Where to clip a lavalier mic, and how to stop clothing noise
A clip-on mic only sounds as good as where you put it. Get the placement right and most audio problems never happen.
By the Mini Mic Pro team · Updated
The 6–8 inch rule
Clip the mic 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) below your mouth, around the middle of your chest or on your collar. Closer, and you’ll hear breaths and pops. Much lower, and your voice gets thin while the room gets louder.
Pick the right side
If you’ll turn your head toward someone or something (an interviewer, a second camera, a product you’re showing), clip the mic on that side. That keeps your mouth pointed at the mic as you turn.
Stop rustling and clothing noise
- Keep the mic clear of zips, buttons, jewellery, lanyards and hair.
- Clip it to fabric that doesn’t move much: a collar, a placket or a shirt front, not a loose scarf.
- Avoid stiff or synthetic fabrics brushing over the mic; they’re the loudest.
- Run the clip so the mic faces up toward your mouth.
Use the right windscreen
- Indoors: the foam cover. It softens breaths and pops.
- Outdoors: the furry windscreen. It’s the only thing that really stops wind rumble.
- Muffled or “underwater” sound usually means the cover is on too tight or is damp. Seat it loosely and let it dry.
Lost a windscreen or clip? Replacement parts are free; you only pay shipping.
Questions
How far from your mouth should a lavalier mic be?
About 6–8 inches (15–20 cm), usually on the collar or mid-chest.
Should I hide the lav mic under my shirt?
Only if you have to. Under clothing, fabric rubs against the mic and muffles it. Clipped on the outside, facing up, sounds best.
Why does my lavalier mic sound muffled?
Usually the windscreen is too tight or damp, or the mic is under clothing. Seat the cover loosely, keep it dry, and clip the mic on the outside.