The desire to experience superior audio quality in a small, compact size convinces users to look for mini XLR lavalier microphones. However, finding the right product is time-consuming and requires a lot of research. So this article tells you about the 5 best mini XLR lavalier microphones to choose from in 2024. You can check out their specifications, benefits, and drawbacks. Lastly, there is a short buying guide that will help you make the right decision.
Comparison Table – 5 Best Mini XLR Lavalier Microphones in 2024
| Product | Price | Mic Size | Cable Length | Frequency Response | Impedance | Sensitivity |
| Sony ECM-44B | $173.99 | 0.6” x 0.34” (L x | 9.8ft | 40Hz to 15kHz | 250 Ohms | -53.0dB +/- 3dB |
| Movo LV4-O2 | $59.95 | N/A | 6ft | 35Hz to 18kHz | 200 Ohms | -38dbV/Pa @ 1kHz |
| Sennheiser MKE 2 | $399.00 | 3.93” x 0.002” x 0.18” (L x H x D) | 9.8ft | 20Hz to 20kHz | 1000 Ohms | 10 mV/Pa |
| Shure CVL-TQG | $49.00 | N/A | 4.2ft | 50Hz to 20kHz | N/A | N/A |
| BOYA BY-M11OD | $83.88 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
5 Best Mini XLR Lavalier Microphones in 2024
To ease your hunt for the best mini XLR lav mics, here are the 5 body mics with XLR connectivity that may end your search.
1. Sony ECM-44B
The Sony ECM-44B shines as a medium-priced but high-performance mini XLR lavalier microphone. Despite its size, the ECM-44B is a professional mic widely used in TV productions and business meetings.
This XLR microphone has a simple and user-friendly audio setup. This mic’s capsule is engineered for optimal vocal pick-up, especially the mid frequencies of the audio. Despite being a professional microphone, the Sony ECM-44B’s diameter is just 8.5mm (0.32-inch), while its length is approx.14.5mm (0.57-inch).
Moreover, the Sony ECM-44B’s XLR output comes with an integrated barrel for power supply. This mic’s internal power source relies on a single AA size or LR6, which is more than enough to make this mic workable for thousands of hours without interruption. Besides, the audio quality is crystal-clear due to its omnidirectional polar pattern and wired connectivity backed by the power XLR connector.
Key Specifications of Sony ECM-44B
- 2gram weight
- Type B. XLR
- 122dB Max SPL
- 9.8ft cable length
- 0.6” x 0.34” (L x D)
- -53.0dB +/- 3dB sensitivity
- 62dB Signal-to-Noise ratio
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- 40Hz to 15kHz frequency response
Pros of Sony ECM-44B
- The mic has a good cable length
- The audio quality is far better than inexpensive lavalier microphones
Cons of Sony ECM-44B
- The XLR connector is a bit bulky
- The cable quality is not up to the mark
Price
- $173.99 (As seen on Amazon)
2. Movo LV4-O2
The Movo LV4-O2 is a 2-person lavalier microphone with XLR connectivity. This omnidirectional mic captures full-spectrum and clean audio. The set consists of 2x mini lav mics that effectively reduce unwanted noises from entering the audio, permitting you to enjoy your recorded sounds with details. This microphone delivers reliable outcomes with various applications, including film shoots, live performances, podcasts, and live streams.
You can connect the Movo LV4-O2 with any device that supports 48V phantom power. Each microphone has a strong metal clip with a detachable windshield. It has a 6ft XLR cable that connects to wireless receivers, recorders, and sound mixers. Besides, the package comes with windshields and microphone clips, which saves you money, as you don’t have to buy these accessories separately.
Key Specifications of Movo LV4-O2
- 6ft cable length
- 120db Max SPL
- 1x XLR (3-pin) connector
- 78dB Signal-to-Noise ratio
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- 35Hz to 18kHz frequency response
- -38dbV/Pa @ 1kHz mic sensitivity
Pros of Movo LV4-O2
- Affordable pricing
- Users have praised both microphones for their consistent performance
- The sound quality is clean and crisp, making it ideal for professional work
Cons of Movo LV4-O2
- Many users have criticized the clips on both microphones for not being able to rotate
Price
- $59.95 (As seen on Amazon)
3. Sennheiser MKE 2 with XLR Connection
The Sennheiser MKE 2 is a subminiature microphone. It is equipped with an omnidirectional polar pattern and is celebrated for its excellent audio quality. The mic suits all professionals, including film crews, theater performers, audio engineers, and more. This tiny little lavalier microphone has a dual-diaphragm design that repels moisture and sweat. Its mini size ensures a discreet appearance and reduces rustling and handling noises, especially when placed inside your clothes.
The Sennheiser MKE 2 has an XLR connection, allowing you to use it with a broad range of professional audio equipment, including audio interfaces, cameras, and mixers. This mini microphone has a frequency cap that lets you improve the high-frequency response as per your requirement.
