Pro Lavalier Microphones - My Impressions On Seven Pro Lavalier Mics

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Күн бұрын

In today’s episode, I give you my impressions on seven different pro level lavalier microphones I’ve used, including the Sanken COS-11D, Voice Technologies VT500, Countryman B6, Shure TwinPlex TL-47, Shure TwinPlex TL-48, and the Sennheiser MKE2.
Index:
01:14 What's special about pro-level lavalier microphones
05:39 Sanken COS-11D
08:34 Voice Technologies VT500
10:53 Countryman B6
14:04 DPA 4160
15:51 Shure Twinplex (TL47 & TL48)
21:37 Which is the best? (spoiler - none. Each fit different situations)
#Microphone #Lavalier #Pro
You can find audio samples from these microphones here:
Shure Twinplex (with samples of DPA and Countryman as well): • Shure TwinPlex Lavalie...
Voice Technologies VT500: • Voice Technologies VT5...
Sanken COS-11D: • The Army Nurse | Short... (The doctor’s voice)
Sanken COS-11D (used during review of Tascam DR-10L): • Tascam DR-10L Micro Re...
Countryman B6: • Countryman B6 Lavalier...
Sennheiser MKE2 (review of AVX with MKE2): • Sennheiser AVX Wireles...
If you’d like to learn how to make great dialogue audio for your film and video projects, please have a look at my courses at school.learnlightandsound.com including processing dialogue audio in Adobe Audition and DaVinci Resolve/Fairlight, recording sound, how to use the Zoom F4, F8, and F8n, and how to get the most from the Sound Devices MixPre series of recorders.
Gear used or mentioned in this episode. The links below are Amazon.com, B&H Photo, or other affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases:
- Sanken COS-11D - B&H bhpho.to/2SaTx7W
- Voice Technologies VT500 - B&H bhpho.to/2umIRtM
- Countryman B6 - B&H bhpho.to/31Epqsv
- Shure TwinPlex TL-47 - B&H bhpho.to/2SbkxUP
- Shure TwinPlex TL-48 - B&H bhpho.to/2vWL5jK
- Sennheiser MKE2 - B&H bhpho.to/2SrDIsc
- Shure SM7B Dynamic Broadcast Microphone - B&H bhpho.to/2NTUZHi
- Sound Devices MixPre II Series - B&H bhpho.to/37gxPDO
- Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Switcher - B&H bhpho.to/2TefeEZ
- Panasonic GH5 Camera used for most B-Roll shots - B&H bhpho.to/2UNeAA0 Amazon geni.us/POEv7
- Olympus 45mm f/1.8 Micro 4/3 Lens - B&H bhpho.to/2wMxVDs Amazon geni.us/6cvOQ
- Panasonic 12-35mm f/2.8 OIS Lens - B&H bhpho.to/2i6s2gv Amazon geni.us/QXvPz8b
DEITY microdot to 3.5mm adapter: B&H bhpho.to/3bM4Yve
Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: geni.us/G7by
Copyright 2020, Curtis Judd

Пікірлер: 684

@youngrippa59 4 жыл бұрын

I was JUST looking at new lavalier's so big thanks for this video. I've bought a lot of my equipment based on your assessments

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

I hope this helps. Best wishes!

@Nickporter17 4 жыл бұрын

But did you use the affiliate link? 😁🤑

@anitanirmal27 3 жыл бұрын

Which mic did you bought

@beavis8073 3 жыл бұрын

Eyyyy, its Rippa!

@fakecubed 3 жыл бұрын

I can tell from your attitude that you are a true professional and I appreciate your impressions, and the specifics you went into. As always, use the best tool for the job! I'll definitely be giving your other videos some views. Thanks for making this content.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks fakecubed!

@KenRuan 4 жыл бұрын

BEEN WAITING DECADES FOR THIS FROM YOU!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Glad we finally delivered!

@alexanderlyon 3 жыл бұрын

Hi again, Curtis. Just bought the Sanken (to use straight into my Tascam DR10L) through the link in the description. I'm pumped, man. Thanks for all of your educational help over the past several years. I really love your channel and I'm happy to see your success.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Alex. I hope it works well for you!

@XIGuyIX Жыл бұрын

Hi Curtis, just want to say you're the man and you are an extremely underrated youtuber. You're the mature persons youtuber. There's no flashy gimmicks, no stupid 3D intros with loud obnoxious music and insincere hyperbolic yelling into the camera. We appreciate you Curtis! Thanks for all the great advice.

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

Thank you 🙏

@CreatingMusicandSound Жыл бұрын

I agree with this comment 🙏🏻

@superemesean5907 4 ай бұрын

You sound a bit homosexual if you ask me

@D4Darious 4 жыл бұрын

Very nice overview!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for checking it out!

@Meneerbramschrijft 4 жыл бұрын

I have literally been waiting on a video like this! Thanks a lot, Curtis!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@sidehop 3 жыл бұрын

It's honestly so hard to find good quality reviews that aren't biased (Google search is a perfect example of such awful results) so thank you for these! It's refreshing to hear from someone that's been in the field and is a professional for newbies like us to understand even new information lav mic's components and how and why they work with various attachments! And the more I look at your desk, I'm like is that a bamboo top?! 😅

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Nek0.

