I believe he's talking about shotgun mics you can mount on the camera's hotshoe.

[@IKanFlyDrones]

Hi, Great Video Thank you! I wanted to ask you if you have any recommended settings inside of OBS to make yourself sound professional. I stream and video chat using OBS and want to get the best sound from my mic. I have the PowerdeWise Lav mic. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately, I don’t have enough experience with OBS in particular. But we do have some tutorials on how to set compressors, noise gates, and other processors in the RODECaster Pro.

[@IKanFlyDrones]

@@curtisjudd so I put my sensitivity to 85 and my boost to +20. Do you think that’s good? Then I used EQ in OBS and added a high pass to the left most band. And a low pass to the right most band. I have 5 total bands.

[@curtisjudd]

@@IKanFlyDrones That can be a fine set of settings. The real question is how does it sound? If it sounds good, it is good! Happy recording!

[@BeingKimKerr]

This video was very helpful!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Kim.

[@tdlgtc]

Great video and tips. What would you use to attach the lav to the inside of the clothing when you wrap it with moleskin?

[@MatthewFurman]

Love your videos, thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Matthew.

[@redhound3040]

Great video. I'm currently shooting video seminars at the university where I work. Common challenge is budget. I've tried to shoot the speaker the first time using a shotgun. Audio was horrible and low. The next shoot I had the audio system in the auditorium turned on where they could wear a wireless mic synced to the system. That was better but still not as good as I like. My next solution is to go with either the smart lav or the rode micme hooked to my iPhone. I haven't tried that yet but my concern would be the lav rubbing in the clothes. I've only got one try at these shoots and many times the talent isn't prepared for the shoot. After all they are concerned with giving the presentation. Luckily the video I shoot don't necessarily be total professionally produced. Me in the other hand want it to be because I used to shoot interviews like your video. Oh well you can only do the best with what you have.

[@LearnLightAndSoundSessions]

A lav mic usually doesn't experience too many clothing noise issues if attached to a lapel or elsewhere on the outside of clothes. They're always a challenge and you have to be on your toes as you well know. Good luck!

[@anntastic100]

great tips, thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Royston!

[@mikewright5040]

Love the Molefoam tip! Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@AshrafEzzat]

I use Audio-Technica ATR-35S Lavalier Microphone and record the voice on Zoom H4n. Since my AudioTechnica has a 3.5 mm plug I attach it to the Zoom H4n with a Mono ¼ inch adaptor. Only the voice I get is not as strong as the one when attached directly to the Zoom H1/H4n (without using adaptors). Now will a 3.5 mm to XLR adaptor give me a better gain on Zoom H4n for I have an interview coming up and I’ll be needing to record my voice and the guest’s simultaneously on the Zoom H4n using the Stereo or 4 channels mode. This is so important for my next documentary. Greetings from Egypt.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Ashraf, I don't have an ATR-35S to test for sure but I have not had good luck adapting the 3350 to XLR. This mic seems to do best into 3.5mm inputs (like the one on the back of the H4n.)

[@AshrafEzzat]

Thank you for the quick reply. I also tried the AudioTechnica 3350 with ¼ inch adaptor and it did not yield a good gain. So, what kind of (wired) lavalier Mic would you recommend that have XLR input (or that could be connected with ¼ inch adaptor) so that I could use it with my (new) Zoom H4n. One more thing, is using extension cable affect negatively the overall quality/gain of the recorded voice?

[@curtisjudd]

What is your budget? The XLR microphones are quite a lot more expensive than mics like the AT3350 and 35s. I like the Sanken COS-11D, the Countryman B6 and the Audio Technica AT899.

