Fitness instructors, pop stars and lecturers all have two things in common: they need their hands free and want their voices to be heard - and that's usually where a cabled or wireless headset microphone comes in.
Countering Ambient Noise
In most cases, a lot of the ambient noise can be pushed back by placing the microphone as close to the mouth of the singer or speaker as possible. This way, the vocal input is a lot louder, which allows you lower the gain setting of your audio interface or mixer.
Headset Microphones for Speakers and Singers
Headset microphones are often used for lectures and presentations since they give whoever's speaking a way to keep their hands free. In addition, wireless headset microphones are widely used in the entertainment industry since they provide the freedom to dance and sing using every inch of the stage.
Gaming Headsets and Office Headsets
So you can communicate with your team mates, a gaming headset is pretty much essential for multi-player games. The same goes for online conferencing. The more professional models in our range of headsets equipped with a microphone are mainly used in the world of radio, television and theatre. Here, the main difference between home-grade and pro-grade models lies in the connection: gaming headsets are often equipped with a mini-jack or USB plug, while professional headsets usually feature a full-size stereo jack or XLR connection.
Headset Microphones for Fitness Instructors
Headset microphones are perfect for sports and yoga instructors, who get to keep their hands free and their voices amplified. That said, sporty use comes with a different set of demands compared to stage acts or lectures. Not only does the microphone need to be sturdier, it needs to be sweat and moisture-proof. As such, big names like Sennheiser and Shure offer purpose-made headsets for sports instructors.
Headset Microphones: Plug In or Go Wireless
Cabled headphones aren't a problem when you're sitting at a desk, but it's a different story if you're jumping around on a stage. Fortunately, leading brands like Sennheiser and Shure serve up complete wireless headset systems: systems that include a bodypack transmitter, a receiver and a headset microphone. If you're going for a wireless system, make sure to pay attention to the frequency band it operates on. In short: the 2.4GHz band can be used anywhere in the world without the need for a permit; for the other frequency bands the legislation differs per country. More information about wireless headsets and wireless microphones can be found on our Wireless Microphones and Frequencies Info-Page.
How Much Does a Headset Microphone Cost?
Wireless headset systems are generally more expensive than wired microphones. The most expensive headset microphones usually offer a wider frequency range, enhanced dynamics, and even smaller dimensions for a more discrete fit. Also, don't forget to pay attention to the plug. If you want to connect the microphone directly to a mixing desk, it's best to choose a model that's been equipped with an XLR plug. Sennheiser's wireless systems feature a 3.5mm TRS or a LEMO plug, while Shure's wireless systems come with a TA4F mini-XLR plug.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headset Microphones
What's the best headset for working from home?
In short, any headset fitted with an adjustable microphone that you can position in front of your mouth for optimal clarity of speech. Alternatively, you could use a pair of headphones or earbuds that feature a concealed built-in microphone.