@ezrashanti Жыл бұрын

It is bamboo.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

This is an overview of the lavalier microphones I have used - not meant to be comprehensive and not intentionally leaving out any options. There are just so many microphones I haven't had a chance to use just yet. Many have asked about the Tram TR50. Seems like a great mic, just haven't had a chance to use it. Same with many others. Index: 01:14 What's special about pro-level lavalier microphones 05:39 Sanken COS-11D 08:34 Voice Technologies VT500 10:53 Countryman B6 14:04 DPA 4160 15:51 Shure Twinplex (TL47 & TL48) 21:37 Which is the best? (spoiler - none. Each fit different situations)

@soundspeedinggh.5739 4 жыл бұрын

hi curtis, my name is cepha, I'm a location sound mixer living in Ghana. i have worked on some couple of documentaries, movies etc.I have been following your KZfaq channel and it's been very helpful. please I need your help in choosing a a replacement lav mic for my sennheiser G3 and a mic for indoor dialogues. I currently use sennheiser mkh 416 p48 and zoom f4 recorder. 1. Between Samson C02 and senal SCI- 3212MP which of these mics will you recommend for indoor dialogues. 2. countryman B3 and senal UTM-86-35H lab mics which of these will you recommend as a good replacement. thank you.

@davidstyv2842 4 жыл бұрын

On the theme of lavaliers, i would love to hear your advice on a wireless setup including lavaliers that provides the most reliable signal/quality to record sound on the move outdoor. Lavaliers positionned on cyclists and sound recorded from a car following and shooting. We tested Rode's wireless kit and wireless go, but signal strength and quality have proved unpredictably unreliable. have you experienced products suited for this type of use? distance could vary from 15 to 100m. hopefully you get to see this message.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Cepha, I haven't used the Senal microphones yet, but when I do, I'll have a review of them here. Sorry I couldn't help more and best wishes!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

You may need to move up into the UHF pro or prosumer systems like the Sennheiser G4 or Sony UWPD systems to keep connected in those situations. You're pushing the limits of any of the consumer systems.

@LProds 4 жыл бұрын

Dpa 4061, you should try it too

@MEGATestberichte 2 жыл бұрын

Best video i have seen on that topic so far, i love the technical insights.

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@nathanksimpson 4 жыл бұрын

I'd love to see some of the narrative projects you work on! The one you showed was a really great example of how you can tell a story with just two characters on a very low budget.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

I'd like to show more of them. Over on the Uphill Cinema channel we have several shorts and we have another one in post presently. I also did production sound (not post) on this one: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/hqqThaqQ0dXRdXU.html

@anthonyrude 3 жыл бұрын

Whats the link to that vid?

@peterbrown4333 4 жыл бұрын

As usual, great tutorial video Curtis.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Peter.

@GriffinConway 4 жыл бұрын

Another great one Curtis. Always love the amount of detail that goes in to your videos. Thank you for sharing!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Griffin! I've got your C500 review in my watch later list. Can't wait to check it out.

@GriffinConway 4 жыл бұрын

Curtis Judd awesome glad to hear that. Thank you Curtis!

@TheAaronwai 3 жыл бұрын

very informative, something I never thought about before watching your vlog. Thanks !

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Lung Wai.

@envisiotube 2 жыл бұрын

Very professional, it's refreshing that you have a no-nonse/no-blabla approach.

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, I appreciate that. I received another comment the other day that my videos were good but boring. LOL! I guess that person wants a goofy salesperson to present instead. 🤷‍♂

@huyked 4 жыл бұрын

An all-in-one resource. You rock, Curtis! 14:35 Oh, that is very sly. Nice! :D

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks huyked!

@RasDoesBushcraftBackcountry 4 жыл бұрын

was just looking at upgrading my documentary sound kit, awesome stuff brother. Cheers. Ras

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ras!

4 жыл бұрын

Very nice review ! It was very informative to see kind of best boom mic they would cut more with. Actually in the mixing process we would not only switch from one mic to another but most of the time offset the phase of the lav to match perfectly with sample accuracy the waveform of the boom and add them together to add more clarity. I have had Sanken COS-11D for years and just witched for Sennheiser MKE1 (kind of the same as MKE2), for more clarity and more flexibility to hide.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Benoit!

@keithbrueton5435 4 жыл бұрын

Great review Curtis. I'm on a huge learning curve made ultra easy by your reviews :)

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks K!

@lincolnmicrophonellc 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the content as always!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@Naturlover785 Жыл бұрын

Great Review! That‘s a massiv help and saves a lot of time! Thank you Curtes!

@curtisjudd 7 ай бұрын

👍

@leoquesto9183 4 жыл бұрын

@CurtisJudd This is an excellent overview of these lavs. Love seeing the comparisons. Great work. Thank you.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Leo.

@NabilKhanVisuals 3 жыл бұрын

Great video as always! The tinted glasses are very cool btw :D

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Nabil.

@patrickpaganini 4 жыл бұрын

Another excellent video. Really interesting - thanks very much.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Patrick.

@lorageproductions 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Curtis, Thanks so much for your insights.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

👍

@mikeege7643 4 жыл бұрын

Curtis, I'm new to the world of video/audio production. My goals include real estate (virtual tours & virtual open houses) as well as KZfaq videos such as yours where I can reach out to my senior and out of state clients. I can't thank you enough for taking the time to make these videos. I wasn't sure if it made sense for me to try to learn about the technology involved, but with your guidance I believe I can do this. Thanks again, Mike

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Mike, Thanks so much for the feedback and best wishes on your recordings!

