In all cases, the microphone element is at the end of a miniature “boom” or flexible arm that allows positioning close to the mouth. Again, an omnidirectional element can be positioned slightly behind or at the side of the mouth while the unidirectional type should be at the side or in front and aimed toward the mouth.
The main advantages of the headworn microphone over the lavalier are greatly improved gain before feedback and a more consistent sound level.
The increase in gain before feedback can be as much as 15-20 dB. This is completely due to the much shorter microphone-to-mouth distance compared to lavalier placement. The headworn can nearly rival a handheld type in this regard.
In addition, the sound level is more consistent than with the lavalier because the headworn microphone is always at the same distance to the mouth no matter which way the user may turn his head.
Good techniques for headworn microphone usage include:
• Do observe proper placement and orientation.
• Do adjust for secure and comfortable fit.
• Don’t allow microphone element to touch face.
• Do use pop filter as needed, especially for unidirectional.
• Do adjust vocal “dynamics” to compensate for fixed mouth-to-microphone distance.
(Copyright Shure Incorporated, used by permission.)