Released 28 Sep 2015, Last Updated 08 Apr 2022
Take a cursory glance at some of the technological innovations of today. Many, such as Wi-Fi, a raft of computer peripherals and a whole host of electronic gadgets sell themselves as 'wireless', negating the need for obtrusive cables and suchlike. Microphones are no different, but how does a cable, or lack thereof, affect the way a microphone performs, if at all?
With such a broad range of recording microphones on the market, some with cables and others without, it can be difficult to know which to plump for. Let's take a look at those that lack cables - what are their advantages, and how can they help us achieve our recording and amplifying goals?
By far the most obvious advantage of using a wireless microphone is the fact that the user can move unimpeded when performing. A singer or public speaker using a this device will be able to wander freely around the performing area, including getting in among the audience, without loss of sound quality.
It's not just that we can move as we wish with a wireless microphone. Moreover, we can do so without fear of tripping - if there are no wires, the chances of this happening are markedly reduced.
Whether we're performing in front of a camera or before hundreds of people inside an auditorium, the less cables that are visible to our audience, the better the experience for them it will be. This is because it gives a 'clean' look to proceedings, meaning that viewers will not be distracted by the presence of wires when watching your visual recording or presentation.
Cabled microphones that are used frequently can very often suffer from frayed wires, especially if they are cheaply made. Therefore, the cord will need to be intermittently replaced or repaired as it becomes damaged, lest it become hazardous. In extreme circumstances, the cable can disconnect from the amplifier itself, causing unnecessary embarrassment and an unwanted break in proceedings.
Let's take a quick look one of the most common types of wireless microphone, the handheld.
As their name suggests, handheld microphones are clutched in the grasp of the speaker or singer. One of their biggest advantages is the fact that the distance between mouth and microphone can be physically altered at will and with ease, meaning that volume and fidelity can also change. Hence, a number of special audio effects can be achieved, whether it's a higher emphasis on certain key words or for the artistic leanings of a performing vocalist.