Speech Miking:
Techniques and Tips

In past issues of Shure Notes, we've talked about microphone characteristics - cartridge or transducer type, polar pattern, wired or wireless - at some length. We return to those discussions with some regularity because it's important to match the microphone to the specific application, both in sound reinforcement and recording.

Take me to a past issue on
Microphone Basics.

In this issue, we're going to look at microphones that are used for an important aspect of church audio — speech miking. We'll provide a brief overview, along with helpful tips and guidelines, for:

• Lectern (podium) microphones
  
• Boundary microphones
  
• Handheld microphones
  
• Lavalier microphones
  
• Headworn microphones
  

We're going to assume, as we review the different types and applications, that your church has good acoustics; a sound system offering balanced low-impedance microphone inputs and available phantom power.

Keep in mind, too, that good sound is a combination of:
Audibility - Achieving the desired effect (or a comfortable listening level) at the furthest listener. In a house of worship, an example might be making certain that the worshipper in the back row can hear the sermon or music. Is it loud enough?

Intelligibility - This is determined by the signal-to-noise ratio and direct-to-reverberant sound source; stated a little more simply, making certain that the signal (the voice or the music) is significantly louder at the listener's ear than either the ambient noise of the room or the electrical noise of the sound system. Is it clear enough?

Fidelity - The frequency response of the sound arriving at the listener's ear that provides realistic, accurate reinforcement of speech and music. Every component of the signal chain contributes to it. Is the sound true?

Choosing a Speech Microphone
In the chart below, we'll describe the five basic microphone types most commonly used in speech miking, provide considerations in making the right choice and offer helpful tips for maximizing their effectiveness.
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Speech Mics

While mic choices for speech may not appear as broad as those for sound reinforcement of music, there are still options to explore — including wireless microphones in handheld, lav and headworn applications. Effective speech miking techniques can go a long way in helping your pastor and those on stage connect with the congregation and let the Word be heard. See note in Letter From the Editor regarding recommended books, sites and articles.