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Top 10 Best Lavalier Microphones in 2023 Reviews

Since its real explosion of use in SE Asia and now in many other parts of the world, Karaoke has changed and we have changed with it. Some people, even countries, who had reputations of being painfully shy, are now up there doing their thing. Not only participation has changed, but also the style of the performers has moved on, and the karaoke people have got to move with them or be left behind.

It’s not enough now to get up and do your version of a well-known song and sit down to polite applause. Now the performers want to raise the roof and to do that some are learning the dance routines that go with the music. But quite often you can’t do the dance routines with a mic in your hand, so karaoke is supplying Lavalier, handsfree mics for those that want to show us their moves.

best Lavalier microphones

So let’s have a look at some of the best Lavalier microphones for karaoke and try to find the best wireless Lavalier microphone for you…

Top 10 Best Lavalier Microphones Reviews


1 Rode smartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone

Rode are well-known in the microphone world for producing high-quality equipment. They produce some high-end microphones for recording studios and live performances at concerts, but they are also involved in working in other areas. This Lavalier microphone is one of those.

It is a multi-functional microphone that will perform in many environments. It will, for instance, record direct to your iPhone or Android device, it can also be used as a mic for karaoke to allow hands-free use by performers.

Built to last…

A quality build was, therefore designed to make it durable and able to handle a lot of use. The Cable is Kevlar reinforced to provide strength, and there is a well-made clip that can be used to attach to the performer which is strong enough to withstand some movement of the wearer and give some stability.

The mic itself is an Omni-directional condenser and miniature microphone that are both built with Rode quality. When being used by karaoke singers who are often inexperienced in both handling and working with microphones, the built-in pop shield, which is made of foam, will reduce the number of plosives or ‘pops’ as they are often heard.

Do that dance move, and sing!

The sound it produces is crisp and clear, and being so omnidirectional; it will pick up the sound of the performer even if they turn their head away from the mic. Although this unwanted background noise is very low.

To get the full benefit of this mic, you can download an app that allows editing. So it is possible to record the performance on a compatible device and edit afterward.

It comes with a pouch for storage.

A good product by a company with a high reputation for quality microphones.

Rode smartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone
Our rating:3.8 out of 5 stars (3.8 / 5)

Pros
  • Well made with good materials
  • Quality sound with some noise reduction.
Cons
  • You will need to download the app to make it work, so if you’re not tech-savvy, this is not the mic for you.

2 Giant Squid Omnidirectional Mono Microphone

This is a basic wireless omnidirectional microphone with a variety of uses and is great for karaoke. Near the head of the mic, there is a well made sturdy clip that affixes to a coat or shirt for ease of use.

Plug-in to power…

The cable from the mic is possibly a bit short in length at about six feet. But, in terms of operation, that is all you need. The mic just clips on and away you go. It’s really simple and basic, and unlike a lot of clip-on microphones, it doesn’t need batteries. It is designed though to be used with an input jack that has plug-in power. It is, therefore, not compatible with mixers or any devices that do not have plug-in power.

For a budget microphone, it is quite impressive to be fair, and it is at the top end of the price scale for what might be termed budget. It is an omnidirectional mic, and when used outdoors, it will reduce the amount of unwanted ambient noise, which is quite surprising for a budget mic.

Keep background noise to a minimum…

The main sound source, though, will still be distinct, and the sound produced clear and not muddy at all. With the main sound source not in operation, some background noise could be heard, but when the main source commenced the unwanted noise reduced to a minimum.

For a simple mic, it works well and is hardly a burden to carry around. The usage restrictions of plug-in power should be noted though, and you should ensure that it will operate.

It is at the top end of the pricing structure for such a basic mic, but the quality is very good with very little unwanted ambient noise.

Giant Squid Omnidirectional Mono Microphone
Our rating:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

Pros
  • Simple and easy to use.
  • Produces good sound results.
Cons
  • The cable is rather short.
  • Will not operate without the correct Plug-in power connections.

3 Audio-Technica PRO 70

Audio-Technica produces quality microphones and has in their catalog many products that are great for karaoke, the PRO 70 being just one of them.

What you always need for karaoke functions either in big venues or even smaller gatherings is the reliability and consistency of the equipment you are using. The PRO 70 gives you exactly that.

A natural feel…

This mic is a small condenser mic that has a big sound that brings a natural feel to its reproduction. It is designed to affix to clothing with a small clip to give hands-free use. It has a cardioid polar pattern that is excellent at isolating the main sound source and eliminating any unwanted sound from the surrounding area.

To further assist in reducing unwanted room noise, it has a low-frequency roll-off switch. It can be operated with either phantom power or battery.

