Hey Facilitainers,

Let’s face it – bad audio can ruin even the most engaging session. Whether you’re running a training, recording a podcast, or livestreaming, your audience needs to hear you loud and clear.

This week, we’re diving into simple, actionable tips to improve your microphone game. From positioning to software tweaks, these tips will help you sound like a pro – no matter what mic you’re using.

🎙️ Master Your Mic: 5 Crystal-Clear Audio Tips

Good audio is more important than good video. If people can’t hear you clearly, they’ll tune out – no matter how sharp your visuals are.

Research shows that poor sound is one of the top reasons viewers stop watching. A crackling mic or distant voice frustrates your audience and makes your content hard to follow.

Whether you’re running a training, hosting a webinar, recording a podcast, or livestreaming, clear audio keeps your audience engaged. Bad audio, on the other hand, breaks their focus and weakens your message.

Bottom line: Invest in great sound. It’s the quickest way to elevate your content and connect with your audience!

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1. Speak in the Right Direction

Every mic is built to pick up sound in a specific way. If you speak into the wrong part, your audio will sound muffled, distant, or just plain bad.

Where you place and speak into your mic determines how clear you sound. Here’s how to position three popular microphones:

Blue Yeti

🔵 Speak into the front (not the top) and keep 15 - 30 cm (6 - 12 inches) away.

Shure MV7/SM7B

🔵 Speak directly into the top and keep 5 - 10 cm (2 - 4 inches) away.

Elgato Wave 3

🔵 Speak towards the top and keep about 15 cm (6 inches) away.

It’s worth checking your mic’s manual to ensure you’re speaking in the optimal direction for the best sound quality.

Pro Tip: Position the mic slightly to the side or below your mouth to avoid harsh “P” and “B” sounds (plosives). A pop filter or foam cover helps with this too.

2. Avoid Desk Noise

Placing your mic directly on the desk might seem convenient, but it picks up every tap, click, and movement, creating distracting vibrations and thuds.

How to Fix It:

🔵 Add a foam pad, mousepad, or soft material under your mic base to absorb vibrations.

🔵 For a better solution, mount your mic off the desk (see next section).

Keeping desk noise in check is an easy way to make your audio sound polished and professional.

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3. Mount Your Mic for Better Positioning

Getting your mic off the desk doesn’t just reduce noise – it gives you more control over its placement, helping you achieve optimal audio quality.

Mounting Options to Consider:​
Mounts allow you to position your mic at the perfect height and angle while eliminating vibrations from typing or desk movements. Whether you prefer a flexible boom arm, a sleek low-profile design, or a fixed mount, the right setup will make your mic easier to use and sound more professional.

Why It’s Worth It:

🔵 Better Positioning: Get your mic closer to your mouth without taking up desk space.

🔵 Reduced Noise: Eliminate vibrations and desk sounds for a cleaner audio experience.

🔵 Improved Comfort: Adjust the mic to suit your posture, reducing strain during long sessions.

If you want specific recommendations for mic arms and mounts, check out the Bonus Section for my top picks.

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4. Use Software to Fine-Tune Your Audio

Even with a great mic and perfect positioning, software can take your audio to the next level.

Recommended Software:

🔵 Elgato Wave Link: Perfect for mixing multiple audio sources. Great for streamers, trainers, and content creators.

🔵 Shure MOTIV Mix: Designed for Shure mics, this app lets you adjust audio levels and create a balanced mix for professional sound.

Quick Tips for Better Sound:

🔵 Lower your gain to avoid distortion or clipping.

🔵 Use noise suppression to cut out background sounds.

🔵 Adjust EQ settings to enhance your voice’s tone and clarity.

Taking a few minutes to explore your mic’s software makes a huge difference in how professional your audio sounds.

🎁 Bonus: Recommended Microphones and Mounts

If you’re looking to upgrade or start fresh, here are some tried-and-true options:

Microphones:

🔵 Shure MV7+: Excellent for podcasters and professionals, offering both USB and XLR connections.

🔵 Shure MV6: A compact, high-quality microphone perfect for casual and professional recordings.

🔵 Samson Q2U: A budget-friendly option with USB and XLR versatility, great for beginners.

🔵 Elgato Wave 3: Designed for streamers and online trainers, with user-friendly software.

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Mic Arms and Mounts:

🔵 Elgato Wave Mic Arm: Flexible and durable for precise positioning.

🔵 Elgato Wave LP Arm: Low-profile arm for clean and minimalist setups.

🔵 Rode PSA1+: A professional boom arm that’s sturdy and widely trusted.

🔵 Neewer NW-35: A budget-friendly option that gets the job done.

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🔗 Full Gear List

Want to see all the tools I use for professional audio and video?

With the right microphone and mount, you’ll elevate your audio quality and create a more professional experience for your audience. Whether it’s for webinars, podcasts, or livestreams, these tools are game-changers!

🤡 Enough Said.

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