What type of microphone is also known as a lapel mic or body mic?

The microphone referred to as a lapel mic or body mic is known as a lavalier microphone. This type of microphone is small and lightweight, making it easy to clip onto clothing, allowing for hands-free operation. Its design is particularly advantageous in situations such as interviews, presentations, and film productions where the speaker needs to remain mobile without holding a microphone. Lavaliers are typically condenser microphones, which means they have a wider frequency response and better sensitivity to capture clear and nuanced audio, especially in dialogue.

In contrast, dynamic microphones are often larger, designed for handling higher sound pressure levels, and often used in live sound situations. Shotgun microphones are highly directional and designed to capture sound from a specific area while rejecting noise from the sides and rear, making them less suited for situations where a discreet microphone is favored. While condenser microphones can be used as lavalier mics, the term lavalier specifically describes the form factor and typical use rather than the microphone type itself.