WHAT GEAR DO YOU USE?
Gear you like that sounds clear to you and to your client makes a big difference.
You don’t need to sound podcast-quality to your clients, but it’s kind to them if your voice is
- clear (not static-y)
- strong (not distant, or in a tin can).
Bluetooth wireless (compared to wired) microphone audio used to be weak, but in recent years, it’s improved a lot.
YOU HAVE MANY GREAT OPTIONS THESE DAYS.
HEADPHONES, WIRELESS
I have two pairs of Soundcore Anker Life Q20. I like them for the comfort, noise cancelling, price, and audio quality in my ears.
However, I think the “microphone” in them, transmitted over Bluetooth, is decent but not great.
MICROPHONE–ONLY, WIRED
If you want to sound extra strong and clear to your client (which is nice but not necessary), or if you're going on podcasts or hosting webinars, consider a podcast mic.
I have two ATR2100s that I love for the sound quality, plug-and-play simplicity (USB & USB-C), and price.
HEADPHONE + MICROPHONE COMBO
Used and recommended by community members:
Jabra Evolve 20 SE Wired Dual-Ear Headset
ShokZ Open Comm2. “I like the bone conduction headsets because it leaves your ears free and you can hear co-workers in person without having to remove the headset. The sound quality of the microphone is really good, and the Bluetooth is stable. They work with any phone/app that works with Bluetooth and will link to two devices (mine are linked to my computer and my phone).”
SAMSON XPD2 Headset USB Wireless System. “I don’t like things going over my head so I use this mic pack and my computer speakers. Mic sound quality is fine. Not podcast quality but good enough, and I can “move about the cabin” - which I couldn’t do with a podcast-type mic with a boom arm. I’ve been using this every workday for about 7 years. I love it.”
THE QUALITY IS WORTH THE INVESTMENT.
Investing in good audio is like investing in a good mattress. It seems like a lot of money that you don’t really want to spend, but you spend a lot of time with it, and it impacts the quality of your day (and your sleep).
And remember, the more professional you sound, the more professional you sound.