Choose the connection to your recording device before choosing a lavalier model: a compatible headset-style input calls for a TRRS microphone, while many recorder and transmitter microphone inputs call for TRS. A wired setup is a straightforward starting point for a seated narrator. If the interviewer’s questions also need to remain clear in the recording, plan a microphone and suitable input for each voice.
If one seated narrator is the voice you need to capture closely, you can start by matching one microphone to your phone or recorder. The Oral History Society emphasises placing the microphone close to the interviewee.
If the interviewer’s questions must also be clear for later listening or transcription, plan how to capture both people. Norfolk Record Office recommends a recorder with sockets for two external microphones, one for each speaker.
If you already have recording equipment, start with its microphone input and power requirements. RØDE distinguishes its TRS recorder and transmitter lavaliers from its direct-smartphone TRRS model; a plug that fits physically is not enough to establish compatibility.
Decide which voices need close capture, then match the microphone connector to the device and check how it will be worn during the interview.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Connection compatibility | Identify the device’s microphone input, including whether it accepts TRRS, TRS or another connector; confirm any adapter and power requirements. | If I am recording on a device I already own, I need the microphone to connect correctly before other features matter. Around 29% of consumers put connection compatibility first. |
| Both interview voices | Decide whether the interviewer needs close capture too; if so, check microphone count and available inputs or recording channels. | If my questions must remain clear in the oral-history record, one microphone on the narrator may not capture enough of the exchange. For around 36% of consumers, recording both voices is the primary concern. |
| Placement and clothing noise | Check how the microphone and cable attach, and whether a clip and windscreen or pop filter are included. | When the speaker shifts in their seat, I want speech to stay intelligible without fabric rubbing against the microphone. Secure placement comes first for around 21% of consumers. |
| Movement and system fit | If a cable would disrupt the session, check the wireless transmitter’s microphone connection and the system’s suitability for UK use. | If the speaker needs to move, I may accept the extra equipment involved in wireless recording. Around 14% of consumers prioritise movement or system expansion. |
TRS and TRRS plugs can look alike while connecting differently. RØDE identifies a mismatch between them as a common cause of connection problems.
Check the microphone input on your actual recording device, then confirm that the lavalier and any adapter support that connection.
A lavalier placed close to the narrator may leave the interviewer’s questions sounding distant. Norfolk Record Office recommends separate external microphones for the two voices where possible.
Decide whether both voices belong in the lasting record before choosing the microphone count and recording inputs.
A seated interview may not need the added transmitter and receiver setup. Ofcom notes that shared wireless spectrum can be subject to interference.
Consider a wired connection when the speaker will remain seated. If movement makes wireless useful, check the complete system’s connections and applicable UK radio-use conditions.
An oral-history interview may be stored or shared beyond the session. Where an organisation relies on consent as its UK GDPR lawful basis, the Information Commissioner’s Office says that consent must be specific and informed.
Agree the recording’s purpose, storage and sharing arrangements before the interview, and confirm the organisation’s current consent process where applicable.
The MVL is a direct-mobile lavalier to consider when the recording device has a compatible headset-style connection.
Its lavalier range offers distinct connections for direct-smartphone recording and compatible recorder or wireless-system inputs.
The MKE 2 is a wired lavalier route for someone building around compatible recording or wireless equipment.
These DJI Mic Mini 2 kits offer one- and two-transmitter wireless configurations for interview recording. Check how either kit connects to your recording device and attaches to each speaker; neither configuration establishes separate recording tracks from its transmitter count alone.
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The two-transmitter configuration is worth considering when both interview voices need a microphone. Confirm how the intended recording device receives the audio and whether it can capture separate tracks if your workflow requires them.
The kit name specifies one mobile receiver and a charging case. Check the supported device connections and supplied mounting accessories before ordering.
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The one-transmitter configuration suits a narrator-focused recording if it connects to your intended device. If the interviewer must also be close-miked, plan a second microphone and a suitable way to record it.
Check device compatibility and the supplied mounting accessories before ordering.
No: match the microphone’s TRS or TRRS connection to the device’s input. RØDE explains that the plugs are wired differently, while Shure specifies that its MVL needs a suitable TRRS mobile jack or CTIA-compliant adapter.
One may be enough if only the narrator needs close capture. If the interviewer’s questions must also be clear, plan separate microphone coverage; Norfolk Record Office recommends a recorder with two external microphone sockets, one for each speaker.
A wired lavalier is a sensible starting point when the speaker will stay seated and the cable can be placed safely. Choose wireless when movement or cable routing makes it useful, while allowing for the extra equipment and the interference possible in shared spectrum noted by Ofcom.
Secure the microphone and cable so they do not rub against clothing or jewellery, and use a suitable windscreen or pop filter where supplied. The Oral History Society advises placing the microphone close to the interviewee’s mouth, around 15 cm away; make a short test recording in the intended position before the interview.
If the organisation relies on consent as its UK GDPR lawful basis, it should give specific, informed information about the intended processing. The Information Commissioner’s Office says this includes who is relying on consent, why the data is wanted, what will happen to it and the ability to withdraw consent; check the organisation’s current policy for the interview.