Solid gold connection…

Audio-Technica have tried to ensure that the connections are durable and clean and the XLR connector is gold plated to prevent corrosion and to ensure a good connection. The cable is quite short at about three feet, but just long enough we think to go from collar to belt, but you will also need an XLR cable as this mic is not wireless.

The sound of the mic is full and round with not too much top end, and it picks up the sound from the main source very well. It is supplied with a carrying case.

It is well made and quite strong, especially the battery pack and will withstand a few knocks. And is good value for money from a company who produce quality sound microphones. A good candidate for being one of the Best Lavalier Microphones.

Audio-Technica PRO 70
Our rating:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

Pros
  • Well made and robust.
  • Produces a good natural sound.
Cons
  • The connecting cable from the mic is quite short.

4 Rode Lavalier Lapel Omni-Directional Condenser Microphone

Rode are the manufacturer of quality microphones and they have designed a lavalier lapel microphone that moves the sound of such equipment up a level. It is an omnidirectional condenser mic that produces high-quality sound reproduction.

It has a minimalist appearance but is well built and sturdy. And has been made to work in busy environments and even the cable, which is detachable, is made from Kevlar. The durability of its build, therefore, makes it ideal for karaoke use. The design is enhanced by clips that hold the mic in place whilst giving the performer the chance to move around if they wish.

Need a mini-furry?

Fitted with a pop filter to exclude plosives from the singers it also comes with a mini-furry. This will allow you to operate it outside at larger events without the problems of wind or other natural noises. Protection from unwanted surrounding noises is therefore excellent.

One impressive element of this package is the travel case, which is made to carry all the kit necessary. The case is rugged and ready to travel around protecting your mic.

Get an extension…

An element of the package that is to be considered is that the cable is only four feet long which is certainly not long enough for karaoke use, although twenty-foot extensions are available but not included.

It is a quality microphone, and the results for performers will be at a high level. As with all lavalier microphones, there needs to be an element of care with its use.

Rode Lavalier Lapel Omni-Directional Condenser Microphone
Our rating:3.8 out of 5 stars (3.8 / 5)

Pros
  • High-quality sound.
  • Well made carrying case.
Cons
  • Only four feet of cable.

5 Sony ECM-44 Omni-Directional Electret Condenser Wired Lavalier Microphone

Not too much needs to be said about the quality of Sony. For many years now recognized as being one of the main brand names, we are familiar with in sound reproduction. Most of their products are designed for the middle of the price range, but they also manufacture equipment for the pros at the very top end.

The ECM-44 is a quality lavalier microphone that is great for karaoke that is priced very much in that middle of the range. An omnidirectional mic its plastic construction doesn’t give it the feel of a high-quality product which is not how Sony usually build their kit. It, therefore, will not be the most durable.

But, there’s a catch…

It has a three-meter lead which does not detach, which is also a negative point in our view. The clips that attach the mic to the performer and hold the mic in place are made from metal, and very tough, which is a good point.

Sound-wise it is adequate. Certainly not the best on the market but it does produce a balanced sound. It does, however, have some good sound management features. The low frequencies are rolled off where they need to be, and the top end gets a 5dB boost if it is necessary. This gives the mic a very sharp and clear sound. A preamp is provided which is powered by the battery.

It runs on an AA battery and is fitted with an XLR connector.

For Karaoke, we think this will be better used inside than outside. In a situation where it is exposed to the elements, it is not that well protected and will attract background noise. In the right place, this will do a good job and produce a decent sound.

Sony ECM-44 Omni-Directional Electret Condenser Wired Lavalier Microphone
Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros
  • Well balanced sound reproduction.
  • Important clips are tough and sturdy
Cons
  • Cable does not detach.

6 Tascam DR-10L Portable Digital Audio Recorder with Lavalier Microphone

The DR-10L from Tascam is an amazing piece of kit and much more than just a Lavalier microphone. It is designed to also be a small and compact recording system that has done away with messy wires and cables. And because it is so small, it can be placed where it doesn’t attract attention.

With all Tascam kit, you expect good features that will produce a quality sound, and in this case, a decent recording. We would say at this juncture, that being a Lavalier mic the quality of the vocals will be good for the live performance. But if you are looking for quality recorded sound, then you might be disappointed. The recorded sound will be adequate but not great.

Let’s take a look at some of the built-in features…

There is a limiter to stop any distortion caused by sudden increases in level and an automatic monitor that will adjust the volume up or down, where necessary. If you are using it to record your performers live, the unit automatically creates a second recorded track as a backup at a lower level in case you have any peaking.