[@curtisjudd]

Also, extension cables for 3.5mm plugs which are unbalanced can potentially pick up more interference than XLR cables which are balanced. However, I have had good luck with the RODE VC1 extension cable for 3.5mm TRS plugs: amzn.to/29naYd7

[@AshrafEzzat]

Thank you for all these useful tips (your kindness overwhelms me). The XLR lav Mics you recommended are a little bit over my budget. But I have a new Idea/question, would a new Giant Squid omnidirectional lav mic give me a cleaner/stronger gain if I connected it to the Zoom H4n with ¼ inch adaptor. I mean this Giant Squid lav mic is known for its high gain (remarkably higher the AudioTechnica) … will this work?? Could you be so kind and test it for me before I make a purchase from Amazon. The setting I have in mind for my interview is the Giant Squid for me (without extension cable but via ¼ inch mono adaptor) connected to one of the channels of my Zoom H4n and the AudioTechnica lav for my interviewee connected to the 3.5 mm input on the back. What do you think? And if the Giant Squid is not a better choice what do you recommend instead?

[@PiBiTips]

You make excellent work!!!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@Wakaleo]

Thanks mate. Good advice.

[@JeffreyCWTay]

Old video but gold for me. Though my current problem is the talents clothes is very noisy and it get pickup by the mic even though it is clipped outside the shirt. Any way to solve this issue if I don't have a say in what the talents are wearing?

[@curtisjudd]

Well, we'd need a specific examples I suppose. Some shirts are so noisy there's nothing that can be done if the mic must be on the shirt and the talent will move at all. Perhaps use a boom mic or hide the mic in the hair, a hat, on the top of the hair, in a tie. Just have to get creative until you find something which works. It can be hard, tedious, and time consuming.

[@JeffreyCWTay]

​@@curtisjudd Hey, just want to say thank you for the tips. Indeed, I spend so much time trying to 'fix' the audio. My usual shoots are interviews and sermons so most of the times, my talents will be wearing formal clothing. From under the shirt, to outside the shit, on the collar, on the coat. However, everything they move their arms, the rustling is bad. Again, really thank you for your reply and tips. Much appreciated

[@RobertMartinezPhoto]

Hey Curtis! Can you do a video on different ways to optimize vocals in software. Also maybe with different mic samples. Or do you have one on general tips that I can check out? I searched online for something like this and only find stuff related to music bands vocals not regular speech vocals such as for podcasting, tutorials, dialogue etc.

[@curtisjudd]

Hey Robert! Here's one where I walk through my dialogue workflow that you might find helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYmupZytqN5qq9U

[@RobertMartinezPhoto]

Cool! Checking it out now. Thanks Curtis Judd

[@seanohays3275]

seano approves this video . thumbs up

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Seano.

[@curtisjudd]

Awesome idea--thanks!

[@DebbieMignola123]

Hello Curtis, I'm trying out several lavalier mics for amplifying voice for a live small group and none are picking up my sounds. I've done keynotes with all the big, expensive equipment. But I just need small amplification for a group of 20 or so in an exhibitor room, for a startup. None of the lavaliers I'm trying pick up my voice when clipped to my blouse. They work fine when I hold the mic close to my mouth (so all the other aspects are working: sending, receiving, speaker amplification) but, of course, that defeats the purpose of a clip-on hands free mic. Can you recommend lavalier mics that will pick up my voice when clipped to the recommended blouse location?

[@curtisjudd]

Not sure what your budget is and whether you need it to work with an existing wireless system or you need a wireless system as well? Maybe start with a RODE Wireless GO?

[@balaji.viswanathan]

Great video. while using Lav phone, do we need any sound proof set up? if so, how it needs to be set up for indoor room use?

[@curtisjudd]

Best if you can record in a room which does not have a lot of ambient noise or reflective surfaces.

[@balaji.viswanathan]

@@curtisjudd Thank you. can foldabe matress pads or styrofoam can be used for sound proof?

[@curtisjudd]

@@balaji.viswanathan to keep sound from outside from disturbing your recording? No. But those will help with reflected sound in the room for recording.

[@kuyaboo5007]

Noob query, but when does one choose between a cardioid lav mic over an omnidirectional one? What are instances when you choose one over the other? Tnx man.

[@curtisjudd]

Cardioids are more useful in situations where there is a lot of ambient noise. However, cardioid lavaliers are hard to work with - have to get them aimed just right and many of them don't sound very good. So it would be for cases where the ambient noise is so loud that you're willing to sacrifice some audio quality for being able to understand the person talking.