@JohnBrazile 3 жыл бұрын

Very helpful. Going to get the Shure TL47

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

I hope it works well for you!

@Tiborkanal Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this! Very helpful!

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

🙏

@maclalacombe 3 жыл бұрын

Man!!!! Thanks for this video!! Helps me a lot!

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

👍 You're most welcome!

@maytsehay7924 2 жыл бұрын

Phenomenal video! Thank you so much!

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, May.

@boihippi 4 жыл бұрын

Watching Allen's review on the Deity W.Lav Pro I'm impressed with the sound quality. I currently love my DPA 4060 lav.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@CreatingMusicandSound Жыл бұрын

Excellent review thank you 🙏🏻

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

👍

@LotharRadscheid 4 жыл бұрын

love it..... Audio makes so much fun

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@MadScientistProspecting 4 жыл бұрын

Another great useful video.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mad Scientist Prospecting!

@alexanderwelsh 4 жыл бұрын

u god of microphones! u knowledge is awesome! THANK YOU! SIR!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Alexander!

@WoM 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Curtis, I've been filming with a Giant Squid lav for years now as you can hear in my videos. I want to upgrade but I'm torn between a shotgun or better lavalier. My home studio is a basic apartment small bedroom and I use the Zoom H5. My dilemma has been that I don't have a deep/strong voice hence heavy post production. Previously I figured that for a smaller budget, a lav would be better since it's closer to my mouth, but now I'm looking for something still under $1k but that would be the best for my situation. Seems out of the Lavs here the countrymen would be best for me, but what would you recommend? Should I finally get a shotgun mic.? Thanks for all the info!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

I think it depends a lot on the room in which you're recording. Sometimes, in small rooms with a lot of hard reflective surfaces, a lav will often sound better than a boom mic. So I'd first consider your recording space. If it does have a lot of audio bouncing off of walls, floors, ceilings, and even computer screens, then a it may be better to stick with a lavalier. Best wishes!

@WoM 4 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Thanks again Curtis!

@spielundzeug 4 жыл бұрын

What Mic would you recommend as the most sturdy and foolproof when it comes to wearing it under a shirt? I need a lav for filming myself in KZfaq videos but can’t monitor myself. I have a deep boomy voice if that makes a difference 😀

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

I'd give the VT500 a try.

@Shauny_D 3 жыл бұрын

I’d love to see a video from you about different ways to mic people up. Especially in tricky situations, but corporate, men, women, sweat, hair, tapes, etc.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Here's one: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/iN6ThN1lu6yriHU.html We had some issues with the connection, but the content from Simon is good.

@MrPhilbautista 4 жыл бұрын

Great comparo. Would also love to see you do one on budget lavs for the passion producers and budding youtubers. I’m sure someone of your stature would have no problem getting a bunch of them sent to you for review

@MrPhilbautista 4 жыл бұрын

Sorry. I meant to ask for a comparo on budget wireless lav mics. I caught your comparo on budget lav mics and was kinda disappointed at the lack of recommendations but that is the one thing I like about your show. You really don’t make an effort to pimp anyone’s gear and don’t come off as a shill. More power to you and keep up the good work

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Yes, it is a tough line to walk because many people would like a simple answer - which microphone should I get. Unfortunately, that’s not an easy question to answer because there are so many factors I don’t know about each person who asks that question and there is no perfect microphone or wireless system.

@alantuttphotography 4 жыл бұрын

You brought up a great point about non-actors being uncomfortable getting mic'd up sometimes. Most KZfaq videos showing how to hide mics seem to focus on working with professional actors/actresses who know what to expect, and almost no one has addressed how to work with non-actors. Would be great if you could show us how you approach corporate people (men and women) who aren't always comfortable getting mic'd for a video.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Alan. Depending on the corporate piece, we sometimes have to punt and use an alligator clip on the outside of the clothing. For women, I often give them instructions on how to attach the mic with an alligator clip or tape to their bra between the cups. This almost always works perfectly because then the clothing does NOT rub against the mic. For men, I usually get the mic ready with a "moleskin" sandwich and then have them place it on their sternum. This is a little trickier and requires repositioning in many cases. Will cover it in more detail in the future.

@srbh41413 4 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Would be great if you could do one on this. And agreeing with Alan Tutt that there are plenty about working with talent, but few on corporate. Do you use any of the URSA products? Thank you for the articulate videos.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

@@srbh41413 Thanks. Yes, but mostly for narrative film work, not so much for corporate. We just let the mic be in picture when we don't have time to hide it. When I do hide the mic for a corporate piece, the time is still usually very limited so I just have the talent clip the transmitter on their belt or waistband and then we hide the mic as described above. More to come.

@doubledark2 4 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd will be interesting to see especially with Covid-19 issues to deal with

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

@@doubledark2 Agreed. My thinking is that initially, I'll be sticking to boom mics exclusively.

@Just_Samson 4 жыл бұрын

Good stuff. Thanks

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@storyfrontier 4 жыл бұрын

I own the Sanken COS-11D. It's incredible. Got the boom mic richness on a lav

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

It’s a good one!

@photronic 2 жыл бұрын

Great work on 'The Army Nurse'. I've worked with Mary Hall. Small world!

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Nyk - Small world, indeed!

@HolgerReher 4 жыл бұрын

Great video. As always. 👍 Trying my best finding an own style with my own videos. But I'm just startin' on YT. Keep up the great work!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Holger and best wishes!

