Best Mic for Wedding Speeches: Handheld vs Lapel vs Headset
Handheld vs Lapel vs Headset
Wedding speeches aren’t ruined by nerves — they’re ruined by bad mic choices, poor positioning, and the dreaded squeal. Here’s the UK venue truth on what to use, when, and why — with Manchester rooms (brick, glass, warehouses) in mind.
Quick answer: handheld wins most UK venues
For most wedding speeches, a handheld microphone is the safest choice: consistent volume, easy control, and the lowest “surprise” factor. Lapel mics can look tidy on camera but are higher risk (rustle + distance changes + feedback in reflective rooms). Headsets give the most consistent sound, but they’re a vibe — and not everyone wants to wear one.
On this page
Handheld vs lapel vs headset: which should you use?
| Mic type | Best for | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Handheld | Most speeches, mixed confidence levels, quick handover | Needs good mic technique: hold it 10–15cm from mouth (don’t “yo-yo” it) |
| Lapel (clip-on) | Hands-free, clean look on camera, set-and-forget speakers | Clothing rustle + distance changes; higher feedback risk in reflective rooms |
| Headset | Most consistent volume (quiet voices sound strong) | Some people dislike wearing it; needs fitting + testing |
If you’re choosing one option only: go handheld. If you want the “nothing can go wrong” setup: handheld + a tested backup handheld is elite.
How to avoid feedback (the real causes)
- Speakers in front of mic = danger
- Mic points at speakers = squeal risk
- Avoid standing under ceiling speakers
- Levels set per speaker (quiet voices exist)
- Test the exact speech spot
- Mute between speeches (table noise is real)
Feedback is the system hearing itself and looping. The fix is positioning + operator control — not “turn it down and hope”. If the venue uses installed ceiling speakers, the safest approach is to test at the exact podium/speech position before guests are in the room.
Confidence tips: make the mic feel friendly
What to tell speakers
- Handheld: 10–15cm from mouth
- Don’t drop it to your chest mid-sentence
- Pause + breathe (pace beats panic)
- Look up — don’t read into the mic
What the operator should do
- Set level per speaker (not “one setting”)
- Mute between speeches
- Have a backup handheld powered on
- Keep intro/outro music cues clean
Quiet speaker + reflective room + lapel mic is a classic chaos triangle. A handheld with a calm operator solves most of it instantly.
Manchester venue truth: reflective rooms amplify problems
Manchester has loads of stunning spaces that are acoustically “spicy”: brick, glass, concrete, high ceilings, converted warehouses. More reflections = higher feedback risk. In these rooms, lapels demand more skill and testing, especially if speakers wander.
- Handheld mic as default
- Test at the exact speech spot
- Operator controls levels calmly
- Speakers aimed at floor area
- Keep mics away from speaker line
Safe play for most Manchester rooms: handheld mic, tested where speeches happen, with an operator on it like a hawk (a friendly hawk).
Want speeches to sound effortless?
We’ll recommend the right mic setup, set levels properly, and keep it feedback-free — Manchester and UK-wide.
FAQs
Is a lapel mic good for wedding speeches?
It can be, but it’s higher risk in reflective rooms. Clothing rustle, head turns, and distance changes make volume inconsistent compared to handheld.
What’s the easiest mic for nervous speakers?
Handheld. It’s intuitive and keeps volume consistent if the speaker holds it close. It also lets the operator react quickly if someone whispers.
Why do mics squeal in venues?
Feedback: the mic “hears” the speakers and loops. Fix it with positioning (don’t point mics at speakers), operator control, and testing the actual speech position.
How do you hold a handheld mic properly?
Keep it about 10–15cm from your mouth, pointed at your lips. Don’t drop it to your chest between lines and don’t wave it around like a wand.
Should you use one mic for all speeches?
Yes (usually). One good handheld that everyone uses is simple and reliable. If you want extra resilience, have a second handheld powered on as a backup.
Can you run speeches through the venue’s sound system?
Often yes, but the results depend on speaker placement and the room. We prefer a tested setup with control of mic levels and the exact speech position so it stays clean.
Want a clean, confident speech run?
We’ll help you choose the right mic, set it properly, and keep it calm — so the speeches feel premium, not panicky.
Tiny truth: the best speech setup is the one nobody notices — because it just works.