How To Use A Microphone

Are you hosting the next house party without a technician to handle the techy part?

Have you just been invited over to perform at a small gathering for the first time?

With a great command over your pieces of sound instruments, you are 10 steps into connecting with the deeper layers of your audience’s emotions and thoughts.

And speaking of essential sound instruments for better performances, your microphone is such that it must be completely under your belt.

That is exactly why I have put this easy and complete guide together on how to use a microphone like a pro even when your technician isn’t around.

Let’s get to it.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Use A Microphone

Step 1; Testdrive To Make Sound Check

After putting your sound setup in position, the first thing you want to do is to test-drive your mike. 

 Before the D-day, you must have unlocked the right volume, rhythm, and pitch for the space you’re performing in.

This way, you are able to predetermine the mike configuration that aligns with your voice, the performance space, and the entire sound system. 

If you are honoring an invitation to perform for the first time, discuss with your host about your plan to make a sound-check of their microphone in the venue.

You might as well tag someone along to the hall to be your audience as you test-drive.

Step 2; Know How The Mike Works

You obviously know what the on/off button is. You know exactly what volume control does. But mikes vary in their designs.

The position of the on/off button of a large-diaphragm mic will be different from that of, say, a shotgun microphone. Get it now? Great.

First thing, navigate the on/off button. Know what side of the switch is on and what side is off.

This way, you don’t end up broadcasting a private comment, neither would you find yourself performing at your best only to find that your mike wasn’t broadcasting all the while.

Ah, the pain…

Second, make a mental note of where the mute mode and the standby mode are.

At the end of this stage, you already know what switch to configure before and after you speak.

Step 3; Know How To Position Your Microphone

The way you position your microphone will determine the quality of your broadcast.

If you’re using a lavalier mic, you should select your outfit carefully.

Your outfit should be such that allows the lavalier to be clipped on tightly with comfort.

Also, you should endeavor to keep your hair, your jewelry, and your buttons from hooking up with the lavalier.

If you’re using a lectern mic…

Position it and tightly clamp it to a Mount.

Or hold it in your hand.

Whichever of the two options you choose, avoid speaking into the mic. Instead, speak across or over the microphone.

Step 4; Maintaining A Good Posture

Using your microphone, make sure you are standing upright to allow easy transition of your voice.

Clear your voice to avoid throaty tension. Also, limit your body movement to avoid or reduce self-noise or feedback.

Goodluck.