@HolgerReher 4 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd thank you so much!

@TZ250FANATIC 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Sir!

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

You are welcome!

@mattbba8451 Жыл бұрын

Thanks again.

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

👍

@mxcrec 3 жыл бұрын

Sanken COS-11D is the most widely used lav for TV and movie production, I think. I've seen a lot of them heavily worn out and dirty in that adhesive tape glue - but still working.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Yes, they're little tanks.

@LiveMusicOntario 4 жыл бұрын

I like that you touch on the interaction with the people you are mic'ing up. Folks might be so into the tech side of the work that they are not prepared for the human element; the prime impediment I encounter is impatience. Resistance to cooperating with the processes behind setting up sound and other gear comes into it also. They are are paying for you to be there, to give them a good production, but then they want you to stop fussing with the lavalier and body pack and get on with it. Things like that. Sometimes you're running into executives or entrepreneurs who are used to having things their way and don't like you in their space, so it might feel uncomfortable until you're rolling and they can start to do their thing on camera.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Agreed - there is a huge human element to being effective at production sound.

@eugiebear213 4 жыл бұрын

I bought a lavalier on Amazon. I didn't want to spend much and when i saw the Slint lapel for only $20 why not give it a try. Im happy with it i use it on my iphone 11 very clear, no echo.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Good!

@umbertoaguiar Жыл бұрын

Many thanks for another excellent review. I am going to get a lavaliere better than the ones I have to use with my iPhone and your review pointed to the solution: Voice Technologies. I've completely forgot about Voice Technologies what was really surprising seeing that I have a VT lavaliere ( an old model with a big battery compartment and XLR end. I can't use it with my iPhone.) and used it many times when I shot wired rather than wireless interviews. But you mentioned a VT mic and 💡! . Why I didn't think about Voice Technologies before even if I had one? Maybe because I didn't use it since the lockdown and because I was obsessed with DPA, which is the mic I really want but it's beyond my budget at the moment. An option would be the Deity Wav Pro with the Picogear transmitter (the new pro version. You can connect the transmitter to a lavaliere mic). The transmitter is so small that it might fit inside a suit /shirt/coat pocket with the mic cable so no need of 'could you please pass the cable under your shirt?" that so many interviewees feel uncomfortable about and rightly so.

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

👍

@michaelpoczynek 2 ай бұрын

You are a sound genius. Thanks again. Shopping for the perfect lav. mic. for me for a Sennheiser G3. Thinking Countryman B3 or B6. Have a great day! PS. Also thinking I need to go to the G4 now that it has been out for a while.

@curtisjudd 2 ай бұрын

If the G3 kit is still working, I’d stick with it.

@michaelpoczynek 2 ай бұрын

@@curtisjudd Thank you, Curtis. You are the best!

@BushidoPhoto 4 жыл бұрын

I have 2 Sennheiser MKE2's and couldn't be happier.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

They are classics for good reason.

@DrRussell 2 жыл бұрын

Love you Sir. You make me a better man.

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Dr Russell

@jaybcreighton Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Mr. Judd, for your years of helpful videos. I'm in the market for a new professional level lavalier microphone system. Your video is very helpful. If you or one of your viewers/subscribers can point me to one of your videos in which you take time to show the novice/newbie (me!) the most common, effective settings to use when recording educational videos using a wireless lavalier system (with a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K-6K) in an airtight, indoor studio, I would be very appreciative. One of my difficulties in this area is knowing how to use the jargon of this industry to find the resources I need. But, I'll keep looking. Thanks again, Mr. Judd. Jay Creighton

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

Hi Jay. Which wireless system are you using?

@jaybcreighton Жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd: Curtis, I'm using Sony's wireless microphone package UWP-D21. But I've emailed you about this particular issue privately and you answered my questions. Thanks, Curtis. Jay

@xiction 3 жыл бұрын

Wow I didn't know about being any to hear radio frequency interference.... I use a zoom h6 and I was so confused about what I was hearing... Great review thank you!

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

👍

@benjaminmajors7962 3 жыл бұрын

Curtis I've watched this video several times as I shop for lavalier microphones. I've come across several used Sanken COS-11D and Voice Technologies VT500 and I love the sound these mics provide. Thank you so much for giving your time and energy to provide such valuable and thorough information to all of us. Consequently, I am having an issue with the Sanken COS-11D and Voice Technologies VT500 though only while using the Rode Wireless Go and RodeLink systems. When the TRS is fully inserted, the mics pick up no sound. If I pull them out slightly - maybe 3mm or so from full insertion - they pickup sound. Given your background, surely you know whats happening here and how I can remedy the situation. I thought maybe it was a phantom power issue (which I still struggle to understand why a PP mic still works with a system that doesn't provide PP) but if PP was the issue then I suppose I would get no pickup at all. "Help me Obiwan Kenobi! You're my only hope!"

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

It would appear that they're wired for Sennheiser, but strangely, I didn't experience this issue with my Sanken COS-11D and the RODELink. Hmm. You might give Gotham Sound or Trew Audio a call and see what they suggest. Best wishes! Also one note to prevent any potential issues: lavalier microphones should never be used with phantom power (+48V) unless you're using a model with an XLR output which is specifically designed for using phantom power. 99.9% of lavaliers with a 3.5mm TRS output connector require plugin power (3-5V).

@benjaminmajors7962 3 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Very helpful Curtis. Thanks again for all you do.

