Recording high-quality audio is equally as crucial as capturing high-quality video. For some reason, it is more frequently disregarded than what we see with our eyes. When done correctly, you might not even feel it. It won't be obvious to your audience until it sounds bad. And they will have an impression that the overall video is of low quality. So here comes the question: if you want to stay mobile, what could be the best wireless lavalier microphone for Mac? In this post, we will discuss some key factors to consider.
Select the suitable frequency band: VHF, UHF or 2.4GHz explained
Wireless lavalier microphone needs a frequency band to send signals. To summarize, the FCC regulates frequency bands in the US. The wireless spectrum is significantly bigger, but in general, the frequencies authorized for wireless microphones are as follows:
- Low-band VHF 49-108 MHz
- High-band VHF 169-216 MHz
- Low-band UHF 450-806 MHz
- High-band UHF 900-960 MHz
- 2.4GHz band 2.400 GHz - 2.483 GHz
Is it better to use VHF, UHF, or 2.4GHz? This is an important subject. While there are many technical aspects to each, such as wavelength properties, these are the essentials basics:
- The full spectrum is shared by a variety of users and devices.
- Interference can occur with any transmission type, whether analog or digital.
Low-band VHF 49-108 MHz
Except for assistive listening equipment and walkie-talkies, this frequency range is not suitable for serious wireless applications. It is susceptible to interference among other things.
High-band VHF 169-216 MHz
This frequency range has less interference than low-band VHF, making it preferable. It works best in narrow spaces or when you have a clear line of sight. Additionally, it can penetrate thinner barriers and is adequate for automotive use, but it performs best over shorter distances.
Low-band UHF 450-806 MHz
This is without a doubt the greatest frequency band for wireless systems. It provides the most channels, the broadest dynamic range, the best power output over VHF, and the greatest range. UHF wireless equipment can also be considerably smaller in size. While susceptible to interference, it suffers the least and is most effective at penetrating barriers.
High-band UHF 900-960 MHz
The features of this frequency range are comparable to those of low-band UHF, however there are fewer channels available. The typical wireless frequency range in the United States is 941–960 MHz.
2.4 GHz band 2.400 GHz - 2.483 GHz
If you are keen on simple operation and relatively low price, the 2.4GHz one can be the best wireless lavalier microphone for Mac. 2.4 GHz chips do not utilize FM modulation and are digital, making them less prone to the intermodulation aberrations that afflict multi-channel UHF FM systems. Professional grade microphones have their modulation and circuitry optimized to reduce latency to acceptable levels.
Make careful to take notice of the frequency band before purchasing if you reside in the United States. The 2.4 GHz and VHF bands are unaffected, however, when buying low-band UHF, make sure the frequency range is below 600 MHz. The ideal range is 470–600 MHz. You will undoubtedly experience interference if you choose to use wireless in the 600 MHz frequency range, and doing so is against the law. Starting in July 2020, the FCC may impose a fine.
[Want to know more about the differences? Check the article Wireless microphone systems: UHF or 2.4 GHz?]
Diversity - It enables wireless microphone for Mac to avoid audio dropouts
Diversity refers to the microphone's capacity to fend off dropouts. You need a robust wireless microphone to resist these disruptions and provide you with a clean audio output since indirect waves will always be present in the location where you are recording. A decent microphone will also include a switch that automatically detects the signal strength and adjusts to it. A diverse microphone also allows you to eliminate reception noise and avoid data loss.
Frequency agility - Offers various frequency paths
Your wireless microphone for Mac should feature high-frequency agility. It can assist you in taking use of a variety of frequency pathways. You can also utilize various wireless devices in a space where there are a lot of conflicting signals. Additionally, it improves smooth signal transmissions and reception. The intermodulation is reduced as well.
Reliability - Long running time is a must
High price doesn’t always lead to the best wireless device. The best one should have low dropout, low static, and low-noise features. Meanwhile, it is better to be built with a large capacity battery that ensures you make nonstop recordings without pausing to charge it.
Frequency response - Pick the range according to recording purpose
It refers to a measurement of the audio frequencies that a wireless lavalier microphone for Macbook Pro responds to the most. This is generally stated in Hertz (Hz). Each model will have a different frequency response, so consider how you want to use it. For example, if you merely want to capture spoken word, you only need a microphone with decent reproduction down to about 75Hz. Most people's speaking voices are not any lower than that. Many audio engineers, on the other hand, believe that correct reproduction of frequencies up to and above 15,000Hz (15kHz) is critical for good intelligibility and a sense of clarity of the spoken word.
Included accessories - Pick a cost-effective wireless lapel microphone for Mac
Accessories are also important. A mic windshield works to stop strong winds from hitting the mic and causing undesirable noise. They're especially useful when you're recording outside and want to capture ambient noise with little distortion. Wireless lavalier microphone set usually include some necessary accessories in the package. For example, the SYNCO G3 offers necessary cables and adapters for simple connection to different filmmaking devices. A windshield is also included to avoid impact from wind noises. Remember to check the package list and decide which is the most cost-effective.
Tips for making your Mac videos look more professional
Besides investing in the best wireless lavalier microphone for Mac to capture crisp and clear audio, you can make your video even better by paying attention to the following details.
- Make use of ample light. Using enough well-positioned lights makes your video look professional. Poor lighting will break any other aspect that you do well in the video.
- Make the background plain. When filming, choose your background carefully. A cluttered or distracting backdrop makes you appear unprofessional.
- Pick an effective program for editing videos. You may create amazing videos from your raw material with the aid of good video editing tools.
- Make editing straightforward. While video editing, experimenting with various effects may be enjoyable, but don't overdo it. In general, a straightforward, clean editing approach presents the best.
- Use a variety of angles when shooting. A nice (and easy) approach to add visual interest to your skilled videos is to cut from one perspective to another.
- Arrange your videos ahead of time. Start each video you create by stating what it is for. Create a storyboard and a script. Then make any necessary revisions to make them as wonderful as you can.