What type of mic do you use in your program? Why? Do you prefer a corded mic to wireless? Also, what do you think of a headset style mic?

I would go for clarity than comfort when it comes to mentalism. There are a few worthy headsets out there, but the old reliable wireless handhelds and a boom stand keeps the worries out of play.

Rannie

Also if you use a hand held microphone you can execute Bob Cassidys excellent switch, (no not to tun the mic on!! to exchange some B*****S)

M. Xia

I think the mic depends on the venue.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying this because of all the experience I've had performing magic for Wembley Arena-sized crowds, but I've done my fair share of music-gigs.

Oh - it also depends on how much you want to spend

I always use I head set mic. Just be careeful to buy a good one, and to choose a head set that is very profile in is looking.

Mine has a "flesh color" look, and is very thin...

I works long time with a lapel mic also, but now I prefer my head set... More comfortable

Hope this help

Kuffs

Did you run into any problems with the lapel mic?

django

The problem with headset mikes, as has been pointed out by Bob Cassidy and others, is that they "smell" of wireless electronics. The audience may think if you are wearing a headset that you may have a receiver stuck in your ear. It doesn't matter if you really do - once they have a possible explaination they latch on to it and your effects are vastly diminished.

I used to do seminars all around the east coast and used lapel mics to great success. I used them in my show for a time, then started using a headset converter (which turns the lapel mic into a headset mic; costs about $20). It sounds better. And, I always carry a corded mic with 50 feet of cable for emergencies.

I switch from lapel tp headset only because I move alots on stage and some time this cause me trouble with my coat jacket and sometime my mouvement...

I never have any problems with someone thinksing I use spy gadjet hide in my headset... For me this is old thinking and should not be forgot , but the others side of the medal should be consider also...

If they thinks you have some spy gadjet, why they don't thinks we use Stooge?

It's matter of taste

Humbly

Kuffs

Read Ken Weber's book MAXIMUM ENTERTAINMENT for advice and the reasons why to use a particular mic in mentalism presentations.

Thom

I have a rather in depth article called "Buying a Wireless Mic" which covers this question and much more. Ken Weber has already shown interest in including parts of this article in future printings of his excellent book. If anyone would care for a .pdf copy of this article, please let me know via PM or email.

Michael

Posted: Apr 20, 2004 2:41pm

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Also, be sure to take a look at the excellent audio advice on the Magic Roadie website.

http://www.magicroadie.com/

Thanks very much for your kind words, Michael! Yeah, the article at http://www.webdan.ca/magicroadie/pickamic.html has lots of fact-based (in other words, non-anecdotal, science-based) info on mic selection as well as an excellent sidebar from Michael Sibbernsen SPECIFICALLY directed at mentalists. Thanks again for your contribution to that article, Michael!

With the help of the article, you'll see most of the science about mics described in layman's terms, and you'll be in a MUCH better position to make your decision. There is no "best" mic for a mentalist, and you really do have to weigh the facts in light of your own context.

Cheers from Toronto!