@DB-js9tm 3 жыл бұрын

I have been looking at several of your videos and found them really helpful. I am trying to work out which type of microphone I should use for long videoconferencing sessions and court cases and mediations (now very commonly done over Zoom etc, so we are speaking for many hours, often over many days for a full trial/hearing) but one that works from several feet away; with the microphone out of the way/not obtrusive (the speaker may be handing lots of files/papers, turning from side to side/ reaching for papers etc), so not the typical podcaster arrangement with the microphone in the face of the speaker. The quality of the sound and the microphone being out of the way (it need not be hidden as such) are the primary issues. It seems, for example, a dynamic microphone is out of the question. So far, the only solution has been a speakerphone but I am hoping a dedicated microphone will produce a better sound (the loudspeaker element is not important). is there the same type of microphone but better standard than on a speakerphone? I have been looking at your videos on the Lavalier microphones and perhaps they offer a solution. many thanks for any thoughts or ideas.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Hi D B, a boom microphone would be my preference. This video demonstrates different types of microphones for live-streaming at a desk: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/l9hzmJeGs93biZs.html

@warrenkawamoto8660 4 жыл бұрын

Sony's ECM-77B has been around for decades, and I'm still using those in 2020.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

That's great news!

@Alpha8713 4 жыл бұрын

My favorite!

@norfilmshetland 4 жыл бұрын

23'46" well spent. Very informative, very well presented, no waffle, no BS. Many thanks! Would have been nice, though, to see the Sony ECM-77b (that staple of newsgathering) included.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks John. Just as soon as I have an opportunity to use it, will include in a future update.

@hoodaffairstv 4 жыл бұрын

I definitely need some decent lavs which I don't have yet. I like the twinplex but trying to hold out to see if those new deity lavs are going to come out soon and compete with these. Luckily I have time before I need a set of lavs to purchase 😟

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

I'm looking forward to the DEITY lavs as well.

@hakamsoufan 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

You're welcome.

@MatthewChenDirector 4 жыл бұрын

I was able to AB test the COS11-D against the DPA 4060 and the DPA was so clearly amazing (better) in comparison. Would definitely recommend that one for higher end lavs.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@Dustbrigade 4 жыл бұрын

Interesting, thanks for sharing. once I got my DPA 4060s, it's the mic I am reaching for in 95% of the cases. I have a Tram that gets used when the front facing capsule is a bonus and a ME2 as backup. But instead of getting options, I went ahead and have got myself 7 4060s and one 4061 that I could source second hand, so that multiple channels have a similair sound.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! The DPA 4060s are a really popular choice in productions work. 👍

@artofduke 4 жыл бұрын

I use the TR-50, great mic.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Popular choice for good reason. Sadly I’ve never had a chance to use one...yet.

@alvinpunk83 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Curtis, great job as usual! You made a perfect comparison between different models, with strengths and weaknesses. Few years ago I bought an Aspen Mic after I saw one of your video. Today I'm searching something affordable and more recent to replace it and to improve sound quality. Any suggestions? I'm looking the tascam tm-10lb, and I took a look to the Deity V lav (but it has too long cable for my use). I hope you can make an overview on cheap lavalier mics, you are simply the best in audio equipments reviews!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Marco, thanks. I need to spend some time looking at affordable lavaliers. I've been so busy with other things I haven't kept up. Hopefully more to come. Best wishes!

@alvinpunk83 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for answer Curtis. Sure! Obviously if you have time and you are interested. Thanks anyway for your job!

@avi8r66 4 жыл бұрын

Your reviews are terrific, presenting the various devices without the hype. Sadly the hype is what draws attention. Maybe involve a kitten? I dunno, but you deserve 100x the subscribers you have sir. Honesty and objectivity, coupled with solid competent experience and information are rare finds in this attention based economy. I recently had to mic up the president of my organization in my company. Anyone who hasn’t, if they have only worked with actors or amateur players, it’s interesting how these executives want you to make them look and sound good but you only get a fraction of the time you really want to get that done. He was doing this global meeting, 10’s of thousands on the receiving end, I was trying to get the mic placed and hidden but he kept acting like we were done every few seconds. Finally did get the wireless body pack (just my own stuff, sennheiser EWG3) on him and hidden, the mic mounted and hidden, but no time to test, he vanished as I turned my back to get my headphones. Good times. Anyway, thanks for all your reviews and comparisons, excellent resource.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Oh yes - classic scenario for those in the corporate space!

@jtdiddy3160 4 жыл бұрын

Great video Chris. Wondering why u chose to do a setup where u show ur mic instead of ur usual setup? I actually like seeing the mic on the boom

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi JT, my regular studio space is in an unheated basement and it is dead of winter. So I used this warmer space instead. Will switch back to the regular space as it warms up. 😀

@Benji_Enji 4 жыл бұрын

Hey Curtis, Can you do an update on budget Lav mics please. Some of the Lavs from your budget video are not available anymore. Love your videos. Keep up the good work!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Which mics are you looking for in such a review? :)

@Benji_Enji 4 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd I was looking for the Aputure A.lav EZ mic but it seems to be discontinued or unavailable. I really liked the sound it produced. I usually record using an H1n.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

@@Benji_Enji Ah, ok, Aputure spun off their microphone business to DEITY Microphones and replaced that mic with the Aputure V.Lav. We reviewed it here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/Y8Weg7GQntSXe5s.html

@nikkoarnado6521 3 жыл бұрын

Hey Curtis your videos are a godsend! Thanks for always posting such useful videos. What would you say are the best higher-end lav mics for the Rode Wireless Go II???

