How to hold a microphone correctly

A microphone is a device that converts vibrations from acoustic to electrical. Its proper use makes any public speech informative and striking.

Types of devices

There are different classifications of this device depending on the criterion. By type of design, devices are divided into:

1. Manual (fixed in the palm of a person)
2. Tabletop (used at conferences, round tables, presentations)
3. Built-in (consists of a set of headphones + microphone or webcam + microphone)
4. Lapel (attached to clothing)

The first type is the most popular. I propose to consider the nuances of handling a manual type using the example of a dynamic cardioid microphone.

REFERENCE! Cardio means heart in Latin. The device's cardioid polar pattern allows it to reproduce sound from directly or to the sides of the microphone. Therefore, a design similar to a heart is applied to the device.

Position of the device in the hand

The shape of the device fits perfectly into the palm of your hand. The main thing is to take the device in a way that is comfortable for you. After all, the performance can be long, but the hand should not strain and distract from communication with the audience. Some singers and speakers actively move on stage or even dance. We clasp the body at the bottom with our palm, without touching the perforated upper part. Your fingers should wrap tightly around the device. It's funny to watch if some finger sticks out to the side.

ATTENTION! We hold the microphone in our working hand. Right-handed - in the right, left-handed - in the left.

To obtain good sound, two positions are most suitable. In the first, the microphone is located opposite the face. However, in this position, the view of the speaker is partially obscured, and the audience does not see the person completely. Therefore, this position is more suitable for recording rather than performing.

In the second position, hold the microphone body at an angle of 45 degrees at chin level. Breathing will pass above the top of the device, the voice will be received as correctly as possible. This is the best position for communicating with the audience.

IMPORTANT! If we turn our head, we turn the microphone at the same time.

Distance to device

The distance at which the microphone is placed is as important a factor as its position in the hand. The minimum distance is estimated at 2-3 cm, the maximum at 25-30 cm. If the distance is too large, the sound is lost and is no longer picked up by the device. If, on the contrary, the device is very close, unnecessary sounds appear, including breathing and lip movements.

To determine the optimal distance, the following points influence:

• equipment model and specification
• speaker direction
• voice features
• performance style
• features of physiology

Given these criteria, each speaker will have a different distance between the device and their face. There are universal ways to determine distance, such as the width of the palm and the width of three fingers. However, it is better to practice, study your sound and find your ideal option. For a professional speaker, proper microphone placement is key to success.