[@calum89robertson]

Hi Curtis. Excellent vid as always. Quick question regarding the lav foam cover. Is it not still better to put the small foam cover on a lav mic (when the lav is on-show and it's an indoor setting) to reduce plosives, or would you say there's no need and it's better overall to have the lav look as small/neat as possible with no foam cover?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Calum, Yes, I'd use the foam cover if wearing the lavalier outside of clothing.

[@calum89robertson]

Curtis Judd thanks so much Curtis. Will do!

[@EmilPaje]

Thanks Judd for the quick reply. But I'm using Android smartphone. Any advice? Thanks again.

[@gemgaming4042]

Thank you! That was very helpful!!!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@ShaneHarderPhoto]

Just got a new lav to try out, it’s the diety W lav. I seem to be getting a lot of noise from the cable rubbing on clothes. I’m clipping it outside clothing and using a tension reduction loop on the mic capsule clip but I still get a lot of cable noise while walking around. My next step is to gaf tape the mic cable to the inside of my shirt just below where the mic clips on, Any other tips? I don’t seem to get the same problems from all the Sennheiser lavs I’ve used but I don’t think I’ve stress tested them the same way with as much movement. Although I have used the MKE 2 with the AVX transmitter/receiver many times with talent moving around a lot with no issues. Should I try the Diety W. Lav pro as well? Have you used that one? Thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Shane, I haven't worked with the W.Lav so I'm not sure whether the cable picking up movement is normal for this microphone or not. I'd contact DEITY Support and see if they can help narrow down the issue. I believe Andrew fields all the support questions and he knows his stuff. Best wishes!

[@JosephAlanMeador]

Great information, thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

👍

[@LevSingh]

Your videos are the best you deserve LOT more subs :)

[@TURST67]

I have a Sony recorder and a Lav mic, but even in very quiet environment it catches ambient sounds a lot, even when they are subtle, and amplify them quite significantly, even if my recorder is set on low sensitivity, and no auto sensitivity adjustments. Is there something to do about this, or should I keep interviewing people in the most quiet room I can get (which is often not possible)?

[@curtisjudd]

Microphones are sensitive devices, indeed. And the main strategies they employ for rejecting ambient sound are 1) Polar pattern and 2) proximity to sound source or signal to noise distance. They cannot defy the laws of physics. So yes, the best bet is to record in quiet locations when possible. When that is not possible, use one of both of the strategies above: Make sure the mic is much closer to the sound source and as far from the noise as possible. You might also try a microphone with a polar pattern that rejects sound from the rear and sides of the microphone like a cardioid microphone. Most lavalier microphones have an omni-directional polar pattern meaning they pick up sound from all directions. However, they have the advantage of being worn directly on the person speaking. If you will be recording in noisy locations, you might need to switch to a microphone with a cardioid polar patterns such as a broadcast mic or a shotgun mic or a supercardioid non-shotgun condenser mic. I hope that helps. I'm afraid the answer is not simple.

[@bisiogunmefun]

Hey!! Thank you for this video. Do you wrap the molefoam then use mic tape to stick it under the speakers shirt or is the mole foam sticky enough to just be stuck on

[@curtisjudd]

Moleskin is plenty sticky.

[@Readthefineprint221]

Hi Mr. Judd I’m a film student and I notice I always hear a little static in my labs and I don’t know where it’s coming from nor do my peers or Professor. It’s not their movement or an A/C unit but, something we don’t know what it is. Do you have any idea what that could be and how to stop it from happening further?

[@curtisjudd]

A faulty cable perhaps? Do you have any sample audio clips online?

[@johnheckt5699]

Curtis, I was wondering if you have any videos that describe the best settings to use on the Rode REC app when using the Rode Smartlav +. I am struggling to figure out what to set the gain to. We are shooting inside the kitchen in our appartment, doing food tutorials. Thanks John H

[@EugeneYunak]

