BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone A lavalier microphone with a 6-meter cable for single-person videos
Overview
I really enjoy creating video content, and I am always looking for ways to raise the level. One thing I recognize as important is good sound, and that sent me on a journey to find the perfect microphone. But that definition is subjective, because it depends heavily on the type of video you shoot and the equipment you use to make it.
When I filmed in front of my computer, I used a webcam and a USB microphone. But in other videos I find myself standing in front of a camcorder or a smartphone and filming with them. For that I need a completely different type of microphone, like the ones TV news presenters use.
So I looked for a microphone like that, and in the end I decided to go with the BOYA BY-M1, which looks like a legitimate microphone at a reasonable price. Let's find out how it sounds and how well it meets my expectations.
Product details
The BOYA BY-M1 is an omnidirectional lavalier microphone that connects through a 3.5mm plug to smartphones, cameras and computers. It is suitable for interviews and single-person video recordings.
It has a 6-meter cable. According to the manufacturer, the microphone weighs 2.5 g and the power module weighs 18 g.
It runs on one LR44 battery, and a switch on the power module selects the mode. According to the manual, OFF (Smartphone) is for smartphones, and ON is for cameras, camcorders, audio recorders and computers. The box also includes a wind protector, an attachment clip, a 1/4″ plug adapter and a storage bag.
Specifications
Audio
| Transducer | Electret condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
| Frequency Range | 65Hz - 18kHz |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 74dB |
| Sensitivity | -30dB +/- 3dB (0dB = 1V/Pa, 1kHz) |
| Output Impedance | 1,000 Ohm or less |
Connections
| Connector | 3.5mm (1/8") 4-pole gold plug |
| Battery Type | LR44 (compatible with LR44, 257 & SR44) |
Physical
| Microphone Dimensions | 18.00mm (H) × 8.30mm (W) × 8.30mm (D) |
| Cable Length | 6.0 meter |
| Weight | Microphone 2.5g Power module 18g |
Inside the box
Pros
Excellent Audio Quality The sound recorded using this microphone allowed me to upgrade the audio in my videos. You can listen to the sound test I made in my video review.
Build Quality This is a durable microphone that lasts well over time.
Long Cable The wire’s length is 6 meters, which is a lot. It becomes useful since you probably won’t be limited in space and move while using this microphone.
Fits Various Types Of Devices I’ve been using this microphone with cameras, camcorders, smartphones, etc. and it worked well with each one of them.
Lightweight According to the manufacturer, the microphone weighs 2.5 g and the power module weighs 18 g.
Cons
Don’t Forget To Switch The Microphone To The Right Mode If you don’t set the mic on the correct mode (“red” for a smartphone/power off, “green” for a camera), then it will not capture audio during the recording. If it happens, the result can be videos with no sound. And you can only imagine how it feels to reshoot everything.
The Battery May Run Out The “camera mode” requires a battery. Though the battery lasts for hundreds of hours, you need to make sure you have a backup battery to replace the used one.
Overall Verdict
The BOYA BY-M1 gave my videos a clear step up in sound compared to the built-in microphone. It is not the cheapest lavalier you can find, since basic ones cost very little, but it is a good microphone that does not cost much compared to other quality lavalier microphones.
The 6-meter cable and the support for smartphones, cameras and computers make it easy to use in many setups. Just make sure to set the switch to the right mode before you start recording, and keep a spare LR44 battery nearby. Looking back years after I first tested it, my conclusion still holds.
A good lavalier microphone that does not cost much and noticeably improves audio for single-person video recordings. Just make sure to set the switch to the right mode before you record.
Where to buy
Below are links to purchase the BOYA BY-M1 lavalier microphone (or similar models):
Photos
Additional links
BOYA BY-M1 Official Product Page
boyamic.com
FAQ
How is the sound quality?
Does this microphone require a battery? If so, what type? How long will it last?
Does the microphone use the battery when connected to a computer?
How do I use the microphone with a smartphone?
Got questions about the BOYA BY-M1?
Already tried the BOYA BY-M1 yourself?
Comments
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[…] BOYA BY-MM1, at half the price. Since I already had a good experience with the brand through the BOYA BY-M1 lavalier microphone, I told myself I was willing to give it a chance, and I want to share that experience with you here […]