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

My preference is for the Shure Twinplex TL-48

@khageshkumar8048 10 ай бұрын

Hi, thanks for this useful information. Please recommend for a headband microphone mainly use for live singing with band (in front of loud monitors). Thank you.

@curtisjudd 6 ай бұрын

Earthworks SR117?

@shanesinclair7943 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this and all of your videos-love the objective, non-sensationalized overview. I have a couple of questions as a newbie, having scoured most of your videos: 1) can you use/do you recommend using two different brands of lav mic’s in the same shoot-ex. An interview between two people? Or 2 different actors? Does it require a lot of post production EQ to use different types of mic’s? 2) in watching your videos I am thinking about picking up a DPA 4060 for me (interviewer) and a cos 11 for an interviewee or is it better to buy a set of two of the same for my purposes, using a Rode Go wireless ii. Thanks for the vids-they really are so informative.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Shane, yes, I regularly use different lav mics for the same shoot. What I generally try to do is choose the mic which will suit a particular person’s voice best. So if someone has a rather “thin” voice without a lot of bass response and I want a bit more, I might use the Countryman B6 on them. For those with a lot of bass, I would opt instead for a DPA 4160, etc. Your plan sounds good - a DPA and Sanken should work nicely. Best wishes and happy recording!

@shanesinclair7943 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much Curtis. Really appreciate you responding.

@shanesinclair7943 2 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Hi Chris, just wanted to circle back on this conversation and say a heartfelt thanks. I went with the sanken which i really like, and also the countryman which for my voice is my favourite. Both are great IMO just a matter of which sounds best on the individual. I also wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the tone and tenor (metaphorically speaking) of your videos, the are calm and cogent, objective and evidence based.

@DiffuseMoose 3 жыл бұрын

Love this video! I need to do more research yet, but do you have any recommendation on which mic to go with to get a sound similar to the Electrovoice RE27 N/D or the Shure SM7B (which seems to be what you're using when recording this video)? I really want as close to a broadcaster microphone equivalent in the form of a lav mic as possible. I'm also looking for recommendations when it comes to which wireless kits to get to use in conjunction with any of these mics. Almost like a starter kit. I worry about picking a quality mic but getting a really awful wireless kit. Or having the wrong connectors for the mic. Any help would be appreciated! Thanks again.

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

The Countryman B6 is where I’d probably start. For wireless systems, it depends on your budget and whether you’ll be working in studio or on location and what you plan to feed the audio to from the receiver (audio recorder, camera? XLR line or 3.5mm microphone input?)

@98JamesNixon 4 жыл бұрын

I’ve been using the Sennheiser ME2 ii and have actually been really happy with the sound. We mostly use a shotgun mic when I’m filming with a team, but for my own smaller projects it’s worked really nicely. Only down side is the big head! Very hard to hide so will probably upgrade eventually

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

It does sound nice on voices without a lot of sibilance.

@KenFlanagan 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for that. It was especially helpful when you paired the lavs (eg.MKE2) with a typical shotgun to cut to (416) and treated them as a "matched" pair but I don't understand why there should be such variation in the general sound of these lavs, having tested some of them myself. I found the Cos 11 overly bright, so what overhead would match that? The MKE2 I tried had crazy cable noise. I appreciate your even handedness generally but a recommendation beyond saying that they are all good for different purposes, would be very helpful. It would be great if you could use your expertise and experience to address the likely question that most of us have, as filmmakers rather than sound recordists. If you had to pick one, with a recommended overhead, what would it be. Thanks so much for all your work.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback Ken. I agree, that would have made a more useful video. As noted the Sanken CS3e cuts nicely with the COS-11D. I believe I also called out cutting preferences with the others as well. I am sorry that I could not share more - my experience is limited to the microphones I have used but I'll keep sharing more as I learn more.

@KenFlanagan 4 жыл бұрын

Hey thanks so much for your reply. For sure manufacturers often match their sounds and thanks for calling that out but there seems to be so much needless variation between models and brands. I never really understand why neutrality and accuracy aren't paramount so that mics match more widely across brands and we just pay for build quality. I have a similar issue with headphones but I guess manufacturers feel that variation = USP and there are always niches of differentiation. What would be super useful would be to know what is used professionally, by use cases like your hobbit reference to give some in work context. TV News broadcast v film v corporate v doc. Regardless thank you so much for all your work. It's always done with such an amazingly thoughtful tone and care. Best K

@VictoriaMusicScene 4 жыл бұрын

The MKE2 is a great mic. The one thing I don't like about them is the cable. The cable has a memory. Once it gets kinked, you'll never be able to get it straight ever again. We use a bunch at the TV station I work for and some of the old ones are so kinked it's impossible to wrap the cable neatly when putting them away. The VT500 is also a great sounding mic. Not a big fan of the clips as I've found the mic is more prone to fall off since the mic just slides onto the clip and there's nothing locking the head in place.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience with them!

@tidason 3 жыл бұрын

Subscription to the channel done. As always awesome video

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jean.

@tidason 3 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd you're welcome!

@AlbertoSeconding 4 жыл бұрын

Here's the thing. I use a Purple Panda lol and don't need a pro lav. However, this was most educational and entertaining. Thank you!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Alberto! We always try to make the reviews educational. Totally understand that pro level gear isn't for every situation, so at least try to learn why the pros use it.