Hi Curtis! Thank you so much for all your videos, i’m learning a ton! I have a tricky question, but don’t know anyone who could help me so here goes: i’m setting up for a hobby motorcycle trip film with my brother, and i need small microphones for in-helmet pickup. Generally it’s not very noisy but there is wind noise present to some extend (so i’m thinking cardioid?), the mike will be super close to mouth, and needs to be taped to the helmet, so it can be aimed at mouth. it needs to be as flat as possible because there’s very little room inside, otherwise it will rub against the face, so something like that rectangular small microphone from your “pro-level lavaliers” video has the best shape. i’m prepared to spend, uh, maybe a $100 per microphone? but i need to output to rhode wireless go 2 that i plan to mount on the back of the helmet, so that there is no tether and we can take off helmets without thinking about it. so pro stuff with xlr outputs will not work for me. any ideas if such microphones exist? only thing i see are super cheap and awful sounding microphones used by bluetooth communication systems like Sena and Cardo. they are the right shape and size, but the sound is truly horrendous.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Eugene, I haven't used a cardioid lavalier microphone that sounds good. And the closest I've found to the $100 price point are the DEITY W.Lav mics. I'd think they'd work well inside a helmet: kzbin.info/www/bejne/al7OfpKug5qmhqM

[@DrRussell]

Hi Eugene, the wind-stopper which fits the base of my helmet significantly reduces wind noise, and when it’s cool, a couple of neck tubes almost eliminate wind noise completely. If you are so inclined, a pin lock double-layer visor may also help, less by way of noise but reducing the need to open the visor for condensation, further-reducing noise.

[@EugeneYunak]

@@DrRussell thank you, all good advice! i also use windstopper and pin lock visor, it seems to be working fairly well

[@DrRussell]

@@EugeneYunak One other point, flip-front visits tend to be more noisy due to air entry at seams. Even without neck tube just a simple scarf cuts wind considerably (temperature-permitting). Ride safe Brother.

[@boysherman]

Great stuff man!

[@MarkNewmanEducation]

Thanks for the tips. I am sufferring a lot with room echo on my recordings that a lav mic helps reduce but does not cancel out entirely. I notice that your recording was very clean with absolutely no room echo at all. How did you achieve that? Was it the choice of mic, the choice of recorder, the room you were recording in or something else entirely?

[@curtisjudd]

The room and sound blankets: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vcdpSMjqieadU

[@MarkNewmanEducation]

Thanks.

[@donaldburns4462]

Our pastor no longer wishes to use the headset mike due to comfort issues and we are changing to a lapel mike. My issue is I now have to increase the gain to compensate for the mike being further away and we are getting feedback issues. Any Ideas?

[@curtisjudd]

Hide the mic in the pastor's hair like they do for theater? That's a pretty time intensive proposition, but it usually sounds quite good. Another option is a gooseneck mic at a podium/lecturn. You could also tape the lav mic to the cheek - another thing they sometimes do in theater productions. I'm a little surprised that you're getting feedback. Are the loudspeakers situation behind the pastor? Any chance you can move them to in front of pastor?

[@mechakoush]

I did have the rustle noise from clothing with one of my clients and hopefully I can figure out how to fix it.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, just takes persistent experimenting.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Lev. Tell your friends! ;-)

[@harmonyfuntime1082]

The lavalier mic I got still captures the sound of air even when the ac is off and the recorded sound isn’t as clear as I expected it to be 😕

[@curtisjudd]

Lavaliers are tricky that way, especially inexpensive lavaliers.

[@harmonyfuntime1082]

Curtis Judd I just checked and apparently the reason why the sound of air is still captured was because my lavalier mic (for my phone) was not working 🤦‍♀️ thanks for the reply anyway I appreciate it

[@EmilPaje]

Hey Judd. I just bought 2 Rode smartlav. Any tips or advice can you give me. Thanks.

[@videoproductionofgrandrapi5837]

Excellent, thank you!

[@curtisjudd]

You're welcome and thanks for the feedback!

[@izzylandyt]

Hey Curtis, if I clip my lav mic on my shirt under layers of clothing, will it still have a crisp sound? I typically put it close to my chin, but it looks like it only sounds good when it’s in the middle of your chest.

[@curtisjudd]

No, it probably will NOT be as crisp. Off to one side and several inches down from your chin is where they tend to sound best.

