Microphone Tips and Usage
The microphone can either be a speaker's best friend or his worst enemy. The benefits are obvious but the ill-prepared speaker might face some unsettling problems that could be easily obverted with the knowledge and techniques that are offered here.
1. Know the power of your voice
How far and how long can you project comfortably without
becoming raspy or hoarse? Once this is discovered, you will
realize that a microphone is not always needed but is a good
accessory to keep handy if conditions change, either by way of
cold or noisy surroundings.
Learn the abilities of your voice indoors and out. The only
way is to try it out with a friend. Place a marker where you'll
stand. Have your friend blindfold you then start speaking with a
projected voice (without straining). Then, have them move around
to see how much area your voice covers (note: the blindfold
prevents you from seeing where he / she is and adjusting your
modulation accordingly). Have them then place markers where your
auditory levels drop below a comfortable level. Estimate the
amount of people that the area will comfortably hold. This gives
you a rough idea of your capability, so you can use this
information to decide if a microphone is needed to reach the
people you want to.
2. Know the microphone
Microphones come in many different types and styles, including handheld, mounted, lavaliere and headset. Some have on / off switches, while others don't. Familiarize yourself with the equipment so you won't be faced with the embarrassment of wondering why you can't be heard.
A) Unidirectional
A unidirectional mic or "uni" picks up from only one angle. A
person using this type of microphone would have to stay near it
and avoid turning their head while speaking. Uni-directionals are
good for controlling feedback, as well as producing clarity of
voice and musical instruments, but it is easy to drift out of range.
B) Omnidirectional
An omni directional mic or "omni" can pick up more sound. It's
not necessary to be directly on top of it in order to be heard
and it can even pick up a group of people if the volume is
properly adjusted.
C) Corded
A corded mic can get tangled and limit mobility, but it
generally offers better sound quality.
D) Wireless
A wireless mic offers freedom of mobility but since the
signal is being transmitted, some unique problems can occur. For
instance, a speaker's amplified voice might drop in volume
occasionally and the receiver may pick up unguarded signals.
Fortunately, technology has improved and the problems listed are
ones you shouldn't concern yourself with if you can afford a good
one.
E) Handheld
A handheld mic is the most commonly available device because
of its versatility. However, it does take a little time to get
used to.
F) Mounted
The mounted mic is usually attached to a lectern or table and
it cannot be removed unless you can handle being tied to the said
table or lectern. I would not suggest it as being a prime
choice.
G) Lavaliere
A lavaliere is worn about the neck and offers freedom of
mobility. The styles vary from the tie tack variety to the gator
clip. They are small and generally go unnoticed if, that is, they
are of the wireless variety. The one problem that can (and often
does) occur is when the speaker turns his / her head in the
opposite direction of the mic.
H) Headset
The headset mic is worn over the head of the speaker and a boom extends the mic out near the speaker's mouth. Although it does give the greatest freedom of movement and the speaker doesn't have to worry too much as to mic placement, the headset and boom can be distracting to the audience, since your face will be partially blocked.
3. Rehearse
No matter what type of microphone you'll be using, whether
it's supplied by you or by the facility, you will have to test it
out in the area you're going to speak. This will help you
determine the best placement of the mic in regards to controlling
feedback, as well as its proper distance from the lips.
4. Don't blow it
Often a person will test a microphone by hitting the top or
blowing into it. Neither one is truly acceptable. Generally
accepted and less obvious methods are; tapping the side just
under the mouthpiece, jiggling the cord or to simply begin
speaking as the applause is dying down, listening for
amplification.
Additional Notes:
It is not entirely uncommon for a speaker to travel with their
own microphone, along with assorted adapters to fit available
equipment. If you really want to be sure you will be heard, you
might want to invest in a portable sound system to bring with
you, therefore, you don't have to be entirely dependent on the
one available (if one is available).
Remember, the microphone can be a powerful tool for
amplification, so the speaking level should be slightly louder
then normal volume. In other words, let the mic work for you. If
you're holding it, remember its proper usage and avoid gesturing
with it or letting it drop too far away from your lips. If a mic
stand is near you, keep in mind that it is a support for the mic,
just as with a lectern. Don't use it to hold onto for
support.
Information and thoughts on this page were submitted
by William
Corey,DTM.
All rights reserved.
Attention! -- Important Site Information - Please Read! -- Attention!
Be it known...
as of October, 2011, due to
changes within the club and the organization, the information
contained within this site may no longer be completely accurate
(including, but not limited to - meeting location, what it is
that we offer our members, possible changes to disclaimers used,
and compliance with newly-imposed guidelines). As such "This
Is Not A Toastmaster Int. Approved Club Website!" Yet, it
will remain in this current form to honor our past, as long as
possible, and to serve as a reminder of the uniqueness,
individuality, standards, professionalism, regards for others'
privacy, and knowledge that this club's long line of members once enjoyed, shared and promoted during our history. To see the new site featuring Toastmasters Int.'s created/designed/approved web template and information - click here!
Thank you for your consideration.
Toastmasters International would like you to know the following about its' name,
logo, trademarks and copyrights...
"All rights reserved. Toastmasters International, the Toastmasters International logo and all other Toastmasters International trademarks and copyrights are the sole property of Toastmasters International and may be used only by permission."
They also desire us to inform you of the following in regards to "member information"...
"The information on this Web site is for the sole use of Toastmasters' members, for Toastmasters business only. It is not to be used for solicitation and distribution of non-Toastmasters material or information."
Business & Professional Toastmasters Club#1169 would like you to be aware of this...
This club website is intended for use by members as well thoes who wish to learn about us!
We value the privacy of our members and guests, and do not send un-solicited e-mails.
The information and links contained on this site have been submitted and voted upon by our membership before inclusion. However, it should be noted that what is offered and /or linked to is not necessarily recommended or endorsed by all B&P Club#1169 members / the Toastmasters organization, or Toastmasters International.
© Business and Professional Toastmasters Club#1169 Website Committee 1999 through Oct. 1, 2011
(unless otherwise noted)
Site Designed By William Corey's Ripples In Designs Eclectic