@lanemiddleton9 10 ай бұрын

I also have the Purple Panda, which is great for Zoom meetings. A big improvement over the stock Apple Mac Book Pro microphone

@cb5110 4 жыл бұрын

The shure twin plex was used to film the reunion of Family Matters.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

👍

@BenoitRencontre 9 ай бұрын

Amazing video, which actually captures the further away? Here I am thinking of street interviews or prank videos where you don't want to hold the mic and hand it over to the people

@curtisjudd 9 ай бұрын

They’re all about the same. Laws of physics apply.

@mariorivas7886 4 жыл бұрын

Thx Curtis, always loud and clear. Just to give some comentarios about, and a Q. What did you use to clean the wire? I have got cables destroy , I mean, cables get broken, dry, the plastic cover in Sanken and Countryman get damage easy. The wire of Voice Technologies are thinner (Kevlar) but they last by far againts the other mention. Sensitivity: I can say that the capsule of Voice Technologie are so good that it became a problem because they are to sensitive to clothe and body moisture specially in shoots done in summer or in the jungle. They really match with a Shootgun. Countryman work good in those situations. I appreciate very much your advice, and I understand that this video was concern to other subjets. best regards Mario Rivas Sound Location Mixer Peru

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Mario. To clean the cables, I use wipes called Uni Solve. I bought them at Amazon: geni.us/lmv8X0 Full disclosure - this is an affiliate link and I earn from qualifying purchases.

@avarmadillo 4 жыл бұрын

Curtis, very helpful video for those of us using or considering lavs. I do have a question. I notice you omitted the Tram TR50--the German mic. Of course, you have to limit your choices. But do you have any general remarks on it? On tests I've heard it seems to have more depth/warmth than most other mics. Any comments? PS, your videos are always so terrific....Think I'm going to get some of your merchandise. I hope they won't mind we drinking coffee out of a Teespring cup. (They spelled "tea" wrong--but I guess you can't be great at everything.) ;-)

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi William, thanks. I simply haven't had a chance to use the Tram. It seems to be voiced with a rather bright presence boost which seems common on most German engineered microphones. I'd probably consider it only for use under clothing unless someone had an extraordinarily bright voice.

@alisonjones4695 Жыл бұрын

Hey Curtis, As always, great video, very helpful. 1) I'm looking at the Sanken, would it be a good choice while standing in front of an electronic white board? IF not, any recommendations? 2) I'm recording with a Zoom H5 recorder, will the cable connect to the recorder? Will the Zoom H5 cause any problems? Thanks for providing this review.

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

Hi Alison, It should work, yes. I haven't specifically tested the COS-11D with the H5, but the XLR version of the COS-11D should certainly work.

@jeffb8824 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you again for your great content! What lav mic would you recommend to help reduce background noise when shooting outdoors (planes, lawnmowers, cars, etc)? I am using the Rode Wireless 2, and/or Tascam recorder. The dialogue is good, but I pick up a lot of noise and I use Izotope to try and remove sound. Thank you for those videos as well - they're excellent!

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

A headset mic can help if that is an option for what you're shooting. Anything which can get closer to the sound you want - dialogue - will help.

@jeffb8824 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your excellent quality work! Do you have a recommendation for an over the ear mic for senn g3 set. I bought the jk headset mic that you recommended and while it sounds good and I like that it goes over both ears , its a little large and noticeable. Do have a recommendation for outdoor fitness type videos ? I was thinking about the countryman h6. Thanks again!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Jeff, The Countryman H6 is basically their B6 lavalier in headset form. I'm a fan of the B6 so I suspect the H6 will be a winner. Best wishes!

@user-vj9xp8ps7b 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for video. Do you have video about receivers and transmitters?

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

I have this: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/m8pkopWd37-tlqM.html

@toddpretre2198 4 жыл бұрын

Great video and very helpful. What's your recommendation between the Sanken COS and the Sennheiser MKE 2? I don't know if Sanken has the filters the Sennheiser has. I nearly always hide the law under clothing. For boom I have an old Sennheiser MKH (a 3-position switch, not push buttons) but am buying the Oktava 012 for the amazing cardioid options and sound. Thank you, sir!

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Todd, good question - I'm not sure there's a clear answer. But since you work with one of the MKH microphones, the MKE-2 is probably a better fit since its voicing is similar. Best wishes!

@lubebosch 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Curtis, thanks a lot a always for your valuable insights. I would like to purchase a couple of lavs in the pro entry level which I can somehow start using as "general purpose". Which one would you suggest? I plan to use them with Sony or Rodelink wireless systems. Thanks for your feedback Luigi

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Luigi, I'd look at the Voice Technologies VT500.

@guilhermemaiolino4128 4 жыл бұрын

Very informing video as always Curtis ! But I have some questions about lavalier frequencys. Is there an optimal frequency range that I should work with ? When buying new transmitters, should I go to the farthest frequency possible from the one I already have ? Or should I stay within a certain frequency and same A or B group with both transmitters ?

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

The diversity wireless systems these days have a wide frequency range so you could go either direction. For my Audio Ltd. system, I have one transmitter in the lower range, one in the higher range.

@asmru6982 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the review! I haven’t had good luck with mics in general so I’m moving to a higher price range. But I notice you haven’t spoken on which mics are unidirectional and which are omnidirectional...?