Key Specifications of Sennheiser MKE 2
- 17gram weight
- 130dB Max SPL
- 9.8ft cable length
- Mono sound field
- 10 mV/Pa sensitivity
- 3-pin XLR connector
- 1000 Ohms impedance
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- Phantom power (12V to 48V)
- 0.18” (diameter) x 0.002” (height) x 3.93” (length)
Pros of Sennheiser MKE 2
- It is extremely small in size, making it unique and interesting
- Despite how mini it is, the audio quality competes with various big-sized mics
Cons of Sennheiser MKE 2
- Available at premium pricing – very expensive
- You have to handle this microphone with extra care
Price
- $399.00
4. Shure CVL-TQG
Whether you want a mini lavalier microphone for videography, presentations, interviews, or live performances, you will admire the Shure CVL-TQG‘s outstanding performance.
With a cardioid polar pattern, you can record more focused sounds from specific directions while minimizing unwanted noises. Furthermore, this microphone is manufactured for next-level audio experience, providing a finely tuned frequency response for various vocal activities.
The mini Shure CVL-TQG comes with a tiny tie clip that usually goes unnoticeable. And since this microphone has a permanently charged electret conder, it ensures clean vocal reproduction. Also, the XLR connectivity is effortless by using a TA4F to XLR adapter. All you need to do is plug in the mic and start recording fantastic audio.
Key Specifications of Shure CVL-TQG
- 50gram weight
- 139dB Max SPL
- 4.2ft cable length
- Cardioid polar pattern
- 72dB Signal-to-Noise ratio
- 50Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- TA4F connector (convertible to XLR)
Pros of Shure CVL-TQG
- This microphone has an easy setup
- Users admire the way it reproduces sound naturally
- No negative impact on sound quality even after using it with an XLR adpater
Cons of Shure CVL-TQG
- The clipping mechanism is rigid to press
- The XLR connector is not included in the package
Price
- $49.00 (As seen on Amazon)
5. BOYA BY-M11OD
BOYA BY-M11OD is an omnidirectional XLR lavalier mini microphone instilled with a top-class condenser. Being famous for its exceptional, highly dynamic, and low distortion performance, this microphone benefits users from various fields. Be it interviews, films, documentaries, or anything related to audio, the BY-M11OD can always be a suitable option.
One of the convenient features of BOYA BY-M11OD is its ability to work on a dual power supply. You can use a 48V phantom power or 1x AA battery to make this microphone functional with its XLR connection. The mic is also known for accurately recording sound from the off-axis and directly and with great clarity.
Key Specifications of BOYA BY-M11OD
- XLR connectivity
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- Battery and phantom-powered
Pros of BOYA BY-M11OD
- Robust XLR connector (can resist rough handling)
- The overall sound quality is better than cheap quality mics
Cons of BOYA BY-M11OD
- There is an extensive lack of information related to the product
- The microphone is discontinued from the official store but is available on Amazon
Price
- $83.88 (As seen on Amazon)
Factors to Choose the Best Mini XLR Lavalier Microphone in 2024
Here are 6 factors you should pay attention to to get a great lav mini XLR microphone.
a. Brand and Price
You should strive for a renowned brand when picking a mini XLR lavalier microphone. Although it may be expensive, the internal mechanism of the mic will be based on high-quality components. But if the price is going out of your budget, look for the second-best brand that’s affordable. For instance, the Sennheiser MKE2 is an impeccable mini XLR mic that comes under the $400 price range. So, the alternative can be the Sony ECM-44B.
b. Size
While the size of the XLR connector with each lavalier microphone remains slightly noticeable, the mic size may vary. You can select a microphone that is small enough to look less prominent when you wear it inside or outside your clothing.
c. Cable Length
You should keep in mind that XLR lav microphones are usually connected to audio interfaces, mixers, and phantom power supplies. Therefore, you should pick a mic with a cable length of at least 4 feet. This will give you space to move around and adjust your microphone’s position.
d. Frequency Response
The frequency response shows your mini XLR lavalier microphone’s ability to pick sounds at various frequencies. It plays a key role in reproducing accurate and natural sounds. The ideal range is from 20Hz to 20kHz. So, make sure your desired mic has a frequency response between these values.
e. Sensitivity
The higher the mic’s sensitivity, the more it captures detailed sounds. When selecting a mic from sensitivity’s point of view, ensure your purpose. For instance, if you create ASMR content using objects, you might need a highly sensitive microphone to record sounds, which produces tingling sensations. But, a less sesnsitive microphone can be a wise option for presentations, home recording, or ordinary use.
f. Impedance
Lastly, pick a mini XLR microphone with nominal impedance, as it prevents audio signal loss and supports accurate signal transmission. A minimal impedance of your chosen mic should be at least 200 Ohms.
Conclusion
The audio quality of an XLR microphone is peerless. But knowing which mic can fulfill most of your requirements is essential. If budget is not an issue, Sennheiser MKE2 and Sony ECM-44B are outstanding microphones with long cable lengths and excellent audio quality. Contrarily, options like Shure CVL-TQG and Movo LV4-O2 can also be suitable choices at an affordable price.
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between a lavalier mic and a normal mic?
A lavalier microphone is ideal for capturing the audio of a single person. A standard mic can be used to record sound from multiple sources.
Q2. How do you use a mini lavalier microphone with XLR?
The mini lavalier microphone has an XLR output that can be connected to various recording sources, such as a mixing board.
Q3. Are lavalier and lapel mics the same?
A lavalier mic has many other names, such as lapel mic, body mic, personal mic, neck mic, and clip mic. All these names refer to the same product type.
