Project’s Best: 5 Microphone Types for Video Making and Streaming

Filmmakers, vloggers, streamers, or any video content creator have always been passionate about creating videos for their viewers. Furthermore, editing is also one of the essential things in the process. But imagine working all day and discovering your video project doesn’t have sound? It’s a complete hassle trying to reshoot some or try to dub scenes. That also means you have to put extra effort into matching your voiceover to the original video. 

Thus, we must provide the best appropriate tools for our projects. Having some great cameras and an incredible lighting setup is great. But topping it with the right gear like a camera microphone is even better. This can be a great way to pair a high-quality visual and good audio in one! 

It is essential to understand the different microphone types. That is to help you record audio better while streaming and simplify your editing process. The primary goal of a microphone is to convert acoustic energy into electrical signals. No doubt that using one can be of great advantage to make use in recording. Read more to learn about the different microphones you can use for your video projects and streaming.

1. Handheld Mics

These are also often called stick mics. Many are probably familiar with this microphone. Handheld mics are commonly seen in concerts or probably used by field reporters. Compared to other microphones, handheld mics are portable and very durable to use. Furthermore, it is also a helpful tool made for rough and challenging environments. 

This can be the best microphone type to use especially when making content about doing interviews outdoors. Using this microphone, asking people about random questions, experiences, and opinions can show and relay authenticity to the clips. 

2. Lavalier Microphone

Lavalier or lapel microphones are tiny things you see that are clipped on clothes. You can attach these mics by attaching them with pins, magnets, and even tapes. Because lavalier mics are too tiny, they sometimes go unnoticed and are favored by many. If you want to also go in style while streaming, you don’t have to worry much! Although lapel mics commonly come in black, they are also available in white, beige, and brown.

When using lavalier mics, it is more effective to use a windscreen. This can be effective in minimizing wind noises from the surroundings. As mentioned, you can place them over the clothes, but you can also place them underneath. It should still sound fine as long as you don’t have multiple layers of clothes over the mic. If you are still confused, various camera mic brands are available in stores or online.

3. Shotgun Microphone

Shotgun mics are long and skinny. This is probably the most favorite mic type for TV sets and movies. Commonly, they are also popular because of their versatility in any other situation. Unlike any other camera mics, the shotgun mic is not directly attached to the subject. Most of the time, it is handled with a crew member or assistant. 

This mic can be an advantage as the one holding it can make adjustments anytime. Therefore, it is also important to ask someone with enough experience to carry it appropriately. This is crucial to keep the mic out of the frame and get the needed audio. The mic is commonly placed overhead but putting it below also works fine if required. 

4. Condenser Microphone

If you are finding the best high-quality mics for podcasts, voiceover, or streaming, the condenser mic is probably your best choice. When it comes to price, this type of mic is more expensive compared to other mics. But you won’t surely regret the money you spent because of its great performance! Furthermore, it also provides clearer single-source audio recordings you’ll surely enjoy!

5. Desktop Microphone

One of the most popular microphones for YouTubers and streamers is the desktop microphone. These mics are commonly used for interviews or monologues. A desktop microphone is also a budget-friendly choice! But you don’t have to worry much about the quality. This microphone type can provide outstanding studio-level performance.

You surely have seen these types of mic sitting on the desk of your favorite late-night show host. To effectively use this microphone, you need to plug it into a mixing board to achieve its optimum performance. Furthermore, it also provides a dynamic range and low electronic noise that would surely help give an excellent audio quality!

Takeaway

Whatever video projects you are up to, enough knowledge about the different tools is needed. Thus, it is also vital to understand and learn about the different microphone types. Knowing their differences and what their uses are is an advantage. This is mainly to provide the best audio for your quality videos. 

There are many other available mic types you can consider. Reading information about these different types can also be helpful in your decision-making. Don’t waste the entire shoot you have built just because of one faulty piece of equipment. Use the best and expect the best outcome for your projects too!