[@dankerschaareman]

I like to ask a question: I use a Lav clip on mic, attached to my shirt. I read text from a PowerPoint presentation and record it. Why is it that when starting to record the first word is always much louder than the following words? It's like the first word starts with an explosion. Is there a way to avoid that? Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Danker, I would need to hear it to be certain what you mean when you say the first word sounds like an explosion. If your breath is moving air on the first word, and physically hits the microphone capsule, that is called a plosive. Try to ensure your breath is not going into the mic capsule. On the other hand, most of us tend to start a sentence louder than we end it. That just takes practice to change that.

[@dankerschaareman]

@@curtisjudd My guess is that the solution is in your last sentence: practice to start softer. I have practiced/ am practicing to start speaking more evenly, and that works well. Thanks!

[@janphilipbaldus333]

Hey Curtis! Thanks a lot for all of your great videos. I didn't really know a lot about capturing audio, but know after watching some of your tutorials I feel quite confident with capturing it! The only problem I have is that I have pretty much no clue about editing / improving sound in post. I'm confident with using Premiere etc. but not audio wise. Do you have a tutorial about that or could you give some general advice for editing audio (especially voice captured with a lavaliere / shotgun) :) Thanks in advance!!

[@curtisjudd]

+Jan Philip Baldus Yes, many episodes on editing in post. About 1/3 of this playlist: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJSwgHWomcd7nc0 I hope that helps!

Thanks for your very helpful video. I want to record my voice in a motorcycle helmet to shoot a motorcycle video blog. I have just bought a BOYA by-m1 condenser microphone to record a better sound. When my helmets windscreen is open at the house the sound quality is good. But when I close the windscreen of the helmet recorded voice becomes very disturbing. Can you find a solution for using a lavalier mic in a motorcycle helmet. Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

+Beraber Sürelim Do you have a sample video I could listen to?

[@ItsKapow]

Awesome tips, thanks :)

[@harshilx1993]

When I plug in my lavalier mic the audio is not coming from the laptop And it is not showing that the mic is plugged in but I plugged the mic in the laptop pls help🙏🏻.I need to use it for online classes without headphones and splitter

[@harshilx1993]

Pls reply

[@curtisjudd]

I don’t have enough information to help but I suspect the laptop turns off its speakers when something is plugged in. Best to contact support from the laptop manufacturer.

[@creatip123]

Hey, great video. I wish yt recommended your video before today... I have a question though. What are your thoughts on using an android phone as a sound recorder? I'm using an android phone as a voice recorder (not with video, just voice), and although I have set the gain level to -10db (third party recorder app), my lav mic is picking ambient noises like crazy. Like a motorbike passing the road in front of my house, neighbour's dog barking, etc. Unfortunately I don't have any friends that have/are using dedicated voice recorder like the zoom you have here, so I can't try one out. Is the difference night and day in term of ambient noise pickup? Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Creatip, how much ambient sound/noise you pick up in a recording has more to do with the polar/pickup pattern of the microphone and the placement of the microphone than it has to do with which recorder or phone you use. Most lavalier microphones have an omni-directional pickup pattern so they pick up sound from all directions. I don't know where you have it positioned, but if you attach it to your lapel and place your back to the loudest noises, that will help prevent pickup of those ambient sounds. But things like loud motorbikes will still creep in. Using a directional, non-lavalier microphone can help as well.

[@creatip123]

@@curtisjudd wow thank you very much for the answer. I clip it to the neck collar of my tshirt, so it's actually less than a foot from my mouth. More like at the base of my throat. Yes, I tried searching for a cardioid lav mic, but seems like they're mostly on professional level. They're quite costly, and have xlr connector (which I assume also require phantom power?) The direction I'm facing makes sense, as my desk (where I'm shooting and recording) is facing the front door. I will try facing the other way. Thank you again for the answer!

[@annalej1122]

Hi Curtis, I'm using a lav mic for shooting yoga videos, how would you recommend placing the lav mic, and any suggestion on clothing? I've hear wearing say a cotton top is better than other textiles? Thanks for great videos!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Anna, most of the yoga presenters hide them under their tops on their chest, usually with tape such as surgical tape or clipped to the center part of the bra, on the inside so that it does not rub against your clothes. Best wishes!

