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Find Your Voice: Best Microphones for Teaching Yoga Online

Microphone for yoga teachers

Understanding Your Microphone Options

if the computer you are using for your online classes is fairly new and maybe a bit expensive, and you're teaching from home, you won't have to buy a microphone as you can use the one from the laptop. 

But if you're computer is a bit old, and if you are teaching on a stage or in a large room with echo, you might want to use a separate microphone. Depending on the type of yoga you're teaching, you 'll be able to choose between Lavalier, headsets, USB or wireless microphones. Read on to find out the best microphones for yoga teachers. 

We also provide guidelines on how to use the microphone with Zoom and Google Meet, as well as links to purchase them. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Lavalier Microphones (Lapel Mics)

Lavalier mics are small microphones that clip directly onto your clothing. They are discreet and capture your voice clearly as you move. A wireless lavalier system gives you complete freedom to demonstrate poses without being tethered to your computer.

  • Best for: Teaching low to medium intensity yoga types like hatha yoga, iyengar yoga, restorative yoga or somatic yoga
  • Pros: Small, lightweight, discreet
  • Cons: Wired versions can be restrictive; wireless systems can be more expensive.

Headset Microphones

A headset microphone wraps around your head or ear, placing the microphone capsule close to your mouth. This provides consistent, high-quality audio, no matter how much you turn your head. They are a popular choice for fitness instructors for this reason.

  • Best for: Teaching vigorous classes like Ashtanga yoga or Vinyasa yoga.
  • Pros: Superior sound quality and consistency, excellent at blocking out background noise.
  • Cons: Can be more visually noticeable than a lavalier mic.

USB Microphones

USB microphones are simple plug-and-play devices that connect directly to your computer's USB port. They are typically placed on a desk or stand. While not wearable, a good quality USB mic can capture excellent audio if you stay relatively close to it.

  • Best for: Teaching from a fixed position, like restorative or meditation classes.
  • Pros: Easy to set up, often affordable, great sound quality for the price.
  • Cons: Restricts movement; may pick up more room echo.

Wireless Systems

Wireless systems consist of a microphone (like a lavalier or headset) connected to a transmitter pack and a receiver that plugs into your computer. They offer the ultimate freedom of movement, ensuring your audio remains clear even if you're across the room.

  • Best for: Any instructor who needs to move freely without cables getting in the way.
  • Pros: Maximum mobility, professional sound quality.
  • Cons: Higher price point, requires battery management.

Recommended Microphones for Yoga Teachers

Here are some top-rated microphones in each category, perfect for upgrading your online classes.

Lavalier Mic Recommendations

  • Rode Wireless GO II: This is a favourite among content creators for a reason. It's a compact, high-quality wireless system with two transmitters, perfect for interviews or co-teaching. The system is incredibly easy to use.
    • Features: Dual-channel wireless system, 200m range, built-in microphone on the transmitter, and option to plug in a separate lavalier mic.
    • Price Range: £250 - £300
  • Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone: An affordable and effective option that plugs directly into the headphone jack of most smartphones or laptops (you may need an adapter).
    • Features: Omnidirectional capsule, simple to use, includes a windscreen for clarity.
    • Price Range: £50 - £70

Headset Mic Recommendations

  • Shure SM31FH Fitness Headset: Built to withstand sweat and movement, this headset is rugged and reliable. It connects to a wireless bodypack transmitter.
    • Features: Moisture-repellent construction, comfortable fit, clear vocal reproduction.
    • Price Range: £100 - £130 (headset only; requires a compatible Shure wireless system).
  • Rode HS2 Headset Microphone: A lightweight and ergonomic headset that provides excellent audio. It's available in different sizes for a comfortable fit.
    • Features: Low-profile design, omnidirectional capsule, durable construction.
    • Price Range: £150 - £200 (requires a wireless system like the Rode Wireless GO II).

USB Mic Recommendations

  • Blue Yeti: A versatile and popular USB microphone known for its excellent sound quality and multiple pattern settings. It's a fantastic all-rounder.
    • Features: Plug-and-play, multiple recording patterns, headphone jack for real-time monitoring.
    • Price Range: £100 - £120
  • Rode NT-USB+: A professional-grade USB microphone that delivers studio-quality sound with ease. It comes with a pop filter and desktop stand.
    • Features: High-quality condenser capsule, zero-latency monitoring, simple USB-C connectivity.
    • Price Range: £150 - £180

How to Set Up Your Microphone with Zoom

Connecting your new microphone to Zoom is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your students hear you perfectly.

  1. Connect Your Microphone: Plug your USB microphone into your computer, or connect your wireless receiver. Make sure your microphone is turned on and batteries are charged.
  2. Open Zoom: Start or join a Zoom meeting.
  3. Select Your Microphone: Look for the microphone icon in the bottom-left corner of the Zoom window (it might say "Mute" or "Unmute"). Click the small upward arrow (^) next to it.
  4. Choose from the List: A menu will appear with a list of available microphones under "Select a Microphone". Choose the name of your new microphone from this list (e.g., "Rode Wireless GO II RX" or "Blue Yeti").
  5. Test Your Audio: Speak into your microphone. The green level in the audio settings menu should move as you talk. You can also click "Test Speaker & Microphone" to do a full audio check.
  6. Adjust Settings (Optional): In the same menu, click "Audio Settings". Here you can adjust your input volume and check the box for "Original sound for musicians" to prevent Zoom from suppressing your audio if you play music.

How to Set Up Your Microphone with Google Meet

Setting up your microphone for Google Meet is just as simple.

  1. Connect Your Microphone: Plug your microphone or wireless receiver into your computer and ensure it is powered on.
  2. Open Google Meet: Start or join a meeting.
  3. Access Settings: Before you join the call, you’ll see a preview screen. Click the "Check your audio and video" button. If you're already in the call, click the three vertical dots in the bottom-right corner and select "Settings".
  4. Go to the Audio Tab: In the settings window, click on the "Audio" tab on the left.
  5. Select Your Microphone: You will see a dropdown menu for "Microphone". Click on it and select your new microphone from the list.
  6. Check Your Levels: As you speak, you should see the small dots next to the microphone selection light up, indicating that Google Meet is picking up your voice. Close the settings window, and you're ready to teach.

By investing in a quality microphone, you elevate the professionalism of your online yoga classes and create a more immersive experience for your students. With clear audio, your guidance can flow effortlessly, allowing your students to focus on what matters most: their practice.