What is a lavalier microphone primarily used for?

A lavalier microphone, often referred to as a lapel mic, is specifically designed for hands-free operation and is commonly attached directly to a speaker’s clothing. This design allows the speaker to move freely without needing to hold or be tethered to a microphone, making it particularly useful in situations such as interviews, public speaking engagements, presentations, and film production.

The primary feature that distinguishes lavalier microphones is their small size and ability to be clipped onto a person’s clothing, which ensures that they capture clear audio without being obtrusive. This mobility is essential in maintaining the natural flow of dialogue during speaking engagements or performances.

In contrast, other types of microphones may be designed for studio recording or capturing ambient sound but do not offer the same level of convenience and flexibility that lavalier microphones provide. Therefore, the main purpose of a lavalier microphone is to facilitate clear audio capture directly from a speaker while allowing them to move freely.