The mic itself has a polar pattern that is omnidirectional meaning it will pick up the performers voice even if they don’t aim there vocal straight at the mic.

Nicely put together…

The clip that attaches the mic to the performer is strong and well made. There is a screen which displays the battery level, and one alkaline battery should give you about ten hours of use. It will accept rechargeable batteries. There is a 3.5mm headphone socket to hear recording and playback.

It is supplied with a USB cable, windscreen and also a belt clip in a case.

This excellent microphone makes the vocal recording of your performers at a karaoke session a real possibility at a realistic price and with the minimum of equipment.

Tascam DR-10L Portable Digital Audio Recorder with Lavalier Microphone
Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros
  • Recording function.
  • Some very good features.
  • Not expensive.
Cons
  • Mic quality for recording is not the best.

7 Sennheiser Condenser Microphone, Black (ME ME 2-II)

Following on from the success of Sennheiser’s ME-2 Lavalier microphone, the ME 2-11 takes the original design of the microphone and improves on them in many areas. No easy task when you consider the ME-2 was already a highly thought of clip-on mic and was already considered one of the best wireless microphones of the Lavalier type currently available.

Some features haven’t changed. It is still Lavalier in design and concept, making it an ideal mic for hands-free karaoke and it is still omnidirectional.

Suitability for Karaoke?

There is some discussion about whether omnidirectional microphones are suitable for karaoke. The omnidirectional concept is that the mic will pick up sound from all sides and directions with equal gain, basically from all around it. Thus the performer is picked up, but so is much of the ambient sound. Some see that as an advantage, others not.

Other systems of operation though have been modified and the mic when working with RE-transmission systems is now fully compatible. Previously with the ME-2 if the transmitter and the capsule were too far apart, maybe about seven feet, there could be some interference noise. This has now been resolved, and it will now operate fully with RF systems.

There are also other improvements, such as a narrower frequency range removing excessive highs and lows.

Getting better all the time…

The build is similar, but the ME2-11 has a lighter feel to it and a built-in windscreen. The clip to attach the mic has been toughened up a little, and there is now a five-foot cable.

All improvements to an already great sounding Lavalier mic and it has just got better.

At the price, you are buying Sennheiser quality, which is recognized worldwide. As a karaoke microphone, it is a powerful tool that will enhance the vocal sounds of your performers. Could this make it the best of the Best Lavalier Microphones in this review? Read on to find out…

Sennheiser Condenser Microphone, Black (ME ME 2-II)
Our rating:4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)

Pros
  • Quality build and sound reproduction.
  • Competitive price.
Cons
  • Some may prefer a mic that is not omnidirectional.

8 Audio-Technica Condenser Microphone (AT899)

This offering from Audio-Technica is a product they have designed to challenge the high-end microphones in the Lavalier market, and they certainly have set about including a lot of the features you find in those products at the top of the range.

Designed to work in a variety of areas as a hands-free karaoke mic, it is a powerful tool that will impress your performers with its high-quality sound qualities. It has many outstanding features, but we should mention its size. It is small and compact but tough and well made and feels unobtrusive.

What’s in the box?

It is supplied with a variety of clips, three different types of clip to be exact, allowing some options of how you want to attach the mic to your performers or where they would like it. Some microphones do not offer that capability, and this mic gives them a choice. For those that prefer not to hold the mic, there are some interchangeable mic holders.

The important feature though is the sound quality. Where a powerful sound at both ends of the frequency scale is required, it excels. It has a low signal to noise ratio and a crisp but warm sound.

A windscreen is built-in, allowing it to be used outdoors if desired and will remove some of the background sounds that are not wanted. It is an omnidirectional condenser mic with a frequency response of 20-20000Hz.

Some may think it expensive, but the quality of the sound speaks for itself.

Audio-Technica Condenser Microphone (AT899)
Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

Pros
  • Quality sound reproduction.
  • Many onboard features.
Cons
  • Some may think it expensive.

9 Sony ECM77B Electret Condenser Lavalier Microphone

More and more karaoke providers are opting for hands-free microphone systems and the smaller, the better. They are less obtrusive and also mean the performer does not have to feel awkward if they are self-conscious about holding the mic. Plus it removes any handling sounds that may occur when in use.

Sony’s ECM77B has as one of its design criteria to be small and compact and a Lavalier mic that will clip on just about anywhere. It is also very lightweight weighing in at just 14 ounces.

Take control…

It is an omnidirectional condenser mic, and the polar pattern will pick up sound emanating around the mic. This is an advantage where performers may be inexperienced and turn away from the mic while on stage. On some microphones that loss of sound source would have an effect on the reproduction but not with these mics. The downside is of course that you can also capture a lot of ambient sounds, but this can be controlled by intelligent use of the controls.

