Studio mics have their importance and have the same fame. Yet, wireless microphone systems are common in today's communication. Beyond music, these mics are key for sending voice to ears. Boom Operator records sound on a film set from movies and TV to news, work, and school. Trip-over cables or getting tangled with the use of wired microphones are common problems. Wired mics often have long cords and are hard to handle while recording the film on a shooting set. It can be difficult to handle them when the actors move a lot.

Also, Wired microphones are sometimes not easy to use. They are sometimes not practical, and using them is sometimes not possible. Today, wireless microphones are cheap and flexible. But if you are new to wireless microphones, there is a bit to learn.

In this blog post, we will discuss what wireless microphones are and their working principles. We will then explore the different types of microphones. Finally, we will explain the use of wireless microphones in various professional fields. Let's start reading.

What Is A Wireless Microphone?

A wireless microphone, also called a cordless microphone, is a microphone that sends sound signals without using wires. It gives freedom to move and gets rid of the trouble of messy cords.

Working Principle Of Wireless Microphones

Wireless microphones work by changing sound waves into radio signals. These microphones send those signals through the air and change them into sound. Here is the detailed explanation:

Sound Waves Converted to Electrical Signals

Wired microphones start by changing sound waves into an electrical signal. When the sound waves reach the microphone, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate back and forth. So, a part (diaphragm) shakes when sound waves hit it. The diaphragm is joined to a wire coil in a magnet. As the diaphragm shakes, it moves the coil in the magnet, making a small electric current.

The diaphragm produces the electrical current, which travels down the microphone cable to an amplifier or recording device. Condenser microphones work this way.

Microphone Sends Radio Signals

The electrical signal from the microphone is sent to a small radio sender. The sender can be part of your microphone or attached to the user (bodypack sender). The sender puts the sound signal onto a radio wave, which is then sent through the air. It is like how a radio station sends its signal.

Receiver Picks Up Radio Signals

A receiver connected to a sound system or recording device picks up the radio wave the microphone sends. The receiver extracts the sound signal from the radio wave. The receiver then sends the sound signal to the sound system or recording device, where it can be made louder and played back or recorded.

Types Of Microphones

Choosing the right type of microphone, which is widely available at Delenzo Mart, is crucial for capturing professional audio. Whether you're a performer, presenter, or content creator, you need professional audio. So, the following are the types of microphones and their applications. 

Handheld Mics

The first is your normal stage microphone—usually a dynamic or condenser type. These will usually have a transmitter built into them, making them easy to set up and move around with. The Audio Technica ATR2100x USB is a good example of a useful handheld wireless mic. You'll find them used by everyone from stage performers to reporters to teachers.

Applications Of Handheld Mics

• Film/TV Production Crew

• Voice Actors

• Podcasters

Headset Mics 

As the name suggests, headsets are worn on the head, often over the ear. A simple arm of the headset mic puts the capsule near your mouth. Headsets – like the RØDE HS2 are very helpful when people are in loud places. They are also helpful when people are moving around. The mic stays the same distance from the mouth and lets the user be hands-free. Headset microphones, like Lavalier microphones, connect to a small belt pack device. A belt pack is a transmitter you often wear on a belt or attach to your clothes with clips.

Professional People Who Widely Use Headset Mics

• Singers

• Musicians

• Voice Actors

• Podcasters

Lavalier­ Microphones

Lavalier­ Also called 'lav' or 'lapel' mics, lavalier microphones are small and not easy to see. They are made to be clipped onto the clothes of the person talking. Being close to the mouth gives them a good signal. It also eliminates many problems with getting good sound with a shotgun or on-camera mics. Actors, Interviewees, Voiceover artists, & Presenters use the Lavalier mics while recording the dialogues. These mics are helpful when a visible mic doesn't match what is being filmed. Or sometimes, when the professionals need their hands free. 

Rode Lavalier GO Microphone is the best option when buying a Lavalier mic.

Applications Of Lavalier­ Microphones

• Singers/Musicians

• Voice Actors

• Podcasters

• Broadcasters

• Film/TV Production Crew

Shotgun Microphones 

Shotgun microphones are important for getting clear dialogue on set. They are very useful in loud places, and many boom operators use them. Shotgun microphones separate actors' voices from background noise in news reporting. They are also used in field interviews. They get clear audio of the subject while cutting ambient sounds. Podcasters use shotgun microphones in podcasting setups to get a focused sound. They lower unwanted room noise in voiceover recording. Audio engineers use shotgun microphones in film sets, live events, and studio recordings.

Professional Industries Who Uses Shotgun Microphones The Most

• Voice Actors

• Podcasters

• Audio Engineers

• Broadcasters

• Sound Designers

• Film/TV Production Crew

Uses Of Wireless Microphone Systems For Various Professional Fields

Wireless microphones are versatile because they are crucial to many professional fields:

Filmmaking, Streaming & Broadcasting

Filmmakers, broadcasters, and vloggers have adopted wireless mic technology. It is particularly true for those outside of feature films. These include budding videographers, content creators, video journalists, and streamers. There are a few reasons for this. One stands out above the rest. Handheld mics don't look great stuck in front of a person's face.

Education And Events

Wireless mics are beneficial in educational environments. They allow teachers, lecturers, and guest speakers to move freely. They can engage with students and reference material using their hands. Educational institutions use recordings for live streaming and repeat viewing. You will find recording devices used in most educational institutions across the world.  

Live Performance

Stage performers often need to use their hands, and traditional mics are a no-go in these situations. Whether it's for a rock show or a musical, wireless headset mics allow freedom of movement. They also reduce the risk of tripping over cables. For large-scale performances, wireless mics reduce the size of cable looms and runs.

Wrapping Up

Wireless microphone systems give freedom to the users to move and get rid of messy cables. They are important tools in many professional fields. These professional fields include movies and TV, teaching, and live shows. These systems make sound capture better and improve work. Knowing the different kinds of wireless microphones and their applications is very important. It lets professionals pick the best choice for what they need.

FAQs

How Do Boom Operators Reduce Noise And Improve Sound Quality With Wireless Mics?

Their microphones should be as close as possible to the subject. They should remain out of the camera's frame. Boom operators must use the shock mounts to isolate the microphone from vibrations. These shock mounts may handle the noise from the surroundings.

What Are Alternatives To Wireless Microphones For Capturing Sound For Youtubers?

Following are some of the alternatives to the Wireless Microphones:

• Boom microphones

• Lavalier microphones

• Shotgun microphones

Which Wireless Mic Frequencies Best Avoid Interference On Busy Film Sets?

470-608 MHz is the range of frequency usually seen as the best for wireless microphones. This range gives a good balance of distance and protection from interference.

Are The Sound Quality And Reliability Of Wireless Microphones Consistently Improving?

Yes, wireless microphones' sound quality and reliability have been improving. Audio compression technologies (Codecs) have become more efficient while cutting latency.