Lavalier Microphones Price Guide

Lavalier microphones are a staple in the world of professional audio for their discreetness and high-quality sound capture. Whether you’re a journalist, public speaker, content creator, or filmmaker, a lavalier microphone can be an invaluable tool.

This guide provides a detailed look at the pricing of Lavalier microphones, categorized by different budget ranges, features, and use cases.

Budget Range: Under $50

In the entry-level category, lavalier microphones are primarily aimed at hobbyists, vloggers, and beginners who need an affordable yet functional option. Despite their low cost, these microphones can still offer decent performance for basic audio recording needs.

BOYA BY-M1

Priced around $20, the BOYA BY-M1 is a popular choice among budget-conscious users. This microphone features an omnidirectional pickup pattern, which means it captures sound equally from all directions, making it ideal for recording interviews or vlogs where the subject might move around. The 6-meter cable provides ample length for various recording setups, allowing flexibility in placement and movement.

Additionally, the BOYA BY-M1 is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, cameras, and PCs, thanks to its 3.5mm TRRS connector. This versatility, combined with its impressive sound quality for the price, makes it a favorite among entry-level users. It’s well-regarded for its ability to produce clear audio with minimal background noise, although it may not perform as well in very noisy environments.

MOVO PM10

Another solid choice at approximately $15, the MOVO PM10 offers clear sound quality and comes with a 1-year warranty, providing peace of mind for new users. It is designed primarily for use with smartphones and tablets, featuring a 3.5mm TRRS connector. The microphone’s compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, and perfect for on-the-go recording.

The MOVO PM10 is ideal for casual content creators, such as vloggers and amateur filmmakers, who need a simple and effective solution for capturing audio. It delivers respectable audio clarity, ensuring that voices are captured accurately, though it may not have the same level of noise reduction or dynamic range as more expensive models.

Mid-Range: $50-$150

Mid-range Lavalier microphones offer a noticeable improvement in audio quality and build, making them suitable for semi-professional use. These microphones typically feature better materials, more refined engineering, and additional features that enhance their usability and durability.

Røde SmartLav+

At around $79, the Røde SmartLav+ is a high-quality Lavalier mic designed for use with smartphones. It features an omnidirectional condenser capsule that captures sound with great accuracy and detail. The durable Kevlar-reinforced cable ensures longevity, even with frequent use, and can withstand the rigors of mobile journalism and podcasting.

The SmartLav+ also comes with a foam pop shield to minimize wind noise and plosive sounds, which is crucial for clear and professional-sounding recordings. Users appreciate the Røde SmartLav+ for its reliability and excellent sound quality, making it a favorite among mobile journalists and podcasters who need a dependable mic for field recordings or interviews.

Audio-Technica ATR3350xiS

Priced at about $70, this Lavalier microphone offers dual-mono output, ensuring that audio is recorded to both left and right channels, which is particularly useful when editing in post-production. The ATR3350xiS comes with a smartphone adapter, making it compatible with both traditional audio equipment and modern mobile devices.

This versatility allows users to switch between different recording setups without needing additional gear. The microphone provides clear and crisp audio, capturing nuances in speech that enhance the overall quality of recordings. It’s a versatile choice for both field recording and video production, suitable for semi-professional content creators who require a step up from basic budget models.

Professional Range: $150-$500

Professional Lavalier microphones are designed for high-stakes environments where audio quality is paramount. These mics are often used in broadcast, film, and live performance settings, where capturing every detail of sound is crucial.

Sennheiser ME 2-II

At around $130, the Sennheiser ME 2-II is a top choice for professionals. It is compatible with wireless systems, offering flexibility and freedom of movement, which is essential for live performances and on-location shoots. The ME 2-II delivers high-quality sound with a frequency response tailored for speech intelligibility, ensuring that voices are clear and easily understood.

The build quality is robust, with a durable construction that can withstand various environments, from indoor studios to outdoor locations. This microphone is particularly popular in the broadcast industry, where reliable performance and excellent audio quality are non-negotiable.

Countryman B3

Priced at approximately $200, the Countryman B3 is known for its tiny size and excellent sound quality. Despite its small form factor, it provides a full and natural sound, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including theater, film, and broadcast.

The B3 is also available in different color options to match skin tones or clothing for discreet use, an essential feature for on-camera talent or performers who need the microphone to blend seamlessly with their appearance. Its versatility and durability make it a go-to choice for professionals who require a reliable and unobtrusive microphone that can deliver superior audio quality in various settings.

Premium Range: $500 and Above

Premium Lavalier microphones offer the best in audio quality, durability, and versatility, often used in top-tier broadcast and film production. These microphones are built to the highest standards, ensuring exceptional performance in the most demanding environments.

Sennheiser MKE 2 Gold

This premium microphone costs around $500 and is a gold standard in the industry. It offers exceptional audio clarity, capturing every detail of the sound source with precision. The MKE 2 Gold is built to withstand harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures and high humidity, making it suitable for live television, theater, and high-end film production.

Its robust construction ensures long-term durability, while its compact design allows for discreet placement. Professionals in the industry rely on the Sennheiser MKE 2 Gold for its unparalleled audio quality and reliability, making it a top choice for critical applications where sound quality cannot be compromised.

DPA 4060

With a price tag of approximately $600, the DPA 4060 is renowned for its pristine audio quality and rugged design. It features a wide dynamic range and a flat frequency response, capturing sound with incredible accuracy and detail. The 4060 is used in high-profile broadcasting, film, and stage productions where sound quality cannot be compromised.

Its robust construction can handle the demands of professional use, including rough handling and challenging environments. The DPA 4060 is highly regarded among audio professionals for its ability to deliver transparent and natural sound, making it an invaluable tool in the arsenal of top-tier audio engineers and sound designers.

Final Note

Lavalier microphones come in a wide range of prices and features, catering to various needs and budgets. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an affordable option or a professional seeking top-tier audio quality, there is a lavalier microphone that fits your requirements.

By understanding the different price categories and what they offer, you can make an informed decision and choose the best Lavalier microphone for your needs. Each price range offers different advantages, from basic functionality to advanced features, ensuring that there’s a suitable option for every user, regardless of their level of expertise or application.