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

ALL of these are omni-directional.

@user-bi3wp1ct1q 4 жыл бұрын

Another great video, thanks. Have you ever made a video or used the Rode Lavalier Lapel Microphone and compared it with other high-end mics or the Rode Smart Lav+ or Rode Lavalier Go? Thank you.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

No, but from my tests, the RODE Lavalier GO and smartLav+ both produce a lot more self noise than the RODE Lavalier.

@user-bi3wp1ct1q 4 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd ok thank you.

@SarahChicharro 2 жыл бұрын

This is such a great video. I learned a lot! By the way, new subscriber here! Thank you for what you do! Is the Rode Wireless Go 2 RF immunity?

@curtisjudd 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Sarah! The wireless GO II puts out plenty of RF so you’ll want to use a lavalier mic which is RF immune. All of the mics we covered here should work nicely.

@HAGFmusic 4 жыл бұрын

Like Your tests as always. But, I have used Sony ECM88 and via 48V power unit it gives solid shotgun sound, also as a lapel, it gives natural sound compared others, the new version ECM90. Please check it, if.

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

So many mics, so little time and money. I try my best. 😀

@joellouisfire 3 жыл бұрын

Amazing as always! Question - I noticed you didn't talk about the RM-11 accesory on the Sanken. How does that compared to a Bubblebee Lav Concealer? Thanks!

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Louis, I haven't used the Bubblebee concealer, but will surely cover that when I do get the chance.

@joellouisfire 3 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Sounds good, thank you!

@djwaters22 3 жыл бұрын

How do you plug the mic into your camera? Do i need to purchase a box or something?

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Most of these I use with a wireless transmitter system. But there are lavalier mics which can plug directly into your camera like the DEITY V.Lav: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/Y8Weg7GQntSXe5s.html

@KevinKunze 3 жыл бұрын

2:39 What connector or adapter do you recommend for the 5-pin Sanken COS-11D? I've been looking every where online and about to return unless I can find an adapter for standard transmitter

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

Which transmitter are you using? Usually one buys the mic with the termination for a specific wireless transmitter.

@KevinKunze 3 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Sennheiser transmitter ew SK100. Thanks! :)

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

@@KevinKunze So you'll need the COS-11D terminated for Sennheiser wireless 3.5mm locking. Places like Trew Audio or Gotham Sound can do that for you.

@KevinKunze 3 жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd know any spots in the San Francisco Bay Area?

@curtisjudd 3 жыл бұрын

@@KevinKunze Sorry, I don't. The shops I know are clustered down in the Hollywood area. It's a pretty niche business.

@ThomC 5 ай бұрын

Hi Curtis, thanks for the great video, I really appreciate the time you put in it to go through the features of the different mics :). What lav mic would you go for when it comes to someone singing with a higher pitched voice? I've been looking to buy one of these lately, but I'm not sure which one would be good enough quality-wise and which one would resist the sound pressure as well. Thanks!

@curtisjudd 5 ай бұрын

I'd look at the DPAs or the SHURE Twinplex. I believe they also make low sensitivity versions for musical and opera singers.

@ThomC 5 ай бұрын

@@curtisjudd Thanks a lot Curtis! :) I think I might go for the DPA's they're not the cheapest but I like what I heard so far :)

@BenBowmanNYC 8 ай бұрын

So much valuable info, as usual. I see MKE2 "Reduced Sensitivity" versions floating around. 1) what is the appropriate use for this - -can it be used for standard dialogue? 2) as a general concept, why wouldn't you just use a regular sensitivity version and lower the gain, enjoying the increased signal to noise ratio? Did you already do a video about this?

@curtisjudd 8 ай бұрын

That’s primarily for opera and musicals where the performers generate really high sound pressure levels, more than most wireless packs can handle even at the lowest gain settings with standard sensitivity mics.

@BenBowmanNYC 8 ай бұрын

@@curtisjudd thanks for knowing all the things and sharing it.

@UrbaNSpiel Жыл бұрын

Cool

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

👍

@nlmnetwork 4 жыл бұрын

Great overview. I have a very elementary question: I assume, since you referenced actors, etc, these mics are cordless, but to be sure...are these mics cordless?

@curtisjudd 4 жыл бұрын

Hi Gerald, all of these microphones have connectors which are made to connect to wireless transmitters, yes.

@Dracomies Жыл бұрын

Hi Curtis! If it was a situation where 'hiding the lav mic' wasn't an issue, what would you choose of these three? I'm torn between the DPA 4061, the Shure TwinPlex TL-47 and the Deity LavPro. I think I can scratch out the Sanken because it's a bit too bright for my tastes. But I really like the natural sound of the 4060/4061 but I also know that the Twinplex T47 is one of your favorites. But I also have seen comparisons of the Deity LavPro and it's pretty impressive from what I hear. If hiding the mic wasn't an issue what would you choose between the three? The problem with the DPA 4061 is that it's not easy to test it either since most of them do not offer free returns. But overall what would you choose between the 3? :P

@curtisjudd Жыл бұрын

I'd choose the Shure Twinplex, but that's a personal preference, If you like the DPA, I'd go for it. I haven't heard any production sound mixers say, "Gosh, this DPA just sounds awful..."

@Dracomies Жыл бұрын

@@curtisjudd Thank you so much Curtis! Thank you so much for the input! Yeah now you really really got me interested in that Shure. I gotta do some tests! Thank you once again! :D