[@kirwinnarine]

Thanks Curtis,

[@andreas_triant]

I have bought a "boya by-m1" lav mic and I'm coming across one issue, which is a constant "hissing" background noise of me when recording. Tried this on both desktop and pc, any tips for adjustments that might help?

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm, do you get the same level of hiss with earbuds/headset from phone plugged into laptop as with the lav mic? If not, it is probably the microphone which is the problem. Or perhaps the lavalier mic needs a TRS to TRRS adapter.

[@Son0fSmallFace]

Just discovered your channel, these videos are great. Out of curiosity would something like the giant squid work plugged straight into a Samsung smartphone? I once used a shure mic with my phone and the results were surprisingly good.

[@curtisjudd]

The Giant squid has a TRS connector by default and most smartphones take a TRRS connector, so it won't work by default. But you might ask the folks over at Giant Squid if they can make one with a TRRS connector for Samsung devices. The RODE smartLav will work right out of the box with most smartphones.

[@robertstanley7928]

Hi CurtisGreat video. Can you give me some advice? How would you advise to put a lav mic on talent that is wearing a t-shirt or blouse with high neck line? Would it be too high on the neckline of the garment? I've tried to just pinch some of the material and fit it lower down but it looks very messy, is there a method to that?Thanks in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

+rob stanley there are a couple of options you may wish to try. Some people just clip the lav on the neck band and go with that. Simple and can sound decent though, of course, the mike is in the shot. you might also try mounting the mic under the t-shirt using wig or toupee tape (two sided tape that is made for attaching to skin). You can run into clothing noise this way but if the talent doesn't move much, it can work really well. I hope that helps!

[@robertstanley7928]

+Curtis Judd Thanks!

[@lesterguijarro3988]

hi curtis i have a question . I got two tentacle sync and i got spill from both audio packs. could avoid that with getting cardiod mic.

[@curtisjudd]

Probably not. The spill likely happens inside the recorder, crosstalk, if I understand your question correctly.

[@lesterguijarro3988]

@@curtisjudd thanks curtis, but it was a rookie movie, i didnt lower the gain. I was figuring out the app after i sent you the question.

[@GoGreaterGood]

You are a legend! Thank you once again my friend!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@d.debalko2707]

Curtis, I have a Rode Lav Go Omnidirectional mic, I'm going to be using it in a Hospital lobby (somewhat noisy) will it be okay or is there something made to go around the mic to make it more directional?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, no, but Omni directional mics behave somewhat directionally because the wearer’s body blocks sound from behind and because they’re so close to the soeaker’s voice. Give it a try. They generally work pretty well in these situations.

[@0xsuperman]

Is it possible to use it for amplifying my voice during presentation? What kind of set up do I need? Should I plug this into my smartphone and then connect smartphone with a sound amplifier via bluetooth?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, but I would recommend you look at PA systems instead.

[@talkout]

Thanks for the tips.

[@angelaata]

Hi Curtis. I have a question for you. I am going to realize a investigation with professors. I will utilize a Tascam dr-05 recorder and I need a microphone for capture the professors voice in their lessons. After, I need to analyse these samples in a software for calculate % phonation, cycle doses, etc. What type mic recommended in this case? What are you opinion for headseat or headband, throat mic?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Angela, my preference would be for a headset microphone like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5exeGCnYth8esk

[@BloodSugarS3XMajik]

this was a very helpful video! What lavs would you recommend?

[@curtisjudd]

I really like the Shure Twinplex but they're pretty pricey. How much are you looking to spend? How are you planning to use the lavalier?

[@BloodSugarS3XMajik]

Curtis Judd im trying to get at least two decent quality lavs to be used for dialogue scenes and interviews. I just bought the Comica plus transmitters/receiver pack and in using the kits lavs it came with. Im not a fan of what I bought and I’m willing to pay more for better quality. As of now for a lav, I wouldn’t want to go any higher than $150

[@curtisjudd]

@@BloodSugarS3XMajik Hmm, I'm not sure in terms of getting two microphones for less than $150 - not that there aren't options, just that I'm not familiar with them. I would NOT recommend RODE Lavalier GO - my copy produced a lot of self noise. A few years ago we looked at several inexpensive lavalier microphones - maybe that'll help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eYuupGSLZqx0bpY

[@BloodSugarS3XMajik]

Curtis Judd thank you! I meant no more than $150 each. So like I would pay for a lav that is $150.

