Microphone Technique for Speakers, Performers and Entertainers

At some point in your life, you either have been, or will be, called upon to deliver a speech using a microphone – but do you know the fundamentals of how these devices work?

Watch the video to get a nuanced look on how to make the most of your time at the mic.

Here are some pointers:

1. Speak directly down into, and through the microphone – the sound of your voice will almost never be picked up around the edges.
2. Keep a 1.5″ to 3″ gap between your mouth and the microphone. If the mic is too close, your plosive sounds like ‘P’s’ and ‘B’s’ will create “pops”. If the mic is too far away, we won’t hear you.
3. Microphone feedback is what happens when the sound from the speaker enters the microphone, exits the speaker, and then enters the microphone again, creating a high-pitched, squealing “feedback loop”.

   To avoid feedback, try never to point the microphone head directly at a speaker and avoid walking in front of speakers when you’re holding the mic.

4. Let the microphone follow your mouth wherever you go.
5. To correctly adjust a microphone stand- loosen the adjustable clutch in the center of the stand by turning it slightly to the left, then lift the microphone upwards so that the head of the mic is close enough to touch your chin, and then re-tighten the clutch by turning it to the right.

For more tips, tricks, and techniques about microphones and other aspects of speaking, performance, and comedy please sign up for Gerry’s newsletter at www.standupcomedyclass.com