The Real Way to use Lavaliers Off Set

Lavaliers (or lavs) often get relegated the back-up microphone during film productions or to being a documentary mic, but can be used for much more!

My two Clippy EM272s in an A/B pattern for stereo recording ambiences

How to Use Lavaliers for Sound Design and Field Recording

Most are omnidirectional, which means that they’re picking up sound all around them. What they're really great for in game audio and post-sound are recording outdoor ambiences, species recording, and music/performances. A stereo pair is ideal since you want to catch as much depth in your surroundings as possible!

I’ve used my recordings with lavaliers in my own outdoor ambiences for games and especially films I’ve worked on. You can hear them in the new upcoming weather system for Airborne Empire and in the ambience in Letterhead. They were also used in the films Cholo, Nibbles Must Die, and Deep in My Heart is a Song.

Lavs can be used wirelessly with transmitters and receivers (shown here) but that risks getting dropouts

What To Look Out For When Using Them

Problem: Wind interference

Fix: Get windmuffs or lavalier-shaped blimps for your mics to protect them from noise. A windscreen is for indoors only. If you’re feeling bold (and rich), get a Cyclone.

Problem: You and the mic may get rained on

Fix: Leave mics without power to dry around desiccant bags (single-use or reusable)

Problem: The wilderness may interfere with your rig if you leave it for hours or a day

Fix: This is an advanced technique that you do not have to do in plenty of situations!

Problem: Make sure you have a rig that suits your mic type and how many you have

Fix: Using a pistol grip with a bar is one way, as is wrapping them around trees

In Closing

Lavaliers excel at field recording ambiences, species, and other moving objects outdoors--especially when two or more of them are being used. Reach out for any field recording needs you may have or if you want advice for going on your first expedition!