As a storyteller, knowing your microphone options will ensure that your voice is heard clearly on YouTube, podcasts and teleconference.
Get Close To Your Mic
Just like when you are on stage, the closer you are to your mic, the better your sound will be.
On teleconference, this means you should sit right in front of your computer, as you would when you are typing.
Close doors and windows around you to cut out background noise.
Do what you can to silence pets and family members.
An external mic will almost always sound better than your computer's built in microphone.
Use a Headset
Headsets not only bring the mic close to your mouth, but they let you stand up and move around while you tell.
You can use the ones that came with your phone.
Earphones prevent the echoing that you get when your microphone picks up sound from the computer speakers.
Earbuds are fairly discreet and won't hide your facial expressions.
With any external microphone, be sure to adjust your computer's audio settings, so that it doesn't default to using the system sound.
Use a Lavalier Mic
These little lapel mics allow you to move around without hiding your face. You can buy a basic one for under $25 Canadian.
Pin it as close to your face as you can.
CAUTION: necklaces, scarves, hair and zippers will make noise if they rub against the mic.
Use Your Dynamic Mic
If you already own a dynamic XLR microphone, you can plug it in to a computer with an XLR to USB cable. (about $15 Canadian).
Use Your Condenser Mic
To plug a powered condenser mic into the computer, however, you'll need some kind of interface. (approximately $100 Canadian)
