Live sound thrives on the essential hanging microphones, crucial for theatrical plays, operas, musicals, and live shows. Every performance calls for specific microphone choices, so selecting the right hanging mics for each event is vital.
For microphone applications, there are four main types: floor mics, wireless lavalier mics, wireless hand-worn mics, and hanging mics. This post focuses on hanging microphones. Different acts or shows may need one, two, or all of these types for good live sound on stage.
Acts and shows rely heavily on great sounds. When installing hanging microphones, consider several key factors to ensure the live sound system effectively captures onstage audio. The right microphone choices can make or break a performance.
The Best Hanging Microphones for Stage
Now on to the full list.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get a commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Searching for the best hanging microphones requires knowing key factors to consider. I also recommend the following top microphones to simplify your buying process:
The Audio-Technica U853R is ideal for capturing orchestra, speech, and choir sound. This phantom/battery-powered microphone features advanced RFI shielding and an Unsteer filter to minimize unwanted low-frequency ambient noise.
This microphone features a low-profile design with interchangeable elements accepting angles from 90 to 360 degrees. It includes an AT8438 stand adapter and a windscreen. Weighing about 13.6 ounces, it’s easy to set up.
Another excellent stage mic option is the black Shure MX202B/C mini condenser cardioid mic. This hanging mic includes an in-line preamp, stand adapter, and cable. Ideal for miking performance groups and choirs, you’ll often see it suspended over performers’ heads.
The Shure MX202B/C boasts high sensitivity and a wide frequency range, ideal for recording and sound reinforcement. Its 101-millimeter gooseneck allows easy aiming at sound sources. The black and white finish helps it blend seamlessly with surroundings. It also includes RF filtering.
The AKG Pro Audio CHM99 is a great choice for a hanging microphone. Part of the 99ers Series, it has a cardioid polar pattern, perfect for recording speech or music in worship houses, theater stages, and conference rooms. Available in black and white.
The AKG Pro Audio CHM99 includes a 10-meter cable, minimizing twists. A spring steel hanging clamp keeps the mic in place. Additionally, it features a phantom power adapter, letting you connect to any mixer with 9V to 52V power supply.
The Shure CVO-B/C Centraverse Overhead has a custom frequency for capturing fast transients in ensembles and choirs. Its CommShield Technology guards against unwanted RF interference from smartphones and wireless devices.
This technology offers high resistance to nearby radio signals. Additionally, this mic features a durable and rugged Shure design. Its frequency response ranges from 70Hz to 16kHz.
The Samson CM12C Hanging Choir Microphone is a top choice for stage setups. It’s a compact microphone ideal for theatre and live performances. This condenser mic features a cardioid pickup pattern.
This microphone often hangs above an orchestra or choir. It includes a steel bracket that ensures the condenser element is positioned correctly for optimal sound capture.
The Samson CM12C includes a mini XLR connector and a 30-foot cable. It features both mini and standard XLR connectors and a multistage windscreen. It requires 9-52V phantom power to operate.
Factors You should know about Hanging Microphones
Overhead and hanging microphones come in different setups. Consider factors like quality, price, size, and color when choosing hanging microphones. Your choice of microphone is crucial in creating an efficient sound system.
In theater, hanging and overhead microphones are often used by sound engineers and producers as an alternative miking technique. By placing these microphones above performers, sound can be effectively captured from above. This method is useful for reinforcing sound in larger areas.
Choir microphones sit farther from the sound source, allowing them to pick up more ambient noise. Stage designers place these hanging mics away from loudspeakers to prevent feedback.
Conclusion
In theaters, hearing actors who are farther upstage can be challenging. The best solution is to hang one or more small mics to capture their dialogues. By using these miniature mics, you can achieve the best sound capture.
The hanging mics have two parts: the electronic module and the mic itself. These directional mics capture sound from the front while rejecting rear sounds. This setup effectively reduces feedback.