Introduction

This is a link to the complete post about using wireless mic systems with your computer to record podcasts. This post only presents a few wireless microphone system options. These are not recommendations but are presented to help you get started in your search for a solution that will meet your needs and fit within your budget.

Wireless Microphone Options

Memorex VHF Wireless Handheld Microphone - MKA381
• Available from Target.com (product link) or your local Target store for around $20 as of this writing
• This microphone is in the toy department for karaoke. But, I was so shocked to find a $20 wireless mic, I bought one to see if it would work at all. It did--with limitations. You will have to determine if it would meet your classroom needs.

• Additionally, you can find any number of other handheld and lavaliere wireless mic system options from Target.com at this link. They are all cost more than $20.

Wireless Lapel Microphone System
• Available from RadioShack.com (product link) for about $50 as of this writing.

• Additionally, you can sift through this link at RadioShack to find other handheld and lavaliere wireless mic system options that are more expensive. This link also includes bluetooth devices, which, while they have special considerations (see end of post), can be used as well!

Audio-Technica 88w
• Available at B&H Photo and Video (product link) for $169.95 as of this writing. We used this mic at Mabry when recording movie projects. It is rather durable, has 2 selectable frequencies, has an omni directional lavaliere mic*, and can be monitored through a head phone jack.

Telex Wireless Microphone Systems
• Available at B&H Photo and Video (product link). These are more expensive, higher end wireless microphone systems that range from $559 to $789 depending on the mic(s) you select. (You would definitely want to lock this up at night!) This Telex system has over 1,100 frequency/channel combinations using UHF (better) instead of VHF, diversity reception, all three mic types are available, and ClearScan technology that tells you which of all of its channel options is receiving the least level of signal interference.

Bluetooth

Now, this is totally different, but... Don't forget the bluetooth headset you use with your cell phone! It too can usually connect to your computer, if your computer supports bluetooth devices. The Macs running OS 10.5 (and perhaps earlier versions?) all do.

*An omni directional mic will pick up sound from around the room, not just the sound spoken directly into the mic. This type of microphone has advantages and disadvantages.