[@curtisjudd]

@@BloodSugarS3XMajik Ok, makes sense. I haven't used them but in the samples I've heard, the Oscar Sound Tech lavaliers sound quite good and I've heard several videographers express their delight with them.

[@Tiger74147]

I'm mostly curious how you get that black background! (Considering you had great info on equipment in your description. Although, you're using a tripod as well, right?)

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, definitely using a tripod. This previous episode should help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/maqql5eVds2inLc good luck!

[@Tiger74147]

+Curtis Judd Thanks for taking the time to dig that up for me! That video was very helpful.

[@ofwchristianfamily5915]

Hi, jud, whats the problem when i am touching the wire of my Oscar-ST lav mic it there is thunder and lightning? Whats wrong? Is it broken or short circuited? I want to return it after knowing whats wrong. I need ur help!

[@curtisjudd]

Most likely a bad connection, yes.

[@ofwchristianfamily5915]

@@curtisjudd thank you so much for replying. God bless

[@curtisjudd]

Just the tips in the video. :) Unless you run into any particular issues...

[@soundsofjacobkenya]

great job sir..kindly tell me how to get the lav mic cover n hwhich one btwin omni n cardio mic is best for church service n sermon.

[@curtisjudd]

+Jacob Sounds hi Jacob, I would only use a cardioid lavalier in super loud places like a factory and where I can ensure it remains precisely aimed at the person's mouth. For church services, I would go with an Omni but make sure to test before the service to ensure there's no feedback. Best wishes!

[@soundsofjacobkenya]

THANKS SIR

[@denniellehannah7915]

I’m using one of these on my canon 90d and I’ve found when my ring light is on it creates a buzzing noise in my audio. I’m not sure why or what I can do to help? I need the ring light near the camera and that’s what’s doing it. Any ideas what to do?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Dennielle, your best bet is to keep the lavalier cable as far away from the light's power cable and power adapter if it has one. That's usually what causes buzzing interference like that. Best wishes!

[@denniellehannah7915]

@@curtisjudd thank you for responding so fast! After five hours I finally figured it out. It needed to be directly plugged into the wall outlet and it stopped. It was plugged into a adapter with five plugs and for some reason didn’t like it. Yay I feel so much better lol

[@denniellehannah7915]

@@curtisjudd so I thought I fixed it but again had issues when I started recording. I want to say thank you again for the comment. I moved the two cords away from each other and zero static! You are my hero! I can’t thank you enough. Who knew something like that could make a big difference. I would have never figured that out on my own lol

[@curtisjudd]

@@denniellehannah7915 👍 Happy recording!

[@stephajn]

I have found that my lav mic picks up my breathing a lot. It makes me sound like I'm a real heavy breather. Are there specific frequencies that can be reduced with EQ to get rid of this? Or is this one of the drawbacks with using a lav?

[@curtisjudd]

Finding a new position for the microphone is likely to make a bigger difference than anything. Many people position their mics too close to their throat. Off to one side of the chest a little lower down often works better.

[@amlansarmah4687]

Could you please tell me how to fix noise in an ultra cheap lav.

[@curtisjudd]

Well, here is one way to do noise reduction in post with Audacity: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJ2thIeXq66Mac0 and here's how with Audition: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z52sm3l4fJuqa5o

[@CyberNerd-ky1ub]

Suggestions on how to tell if my mic is just bad or maybe I'm doing something wrong?

[@curtisjudd]

Contact the manufacturer's support with audio samples so they can assess whether there's a defect with your copy.

[@janmalmstrom7843]

Hi Curtis. Can you connect two lav mic's with a splitter to record into a Zoom H1MB? (typically an interview situation).

[@curtisjudd]

+Jan Malmström Hi Jan, I haven't tested that but it should be possible with the right adapter.