Using these mics require certain disciplines to make their use successful, and control of external noise is one issue. It is fitted with a built-in windscreen which will alleviate some of the unwanted sounds, but it is a very dynamic mic and therefore may require careful use.

This will run on either phantom power or an AA battery and is supplied with an XLR connector.

A popular choice…

This microphone is not a new product and has been with us for a few years now, and as with all Sony products, the build quality is good which is one of the reasons it is popular with users.

If you want a high-quality mic that delivers great results at a competitive price, then this Sony is worth a look. Its quality has preserved its use among those seeking one of the best Lavalier mics currently available.

Sony ECM77B Electret Condenser Lavalier Microphone
Our rating:4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

Pros
  • High-quality Lavalier mic.
  • Good voice reproduction.
Cons
  • Some may find it expensive.

10 Sennheiser MKE2-P-C MKE2 Omni Lavalier Microphone With XLR Connection

If you are looking to upgrade your karaoke equipment with a state of the art Lavalier microphone, let us introduce you to the Sennheiser MKE-2. In the world of the Lavalier microphone, it has suddenly become a very serious contender. In fact wherever you see the name Sennheiser you know it’s going to be serious. It is German audio engineering at its best.

This microphone has become a firm favorite in a variety of applications because of its small and compact size, but more importantly, its outstanding sound qualities. It has everything you need to reproduce great vocal sounds. A balanced response to frequencies is achieved through the Omni-directional polar pattern, and the wide linear frequency response gives excellent voice reproduction.

Perfect for Karaoke…

Reducing the sensitivity of the microphone allows you to control any threat of distortion and gives you a higher SPL. Sometimes in Karaoke sessions performers are hot, and there can be sweat and perspiration, but this potential problem is dealt with by the dual-diaphragm design. It also provides good suppression of handling noise.

Because this mic is popular in so many working environments is a testimony to its quality and adaptability. It is a high-quality product that delivers the highest quality results. One quick word about this mic. If you are considering it, then your amplification/PA system needs to be good enough to get the best from it.

It’s not cheap, but quality like this never is. But if it is within your budget, then you will be getting something very special.

Quite surprisingly, it does not come with any clip-on attachments.

Sennheiser MKE2-P-C MKE2 Omni Lavalier Microphone With XLR Connection
Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros
  • Excellent vocal and audio reproduction.
  • Professional level mic.
Cons
  • No clip attachments.

Best Lavalier Microphones Buyer’s Guide

  • Time for your karaoke to go hands-free – Looking for the best Lavalier microphones?

As we mentioned in our introduction to these reviews, Karaoke has moved on somewhat from being just the fun activity it started out being. In Asia, it is a huge business, and many other countries have followed suit, and in many ways, its rise mirrors the improvements in music as a whole. A constant striving to be better. Unfortunately, you do reach a level where the quality of the equipment takes over, and the real improvements then come with better gear.

But it’s not only the sound you need to consider, but it is also the performers themselves. We do not consider ourselves experts in the field by any measure, but there is a noticeable change in the attitudes of the performers. At first, most were a bit shy and retiring. Maybe wanting to have a go but just needing that push before they’d get up.

  • Hands-free future…

lavalier microphones

Now though they are queueing up, and some have all the moves of their favorites rehearsed and ready. Many of these will require a hands-free mic and will not be able to impress everyone with what may have taken hours of preparation if they have to hold a mic. Of course, there will be those who still prefer a mic to hold, but as time goes on, people will get used to going hands-free as many of them do already with their phones and devices.

In the review list, there are many options, different prices, a unit where you can record your performer and even different ways in which they operate. But it is up to you to decide what best fits your own requirements. One thing it will need to be is tough and sturdy and ready to take a bit of use. And not all of that use will be with care, as we all know Karaoke and alcohol and very often mixed.

  • Work out your budget and stick to it…

There are some very good options at all price levels, all of which will probably see an improvement in quality unless you already have one from the list. If it’s your business or becoming it, then as with all things like this, you need the best you can get.

What would be the Best Lavalier Microphones?

If we decided to upgrade and go hands-free on our Karaoke system, that must mean that we are doing quite well. To do better, we will need better equipment. The performers will notice, but the audience is certainly going to hear the quality if that’s what you choose to buy.

We decided after looking back over our review list that there is no substitute for real quality. There are some outstanding hands-free microphones in the list at all price levels, but we have gone for the…

Sennheiser MKE2-P-C MKE2 Omni Lavalier Microphone

Great quality at every level and the best of the Best Lavalier Microphones for Karaoke.

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