[@luisgm5447]

Thanks for the video! I'm using a Boya M1 Lavalier connected to a cellphone and it produces an (expected) hissing background noise. Is it simply related to mic/cellphone quality or can it be improved without software? Thanks in advance.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Luis, it is likely the microphone and the mobile preamp. You could add an amplifier but that makes the whole rig substantially larger and less convenient.

[@darrenthompson.7274]

Hi Curtis......Have just recently purchased the BOYA BY-M1 3.5 mm......it stated it was compatible with a galaxy s3......after much testing i came across one of your presentations stating that a different connector would be needed for this purpose...any help gratefully received

[@curtisjudd]

Hi! Yes, you'll need an adapter like this: amzn.to/2bD75Bx Best wishes!

[@darrenthompson.7274]

Thanks for such a quick response Curtis...also would i need to use any apps or just plug & go

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, will definitely need an audio recording app which will recognize external microphones. I don't have an Android phone so I don't have any specific recommendations on apps, but I have heard from others that Rec Forge, I think that's the name, is good.

[@darrenthompson.7274]

Again....thanks for the reply Curtis.....ironically i had been trying to work with a Galaxy S3......forgetting about my wifes unused HTC1......so, charged it ...plugged in the mic.....BINGO, instant recognition of device, tested it & all good....& considering both phones are nearly identical in camera spec im good to go. Thanks again for replying to my thread.All the best Darren.

[@OrangePolarBear]

Hey Curtis, I'm using the sony uwp d11 wireless mic system with the kit lav. I find that the audio is great on my talent. However, I have trouble hearing the person he is talking too. The audio wav is near -5 db for my talent but the person hes speaking to is somewhere around -30 db. I am feeding into a canon t51. Anything I can do to make the mic more sensitive so that it can pick up the sound of the person in the conversation not wearing the mic? Thanks.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, two thoughts: It'll be tough to make the other person sound great but in post you can slice up the audio file and boost the "other person's" talking. This is what many of the prank video editors on KZbin do. Ideally, it would be best to mic both people, perhaps with a boom mic. But if that's not an option, the post edit may be the only realistic option. Or a handheld mic instead of a lavalier?

[@OrangePolarBear]

Thanks for the reply Curtis! It is indeed for pranks. Something I forgot to mention is, the mic goes on his chest underneath his shirt and, we keep the windscreen on the mic. Can that be the reason why they are so low compared to the prankster wearing the mic? Also, I tried cutting up the audio with adobe audition and raising the volume on the people but, that also raises the volume of the background hiss, unfortunately.

[@curtisjudd]

When hiding a lav mic under a shirt you can usually remove the foam wind shield. That should help a little bit.

[@graceoverall]

Thanks! How do we solve popping? I suspect we have a bad connection from mic to transmitter? Can we fix this cheaply or do we have to buy an expensive quality mic?

[@curtisjudd]

Will have to experiment. I would borrow another microphone and see if it also has the same issue. Or buy one from a place where you can return it if it doesn't solve th issue. Best wishes!

[@kirwinnarine]

Hi Curtis, I am looking to purchase the Giant Squid Stereo Mic for 75US. However, I got an email from them warning - "Don't plug into any XLR or 1/4 inch jack or the mics will get fried by the high voltage. The maximum volts my mics can take is 10 volts." Do you know if the Giant Squid mics will work with the Zoomh6? Thanks for your thoughts bro.

Dear Mr. Curtis, most meople in the motorcycle world try to record clean audio for their "motovlog"s. Many people find some way to record clean audio but it doesnt work well for everybody. As you know motorcycles can go very fast and a lot of wind noise is generated with the motorcycle speed. Especially after 50-60 km/hours of speed wind noise is really a big problem. Do you have time to make such kind of explanation video for recording voice while riding fast.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, yes, but I'll need to get a motorcycle and figure out how to do it first! :-D The first thing I would try is to get the mic up near the forehead instead of down by the mouth where it is likely to pick up more wind noise. Of course you'll have to find a spot that is comfortable.

Yes you are absolutely right :)) Maybe one day motorcycles can interest you. All of your videos helped me so much. I really enjoyed watching your videos and learned many things from them. But still couldnt solve recording a clean audio inside my helmet.